“My Hobby is My Family.” That’s the sentiment I often use to describe myself. My wife, Cristy, and I are proud parents of two kids who are now grown and flown, but they still have my heart.
I’m so grateful that my work has allowed me to experience school right alongside them in such a unique way. It feels like just yesterday they were graduating from kindergarten, and we soaked up every single moment. There were so many memories, ones I’ll always cherish.
But if I’m being honest, the sheer volume of graded papers, one-of-a-kind drawings, and well-earned certificates could get a little overwhelming at times. Still, those memories, those school experiences, became a treasure trove for both our kids and for us.
In the Vinson household, our kids had a simple tradition: the daily emptying of backpacks and school folders into their own dedicated drawer. Then, at the end of the school year, Cristy would go through it all, choosing the best of the best. The highlights, whether funny, creative, impressive, or just plain sweet, would go into a pizza box that she used as a keepsake chest.
Yes, a pizza box.
Each one now holds snapshots of their school years, little time capsules of their growth, personalities, and adventures. Cristy’s “pizza box method” became our way of managing the flood of school papers while preserving the best memories. And now, looking at those boxes, I’m reminded just how quickly time flies. What I wouldn’t give to go back and relive some of those days.
Soon enough, September will turn into May. The school year will wrap up with awards ceremonies, graduations, proms, classroom parties, and special projects. These moments, big and small, will fill your own pizza boxes, literally or figuratively.
So if this old parent could offer one bit of advice: cherish it all.
Stop by Joe’s Italian, grab the best food in town, and take home a pizza box. Fill it with memories. Celebrate the tiny victories, the silly moments, the proud achievements, and keep them close to your heart.
What will be in your pizza box?
I hope it’s filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Thanks for sharing your memories, and your babies, with us.
I love my family. I love my kids. And I love yours, too.