When I visit my grandmother, I am always amused - and sometimes a bit exasperated - with her propensity toward pessimism and worry. Don’t get me wrong: I love my grandma. She is a neat lady with a good sense of humor, and she has taught me some incredible life lessons over the years. However, optimism is NOT her strong suit ( Read more... )

Opie is the quintessential big brother. He loves to boss Calvin around and remind Calvin of his inferior status as the youngest, which -of course- drives Calvin into a blinding fury. Opie is continually telling Calvin what to do and how to do it, what not to do and why he shouldn't, and what he can't do because OPIE says so.

Opie is also a ( Read more... )