Not trying to make light of a tragic incident but there were reasons why mom and dad didn't buy me that crossbow with real metal cross bolts that I wanted for Christmas as a kid.

Or the bow with real arrows. Or the Bowie knife. Or the air rifles I requested on multiple occasions. And on a louder note I also completely understand why I never got the drum kit either.

They must have laughed their heads off with some of the things I used to write on those lists. If mom and dad were able to read this they'd know I'm glad I was able to bring a smile to their faces at least once a year.