Big Brother Boston Red Sox night
Allen Arseneau
The BBBSMB hooked us up with RedSox tickets today. Actually, they hooked up Hunter's family also. It was strange to be with both Hunter and his family. It was a late night, but a lot of fun.
Read MoreBoston BIG - A blog about being a Big Brother
This is a blog about my experiences become a Big Brother to a wonderful 7-yr old boy named Hunter.
My name is Allen, and I am a Boston BIG. I live in the Boston area, and am a BIG Brother (Big Brother Big Sister of Massachusetts Bay Organization) to a 7-year old boy named Hunter. Hunter lives with his grandma and 4 siblings, and is in kind of a tough situation. So, I am a positive adult role-model in his life. I take him out about 3 times per month. We have a blast.
People are often surprised by how much fun Hunter and I have on our many outings, so I decided to write this blog to capture some of our adventures, and to keep somewhat of a diary for Hunter.
I personally know how beneficial having a BIG is. I actually got my own BIG about 28 years ago, when my mother realized that her sons needed help. My BIG, Paul, became my mentor and guiding light as I grew from a Boston troubled teen into a Stanford alum and business owner. I talk to Paul almost every week nowadays. Eventhough I have a wonderful 8 year-old daughter of my own, and run a start-up, I find a few hours each week to take Hunter out. In fact, it is just as much a break for me as it is for him.
I hope you enjoy reading about some of our adventures.
Hiking, granola bars, and a touch of regret
Allen Arseneau
As we were walking, and Hunter was jumping from rock to rock, or leaping over running water, I couldn’t help but think that it’s so cool that he has so much fun when he’s with me. He is such a sweet boy. He just wants (and deserves) to be happy.
Read MoreOuting # 6: Hunter meets my daughter
Allen Arseneau
For those of us with our own children, there comes a time when you want to introduce your Little to your kids. For me, this occurred on our 6th outing.
Read MoreI saw a hint of jealousy and sadness in his eyes
Allen Arseneau
There was, however, a family a few lanes down (with no one in between us). A dad, mom, and 3 kids. They were all laughing, high-fiving, and having a great time. And I could see Hunter look at them from time to time…with what looked like jealousy in his eyes, with a touch of sadness.
Read MoreSpongeBob SquarePants at last!
Allen Arseneau
Today, we made a second valiant attempt to go see the SpongeBob movie, and were successful. I let Braylon know just how proud of him I was for how he dealt with not seeing the movie the last time. He smiled and said “thanks”.
Read MoreGrrr, the movie that he really wanted to see....was sold out
Allen Arseneau
Today was Valentine’s Day. We planned on going to the new SpongeBob Movie. I’ve never seen SpongeBob, so I thought I was in for a treat. However, bad planning on my part…the movie was sold out. Braylon handled this like a champ. I quickly hopped on my phone to find another movie theatre that could work, but without success. So, we made a Plan B.
Read MoreMuseum of Science (where it’s fun to find out)
Allen Arseneau
I love science and engineering. So, I was happy to bring Hunter to the Museum of Science yesterday (discounted tickets through BBBSMB). It was our second outing, so we are still getting to know each other.
Read MoreOur first outing almost ended in tears
Allen Arseneau
The Fates smiled on us – our first outing will be a memorable one. We had to deal with a blizzard, being chased around the mall with cheesy fingers, and almost crying...all on our first outing.
Read MoreThat awkward first meeting
Allen Arseneau
Yesterday, I met my Little, Braylon, for the first time. He is 7 years old, likes hot dogs and chocolate, likes to shoot hops and read, and loves Legos.
Read MoreFirst, I was a Little...
Allen Arseneau
People often ask me what is it like to be a Big Brother. Is it hard? My answer...being a Big is amazing. This blog captures my journey of becoming a Big Brother (through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay, BBBSMB), and my Little's journey of growing up.
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