Parenting is inherently shaming, but it’s made worse by everyone trying to one-up each other with their kids’ accomplishments. The other day, I got stuck in a conversation about little Noah’s debate club trophies. As I feigned interest, I couldn’t help but feel smug about my prodigy, Bone Crusher, who began gearing up for the Water Wars when she was two by creating armor from soda can tab chainmail, neon-colored water wings, and bedazzled tactical gear. Crusher’s gifted status was confirmed a decade later when I discovered her basement stash. Picture a thousand gallons of water surrounded by a security…
Author: Rachael Quisel
Rachael Quisel
I’m a journalist with the Montecito Journal where I’ve published feature articles. I’ve also written for HuffPost Personals, and my short story was nominated for the 2022 Pushcart. More of my journalistic work can be found at https://www.montecitojournal.net/author/rachael-quisel/.