Book excerpt: “Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero” by Steve Guttenberg

Steve Guttenberg and his father, Stanley, share a heartfelt moment.
Post Hill Press

in his deeply personal memoir, “Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero”, acclaimed actor Steve Guttenberg offers an intimate look at the unbreakable bond he shared with his father, Stanley. the book is a heartfelt homage to their relationship, chronicling Steve’s journey from a mischievous childhood to his rise as a Hollywood star in beloved films like “Cocoon” and the “Police Academy” series. It also delves into the emotional final chapter of Stanley’s life, when Steve became his primary caregiver after his father was diagnosed with kidney failure.

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“Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero” by Steve Guttenberg

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Steve’s narrative begins with a nostalgic glimpse into his childhood in the late 1960s. It was June 1968, and the excitement of summer was palpable. As fourth grade wrapped up, young Steve was already envisioning the adventures that awaited him. For him, summer was synonymous with freedom, mischief, and, above all, fireworks.

Using the money he earned from his Newsday paper route, Steve would purchase “belts”—bundles of 144 firecrackers imported from China. To him, these were priceless treasures. He bought them from Andy Mahoney, a local troublemaker five years his senior, who only tolerated Steve because of his consistent business. Steve carefully hid his prized collection in the side drawer of his desk, a spot so cleverly chosen that even his mother never found it.

One day, unable to resist the temptation, Steve grabbed a pack of matches, locked himself in the family bathroom, and began tossing lit firecrackers out the window.It was a moment of pure, unfiltered joy—a memory that would stay with him for a lifetime.

This playful anecdote serves as a stark contrast to the more somber themes explored later in the book. as Steve reflects on his father’s illness and the sacrifices he made to care for him,he emphasizes the values of gratitude,resilience,and unconditional love. “Time to thank” is not just a memoir; it’s a testament to the enduring power of family and the lessons learned through caregiving.

A Father-Son Bond Forged in Firecrackers

It was one of those quiet afternoons when the house felt almost too still, and the world outside seemed to hold its breath. My father was in the den, my mother in the kitchen—unaware of the chaos I was about to unleash.With no one watching, I decided to stage my own private fireworks show. What could possibly go wrong?

As it turned out, everything.

“What on earth is going on?” my mother’s voice rang out from downstairs. “Stanley, I smell smoke!”

“Check the air conditioners,” my father replied.”I’ll take a look in the attic.”

My heart pounded as I heard his footsteps climbing the stairs. I prayed he’d skip the bathroom—my makeshift explosives lab—but luck wasn’t on my side. The sharp knock on the door left no room for doubt.

“Steven? What the hell are you doing in ther?”

“Nothing,” I said, my voice steady, even as I tossed another lit firecracker out the window.

“Open this door, now!“

I scanned the bathroom, desperate for a hiding spot for my stash—or even for myself. But there was no escape.Reluctantly, I opened the door, and a thick cloud of smoke billowed into the hallway. I stood there, covered in soot, bracing for the worst.

My father stared at me, his expression unreadable. For what felt like an eternity, I was certain I was about to face the wrath of a lifetime. But then he spoke.

“Here’s what we’re going to do,” he said, his tone calm but firm. “How many firecrackers do you have?”

I led him to my desk drawer, sliding it open to reveal my secret stash. It was a sight only two people had ever seen: me and my friend Andy Mahoney.

“that’s a lot of gunpowder,” my father remarked. “How did you get all these firecrackers?”

“They’re called belts, Dad,” I replied, instantly realizing it wasn’t the best answer as his eyebrows shot up. “I bought them with my newspaper route money.”

Without another word, he reached into the drawer, grabbed the bulk of the firecrackers, and said, “Follow me.”

I expected we were heading to the trash cans, but he walked right past them. Instead, we stepped outside, where he handed me a lighter.

“You and I are going to light every single one of these firecrackers and finish them off,” he declared.

I couldn’t believe it. My father—a man I thought would ground me for life—was about to join me in my mischief. Together, we lit each firecracker, one by one, the explosions echoing through the quiet afternoon. it was a moment I’ll never forget, not just for the thrill, but for the unexpected bond it created between us.

That day taught me more than just the dangers of playing with firecrackers.It showed me the power of understanding, patience, and the kind of father-son connection that can turn a potential disaster into a cherished memory.

The evening air was thick with anticipation as my father and I stood in the backyard,a box of firecrackers between us.The sun had just dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the mimosa tree that swayed gently in the breeze. It was one of those rare moments when time seemed to slow down, and everything felt perfect.

“What the hell are you two doing?” my mother’s voice rang out from the bedroom window, breaking the silence.

“We’re lighting firecrackers, Ann.My partner and me,” my father replied, his tone casual but proud.

His partner. He called me his partner. Those words echoed in my mind, filling me with a sense of pride I hadn’t felt before. It was as if I’d been handed a golden ticket, a moment of validation that I was more than just his son—I was his equal, his teammate.

We spent hours out there, the sky darkening as we lit one firecracker after another. My father,ever the teacher,showed me how to handle them with care,his steady hands guiding mine. There was a rhythm to it, a back-and-forth that felt like a dance. I’d hand him a firecracker, he’d light it, and we’d watch it explode in a burst of color and sound.Then it was my turn, and I’d mimic his movements, trying to match his confidence.

At one point, he handed me his Zippo lighter. “Here, you light some. I’ve got an extra,” he said, his voice calm and encouraging. I hesitated at first,but his trust in me gave me the courage to try. I lit the wick, tossed the firecracker, and watched it soar into the air before exploding in a shower of sparks. It was exhilarating.

Of course, there were mishaps. one firecracker went off a little too close to my fingers,the pain sharp and sudden. But I didn’t say a word. This moment was too special to ruin with complaints. Rather, I focused on the joy of being there with my dad, sharing something that felt like a rite of passage.

As the night deepened,we lit the final fireworks,their bursts of light painting the sky in vibrant hues. The crackling sounds filled the air, a symphony of party. My father turned to me, a smile on his face, and said, “that’s it, Steven.We’re done. Good job.”

walking back into the house, I felt a shift within me. It wasn’t just about the fireworks or the thrill of the explosions. It was about the bond we’d strengthened, the trust he’d shown me, and the lessons I’d learned. My father hadn’t just taught me how to light a firecracker; he’d shown me what it means to be a dad—to guide,to trust,and to create memories that last a lifetime.

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Discover the Book:

“Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero” by Steve Guttenberg

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A Father-Son Bond Lit by Firecrackers: Steve Guttenberg’s Heartfelt Memoir

Have you ever shared a moment with your father that felt like a secret adventure, a fleeting escape from the ordinary? For Steve Guttenberg, that moment came on a quiet afternoon, illuminated by the crackling sparks of firecrackers and the laughter of a father and son breaking the rules together.

It all began with a mischievous grin and a challenge: “Let’s see if we can hit the tree branch,” his father said. What followed was an hour of pure joy, as they perfected their aim and watched the firecrackers explode mid-air, showering the yard with light.It wasn’t just about the fireworks; it was about the connection they shared—a rare, unspoken understanding that transcended their usual roles.

For the first time, Steve saw his father not just as a provider or disciplinarian, but as a partner in crime. Someone who understood the thrill of bending the rules, even if only for a little while. As the last firecracker fizzled out, his father turned to him and said, “You know, Steven, there’s a time and place for everything. And sometimes, that time is now.”

That day became a cherished memory, a story Steve would recount for years to come. It wasn’t just about the firecrackers; it was about the bond they forged—a bond that, like a firecracker, could light up even the darkest of times.

“Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero”

In his deeply personal memoir, “Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero,” Steve Guttenberg reflects on moments like these, weaving together the threads of his childhood and his father’s final years. The book is a tribute to the enduring bond between a father and son,a story of love,resilience,and the power of unconditional support.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and candid reflections, Guttenberg invites readers into his journey of caregiving, offering a poignant reminder of the importance of family, gratitude, and seizing the moment. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever cherished a parent’s love or faced the challenges of caregiving.

Why You Should Read “Time to Thank”

If you’re looking for a book that celebrates the beauty of family and the strength of human connection, “Time to Thank” is a must-read. Whether you’re a fan of memoirs or simply seeking a heartfelt story, this book offers a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the moments that define us.

For those who prefer to listen, the audiobook is available on Audible with a 30-day free trial, making it easy to immerse yourself in Guttenberg’s moving narrative.

Get Your Copy Today:

• Purchase “Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero” on Amazon
• Listen to the Audiobook on Audible

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25 Unforgettable Father-Son Activities for Bonding and Memories

the bond between a father and son is one of life’s most precious relationships.It’s a connection that grows stronger with shared experiences, laughter, and meaningful moments. Whether you’re looking to reignite that spark or create new traditions, these 25 father-son activities are designed to bring you closer together.

Outdoor Adventures

There’s something magical about spending time in nature. It’s a chance to unplug, explore, and bond over shared challenges and triumphs. Here are some outdoor activities to consider:

• Camping: Pitch a tent, build a fire, and share stories under the stars.Camping is a timeless way to connect.
• Fishing: Whether it’s by a quiet lake or a rushing river, fishing offers moments of calm and conversation.
• Hiking: Tackle a trail together and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Creative Projects

Working on a project together can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a chance to collaborate,learn new skills,and create something lasting.

• Build a Treehouse: A classic project that combines creativity and teamwork.
• Restore a Car: For older sons, restoring a car can be a meaningful and educational experience.
• Start a Garden: Planting and nurturing a garden teaches patience and responsibility.

Sports and Games

Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or playing side by side, sports and games are a fantastic way to bond.

• Attend a Game: Whether it’s baseball, basketball, or soccer, watching a live game together is always exciting.
• Play catch: A simple game of catch can spark meaningful conversations.
• Video game Night: For tech-savvy duos, a video game night can be a fun way to connect.

Cultural Experiences

Exploring art, music, and history together can open up new worlds of understanding and thankfulness.

• Visit a Museum: Dive into history, science, or art at a local museum.
• Attend a Comedy Show: Laughter is a universal language that brings people closer.
• Watch a Classic Movie: Share your favorite films and discuss their themes.

Everyday Moments

Sometimes, the simplest activities create the most lasting memories.

• Cooking Together: Whip up a meal or bake cookies together.
• Reading Aloud: Share a book and discuss its lessons.
• Taking a Walk: A leisurely stroll can lead to meaningful conversations.

Why Father-Son Bonding Matters

As the saying goes, “The father-son bond is truly unique, but just like any relationship, it takes work to make it special.” These activities aren’t just about having fun—they’re about building trust, understanding, and a lifelong connection.

Share Your Story

What’s your favorite father-son memory? share your stories in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the moments that make this bond so extraordinary.

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What are some fun woodworking projects a father and son could build together?

Woodworking: Craft something together, like a birdhouse or a piece of furniture, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something tangible.