Noah searched the skies for stars on the walk home from Andy’s. He pointed out various constellations as we tried to dodge stepping on the walnuts on the ground in the dark; protect your ankles always. After Andy’s, while the Yankees game played in the background and Missouri State’s Luke Voit broke the game wide open, Noah passionately defended his position as we played One Night Ultimate Werewolf, creating just enough doubt that others voted in his favor — the werewolves and minion were victorious.
The morning greeted us with heavy skies and steady rain, which is to say it was a perfect day for donuts and coffee. A mini tour of Springfield including the French Fries and MSU and Noah tested the breadth of my knowledge of the world as conversational topics covered a vast spectrum:
Dogs.
Voice acting.
No shave November. (I’ve never participated. Noah’s proud of his red beard.)
U turns.
Marbles.
Binary stars.
The Council of Elrond.
Random Midwestern pronunciations. (Cray-on. Cran.)
After coffee was consumed, the rain ceased and the mini tour resumed, ending in front of Hammons Field. Noah told me about pitching in 3rd grade and commented on the old Wilson’s mitt I used. He’s currently taking a break from college as he thinks through what he really wants to do, which roads he’d like to travel. I’m grateful he decided to join his dad and make the trip to Springfield.
How to Train Your Dragon is one of Noah’s favorite movies. I, too, am a fan of Hiccup and Astrid and Toothless. It’s a story of a boy who sees the world differently than others and finds his way by having the courage to be himself. Like Berk, Michigan is probably just a few degrees south of freezing to death. Have courage, Noah, and keep being you.
Safe travels on the way home and all future adventures.
