That Didn't Take Long

Third week in and I'm already posting a day late. Pathetic. And after secretly hoping Pilot was going to be late on Tuesday. I do have a poor excuse ready though!

Yesterday was the grad ceremony for Belle. All grown up and getting ready to get the hell out of school. It was a good ceremony and nobody tripped and fell on the stairs so I guess everything was a complete success. The teachers were even allowed to go!

Belle skipped the after party and hosted her own party in the garage. In hindsight, I probably would have enjoyed that more than our after party. I think I've only used the beer glasses I won as a door prize twice.

Once she's actually finished school she'll still be hanging around here for awhile since rent is expensive and she has no school plans at this point. So, I get to bombard her with my hard fought knowledge for longer. I think I have a pretty good list of rules I would pass on to my younger self if I had the chance, but I will settle for passing these on to her:

1. If there are clean dishes in the dish rack or dishwasher, use those first before pulling out of the cupboard. No point in pulling more clutter out of the cupboards.

2. After straining pasta, give the colander a quick five second rinse with water. This gets the most of the residue off and makes it way easier to wash after it's been sitting for days.

3. Keep some extra canned meals around for emergencies. You can make a meal out of almost any ingredients but sometimes macaroni and salsa isn't worth it.

4. Don't skimp on quality cheap food. Sapporo Ichiban and Kraft Dinner is worth the little bit extra for some quality and they don't cost that much more than the no-name stuff.

5. When moving, don't allow others to unpack your stuff. The aforementioned colander will be so hard to find.

6. Eyes focused. Elbows locked. Stance low. And we begin. Be one with the blades. Lead their path. I know you are eager to answer their calls, but your training is not yet complete. The world below must remain your home. As your father, you must trust me. Patience. You're not yet ready to go above ground. But I believe when that day comes and you rise to the streets, you are going to be responsible for amazing things.