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A Family Affair
by: Randy Toothaker
I spent the better part of another Saturday today converting Riddell helmets
to Authenti-Kit facemasks. This, of course, has to be done in the basement
for two reasons. The first is that I am allowed to smoke cigars in the
basement (not in the house...pipes - yes, cigars - no), and the second is
that my wife "thinks" I'm working on dental slides down there, when in
reality, my 6 year old and I are changing out all these facemasks.
When my 6 year old initially wanted to grab a screwdriver and also start
taking off facemasks, I did what many of us often do and practically
(probably) yelled, "No!" (among other things...). Fortunately he is
especially persistent(!) and loves me unconditionally (at this point at
least), so I began to let him work beside me.
I now have to tell you that this will be one of those special memories for
years to come. We sat for what seemed like hours and worked together on mini
helmet facemasks and dusted helmets and acrylic display cubes - all while he
asked about various logos, remembered seeing certain teams and the like. I
know the main point is that we spent quality time together, but I am very
thankful that he also wanted to share my hobby with me. He also asked if he
could have some of my helmets. I explained, "Son, someday they will all be
yours". I have no choice but to believe they will now be even more special to
him as the years go by. Believe you me, I also had the camera out!
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