Sharing family traditions

The NHL season has rolled around again, but wow, things have changed a lot for me. Really, the last 10 months have been a blur. That's because me and my wife welcomed our daughter Annabelle into our life.

I've picked up more than a few lessons since becoming a father. I've learned sleep deprivation is no joke. Learned how to almost literally change diapers in my sleep. And learned that "free time" for hobbies is not what it used to be. That's one reason my podcast output has dropped off a cliff.

But amazingly (or maybe to some, depressingly) I've still maintained my strong passion for hockey. I just have not quite had the time to put my thoughts into blog/pod form. What I have done is try to start passing on my love for the frozen game to Annabelle.

I have been dropping coin on Red Wings gear left and right (onesies, socks, hats, mini jerseys), mini hockey sticks, and every plush octopus I come across.

Generally, we try to limit my daughter's screen time. But flipping on the overtime playoff games proved too tempting on several late nights when I was up with Annabelle. Maybe watching the vibrant jerseys flash across the white ice is not ideal viewing for an infant. I'm just hoping the added snuggle time with her pops helps to balance things out.

It's hard to describe or explain why it makes me so happy when Annabelle surveys her toy box and opts to grab her hockey stick first. It's a pang of totally irrational pride that I know is irrational but still happily indulge. I think it's because I want to teach Annabelle about her heritage and culture, and the other things that make up my identity.

I want Annabelle to learn about our family traditions. I look forward to showing her how to spread masa on a corn husk, or one day watching her try to find the afikoman at my in-laws' during passover. And I can't wait for the day when she tells me which name she wants on the back of her Red Wings jersey.

I will support Annabelle's interests and passions 100 percent. I'm as excited for all the things she's going to teach me as I am for the things I get to share with her. But boy oh boy do I hope she grows up to love the Red Wings.