Tag Archives: principal

by - 0 comments

G2/3 Flag Football (Coach and Player)

I have enjoyed coaching both my boys throughout all sports during their athletic journey, but there is something special about coaching football. Ollie and I seem to do very well together as player and coach and this is now our third year in a row together in flag. Our town’s flag team has developed into a HUGE success and I have very much enjoyed helping a good friend grow the program through clinics, travel games and this year’s town tournaments.

Oliver has something very special when it comes to football; you can learn the plays and develop with good practice habits and with experiences comes better understanding, but the vision he possesses on the field is very advanced for his age and time playing. (Yes I know he’s seven and yes I know it’s just flag football, but it’s there and it’s very noticeable).

Throughout this blog you’ll read about “The Boop”. For referebcw when he was younger he couldn’t say “juke” (a move by a player running the ball where the runner cuts back hard and fast and makes the defender miss while then quickly cuts back up the field). Oliver, who couldn’t pronounce juke, would mistakenly call the move a “Boop” and so the “Ollie Boop” was born! Now if we can just harness ALL that OTHER energy he might just run through a brick wall!

Season Running Summary:

W: Black 6 – Green 14 (1-0)

What a way to start the G2/3 season! The “Ollie Boop” was back in action! A win and a score for Ollie! Guilford Green was awesome today! Love coaching this little animal!

——————————-

W: White 0 – Green 18 (2-0)

Another W For team GREEN. The boys pitched a shutout 18-0! Great group of kids! Oliver had the BOOP working today and almost took one to the house!

————————————-

W: Grey 12 – Green 24 (3-0)

The Packers dominated at Lambeau Field and Team Green dominated back in Guilford even without The Boop . The Packers moved to 1-1 and G-Green moved to 3-0!

————————————-

W: Black 6 – Green 12 (4-0)

Today was a very, very close game that was highlighted by tremendous defense and a team effort. We played almost the entire team at quarterback, passed the ball for big gains and pulled flags like our lives depended on it.

Oliver followed his blockers down the field and looked good as a receiver too. We look very good right now, highlighted by a bunch of boys who really like playing football and more importantly we have really grown into a team. I love watching them cheer for each other and celebrate each success together!

____________________

W: Green – White (5-0)

“The Whistle Game”

A hard fought win for team Green today against a VERY good team White. Both teams played great defense, but when it came down to it, our defensive line (Ollie, Connor and Jakey) was just reeking havoc in the backfield making it almost impossible for team White to even get plays off! A few backfield tackles for Ollie highlighted by a Barry Sanders like run for a massive first down late in the second half iced the game for us and secured our fifth win in a row!

A little “Boop” here and a little “Boop” there!

____________________

L: Grey 24 – Green 13 (5-1)

The Wishbone Offense

Tough loss for Team Green today, but when you fall down, it’s about how fast you can get back up. Oliver had a boop for the ages… and threw a huge block to get his BFF in the end-zone, but in the end it’s about running the marathon, not a sprint and these boys have what it takes to bounce back.

We’ve seen them be the front runners for over a month… now everyone is going to have to deal with a team with a chip on its shoulder! (PS it’s also flag football, so they just had ice cream after the game and everyone was fine).

____________________

W: Green 18 – White 6 (7-1)

I don’t care what the score is, Team White is a juggernaut. And other than a handful of big plays, they shut down our offense all game. You would think green and white would be a shootout… But not today. Today was two defenses battling back and forth that brought back memories of Reggie, White and Lawrence Taylor!!!

Oliver broke lose on the second play of the game for a massive run that set up the first touch down of the game and again later in the second half took us from our own goal line on a third and incredibly long to a first down on our opponents goal line, leading to another score. If it wasn’t for a phantom flag that fluttered off his waste after Booping ankles all over the field, he would have scored a touchdown late in the last few minutes to further put the game away.

Let’s go Green! Today’s win locked up the NUMBER ONE SEED in the playoffs!!!

______________________

W: Green 18 – Gray 6 (8-1)

Another big game for Ollie and Team Green! Avenging our only loss only the season! 8-1 and on to the playoffs!!!

Coach Joe needed to head to another venue for some scouting for our playoff matchups (just kidding he had to go to his niece’s confirmation). I took on head coaching duties and did him proud. We played hard and kept Gray scoreless until the last minute of the game. Ollie looked good again running the ball and used his cut back skills to boop his way to the down the field!

On to the playoffs next week!

______________________

PLAYOFFS: Round One

W: Green – Black (9-1)

Game One of the Playoffs was against a VERY, VERY GOOD BLACK TEAM! While we beat them them each time in the regular season they had a very well coached team who developed tremendously through the season (that is exactly the purpose of this program)! We fought hard and came away with a win. Everyone on the team contributed in this game and Oliver had two HUGE runs to get us first downs, one on fourth down and another on third and a million yards! His teammates stepped up for him and blocked hard!

______________________

PLAYOFFS: CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

W: Green 18 – White 13 (10-1)

The game of the year, heck the game of the century took place in the Championship Game… as it should! The two teams with the best record head to head for all the marbles, the Lombardi DeMayo Trophy, the Championship!

Team White simply outclassed and outplayed us in the first half and at one point we were down 13-0. Oliver and his team did everything they could to keep the game from getting away from us. They played great defense and only allowed two scores on two broken plays (I will take the blame for the second touchdown, sending our corner on an all out blitz allowing their QB to slip outside for a long score).

Nick, Matt and Jackson fire up their little brothers at half time. Some say their speech saved our season!

Heads were hanging at half time as the team had only trailed in one game all year. Enter the G5 Tackle Team Older Brothers. They gave a rousing “Any Given Sunday” speech and inspired Team Green to come out like a freight train! The defensive line stayed stout and did not give up a point in the second quarter (more impressively, Oliver did not jump offsides once!) Oliver gobbled up flags in the back field and continued to force Team White into punts. A newly installed Wishbone Motion Fullback Dive Right on the goal line to “The Pepperbush Beast” C.DeMayo put us up one point.

With less than two minutes remaining up by one point and on a fourth and a million yards to go, Coach DeMayo called on The Boop. It was now or never, it was like calling in Mariano Rivera for a six out save in the eight inning, like bringing in Reggie Miller for a game winner against the Knicks with Spike Lee starting him down. We needed a first down to put the game away and we needed The Boop… when you need The Boop… you get The Boop! Oliver took the hand off from the backfield broke a pair of ankles and outran four defenders to take the ball almost to the house. A first down and four fresh downs to put the game away!

After a QB Keeper put us up 5, Team White came storming back with less than a minute to go to cross mid field, two sacks by Oliver on consecutive plays put them in a desperate situation, but with one last play remaining, Team White took a hand off towards the left corner of the goal line, but it was Team Green’s defense standing on the field at the 1/2 yard line holding a RED FLAG high above their head with 0:00 remaining on the clock. In the voice of John Sterling, “Ball Game Over, Championship Game Over… TEAM GREEN WINS… TEEEEEEEAMMMMMMMMMMMMM GREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNN WINS!”

What a season, what a team, what a program. I hated watching the boys on Team White lose, but it is with great sadness and desire to come back stronger, that creates players who are inspired to come back for more. It wasn’t just the winning and losing, it was the team work, the friendships, the skill development AND the winning and losing. That’s how you build a program… Watch out surrounding towns, because the G2/3 kids moving up to tackle next year are going to be more than ready for you!

Champions and Best Friends!!!

by - 0 comments

G5 Football (Coach and Player)

A while back I stopped coaching Jax and while I missed it, he seemed to thrive with other coaches giving him feedback. I started to enjoy JUST being able to be a dad on the sideline again. Although I’m sure most parents would disagree… I was calmer being just a dad and not a coach-dad.

Then earlier this summer Jax asked if I would coach him again during this football season on the G5 (fifth grade) team. Tackle football is one of the toughest sports to play. The commitment, learning curve, physicality and effort it takes to be part of a tackle team is not for everyone. Jax and I talked through what coaching him again would mean and entail for both of us. This wasn’t just about learning football, it was about the trust between a father and his son. I knew he needed me and I knew from the look in his eyes when we spoke that I needed to consider it.

The problem is that’s not just something you can “join up” for. The tackle teams here in town are coached by a group of coaches that work hard and have been together for a while. However, coincidently, later this summer I’d receive a text from the team’s head coach asking if I’d be willing to join the coaching staff, and as they say, it was fate.

I’ve been locked in to coaching Oliver’s flag- football team the last three years and have really enjoyed helping the program grow. It is a lot of hard work and I had been committed to coaching Oliver, a commitment I would not abandon and I wasn’t sure that adding on coaching a second team that competes vs towns across the state in full pads and helmets was feasible for me. We would be talking six-to-seven days of week of coaching football between both teams…

…. Yet, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

SEASON RUNNING SUMMARY:

Pre Season Jamboree vs Madison, North Haven and Glastonbury:

2 Wins – 1 Loss

I had an absolute blast today coaching Jax in football for the first time along with 29 other kids who love to compete. Jax had a PHENOMENAL day… springing two touchdown runs with two pancake blocks at WR. He played a ton at middle linebacker a new position, but he just keeps learning! There are some big time players on this team! Every one of his teammates are phenomenal and I am so stoked to be coaching this team!

The block that sprung a touchdown

_____________________________

Game 1: @ North Haven

L: 28-14 (0-1)

After a great training camp and a fantastic preseason jamboree, Jax was named team captain before the first game! To be named captain of any sports team is an honor and a privilege. Being a captain is about leadership, work ethic and respect. To be named a captain is the ultimate sign of respect from your teammates and coaches. I am so incredibly proud and humbled to be this guy’s dad AND coach!

Captains on the field for the coin toss

Opening day was full of emotions for both of us. But to be coaching this football player and leader is an honor! Yes he was a captain, yes he retuned a kick for one yard (lol)… but more importantly, he is a teammate who has everyone’s back! I LOVE coaching this kid and I LOVE coaching this team! Big things coming for #G5

_____________________________

Game 2 @ Pomperaug

L: 7-44 (0-2)

I hated Pomperaug when I was in school playing sports and I still hate them today! Jax did have a devastating hit on a kick off which resulted in an opposing player having to be helped off the field, but it was too little too late. We took a tough loss. The boys got hit hard, but they picked themselves up every play. That’s the mark of a champion.“It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done!”

_____________________________

Game 3 @ Bristol:

W: 28-0 (1-2)

There’s nothing like a win at Lambeau

While our G5 team was taking care of business in Bristol, Jax and I were busy enjoying another win this weekend while in Green Bay watching the Packers beat the Colts at Lambeau Field! It was awesome getting updates via text from the coaches and other parents who wanted to keep us in the loop! The kids played well and represented Jax in the city where he was born to capture our first win on the season (also the Packers first win of the season too)!

_____________________________

Game 4 vs. Monroe

L: 19-0 (1-3)

Facing an undefeated team who dismantled a team that blew us out a few weeks ago seemed a daunting task. Yet, my goal for this team and these games is not just about winning or losing, it is also about building character and character is built on the foundation of effort, perseverance and integrity.

These boys showed what it takes to make the character of a champion. Down 19-0 at halftime the team rallied around each other to not allow a point in the second half… to a team that was undefeated and no one had been able stop offensively all season. There are bad wins and there are good loses. We can take something positive from this loss… and continue to build character as the boys continue to grow and learn the game. I am very proud of this team.

Jax started the game at tight end (a position I’d love to see him get more looks at). We ran four straight plays down the throat of Monroe with Jax leading the way bulldozing the opposing linebacker and cornerback, highlighted by a block that he sustained for about 20 yards downfield until the whistle blew! He is starting to put things together and like many of the boys on this team, I feel like a full-on steam train is coming and once it gets going it’s going to be hard to stop!

—————————————-

Game 5 @ Shelton

W: 24-0 (2-3)

What could better than getting on a bus for a road trip with your teammates for a game? (At 45 years old I can think of many things), but for a group of ten year olds you’d have thought they were in heaven! Very cool experience for the team and an opportunity for team bonding (and a lot of smelly people in a small area)!

The game started off slow with multiple turnovers by both teams and a huge touchdown run called back by a penalty that would have given us the early lead. However, G5 broke off huge chunk plays, (I thought Oliver was fast, but man can Hunter fly), recovered two fumbles and had an interception as well to highlight a very good defensive day. We even punted (and a good one at that) for the first time all season, and completed two big pass plays (Charney!!!!)

Jax played two new positions. For the first time all season he played at right tackle and middle linebacker, both very tough positions and be looked raw, but showed some potential at both. I was impressed with his ability to just go find someone to hit/suplex on the offensive line (at least it was before the whistle this time) and to find a gap and get into the backfield at MLB.

I hope he can get some more reps here in practice and before the season is over in games, because if we can harness the “JaxPlex” into a legal, aggressive style of play, I do think he’s going to be a very valuable piece to the team at these two new positions. Also, sprinkle in a few nice blocks as our best blocking wide receiver and add in a win and it was a very successful day for G5!

___________________________

Game 6 vs Cheshire

W: 19-36 (3-3)

We put together a dominate home victory over Cheshire by the score of 36-19 to even our season record at 3-3 with two regular season games remaining. The playoff push has begun.

At one point in the game we were up 30-6, but needed to pump the brakes a bit to ensure we did not go up more than that (league rules). But after some complaints by the other coaches and a few quick scores by Cheshire it was “all gas, no brakes.” The boys responded to playing multiple new positions during quick substitutions and played hard on every single play!

Jax played the most he has all season. He bulldozed some defenders off the offensive line and at one point was growling at defenders from his three point stance. Something his teammates got a kick out of. He was disruptive in the backfield from the middle linebacker position and also made his first tackle of the season.

________________________

Game 7 vs Glastonbury

W: 30-6 (4-3)

Last year’s Glastonbury game came down to a last minute game winning pick six… this year we decided to make sure we didn’t need a score at the buzzer to win.

With playoff seeding on the line and a new offensive scheme coming together, the G5 Grizzlies had a statement game against a pretty good team. Glastonbury relies on teams to play undisciplined and hopes to eat the clock to prevent teams from running up the score.

With a defense that refused to fall for any tricky cadence, or hard counts and an offense that scored fast and often we took them out of their own game plan by the second quarter.

I was impressed with Jax at the middle linebacker spot again as we put in a new package that called for the MLB to creep to the line and blitz from his position. This play was called from the sideline and did not allow our linebackers much time to think about what to do. It called for discipline at the line of scrimmage to not jump offsides as they were about to rush the quarterback, all three of our middle linebackers (Oden, Jax and Theo) executed flawlessly and were able to get pressure on the QB, disrupt the play in the backfield and not be called for any neutral zone infractions.

Overall great game played and a great job by Jax being a leader, hyping up the team before the game and at halftime as well! I have enjoyed coaching him and watching him grow!

________________________

Game 7 vs Newtown

L: 24-0 (4-4)

We ended the year with a tough loss to one of the best teams in the league. The really schemed well both offensively and defensively and we had little answer to anything they did.

At halftime the team looked downtrodden and had little life until a young man took the team on his back and gave a halftime speech for the ages. It was like Vince Lombardi and Al Pacino (from Any Given Sunday) wrote the speech in tandem for Jax to read. The team came to life and only let up 6 points in the entire second half and we sustained a few big drives. This gave us some life going into next week’s first round of the playoffs against… Newtown!

___________________________

Playoffs:

Round One: @ Newtown

L: 34-6

We held one of the best teams in the league to 12 points in the first half and we played without our starting quarterback/running back. In less than one week we installed a completely new offense and completely new defense. Talk about learning a lot in a very short period of time… our players took on the challenge and worked very hard to study their assignments. Players were playing brand new positions for the first time all season and for the first time in two years learned to play cover 2 zone defense. While those changes did not result in the outcome we wanted it showed our team has the ability to face challenges when faced with them.

At half time we, again we needed someone to step up and inspire our team to do more, we needed someone to put the team on their back…

Again, the same two players stepped up. Carter got the team up and going… and Jax finished the half time speech off like our team was going back out on the field for the second half of the Superbowl. I’ll take a LEADER over a follower all day long. Down by two touchdowns at halftime with heads hanging… this is the guy I want firing my team up!  Fraggle is a winner in my book today and everyday.

Jax played on kick off and kick return and put a shoulder into someone when he had the chance, he led one of our longest runs the of the game with a seal block from the wide receiver position and he was able to get in on defense at the linebacker position. He wanted to play more, he wanted to get in with 58 seconds left, he did not want the game to end… he did not want the season to end. That is what this season was about. The desire to play, to improve and want to work hard everyday to better himself. That is what this year became. While our season ended in a loss (as it always does for all but one team in sports), the season was a success. Jackson learned that it is he alone who can control who he becomes. It is not a teammate, a coaching staff, or one coach. It is him alone. 

I am beyond proud of what my son and my player did this season. I was not just a dad this season and I was not just a coach this season, I was both. Thank you Jackson and the entire G5 Team for inspiring me to be better this season too!

by - 0 comments

I Love Watching My Sons Compete

I love watching people compete. I love more than anything the fire that drives athletes to do things no one thinks they can do. Not the champion, not the MVP, but the little extra that pushes people to be the best at what they do (read Slaying the Dragon by Michael Johnson).

When I was younger, I couldn’t ever imagine anyone having the drive that I had because at the time I thought it was just me, like nobody else could understand it. However this fall I watched my boys show up every weekend side by side with their teammates to a game that were so new to them. I watched the fire in their eyes burn and the excitement for each other and their teammates as the weather got colder and the games grew more important.

My sons who showed grit, determination and teamwork. Neither were ready to sign NFL contracts and neither still have a firm grip on the rules (IE Oliver’s stiff arm through defenders, or Jax’ suplex block of a linebacker), but the love they showed for the game itself and what it meant to be a teammate could not be measured by a score or a championship.

While both boys’ teams had a chance at a championship, both feel just short. Short of a win, but not short on the desire to keep playing. Oliver’s loss in the playoff semifinals resulted in him asking if they can plan another game right after, even if it didn’t count. Jax refused to agree to turn in his jersey and helmet, “I don’t want to dad, I love being part of this team!”

While we obviously want them to earn those victories and at times, those are the games we celebrate most, Steph and I just want the boys to have fun and embrace these years doing what they love to do. Of course we want them to develop strong athletic skills (which I sort of sarcastically describe here):

Flag Football

And here:

Tackle Football

I want them to develop strong character traits, self-control, discipline, respect and teamwork, because those traits will last a lifetime. One thing I learned this season, is the drive that I thought only I had… (that young naive thought)… my boys have it and I couldn’t be more proud!

by - 0 comments

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Brothers’ First Read Aloud)

This blog entry will Chronicle (pun intended) a father and second sons’ first time reading the Harry Potter series together. This time around it’s a twist… As Oliver enters the magical world, this time the narrator will be both dad and big brother!!! I’ll update it after each chapter so that I can capture the most memorable moments. Come back often and check in on our progress and leave us a note or some feedback. Oliver, welcome to Hogwarts!!!

Finally! “I did my waiting! Twelve years of it!” (Well clearly it hasn’t been another 12 years, but I know Oliver has been asking for ages)! I thought we’d be able to make it a bit longer, however there was no keeping this little guy out of Hogwarts any longer. Tonight Oliver and I begin our journey at 4 Privet Drive, Little Whinging… to Platform 9 3/4 and finally on to Hogwarts! Wish us luck… then again, we won’t need luck… we’ll be with Professor Dumbledore (and Jax).

Chapter 1: The Boy Who Lived

Oliver: “What’s a Muggle?“

Dad: “What do you think a Muggle is?”

Oliver: “Your Butt.”

Nothing like a good butt joke one chapter in!!!

Chapter 2: The Vanishing Glass

It’s been a bit since all three of us could actually sit down to read together, but tonight provided some much needed magical reading time.

Jax read a few pages as Oliver rolled around the floor, but like his dad he could seem to pay no attention while completely comprehending the entire chapter.

Oliver’s most important part of Chapter 2: acting out Harry talking to the snake:

Coming Soon

Check back often to see updates from our progress reading each chapter! For now check out Jackson’s Chapter by Chapter:

Sorcerer’s Stone: Jax’ Chapter by Chapter Read Aloud:https://chroniclesofanewdad.com/2021/07/01/harry-potter-and-the-sorcerers-stone-our-first-read-aloud/

by - 0 comments

#BackToHogwarts2023

Continuing with tradition (for the ninth year in a row) I tweeted at JK Rowling for advice in dropping the boys off at Platform 9 3/4.

I’m sure by now you know that September 1st is a sacred day for witches and wizards everywhere! Back to Hogwarts Day is when the Wizarding World boards the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station heading to Hogwarts.

The hope being JK herself will acknowledge my tweet and show some love to two little wizards who have the unfortunate luck of being born to the biggest Harry Potter fan this side of Privet Drive.

The problem this year????? We were running incredibly late. Almost 10:00pm and by the time we got to Kings Cross Station the entrance to Platform 9 3/4 had sealed itself!!! That’s what we get for procrastinating… or maybe it was Dobby?!????

2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
by - 0 comments

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Part Five in our Read Aloud Series)

This blog entry will Chronicle (pun intended) a father and son’s continuation of the first time reading the Harry Potter series together. We finished Book One, Two, Three and Four… now will move onto Book Five: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. I’ll update it after each chapter so that I can capture the most memorable moments. Come back often and check in on our progress and leave us a note or some feedback!

INSERT OBLIGATORY REQUEST TO COHOST MUGGLECAST HERE

I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I know Jax and I will!

Chapter 1: Dudley Demented

Why can’t Harry just be like, “BYE FELICIA…” and go live with Sirius?

Is that the first time HP and the Bye Felicia meme have been intertwined, or is it weird my kid knows that meme?!??

Chapter 2: A Peck of Owls

Dumbledore: “Remember my last, Petunia.”

Jax: “OHHHH… MY….. GODDDD…. Is Aunt Petunia a….. WITCH?!?????”

Chapter 3: The Advance Guard

Jax: “Ok… so I think I have an idea about how the book is called the Order of the Phoenix. The name The Goblet of Fire… was like if you want to enter the Tri-Wizard Tournament… then you can you take a piece of paper and put it in the Goblet of Fire that’s why the GOBLET OF Fire is important and that’s how the book gets it’s name. So, I think this one’s called the Order of the Phoenix, because there’s probably people trying to protect Harry from Voldemort called the Order of the Phoenix?”

Me: “So you think the ‘Advanced Guard’ it’s a group or something?!”

Jax: “Dumbledore‘s bird is called a phoenix remember, the Phoenix’ name is Fawkes. That’s why I think it has to be Dumbledore sending his group to protect Harry!”

He’s a critical thinker and definitely a smart kid!!! I love the fact that he grabs my arm and points to my Fawkes tattoo!!!

Chapter 4: The Order of the Phoenix

Someone sent me this meme today and it perfectly sums up reading this chapter with Jax tonight:

It was like pulling teeth until the last few paragraphs tonight. As the chapter (and Jax’ energy level) wound down we find Lupin and Sirius talking to Harry about what You Know Who has been up to. Jax then asks, “Why does Voldemort like killing Muggles?” Another smile that was hard to hide widened on my face as he asked another extremely important question (that I just can not answer yet).

However it wasn’t until he unknowingly answered his own question (got to the CRUX of the issue) that my face turned from a smile of excitement into a look of awe: “Does Voldemort get some sort of special powers from killing people?”

IYKYK

Chapter 5: The Order of the Phoenix

Jax isn’t having it that Harry isn’t allowed to be in the Order of the Phoenix! “He beat Voldemort like three times already! What else does he have to do!!!!”

Chapter 6: The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black

Jax begins to wonder what Voldemort’s new terrible weapon is. His initial guesses:

  • Nagini
  • A powerful wand (😳)
  • More Death Eaters

Chapter 7: The Ministry of Magic

SUMMARY TOLD IN JAX’ WORDS: “So, Harry and me and Mr. Weasley went to the Ministry of Magic and went underground through a telephone booth. They went to the right room, but then the time and place was switched to 8 o’clock and they were five minutes late. The elevator wouldn’t take them all the way down, so they had to run down very dark stairs and then Mr. Weasley suddenly stopped, and Harry said, “aren’t you coming?” But, Mr. Weasley was not allowed!!!”

“I predict that they’re doing it down down and down in the Ministry, because they want it to be super secret! Remember they don’t want to believe that Voldemort is back!!!”

PS: Jax, you’ve taken that very same telephone booth to the Ministry:

Chapter 8: The Hearing

Harry goes to the court room. Everyone is talking about how he used a spell outside of school, but he kept telling them it was to help his cousin. Then suddenly Dumbledore shows up to help him. We also meet Dolores Umbridge. Mrs. Figg comes to testify for him too., she said she saw the Dementors.

I think Fudge sent the Dementors to Little Winging to try to get Harry to say Voldemort isn’t back.

(Not too far off buddy! Not to bad if a prediction)

Chapter 9: The Woes of Mrs. Weasley

Mrs. Weasley sees her family dying when she finds the Boggert. Also Ron and Hermione became Prefects. Harry was mad! He wanted to be a Prefect.

Chapter 10: Luna Lovegood

He meets Luna (Looney Lovegood) on the train. She’s reading the Quibbler (a magazine). Harry sees the weird horses (Thestrals) and only Luna can see them too!!!

You never get a second chance for a first impression… Jax summary of Luna after meeting her for the first time:

Upside down magazine.

Wand in her ear

Flower on her head

Her Eyes are so wide open she looks like she was is surprised all the time

Her name is Luna LOVE-good, her name sounds like she has a crush on someone

Chapter 11: The Sorting Hat’s New Song

Some background info on the Four Founders leads Jax to again question me being sorted into Slytherin.

“But Dad, what if I’m in Slytherin?”
The whisper was for his father alone.

In The Sorting Hat’s New Song. The Sorting Hat came up with a song about the four founders of Hogwarts: Helga Hufflepuff. Salazar Slytherin. Godric Gryffindor and Rowena Ravenclaw.

The Sorting Hat told about when Slytherin left the school and the founders split up and went their own way because they were fighting. Slytherin only wanted pureblood students.

The most important part of this chapter is when the sorting hat says, “we all have to come together to fight.”

Chapter 12: Professor Umbridge

“Hem, Hem…” we finally settle on the perfect voice for Umbridge. It’s horrifically annoying and perfect for her character. Jax enjoys doing the “Hem, Hem!”

Chapter 13: Detention with Dolores

He knew right away… as soon as he sat down and Harry said he didn’t have ink for his quill… Jax knew. He literally said, “she’s going to make him write it with his own blood!” How he knew this I’ll never know, but in one of the more terrifying scenes in the series, Jax is now completely sure that Umbridge is a, “right foul git.” (Which Jax has now become accustomed to calling his little brother as well… Thanks Ron!)

Chapter 14: Percy and Padfoot

“Wait, wait… Dad… read that again! I knew it… Sirius just said that Harry scar hurts when Voldemort is Covid back! I knew it!!!”

I am not allowed to reread what I was just asked to reread, because Jackson rereads it himself! Cue the eye brow raise as he realizes he’s right 😳

Chapter 15: The Hogwarts High Inquisitor

“So Umbridge is going into all the teachers’ classes and watching what they do? Isn’t that kind of what you do Dad? She’s kind of like a mean Principal. You’d be a really good principal at Hogwarts, except you don’t know magic!!!”

Chapter 16: In the Hog’s Head

I couldn’t remember the specifics of this chapter… But I kept asking Jackson if he read any hints about the owner of the Hogsheads Inn.

Although his name is never mentioned, we assume the owner is Aberforth, who serves Butterbeer to the students attending the first Dumbledore’s Army meeting secretly being held at the inn.

Jax hasn’t figured it out yet… but he picked up on the “goat odor”.”

Luckily there wasn’t a “Goat Odor” when we visit it the Hog’s Head Inn in Florida!

Chapter 17: Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four

“BY ORDER OF THE HIGH INQUISITOR OF HOGWARTS all student organizations, societies, teams, groups and clubs are henceforth disbanded.”

Jax: Wait? “So what about Quidditch?!??“

(Good catch dude!!!”)

Chapter 18: Dumbledore’s Army

“So that’s where “Dumbledore’s Army” comes from!??!!!”

Chapter 19: The Lion and the Serpent

Umbridge kicks Harry, Fred and George off the quidditch team… Jax response: “Ok so this lady is the worst!”

Chapter 20:

I’m not sure when Jax mentioned Hagrid was out in a mission for Dumbledore, but we now have confirmation that he has been on a “mission for Dumbledore” to find and recruit giants to the fight against Voldemort.

The looks this kid gives me when he knows he’s right should upset me… but honestly… they’re impressive.

Chapter 21: The Eye of the Snake

“Dad, Harry was dreaming, but seriously could he be seeing into Voldemort’s dreams or something?”

He summarizes the chapter and is confident that somehow Voldemort is trying to posses Harry.

I’m now confident that my son is smarter than me!!!

Chapter 22: Chapter Twenty-Two: St Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries

Jackson is starting to struggle with who is right and who is wrong (is that a thing). Harry is trying to figure out what is happened; the Weasley’s wan to know why he is dreaming about attacking their dad; but Jax is just S confused as Harry is.

There is nothing better as an educator than eliciting confusion and wondering. Having a student (son) wonder what’s happening and measure their thoughts with facts and data from what they’ve read is why we do what we do.

Jax fan theories:

  • Voldemort is possessing him [Harry]
  • Harry is really sad
  • Professor Lockhart has no idea what happened to him
  • …”OHHH…MYYYYY….GAAAWWlGGG!!!” Neville’s parents are in St. Mungo’s

Chapter 24: Occlumency

“I knew it. Harry always said he felt like Snap (and Dumbledore) could read his mind!!!!“

Chapter 25: The Bettle at Bay

The mass break out of Azkaban is a HUGE moment in the story and one of the major moments in the series that has been right under Jax’ nose for years. Built into our Cupboard Under the Stairs, has been the Bailey Prophet Headlines from that faithful day:

Chapter 26: Seen and Unforeseen

Word for word response half asleep: “Dad, I’m exhausted, any chance we can read this chapter again tomorrow… so much happened…?… actually wait, I got this!!!

1. “OK, so Luna is 100% in the crew.”

2. “Umbridge is a real jerk.”

3. “Dumbledore always protects his teachers! Dad, would you do that for your teachers?!?? I bet you would!!!”

Chapter 27: The Centaur and the Sneak

Jax face reading this part was epic…

“You seem to be labouring under the delusion that I am going to – what is the phrase? ‘Come quietly.’ I am afraid I am not going to come quietly at all, Cornelius. I have absolutely no intention of being sent to Azkaban. I could break out, of course – but what a waste of time, and frankly, I can think of a whole host of things I would rather be doing.“— Dumbledore, about going to Azkaban

CANNOT WAIT to see his face when he watches it uh the movie!!!

Chapter 28: Snape’s Worst Memory

Watching Jax read how even good people make poor choices is interesting. James is a “God” in Harry’s eyes (as most fathers are to their sons). The thing is, us dads aren’t perfect. We make mistakes. We just want our children to be better than we are/were.

Chapter 29: Careers Advice

Jax can’t understand why they have to pick a job so early… I remind him that having a goal is a good thing… he nods (semi-clearly understanding what I’ve been trying to get through to him for years… “You’re going to Yale dude.”)

Chapter 30: Grawp

Chapter 31: O.W.L.s

Chapter 32: Out of the Fire

Chapter 33: Fight and Flight

Chapter 34: The Department of Mysteries

Chapter 35: Beyond the Veil

Chapter 36: The Only One He Ever Feared

Chapter 37: The Lost Prophecy

Chapter 38: The Second War Begins

POSTSCRIPT: Also, click here for our other alouds:

Sorcerer’s Stone: Chapter by Chapter Read Aloud:https://chroniclesofanewdad.com/2021/07/01/harry-potter-and-the-sorcerers-stone-our-first-read-aloud/

Chamber of Secrets: Chapter by Chapter Read Aloud:https://chroniclesofanewdad.com/2021/09/24/harry-potter-and-the-chamber-of-secrets-part-two-in-our-read-aloud/

Prisoner of Azkaban: Chapter by Chapter Read Aloud: https://chroniclesofanewdad.com/2022/02/23/harry-potter-and-the-prisoner-of-azkaban-part-three-in-our-read-aloud-series/

Goblet of Fire: Chapter by Chapter Read Aloud: https://chroniclesofanewdad.com/2022/08/17/harry-potter-and-the-the-goblet-of-fire-part-four-in-our-read-aloud/

by - 1 Comment

Thanks for Filling My Bucket

In a world that so often focuses on the negative, it can be exhausting trying to be a positive for so many people. Sometimes, a kind act, even a small one can be the one time someone smiles on a particular day. The very definition of a random act of kindness is when you do something unexpected, thoughtful, or helpful without expecting anything in return.

Today was the day I needed a random act of kindness to remind me how good the world can be. Today was even better considering that particular act of kindness was initiated by my older son and directed towards his younger brother… it was completely unsolicited, unprovoked and even better un-observed… (or so he thought).

As an aside, I recently read an amazing book, The Kindness Advantage: Cultivating Compassionate and Connected Children. The book was mentioned by a staff member and a few parents had even discussed it at a recent PTO meeting. So, I decided to check it out. The focus on values of community, compassion, and tolerance are themes that will resonate with any educator.

With increased concern about around SEL instruction, I was impressed with how simply the authors discuss how kindness spreads. Also, described is how children who not only expience others being kind, but those who demonstrate kindness are more apt to also show unity, respect, empathy and compassion for others. As a school leader and parent anything that supports a climate of respect and rapport is something useful that can be taught and also benefit the environment in a classroom and at home.

So, as I stood silently, just beyond the small crack in the bedroom door, I watched my eight year old finish reading a book to his younger brother. As he tucked him in, he whispered just barely audible, “Good night buddy. I’m proud that you are my brother. Thank you for coming into my life.” You see sometimes, kindness isn’t just for the person giving, or even for the person receiving. Often times it’s for the person observing.

Today, one random act of kindness filled three buckets and left this dad smiling from ear to ear.

The single greatest act of kindness