Let Them Run

We all want our kids to do well, to thrive, to hit those milestones, and yes, it’s easy to worry when they’re not “on schedule.” Abraham Lincoln knew this feeling all too well.

His son Tad was likely dyslexic, couldn’t read until he was 12, and was a mischievous spirit who preferred pranks over books.

Tough for any parent, but especially Lincoln, who was juggling a country in crisis and had already raised a “gifted” firstborn who was at Harvard by 16. Yet, Lincoln stayed patient. "Let him run," he said. “There’s time enough yet for him to learn his letters.”

Tad did learn, in his own time, and grew up just fine.

Lincoln's quiet wisdom here?

Every kid’s journey is different. Sure, we give them guidance and support. But more than anything, they need our patience, belief, and love as they find their own way. Let them run.

Patton Oswalt

Meet Patton Oswalt, the comedian and actor who showed the world what resilience in fatherhood looks like. When his wife, true crime writer Michelle McNamara, unexpectedly passed away in 2016, Patton found himself a single dad to their 7-year-old daughter Alice.

In the midst of his own grief, Patton focused on helping Alice navigate her loss while keeping her mother's memory alive. "I'm moving forward, clumsily, stupidly, blindly, because of the kind of person Alice is. She deserves that," he wrote, sharing their journey with raw honesty that helped other parents facing similar struggles.

While balancing his comedy career to maintain stability for Alice, Patton did something remarkable - he finished and published his late wife's book "I'll Be Gone in the Dark," showing his daughter the importance of completing what her mother started.

Through it all, Patton has shown that being a great dad sometimes means facing life's hardest moments with grace, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to your kid. He's proved that there's strength in vulnerability, hope after loss, and that it's okay to laugh and love again while keeping memories alive.

That's what being a badass dad is really about - showing up for your kids, even when life throws you the hardest of curveballs. Follow Patton here. 

The Tile Mate

Tired of playing hide-and-seek with your keys, wallet (which I can’t find as I write this), and—dare I say—your kid’s favorite stuffie? Enter the Tile Mate. This little Bluetooth tracker attaches to just about anything that loves to go rogue.

With a 250-ft range, a 3-year battery, and enough water resistance to handle the splash zone of life, the Tile Mate is like a digital bloodhound. Clip it on your keys, toss it in your bag, or stick it on that one toy that somehow never makes it back home. Just check the app and let the Tile save you from yet another scavenger hunt.

Get a 3-pack here.

What was that "one thing" that made weight loss finally work for you?

So, there’s a Reddit thread with a bunch of comments on what people did to lose weight. From pouring snacks into small containers to finding hobbies to avoid snacking at night. If you’re trying to lose weight, maybe one of these comments will speak to ya.

Check it out here. 

Essential Tools Every Dad Needs

Every dad needs a go-to toolbox to tackle household fixes, outdoor projects, and those “emergency” school projects that pop up out of nowhere. Here’s your list of essentials to keep you prepped for all things dad duty:

• Cordless Drill – For everything from hanging photos to building the epic treehouse you promised.

• Adjustable Wrench – Fixes leaky faucets, loose bolts, and everything in between.

• Hammer – A classic for a reason. Just keep an eye on your thumbs.

• Multi-bit Screwdriver – Saves space, saves time, and perfect for tackling any kind of screw.

• Tape Measure – Because “eyeballing it” only works so many times.

• Level – Straight shelves and picture frames save marriages.

• Utility Knife – For boxes, projects, and just looking handy.

• Duct Tape – There isn’t much this can’t fix in a pinch.

• Stud Finder – Not for you, dad—the one in the wall. Make sure that TV stays put.

• Flashlight – Perfect for peering under the couch, into the attic, or into the mystery that is your kid’s closet.

These are the basics. Get yourself geared up, and you’re ready to take on whatever your home (or kids) throw at you.