​Our son left home at 16 to pursue his dream of playing NCAA hockey. He was ready—physically, emotionally—and Sue and I knew it was time. Dropping him off at prep school and driving away was a bittersweet moment, a mix of pride and heartache. By then, he had proven he was capable, prepared for the next challenge ahead.

It’s easy to forget that once, not so long ago, he couldn’t even tie his own skates.

This painting captures that quiet yet profound transition—the shift from dependence to independence, from childhood to something beyond. Laced Up is an allegory of growth, resilience, and the moments that shape us.