Dad of the Year (Or At Least Trying To Be)

Hey y'all, Leonard here. I've got some exciting news to share - the Gators and Ghosts family just got a little bigger! My partner Sarah and I recently welcomed our second child, Max, into the world. He's a healthy, adorable little guy, and we couldn't be happier.

As a small family-run business, taking time off for paternity leave can be tricky. I'm still working a bit from home, but I'm so grateful for our incredible team, Tracy and Jessie, who are holding down the fort and keeping everything running smoothly. It helps that September is usually a slower month for us.

While I was at home with Max, I came across a new song from Tim Heidecker, one of my favorite musicians and comedians. The song, "Dad of the Year," really hit home for me:

In the video, Tim is having the ultimate dad day at the beach with his family. The lyrics perfectly capture where I'm at in life right now (although our beach trips are usually a little closer to home, in Mississippi or Alabama).

"When I was a child, I wanted to be specialThought that I could be a big, big starThen I got older and saw how the world worksSomeone like me can only go so farI'm not gonna be on the cover of a magazineI've got bills to payI've gotta keep working every dayI'm not gonna go down in historyOnly my family will remember me[...]And I sit at my deskAnd it all seems so clearThe only prize I'm gonna get isDad of The Year"

Growing up, I had big dreams of being a rock star, a famous writer, or a high-powered lawyer. But as I've gotten older, I've realized that being a great dad is the most rewarding role of all. I may not be on the cover of magazines or go down in history books, but to my family, I'm a star.

Speaking of Tim Heidecker, he's actually coming to New Orleans next year! He'll be playing at the legendary Tipitina's on February 21, 2025, with a mystery special guest opening the show. If you're planning a trip to the Big Easy around that time, definitely snag some tickets - it's sure to be an unforgettable night.

And while you're in town, don't forget to join us for one of our famous ghost tours through the French Quarter. I may not be a rock star, but I can definitely spin a spooky tale or two.