Sleep doesn’t come easy in a strange house and bed. I wake after hearing Maia move around in the garage next to the master bedroom. I check my phone. It’s a little after 3 am. Maia isn’t normally an early riser. I leave the bedroom and listen at the garage door, debating if I should…

Dub isn’t the only one feeling like a fool. Maia feels the same, but for her, it’s deep-rooted and long-standing. The emotions that have come from being disrespected and disregarded have lasted too long. Something will have to change, and Maia understands that the change required will have to be significant and drastic. She has…

I wake up and step out of my room first thing in the morning to see Tami standing there, fully dressed—practically giving me a jump scare. Tambara: It’s my birthday, Daddy! You know what that means! So, she’s starting on me already. I know exactly what’s she talking about, but I play it off. Wade:…

After visiting with the Murillos, we return home, change into our pajamas, and settle in for the evening. I’m sitting in the living room when Tami comes in to join me. Wade: What’s up with you putting me on the spot about the horse today? She sits down next to me. Tambara: It’s my birthday…

It’s after midnight when we finally head to bed. Before we do, I mention to Maia that Luca and Sophia invited us to a barbeque at their house later that day. Wade: I’m sorry I didn’t tell you earlier. We can cancel if you’re not feeling up to it. I’m sure they’ll understand. Maia: No,…

The house is empty when I return from my jog. Maia didn’t say she was leaving or tell me where she was going, so I’m concerned-hoping she’s okay. It’s just me and Tami when Tami arrives home from school. Tambara: Can you teach me how to ride my bike, Daddy? The other kids at school…

Tami has school, so we leave Chestnut Ridge early the following day and return home just before sunrise. Everyone seems to be happy to be back. But I’m thrilled because after selling the fruit from the money tree, I realize I’ve completed my aspiration, and I’m now fabulously wealthy! Not only that, I’ve received a…