ChanteSez … Make Dad’s day

You’ve got a few days, but Father’s Day will be here before we know it. I was asked to write a couple of paragraphs about fathers recently, and it was tough to keep it brief considering how much I love and appreciate my dad.

Before we get to that, here’s a rule that applies to dads (and moms).

If “Dad” is his name, capitalize it all the same.

My father’s name is Ronald. That’s a proper noun. My mom’s name is Cynthia. Same deal — since their names are proper nouns, they’re capitalized.

And in the example above, because you’re using “Dad” as his name, it’s capitalized.

Try this: Replace “mom” or “dad” with their real names. If it fits, capitalize it.

I went to my dad’s house for breakfast — his pancakes are the best!

My mom and I talk at least once a week — when I can get her to answer her phone!

If there’s one thing Dad believes in, it is learning.

I thought I was good at putting together a quick dinner, but Mom is the master chef.

Chante Sez … It’s unfair to judge

If we would take the time to judge ourselves — examine ourselves first, that is — we often wouldn’t be judged by others. Of course, when others do judge, it’s unfair.

I try not to judge myself for constantly misspelling judgment. I’m always inclined to add a second “e.”

Here’s my tip on how to avoid “judgement.”

Judgment is wrong; it’s an an error. Since “error” starts with “e,” remember that it’s an error to add one.