When my daughter was very young, I taught her a phrase – “watch for anomalies.”  As a young girl growing up, I wanted her to always be keenly aware of her surroundings.  To know where the exits are in a restaurant, theater or other public place.  And to always be aware of what doesn’t “look right.”  What looks out of place.  I frequently cautioned her – if something doesn’t look right, go the other way.   

I have a feeling that my daughter at the age of 12 could “case” a room as well as anyone.  Though today when I smile and say “watch for anomalies,” she’ll usually responds “Oh dad. . . .”  

I learned the expression years ago.  As a State’s Attorney – working with police – I learned quickly that they watched carefully for anomalies.  Situations that don’t look right.   Things that look out of place or out of character.  

Apart from teaching my granddaughter about music, the guitar, speaking Spanish, making Swedish pancakes, how to spit, playing golf, making spaghetti carbonara (see post of 7/27/11), playing poker, doing magic tricks, finding pennies on the street and so on, I will also teach her to know where the exits are and to “watch for anomalies.”