Shoes In The Blender

This afternoon while we were having lunch, my 7-year-old boy came walking into the kitchen wearing the shoes shown below. Before any of you try to report me to the Division of Child Protective Services, I have to defend myself and let you know that these were brand new shoes three months ago. I don't know if the heavy wear and tear was a result of buying cheap shoes, excessive summer play outside, or possibly putting his shoes in the blender, but I still can't believe it.

Seeing these shoes reminded me of when I was a little boy and my shoes would start to look like I should be in the cast of Oliver. My dad would take me to Sears and buy me new sneakers. He always invited us to go on errands with him. He would also take us grocery shopping on Saturdays and would buy us ice cream cones and hot dogs afterwards. 

Since it is Father's Day, I thought it would be appropriate to express my gratitude for having a Dad who did those little things for his kids. I probably didn't appreciate it as much at the time but, as an adult with children of my own, it means a lot more to me today. Happy Father's Day. It looks like I have an appointment at the shoe store.