Seaslug

First of all, let me preface my comments by saying that I used to be a licensed professional counselor specializing in child and family therapy. I worked at three different residential facilities treating troubled kids, and I also headed up an outpatient program for the same. I have seen the worst family dynamics and heard the most horrible stories that you can possibly imagine. That being said, one thing that I had to learn early on in my career is that you can not FORCE a child to give up on his or her parent. No matter how big a scumbag Mom or Dad is, the child will still crave his or her attention and approval. Even if the child berates the parent him/herself, he/she is likely to turn on anyone else who joins in. While you would certainly be well within your rights (and I imagine the court would agree) to restrict your daughter's visitation with her mother, you will need to prepare yourself for the potential consequences of doing so. In a worst-case scenario, your daughter could displace all of her anger and resentment onto you, thus making you "the bad guy" and preventing her from confronting the real source of her angst (Mom). As a father myself, I can appreciate your desire to shield your daughter from any and all pain. However, there are some unpleasant things in life that we all DO need to experience, as this is how we learn and grow. In the end, you must choose the course of action that's best for your daughter, and only you can decide what that actually is. In the meantime, be prepared to listen, choose your words carefully, withhold judgment, and (here's the hardest part) avoid giving advice or telling your daughter how she SHOULD feel. I applaud your willingness to seek counsel for you both. This is a sign of true strength, and not weakness. Best of luck to both of you.

You obviously didn't see THIS spider...

Okay guys, here are some pics from the shoot (finally). I had a pic of the spider too, but he asked that I not post it (what the giant spider wants, the giant spider gets). It was really great meeting everyone. Can't wait to do it again!

Another +1 on the SERPA, although that overshirt may have to be VERY loose for good concealment. I carry my Glock 22 in one when I'm on the range, and I love it, but there's a slight flare at the top of the pocket that makes it stick out from the hip more than most. Blackhawk recently released their new "Sportster" line of SERPAS, which come with a paddle only and are designed for non-LE and non-military applications (read: not quite as tough as the originals, but also a lot less expensive). Bass Pro has 'em if you wanna check 'em out in person. If concealment is more important than retention, then I would HIGHLY recommend the M-TAC hybrid IWB from Comp-Tac. I carry my P226 in one at the 4 o'clock position, and I barely even notice it's there--even when I'm driving. Very smart and innovative design. Just my $0.02. Good luck with your decision, and for God's sake, start breaking in that G26!

I think 70below and I are going to try to make it, if no one has any objections. We normally shoot on Saturdays anyway, and we'd love to meet some of you folks. Is anyone ever going to respond to all the requests for the start time? How about the location of the BBQ joint?

Hey guys (and gals). I've been lurking for a little while now, but my buddy 70below finally talked me into joining. Not sure how active I'll be, but I can certainly appreciate a forum like this where like-minded folks can come together and exchange ideas and experiences. I currently own a Rock River Arms Elite CAR A4 (blinged out), a Remington 870 Tactical Spec Ops (also mucho bling), a New England Firearms .410, a Kimber Pro Covert II, a Glock 22, and a Sig P226. 70below and I typically shoot at makeshift ranges we've set up on a couple of different parcels of my family's property here in Knox Co., and we go as often as he's in town and the weather permits (and we can afford ammo ). Thanks in advance for making me feel welcome!