Since it’s Thursday afternoon and we sometimes wander into random territory, I thought I’d share another personal post. Below are a few things you might not know about John and me. Yes, this is a little over-sharing, and yes, we’re a bit eccentric — but we had so much fun with a similar “Ten Things You Didn’t Know About Us” post years ago that we figured it was time for a shorter update.
Without further ado, some quirky, personal bits that add up to who we are as a family:
1. I’ve always wanted to name a band. Not to be in one or to marry a rock star — I just enjoy inventing names. Whenever something odd or funny strikes me, I think “that would make a great band name.” Some of my favorites over the years: “What Ever Happened To Breckin Meyer?”, “Exhibit A,” and “Venn Diagram.” I know it sounds silly, but brainstorming band names is a little creative thrill. Most recently I came up with “Pass The Mustard” and I’m oddly proud of it. It’s an invented hobby, harmless and entertaining.
2. We assign animals to babies. In a very affectionate, silly way, we give animal alter-egos to the kids. Clara is often a turtle or a little bird — we see her slow, observant side and her fluttery, curious side in equal measure. Other family kids have earned creatures like chipmunk, bear, monkey, and puppy. These nicknames are purely in our heads, but they help us celebrate each child’s unique personality and quirks. When we look through photos, the animal comparisons pop right up and make us smile.
3. I’m unabashedly a fan of Bethenny Frankel. I realize that’s a polarizing admission for some people, but I’ve followed her shows and even read her book A Place Of Yes. I appreciate her candidness — the way she often admits mistakes or lapses instead of pretending they didn’t happen. Her blunt honesty is oddly inspiring to me; it’s a reminder to own up to shortcomings and move forward. Fans and critics will disagree, but her straightforwardness is something I try to emulate when I find myself getting defensive.
4. During Clara’s early months, she frequently peed on her dad during diaper changes. We were warned that spraying was mostly a boy thing, but Clara proved us wrong. Almost every diaper change in her first six months included a golden shower directed at her father. The expression she made while doing it — part surprise, part guilty amusement — became one of those little family memories we laugh about now. John didn’t find it nearly as funny in the moment, but it’s a detail we recount fondly and with a sense of how unpredictable parenting can be.
5. John’s favorite comeback is “Your face.” It’s his go-to, practically the family catchphrase, and it works in almost any situation. For example, if someone points out he left something in the car, his reply is simply “Your face.” I admit I laugh every time. My personal favorite retort is “I do what I want!” delivered in a mock-bratty tone — usually followed by me giving him the remote anyway. These dumb little exchanges are the glue of our everyday life; we’re unabashed dorks for life.
So that’s a little window into our household — small, silly, sincere moments that shape how we interact and laugh together. Now I want to hear from you. Tell me five random things, or at least one: Do you put ketchup on your steak? Sing show tunes in the shower? Count stairs as you climb them? Small, quirky habits are perfect for a Thursday afternoon bonding session. Share one of yours and let’s connect over the tiny, human details that make life interesting.