As I got ready to walk Ollie to school this morning, I strapped my camera around my neck as I often do.

Then, on second thought, decided to leave it behind.

I should be more present.
Camera’s always alongside.
My crutch.

We walked and talked and laughed.
Engaged the entire walk to school.

On the route home, I bumped into two other dads and chatted the whole way home.
New Year’s resolutions.
Sobriety.
Our kids growing up.
Concerns.
Frustrations.
Fears.
Joys.

They walked me home and continued the conversation for another 15 min at the end of the driveway.

It felt great to connect.
No airs.
Real.
Life.

All because I left my crutch at home.