Me: “Son, there are few things in this life that make a Viking Dad happier than helping his son learn how to make chili from scratch. I’m proud of you.”

(much hugging)

Danger Monkey, age 10: “I just followed your guidance.”

Me: “I helped steer you, yes, but you did it all. You even diced the onion yourself.”

DM: “My chili smells really good.”

Me: “It will get better the longer you let it simmer. But, as one chili guy to another chili guy, I’ll give you the honor of the first taste test.”

DM: (dips spoon, tastes his chili)

DM: “By the Gods of Olympus! That is delicious!”

Me: …

DM: “That means I really liked it.”

Me: “Yeah, I know.”

DM: “Are you crying?”

Me: “Maybe a little.”