My son got a 74 on his History assignment, and I asked him why his grade was so low and he said he didn't know. Then I asked him if asked the teacher told him exactly why he earned a 74, as opposed to an 100, and again, Carlton said he didn't know. I then proceeded to tell him that anytime he earns a grade that isn't an "A", he needs to ask the teacher why, and then follow that up with an additional "how can I improve" conversation. I explained to him that teachers appreciate it when kids take an active interest in their education, plus its just good practice for high school, college and beyond.

We were on the phone, but I'm pretty sure his eyes glazed over, but I anticipated that kind of reaction, so this morning I texted him and reminded him to talk to his teacher. I plan on talking to his teacher too. But this is not why I am bringing up this story. Here was the end of our conversation:

Me: So how is your girlfriend
Carlton: Well the girlfriend I had this summer is gone, and then I had a new one when school started but we broke up too
Me: Did you get dumped, did you do the dumping or was it mutual
Carlton: It was mutual both times
Me: You don't have a good retention rate man
Carlton: What's retention mean?
Me: Look it up
Carlton: Ok
Me: Just don't get too caught up with the girls right now
Carlton: I'm not but I like talking to them
****Can't blame him there****
Me: I understand but just keep things balanced, school is still most important
Carlton: I know
Me: Ok, well talk to your teacher tomorrow, and please remember to call me afterwards
Carlton: Ok I'll try
Me: Do you know who Yoda is Carlton?
Carlton: Yep, he's from Star Wars
Me: Well Yoda teaches that we should do or do not, there is no try.
Carlton: (while laughing): Ok Daddy
Me: You can laugh if you want to, but I'm serious, and so was Yoda

Now, I am happy Carlton is getting the full middle school girlfriend experience, and I'm also happy he likes girls as opposed to...well you know. When I was his age, I got NO play because I was shy, nerdy and into reading football and basketball magazines. Its nice to see he's breaking the tradition.

But anytime I can work Yoda and Star Wars overall into a speech/lecture with my son, it is a good.no GREAT night. My dad would be so proud of me. That moment alone was enough to offset the fact that I lost a salary negotiation (by 6.5%) earlier in the day..but I won't get into that right now.

The song I'm getting ready to link below, is GUARANTEED to get you hyped up..it doesn't matter whether you're working out, you're having a bad day, or any of that..its a high energy song that's to be listened to a high volume

What We Do - Freeway featuring Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel