My magic shoes are not of the red glittery variety, but rather they are a little worn and now a little soggy. They are blue and silver shoes that are lighter than air. They beckon me to put them on and take them for a spin. They promise to take me to new heights and new places. They are my running shoes and just like when I was six years old they make me feel like I can run faster and that I am stronger when I wear them. I know it may sound a little silly especially if you have never experienced the feeling.
When I run in my shoes I am free, liberated from everything except the wind, the rain, and the sound of my soles striking the pavement. I am light and can fly through the air, no matter the pumpkin pie that I ate yesterday. Guilt runs are great though!
I think that today I actually became part Labrador Retrevier, as Mystic and I were running in sync, exhilirated by every falling drop of rain just happy to be alive and part of the world around us. She of course was more interested in running after birds. I however, did not share that desire but that is not the point. We were two free spirits, woman and dog together.
On such a day when people feel the regret of overeating yesterday and participate in crazy shopping sprees, keep it simple. Take out your magic shoes and go for a spin. Your shoes will tell you that you are fast and lighter than air. It is okay to listen to them and feel like you did when you were six. Besides the endorphins are a great bonus and help to create crazy blogs about magic shoes. Happy running.
Lori
Friday, November 28, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Over The River and Through the Woods.....
Last weekend we had to opportunity to drive down to Grandma's house. With both baseball and soccer seasons seeming to last forever, it's been a really long time since we made the journey to Temple. Too long in fact, and we could not have asked for a better time for Aidan's sports seasons to come to a close. You see last weekend was extra special, for Sunday was Grandma's birthday, and we were lucky enough to be able to spend it with her. Speaking of the end to Aidan's sports season, here is a picture of Aidan's new trophies. He certainly earned them.
We left for Temple on Friday evening about 7:30pm. Since we had planned on leaving about 6:30pm, I would say that we were right on schedule. Oh by the way, that would be "our usual schedule", and not "normal people schedule". While Aidan and Lori and Christopher made sure that the backs of their eyelids were not going anywhere, I was lucky enough to get behind a passenger bus that was obviously being driven by Keanu Reeves. By staying on that buses tail most of the way, we made fantastic time. We pulled into Grandma's driveway a few minutes before 10:00pm with everybody well rested......ummm....well....almost everybody....Grrrrrrr.
When we arrived, we were pleased to find that Grandma was still awake. We stayed up for a few minutes and visited, and finally got the kiddos off to bed about 10:30pm. Grandma went to bed right after that, and Lori and I made it about 1 more hour before we were also greeted by the Sandman.
We woke up bright and early on Saturday morning (as one does when there are 6 year olds and 15 month olds in the house), and started enjoying Grandma's hospitality. It's always great returning to the house that I grew up in. Although I have not lived full time in that house in over 20 years, it's still as comfortable as ever, and the familiarity is refreshing. Aidan and Christopher did not waste time hitting up the huge backyard. Each time we are down, a good majority of the day is spent in Grandma's huge backyard. Oh how we wish we had something like this to play in at our house. You could fit 5 of our backyards into 1 of Grandmas. Before Christopher headed outside, I was able to snap a picture of he an Grandma.
After getting outside, it did not take Aidan very long to figure out how to use the new POGO SWING.
It looked like a lot of fun, and you could see the gears churning inside Christopher's head, wondering how he was going to get his turn. In due time buddy, in due time. A brief game of soccer followed, 
until Christopher decided that picking up the ball was much easier than kicking it with his little stubby legs. As I tried to explain to him the rules, he just turns and give me the "what Dad?" look. 
Christopher finally decided to take a rest, and frolic in the leaves a bit. This gave me a great opportunity to capture a fantastic photo of him. Isn't he just the cutest little monkey you've ever seen? 
Uncle Jim was able to stop by the house on Saturday morning before going in to work, and we all enjoyed his brief visit. Hopefully next time we will hit a weekend when he is off and will get a bit more time to visit. Saturday seemed to go by really fast. That tends to happen when you are having so much fun.....just ask Christopher. (Click on Movie)
Aidan and I both got a real kick out of taking Grandma's convertible for a spin, as we both sported huge grins on our face the entire ride. After we got home, we had a great home cooked meal, and finally got a very tired Christopher to bed about 7:30pm on Saturday night. The rest of us sat down and watched NATIONAL TREASURE TWO: BOOK OF SECRETS. It's one of those turn your brain off at the door and enjoy the ride movies, and we were all entertained.
Sunday morning we woke early and wished Grandma a very happy birthday. She prepared a wonderful lunch for us, and Lori made a beautiful flower arrangement.
After a great lunch, we saved room for the birthday cupcakes that Lori made. Here is a picture of Grandma blowing out the candles. (Please take special notice of out oldest goofy monkey in the background) 
We all had a really good time on a very short visit. Like always, the time went by too quickly. We loaded up the CX-9 about 2:00pm, said our goodbyes, and got back home about 4:45pm. Like a said, a very brief visit.
I want to thank Grandma for her wonderful hospitality, and again.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY and I love you. 
William
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Courage, Hope, & Inspiration: A Pink Trail of Tears
I had a rare opportunity this past weekend to witness a journey for many that symbolized so many different things for each involved and offered many views of the human spirit. I was a member of the medical crew for the Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day Walk in Dallas this past weekend. The walkers of the 3 Day, walk 20 miles each day for 3 days to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.
Estella, Shellye, Me, & Amy
My journey began at 5 AM on Friday at Southfork Ranch, as one of 5 friends supporting our inspiration and good friend Shellye. Shellye, oh by the way, is now a breast cancer survivor of over one and a half years. :)! We were all a little sleepy and a little excited by what lay ahead for the day, as we watched the incredible sea of pink and eccentricities roll in to walk and support all of the 3500 walkers. How awesome and inspiring it was to see so many family and friends walking together with signs of support for those that were survivors, in active treatment, or to remember those that had been lost to breast cancer. I saw women walking that were obviously in active treatment, and those that each step they took appeared to be a great effort but they kept going with all the determination they could muster in hope that each one of them was making a difference. Families pushed wheelchairs so that they could support their loved one when they got tired. It was an emotional and wonderful moment surrounded by crazy hats, pink bouffant hair, men in bras (which was a little disturbing), and lots and lots of furry boas. It was going to be an interesting experience indeed!
My friends and I ended up going in different directions as they were set up for various pit stops among the route and I was headed for main camp. I talked to several women on the bus that shared their experiences with me and we discussed the general lack of education that is given to patients with breast cancer. Many patients are given books or reading material but not actually educated on treatment options and potential side effects from the chemo and radiation treatments. We also talked about how so much is unknown for the cure for breast cancer and I was starting to feel a little unsettled.
Did you know that without family history that women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer? Kind of scary especially if you thought you were fairly safe. Anyway, I will keep going with the story.
At Main Camp all of our group set up our MASH unit for medical, chiropractic, and sports medicine services and began to assemble many of the pink tents ( 2 person) for the walkers and staff. Holy pink tents batman! The crazy tent decorating comes later including camouflage for some, really cool Christmas lights, blow up doll, UFO's, and virtually anything else imaginable. Of course mine and Estellas's tent had the super cool battery operated Christmas lights!
The first walkers came in to camp for the day with early blisters; strained knees, hips, and backs; and a few other less urgent complaints and life was good. Shellye, Estella, and Amy had been at one pit stops and only a fracture or two but nothing crazy. The night continued and we began having several women dropping from dehydration that required fluids, and some had to be sent out to hospitals.
Marco - The Water Boy- "If you don't drink your water you don't get in the shower!"
Day 2 started back at main camp with a rush of lots of crazy blisters, raw feet, sore knees and backs, airway issues, diarrhea and other assorted complaints. Virtually all of the walkers were determined to get back out there and walk their 20 miles for the day as a badge of courage no matter what the price. Some walkers had received medical red cards meaning that they could not participate for the days event because they were medically unsafe and they became quite emotional because of what the walk represented for them. When I really experienced that emotional roller coaster was when a group of us were brought to the 1st pit stop and a lady that was in active chemo with cancer that had spread to her belly, was red carded for dehydration. Although she was calm her family member that was with her just wept and said "she just needed to spend the night in a hotel and she would be well enough to walk". That was one of the same ladies I watched struggle as she walked through the starting gate and boy did it get to me inside. For so many of the walkers this walk was about having the courage to stand up and beat cancer and walk on. I continued to see more and more examples throughout the 3Day.
Amy and I arrived at Pit Stop 4 and started setting up. All of the neighbors were very excited that the walkers were coming through and one lady brought her trio of tiny little dogs (Okay I admit I own a Lab so yes they were tiny in comparison) to cheer and provide pet therapy for the walkers. The smallest dog, (I am uncertain as to the actual itty bitty breed) was actually named Komen and would perform a soprano-esque howl to cheer the walkers when coerced. Although many of the walkers felt like their feet were about to become detached from their body they would stop and laugh before trekking on. I met one lady that was in her late 60's early seventies that was having an incredible time with her hips and plantar fascitis but she refused to get on the bus, despite already completing 36 + miles as of day 2. She was a cancer survivor and she was not going to stop until she had finished the next 3.6 miles left for the day. There were so many people that I met that kept on going because although they were "just walking" those 60 miles represented so much more to them. I can't describe all that I saw but I was constantly reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the innate compassion that so many people possess as they encouraged and helped all of those around them.
Pit Stop 4 Medical Crew
The funniest walkers that Amy and I met were Carol and I think it was her daughter she called "wild thing". They had determined that they were the last walkers on the route that had not been picked up from the bus and they were taking pride in last place. Carol was really struggling with her knee with each step but they were laughing and having a good time. The walker in front of them was having issues with plantar fascitis and she stopped to stretch with her husband and "wild thing" informed her that they were going to be in last place so she had better move it and proceeded to squirt her with her water bottle. This of course made her laugh and allowed her to keep going a little longer. The girl once again stopped to stretch and wild thing said" I am on to you now. I can stop and stretch too. Now get moving!" Too funny. It kept everything light and helped to keep her going and they protected their title for last place for day 2.
Wild Thing & Carol with one of the Safety Crew members
The final day was more of a relief for many of the walkers as they were starting to see the finish ahead although there would still be red cards to hand out. The walk ended in celebration for all of those that walked bravely through it all, the 360 + crew that survived and became better people for the experience, and most of all to celebrate all of the survivors with the walkers and the crew. Over 7 million dollars was raised for breast cancer research for 2008 through the Komen Foundation. Many of these funds were raised by the 3-Day participants along with so many hearts and spirits raised to new heights and hope for a cure.
Some of the medical crew for the 3Day
We said goodbye to our new friends and told the walkers how proud we were of them. The DFW 3Day was now officially over. I was filled with hope and love for all of those around me along with the overwhelming urge to sleep, drink lots of fluids, eat a steak or something substantial, and rejoice over the indoor shower and flushable potty. And of course most of all I was excited to be back with William and my monkeys that I had missed dearly! But I know that I will be back next year as a crew member or as a walker to continue to support the fight to end breast cancer. I have seen the tears and the blisters and I am not afraid to stand with those that are still fighting, to make a difference for all of our friends and family members whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.
One last picture of the boys at closing ceremonies before the hypoglycemic crazies started setting in. Enjoy your family and friends.
Lori
Estella, Shellye, Me, & AmyMy journey began at 5 AM on Friday at Southfork Ranch, as one of 5 friends supporting our inspiration and good friend Shellye. Shellye, oh by the way, is now a breast cancer survivor of over one and a half years. :)! We were all a little sleepy and a little excited by what lay ahead for the day, as we watched the incredible sea of pink and eccentricities roll in to walk and support all of the 3500 walkers. How awesome and inspiring it was to see so many family and friends walking together with signs of support for those that were survivors, in active treatment, or to remember those that had been lost to breast cancer. I saw women walking that were obviously in active treatment, and those that each step they took appeared to be a great effort but they kept going with all the determination they could muster in hope that each one of them was making a difference. Families pushed wheelchairs so that they could support their loved one when they got tired. It was an emotional and wonderful moment surrounded by crazy hats, pink bouffant hair, men in bras (which was a little disturbing), and lots and lots of furry boas. It was going to be an interesting experience indeed!
My friends and I ended up going in different directions as they were set up for various pit stops among the route and I was headed for main camp. I talked to several women on the bus that shared their experiences with me and we discussed the general lack of education that is given to patients with breast cancer. Many patients are given books or reading material but not actually educated on treatment options and potential side effects from the chemo and radiation treatments. We also talked about how so much is unknown for the cure for breast cancer and I was starting to feel a little unsettled.
Did you know that without family history that women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer? Kind of scary especially if you thought you were fairly safe. Anyway, I will keep going with the story.
At Main Camp all of our group set up our MASH unit for medical, chiropractic, and sports medicine services and began to assemble many of the pink tents ( 2 person) for the walkers and staff. Holy pink tents batman! The crazy tent decorating comes later including camouflage for some, really cool Christmas lights, blow up doll, UFO's, and virtually anything else imaginable. Of course mine and Estellas's tent had the super cool battery operated Christmas lights!
The first walkers came in to camp for the day with early blisters; strained knees, hips, and backs; and a few other less urgent complaints and life was good. Shellye, Estella, and Amy had been at one pit stops and only a fracture or two but nothing crazy. The night continued and we began having several women dropping from dehydration that required fluids, and some had to be sent out to hospitals.
Marco - The Water Boy- "If you don't drink your water you don't get in the shower!"Day 2 started back at main camp with a rush of lots of crazy blisters, raw feet, sore knees and backs, airway issues, diarrhea and other assorted complaints. Virtually all of the walkers were determined to get back out there and walk their 20 miles for the day as a badge of courage no matter what the price. Some walkers had received medical red cards meaning that they could not participate for the days event because they were medically unsafe and they became quite emotional because of what the walk represented for them. When I really experienced that emotional roller coaster was when a group of us were brought to the 1st pit stop and a lady that was in active chemo with cancer that had spread to her belly, was red carded for dehydration. Although she was calm her family member that was with her just wept and said "she just needed to spend the night in a hotel and she would be well enough to walk". That was one of the same ladies I watched struggle as she walked through the starting gate and boy did it get to me inside. For so many of the walkers this walk was about having the courage to stand up and beat cancer and walk on. I continued to see more and more examples throughout the 3Day.
Amy and I arrived at Pit Stop 4 and started setting up. All of the neighbors were very excited that the walkers were coming through and one lady brought her trio of tiny little dogs (Okay I admit I own a Lab so yes they were tiny in comparison) to cheer and provide pet therapy for the walkers. The smallest dog, (I am uncertain as to the actual itty bitty breed) was actually named Komen and would perform a soprano-esque howl to cheer the walkers when coerced. Although many of the walkers felt like their feet were about to become detached from their body they would stop and laugh before trekking on. I met one lady that was in her late 60's early seventies that was having an incredible time with her hips and plantar fascitis but she refused to get on the bus, despite already completing 36 + miles as of day 2. She was a cancer survivor and she was not going to stop until she had finished the next 3.6 miles left for the day. There were so many people that I met that kept on going because although they were "just walking" those 60 miles represented so much more to them. I can't describe all that I saw but I was constantly reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the innate compassion that so many people possess as they encouraged and helped all of those around them.
Pit Stop 4 Medical CrewThe funniest walkers that Amy and I met were Carol and I think it was her daughter she called "wild thing". They had determined that they were the last walkers on the route that had not been picked up from the bus and they were taking pride in last place. Carol was really struggling with her knee with each step but they were laughing and having a good time. The walker in front of them was having issues with plantar fascitis and she stopped to stretch with her husband and "wild thing" informed her that they were going to be in last place so she had better move it and proceeded to squirt her with her water bottle. This of course made her laugh and allowed her to keep going a little longer. The girl once again stopped to stretch and wild thing said" I am on to you now. I can stop and stretch too. Now get moving!" Too funny. It kept everything light and helped to keep her going and they protected their title for last place for day 2.
Wild Thing & Carol with one of the Safety Crew membersThe final day was more of a relief for many of the walkers as they were starting to see the finish ahead although there would still be red cards to hand out. The walk ended in celebration for all of those that walked bravely through it all, the 360 + crew that survived and became better people for the experience, and most of all to celebrate all of the survivors with the walkers and the crew. Over 7 million dollars was raised for breast cancer research for 2008 through the Komen Foundation. Many of these funds were raised by the 3-Day participants along with so many hearts and spirits raised to new heights and hope for a cure.
Some of the medical crew for the 3DayWe said goodbye to our new friends and told the walkers how proud we were of them. The DFW 3Day was now officially over. I was filled with hope and love for all of those around me along with the overwhelming urge to sleep, drink lots of fluids, eat a steak or something substantial, and rejoice over the indoor shower and flushable potty. And of course most of all I was excited to be back with William and my monkeys that I had missed dearly! But I know that I will be back next year as a crew member or as a walker to continue to support the fight to end breast cancer. I have seen the tears and the blisters and I am not afraid to stand with those that are still fighting, to make a difference for all of our friends and family members whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.
One last picture of the boys at closing ceremonies before the hypoglycemic crazies started setting in. Enjoy your family and friends.
Lori
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Winds Of Change.....or Joe or Ralph or Steve....
Well it's been a while since I've written a long blog. No, I have not been suffering from writer's block or anything as profound as that, I've just been really busy. Today I have finally found time to sit down at the computer, and wax poetic. So here I go baby....waxing!
First I need to follow up on a promise from the last blog. Lori and Aidan did indeed attended the "Sock Hop" and both said it was really "cool". Yep, Lori was "Togged to the Bricks", and Aidan was one "Hep Cat", while dad stayed at home too "off the cob" to really fit in at such a happening place. (Look them up...I had to) Here is Aidan and Lori in all there 1950's glory.
October sped past in an instant, but not before inducing sugar highs and enamel lows on it's final day. Halloween is always so much fun when you have kids. Dressing up, scaring people, screaming, running around making a fool of yourself, and most importantly.......CANDY!....LOTS AND LOTS OF DELICIOUS, SUCCULENT, MOUTH WATERING CANDY. It's amazing how much candy a kid gets now days. When I was a child, you were pleased as punch when someone dropped one piece in your bag. Now, handfuls are handed out at a time. Those dirty rotten little monkeys made out like bandits. Speaking of dirty rotten little monkeys, here are a few pictures of ours in all their galactic glory.
I present Darth Monkeyboy.
The Dark Side.....The Neutral Side....and the Precious Side.
"But Aidan LUKE, I am...... your FATHER".....yours too Christopher.
Master "YODA" wielding his LightSucker like a true JEDI.
All in all, the evening went great. Christopher and Aidan got to trick-or-treat with their cousins, and afterward, we all went over to Nana's house to experience the Gruesome Haunted Garage that Cricket, Lori and NANA set up for the boys. After they were sufficiently scared out of their wits, they all sought refuge in their bags of candy.
Speaking of NANA, it sure was nice having her down for the week. Everybody enjoyed her visit, and like always it ended too soon. While she was here, she got to see Aidan play his soccer game and his Baseball game on Saturday, and Aidan sure enjoyed playing in front of his NANA. Goodtimes!
Last but not least, I want to say a little something about our little Rembrandt. Early this week we got an email from Aidan's school letting us know that his artwork was picked to be displayed at the School District's Administration Building. Only 15 students were chosen from his school. Only 3 students out of the 140+ in his grade were chosen. We are very proud of him. Here is the picture that he drew and painted, he calls it "Winds of Change" (Not really...I made that up...he actually wanted to give it a boy's name...oh well...what can you say, he's 6)
So, there you have it. All caught up for the moment. I will not be so lax with updates in the future.
William
First I need to follow up on a promise from the last blog. Lori and Aidan did indeed attended the "Sock Hop" and both said it was really "cool". Yep, Lori was "Togged to the Bricks", and Aidan was one "Hep Cat", while dad stayed at home too "off the cob" to really fit in at such a happening place. (Look them up...I had to) Here is Aidan and Lori in all there 1950's glory.
October sped past in an instant, but not before inducing sugar highs and enamel lows on it's final day. Halloween is always so much fun when you have kids. Dressing up, scaring people, screaming, running around making a fool of yourself, and most importantly.......CANDY!....LOTS AND LOTS OF DELICIOUS, SUCCULENT, MOUTH WATERING CANDY. It's amazing how much candy a kid gets now days. When I was a child, you were pleased as punch when someone dropped one piece in your bag. Now, handfuls are handed out at a time. Those dirty rotten little monkeys made out like bandits. Speaking of dirty rotten little monkeys, here are a few pictures of ours in all their galactic glory.
I present Darth Monkeyboy.
The Dark Side.....The Neutral Side....and the Precious Side.
"But Aidan LUKE, I am...... your FATHER".....yours too Christopher.
Master "YODA" wielding his LightSucker like a true JEDI.
All in all, the evening went great. Christopher and Aidan got to trick-or-treat with their cousins, and afterward, we all went over to Nana's house to experience the Gruesome Haunted Garage that Cricket, Lori and NANA set up for the boys. After they were sufficiently scared out of their wits, they all sought refuge in their bags of candy.
Speaking of NANA, it sure was nice having her down for the week. Everybody enjoyed her visit, and like always it ended too soon. While she was here, she got to see Aidan play his soccer game and his Baseball game on Saturday, and Aidan sure enjoyed playing in front of his NANA. Goodtimes!
Last but not least, I want to say a little something about our little Rembrandt. Early this week we got an email from Aidan's school letting us know that his artwork was picked to be displayed at the School District's Administration Building. Only 15 students were chosen from his school. Only 3 students out of the 140+ in his grade were chosen. We are very proud of him. Here is the picture that he drew and painted, he calls it "Winds of Change" (Not really...I made that up...he actually wanted to give it a boy's name...oh well...what can you say, he's 6)
So, there you have it. All caught up for the moment. I will not be so lax with updates in the future.
William
Friday, October 24, 2008
PumpkinBob CandlePants
Well, it's almost 8 o'clock and I just got Christopher to bed. Lori and Aidan are jiving at the local Sock Hop tonight. Wow, never in a million years did I think I would ever type a line like that. "Jiving at the local Sock Hop". It's true, Aidan's school is having a Sock Hop, and Aidan (dressed in his white "T Birds" tee-shirt and jeans) took Mom (dressed in her Capri pants and cardigan) as his date. They are probably knee deep in punch and twisting to Chubbie Checker about now. You can bet that I will have pictures to post tomorrow as soon as they are available.
Last night I took on a monumental task. Aidan asked me to carve a pumpkin for him, and me being the glutton for punishment that I am, decided that I needed to create a really fancy one. So after 3 hours of drawing and carving and swearing late last night, I created my masterpiece. Here it is in all it's glory.
It's not too scary, but Aidan loved it.
William
Last night I took on a monumental task. Aidan asked me to carve a pumpkin for him, and me being the glutton for punishment that I am, decided that I needed to create a really fancy one. So after 3 hours of drawing and carving and swearing late last night, I created my masterpiece. Here it is in all it's glory.
It's not too scary, but Aidan loved it.
William
Monday, October 13, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Hey BatterBatterBatterBatter S...wiiing...Batter
Our little baseball player...........although right now he's looking a bit more like our little hockey player...
Either way, he's still our Monkeyboy!
William
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Puerile Padawan
Dum Dah, Dum Dum Dum Duuuuummm Dah, Dum Dum Dum Duuuuummm Dah, Dum Dum Dum Dum.
William
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Hocus-Pocus...You're In Focus
It was picture day at school, and the boys were looking tight
Shirts were ironed, hair was combed, and teeth were nice and white
Tuck that shirt, wipe that nose, sit up strait and smile
Great job boys, look at you, both just oozing style
William
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Don't Blink
Here it is Thursday night already. Where has this week gone? Between Aidan's Soccer game on Tuesday night, and Lori working a night shift on Wednesday night, and Aidan's baseball practice tonight, it's no wonder our world's stuck in overdrive. Whew, let me catch my breath.
Speaking of Tuesday night's soccer game, Aidan had his best game yet. It made up for the slow, tired game that he played last Saturday. Aidan scored 7 goals himself, and personally prevented 2 other goals when the other team had clear breakaways. His hustle was unmatched. Through his 6 quarter of play so far this season, he has scored 14 goals, and the other teams have scored a combined 2 goals while he as been in the game. A great start to the season I would say.
Aidan and his teammates had their best baseball practice of the year tonight. They are really starting to understand what they are doing, and each boy is swinging the bat with more confidence. It's really neat to watch the maturation of the boys at this age. You can almost see the light emanating from their heads when the bulb suddenly turns on, and they understand what you are teaching them.
Aidan's swing is sweet, and he looks great at the plate. His bat speed is fantastic for a boy of his age. I really hope that he sticks with baseball as he is growing up. His instincts are so natural on the field, and I really feel like he could become a very special player. Most people will probably roll their eyes at that statement, and chalk it up to parental blinders, but I'm not one to blow smoke. His skills are rare for a boy of his age, and his competitive drive is unmatched. Hopefully he will continue to enjoy himself on the field and continue to love the game. If he does........watch out.
Christopher is growing more "boyish" each and every day. It is fascinating watching him figure things out, and he is a real pistol. I still do not know how we got so lucky. Our boys are everything that we could have ever wanted, and then some. Watching Christopher run around the ball field trying to emulate his older brother is one of the most satisfying things I have ever seen. I would not trade these times for anything in the world.
William
Speaking of Tuesday night's soccer game, Aidan had his best game yet. It made up for the slow, tired game that he played last Saturday. Aidan scored 7 goals himself, and personally prevented 2 other goals when the other team had clear breakaways. His hustle was unmatched. Through his 6 quarter of play so far this season, he has scored 14 goals, and the other teams have scored a combined 2 goals while he as been in the game. A great start to the season I would say.
Aidan and his teammates had their best baseball practice of the year tonight. They are really starting to understand what they are doing, and each boy is swinging the bat with more confidence. It's really neat to watch the maturation of the boys at this age. You can almost see the light emanating from their heads when the bulb suddenly turns on, and they understand what you are teaching them.
Aidan's swing is sweet, and he looks great at the plate. His bat speed is fantastic for a boy of his age. I really hope that he sticks with baseball as he is growing up. His instincts are so natural on the field, and I really feel like he could become a very special player. Most people will probably roll their eyes at that statement, and chalk it up to parental blinders, but I'm not one to blow smoke. His skills are rare for a boy of his age, and his competitive drive is unmatched. Hopefully he will continue to enjoy himself on the field and continue to love the game. If he does........watch out.
Christopher is growing more "boyish" each and every day. It is fascinating watching him figure things out, and he is a real pistol. I still do not know how we got so lucky. Our boys are everything that we could have ever wanted, and then some. Watching Christopher run around the ball field trying to emulate his older brother is one of the most satisfying things I have ever seen. I would not trade these times for anything in the world.
William
Monday, September 22, 2008
A Moment's Notice
William is taking a small hiatus from the blog only for the moment to let his gastric juices settle down after all of his excitement and to let me jot down some thoughts. No worries the master blogger will return in all of his glory to resume his post.
We have all had our little dramas and headaches to deal with on a day to day basis but nontheless something happens when you are engulfed in your first grade drama to bring you back to reality. Our friends in Houston are dealing with a little more hurricane driven drama right now that has still left them without electricity but it is going to be restored soon. We are also hopeful their house in Sea Isle will be in reasonably good order on Wednesday when they return to Galveston to assess the damage. Regardless of what we face on a day to day basis minor or major drama, all of these things become insignificant when faced with a grieving family.
I had two children that I came in contact with on Friday that made me want to come home and hug the boys. I will spare you the details but both children were doing very innocent and normal things like riding their bike and sitting with their family when something happened that instantly changed everything. The miracle is that one of the children, which is incidently about Christopher's age, survived and so far appears very lucky with respect to his injury. The other child and family was not so fortunate and my heart just broke for them. I can't even imagine nor would I want to even fathom losing one of my children. William and I thank God every day for our boys and we are so thankful to have them here with us, to treasure each and every day that we afforded. Life is so precious. Hug your children!
Lori
We have all had our little dramas and headaches to deal with on a day to day basis but nontheless something happens when you are engulfed in your first grade drama to bring you back to reality. Our friends in Houston are dealing with a little more hurricane driven drama right now that has still left them without electricity but it is going to be restored soon. We are also hopeful their house in Sea Isle will be in reasonably good order on Wednesday when they return to Galveston to assess the damage. Regardless of what we face on a day to day basis minor or major drama, all of these things become insignificant when faced with a grieving family.
I had two children that I came in contact with on Friday that made me want to come home and hug the boys. I will spare you the details but both children were doing very innocent and normal things like riding their bike and sitting with their family when something happened that instantly changed everything. The miracle is that one of the children, which is incidently about Christopher's age, survived and so far appears very lucky with respect to his injury. The other child and family was not so fortunate and my heart just broke for them. I can't even imagine nor would I want to even fathom losing one of my children. William and I thank God every day for our boys and we are so thankful to have them here with us, to treasure each and every day that we afforded. Life is so precious. Hug your children!
Lori
Sometimes It's Not "Good To Be The King"
I need everyone to be on the lookout for the sneaky bandito that pulled a fast one on me yesterday. It seems that someone secretly exchanged all of the beverages that I consumed on Saturday with imported water pulled from the deepest, darkest, and dirtiest well in Mexico. That has to be it, for there can be no other explanation for the revolt that my digestive system staged yesterday. The word miserable does not even begin to describe my suffering. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being mostly dead, I was a strong 10. I'm telling you, I should start going by "King" William considering how much time I spent on the "throne" yesterday. Here it is 24 hours later, and I am just now starting to feel better. Uhhhhggg........next time just shoot me.
William
William
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Is That You Roy Hobbs?
Man o man, I just got in from Aidan's baseball game tonight and I am still pumped. He played absolutely awesome! He was an out getting machine in the field tonight. Made two great plays at home to get outs when he was playing pitcher, and made another great stop and put out at second base when he was playing shortstop. Combine that with two great at bats, a single and a double, and he was turning some heads. Sign him up.
In case you couldn't tell by now, I am PROUD of my boy! Woo Hoo!
William
In case you couldn't tell by now, I am PROUD of my boy! Woo Hoo!
William
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The Battle of Camelot Pass
Well, here it is Tuesday and I think that I have finally recuperated from Aidan's birthday weekend festivities. If you thought Aidan was normally a bit high strung, well throw in a birthday with screaming friends, lots of sugar and lots of presents, and it's enough to send a 42 year old man to the loony ward. With the exception of my mental fatigue, the weekend went great, and Aidan made out like a bandit.
On Friday Lori was off work and decided to go by Aidan's school and have lunch with our oldest Monkey. Even though his actual birthday was on Saturday, she brought along 2 dozen birthday cupcakes for Aidan and his classmates. You know, I always have thought it's a wonderful idea to stuff 6 and 7 year olds full of sugar while they are in school. It usually works out great. I am sure Aidan's teacher thoroughly enjoyed the extra excitement that was created by the wonderful sweets, and can't wait to thank us in person. Here are a couple of pictures of her visit.
Because Aidan's cousins Wyatt and Jackson were going out of town on Saturday, we decided to have them celebrate Aidan's birthday with Aidan on Friday night. We met up with Cricket and the boys at the local bowling entertainment center called Strikz. We rented two lanes, ordered a couple of pizzas, picked out our spherical weapons, and started pummeling pins like there was no tomorrow. Bowling brings back a lot of fond childhood memories, and it's easy to forget how much fun it is. There is something almost therapeutic about hurling a 16 lb ball down a lane as hard a you can in hope of obliterating as many pins as possible. Boooooom!!!!! Yeah Baby!!!!! It's like being a kid again, and it's great stress relief. After the bowling was over, the kids took their game cards over the arcade, and digital bliss engulfed their bodies shortly after. Everybody had a great time, and we all retreated to our house to open presents. Here are a few pictures to help visualize the party.
Once we got home, Cricket brought the boys over for a SLEEPOVER! Oh Joy!! Screaming Monkeys in the house for the entire evening and most of the night!!!!! The cake was cut and the candles were extinguished,
the ice cream was opened, and the sugar river flowed like the Nile. You know, it's never a real party until the party's shades make their appearance. Oh, and make their appearance they did, in resounding fashion. Elton baby, eat your heart out!
After floating along the sugar river for a while, Aidan made a bee line to the presents that Aunt Cricket and the boys brought over. In what can only be described as devastating carnage, the wrapping paper was torn to shreds. It never stood a chance. He opened all his presents with Herculean Gusto, as like I said earlier, he made out like a bandit. He loved all of his gifts, including this Pokemon T-Shirt. I don't know if the shirt has magical powers or what, but Aidan seem to suddenly take on the characteristics of a lizard/bird boy the moment he placed the shirt in front of his body.
The boys finally ended up going to sleep about 10:30pm, and Lori and I collapsed into our bed shortly after. We both looked forward to a good night's sleep, and we actually got to enjoy one until about 4:30am. You see, it was about that time that the three monkeys that were upstairs decided to wake up for the day. "What the............................why are those primates already up?" Lori was nice enough to get out of bed, and let me sleep. Thank God. She ended up staying up until Christopher woke up about 6:30am, and then had all 4 to deal with. It did not take long after that, for Dad to get the ol' wakeup/distress call. So we all got up Saturday morning and wished Aidan happy real birthday. Aunt Cricket came over early, and she and Lori went out to get breakfast for the whole crew. After donuts and croissants, Aidan got to open all of his presents from his Mom and Dad, and was spoiled through and through. Wyatt and Jackson had to leave, but before Aunt Cricket took them home, Aidan challenged them all to a silly string fight. I was lucky enough to have my video camera at the ready, and captured most of it on film. And now, for your enjoyment, I present THE BATTLE OF CAMELOT PASS.
I hope you enjoyed reading about Aidan's birthday as much as we enjoyed living it. The rest of the weekend was pretty tame, as all of the Soccer games and Baseball games were cancelled by IKE. I still find it hard to believe that Aidan is already 6 years old. It just seems so fast. I am enjoying the ride, but I wish it would slow down a bit. He is such a sweet, handsome, and inquisitive boy. We are blessed to have him as a son, and we watch every day with wonder and amazement as he grows and matures before our very eyes. Happy Birthday Monkeyboy.
William
On Friday Lori was off work and decided to go by Aidan's school and have lunch with our oldest Monkey. Even though his actual birthday was on Saturday, she brought along 2 dozen birthday cupcakes for Aidan and his classmates. You know, I always have thought it's a wonderful idea to stuff 6 and 7 year olds full of sugar while they are in school. It usually works out great. I am sure Aidan's teacher thoroughly enjoyed the extra excitement that was created by the wonderful sweets, and can't wait to thank us in person. Here are a couple of pictures of her visit.
Because Aidan's cousins Wyatt and Jackson were going out of town on Saturday, we decided to have them celebrate Aidan's birthday with Aidan on Friday night. We met up with Cricket and the boys at the local bowling entertainment center called Strikz. We rented two lanes, ordered a couple of pizzas, picked out our spherical weapons, and started pummeling pins like there was no tomorrow. Bowling brings back a lot of fond childhood memories, and it's easy to forget how much fun it is. There is something almost therapeutic about hurling a 16 lb ball down a lane as hard a you can in hope of obliterating as many pins as possible. Boooooom!!!!! Yeah Baby!!!!! It's like being a kid again, and it's great stress relief. After the bowling was over, the kids took their game cards over the arcade, and digital bliss engulfed their bodies shortly after. Everybody had a great time, and we all retreated to our house to open presents. Here are a few pictures to help visualize the party.
Once we got home, Cricket brought the boys over for a SLEEPOVER! Oh Joy!! Screaming Monkeys in the house for the entire evening and most of the night!!!!! The cake was cut and the candles were extinguished,
the ice cream was opened, and the sugar river flowed like the Nile. You know, it's never a real party until the party's shades make their appearance. Oh, and make their appearance they did, in resounding fashion. Elton baby, eat your heart out!
After floating along the sugar river for a while, Aidan made a bee line to the presents that Aunt Cricket and the boys brought over. In what can only be described as devastating carnage, the wrapping paper was torn to shreds. It never stood a chance. He opened all his presents with Herculean Gusto, as like I said earlier, he made out like a bandit. He loved all of his gifts, including this Pokemon T-Shirt. I don't know if the shirt has magical powers or what, but Aidan seem to suddenly take on the characteristics of a lizard/bird boy the moment he placed the shirt in front of his body.
The boys finally ended up going to sleep about 10:30pm, and Lori and I collapsed into our bed shortly after. We both looked forward to a good night's sleep, and we actually got to enjoy one until about 4:30am. You see, it was about that time that the three monkeys that were upstairs decided to wake up for the day. "What the............................why are those primates already up?" Lori was nice enough to get out of bed, and let me sleep. Thank God. She ended up staying up until Christopher woke up about 6:30am, and then had all 4 to deal with. It did not take long after that, for Dad to get the ol' wakeup/distress call. So we all got up Saturday morning and wished Aidan happy real birthday. Aunt Cricket came over early, and she and Lori went out to get breakfast for the whole crew. After donuts and croissants, Aidan got to open all of his presents from his Mom and Dad, and was spoiled through and through. Wyatt and Jackson had to leave, but before Aunt Cricket took them home, Aidan challenged them all to a silly string fight. I was lucky enough to have my video camera at the ready, and captured most of it on film. And now, for your enjoyment, I present THE BATTLE OF CAMELOT PASS.
I hope you enjoyed reading about Aidan's birthday as much as we enjoyed living it. The rest of the weekend was pretty tame, as all of the Soccer games and Baseball games were cancelled by IKE. I still find it hard to believe that Aidan is already 6 years old. It just seems so fast. I am enjoying the ride, but I wish it would slow down a bit. He is such a sweet, handsome, and inquisitive boy. We are blessed to have him as a son, and we watch every day with wonder and amazement as he grows and matures before our very eyes. Happy Birthday Monkeyboy.
William
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Deux Sports - Une Garçon
Last weekend marked the beginning of both Fall Soccer and Fall Baseball for Aidan. We were all very excited to get the season underway, and Aidan certainly did not have any problem shaking off the rust from a 3 month hiatus.
Aidan woke early like usual, and was really excited about his "Gameday Baby!". All morning he pestered both me and his mom to let him put on his soccer uniform. Of course, we all know that "almost" 6 year old monkeys are very dirty animals, so we held steady and did not allow him to dress for his 2:00pm game until after he ate lunch. With lunch finished and a quick shower taken, Aidan was dressed in his new soccer uniform in a flash.
Aidan not only had a 2:00pm soccer game, but he also had to be at the baseball field at 3:40pm for team pictures. Because of this, we were not going to be able to go home between his soccer game, his pictures, and then his 4:30pm baseball game. So, we packed an ice chest full of drinks and snacks, loaded up on the sun screen, and left the house about 1:25pm to begin the festivities.
Aidan was really excited to play his first soccer game of the season. He plays for the "Texas Twisters" and his team was playing the "Transformers". It was not until we got to the field that we realized that Aidan would be playing against 2 of his friends from his baseball team. This made Aidan really excited, and for a moment Lori and I were both worried that he might want to socialize a bit too much during the game instead of playing hard. That thought ended about 30 seconds into the game after Aidan scored his first break away goal. In all, Aidan played 2 quarters of the 4 quarter game, and he scored 6 of his teams 8 goals. His team won 8-5, with all of the opposing goals scored while he was on the bench. It was a stellar start to what we hope turns out to be a great season. Here are a few pictures from the game:
Here are team Captains Aidan and his friend Davis awaiting the coin flip.
Here is Aidan just before the start of the game, giving instructions to his teammates.
Here is Aidan, red face and all, watching the game intently with his friend Gojet.
And finally, here is a picture of Aidan, getting congratulation from his baseball teammate buddy Aidan Nelson.
As soon as the game ended, we had to quickly get everything and everybody loaded in the CX-9 and drive across town for Aidan's baseball pictures. Aidan changed in the car while we were driving to the baseball park. That might not sound too difficult to some, but pulling up sliding shorts and installing and positioning a cup while the lap belt is tight across your waist, takes quite a bit of dexterity. We arrived in plenty of time, and we actually had about 15 minutes to sit in the vehicle and enjoy the cold AC.
We got out of the car about at 3:35pm and made our way over to the picture taking tent. Aidan smiled for the camera, and miraculously his team sat still enough for a few seconds to get a team picture made. His team is the Braves, and last season they were allowed to dress exactly like the Major League Team that they were named after. Well, I believe that MLB had a licensing problem with that, so they are no longer allowed to mimic the MLB team's colors. Here are is a picture of Aidan in his uniform, and Aidan in his team photo.
The game was really hot, and Christopher got pretty restless. Lori did a fantastic job keeping him appeased, as I served as the bench coach for the team. Aidan had a really good game, and was one of the few kids that actually hit the ball that was being pitched by the coach. In this league, you get three pitched strikes to swing at, and if you do not connect with one of them, you get three swings from a tee. Aidan never had to use the tee, and we were really proud of him. Christopher was really proud of him too, but for some reason he found it hard to express himself.
After the game we finally got home about 5:45pm, and our outdoor activity quota had definitely been met for the day. I showered and changed, and then met up with a few old friends that I had not seen in 4 years. We played penny poker for about three hours on Saturday night, and I had a really good time catching up. Sunday was spent relaxing and gearing up for next weekend's activities. Not only do we have the games to attend, but a certain Monkeyboy will be turning 6 on Saturday. Yes, Saturday should be a realllllllllllllllllllllly long day. I can't wait.
William
Aidan woke early like usual, and was really excited about his "Gameday Baby!". All morning he pestered both me and his mom to let him put on his soccer uniform. Of course, we all know that "almost" 6 year old monkeys are very dirty animals, so we held steady and did not allow him to dress for his 2:00pm game until after he ate lunch. With lunch finished and a quick shower taken, Aidan was dressed in his new soccer uniform in a flash.
Aidan not only had a 2:00pm soccer game, but he also had to be at the baseball field at 3:40pm for team pictures. Because of this, we were not going to be able to go home between his soccer game, his pictures, and then his 4:30pm baseball game. So, we packed an ice chest full of drinks and snacks, loaded up on the sun screen, and left the house about 1:25pm to begin the festivities.Aidan was really excited to play his first soccer game of the season. He plays for the "Texas Twisters" and his team was playing the "Transformers". It was not until we got to the field that we realized that Aidan would be playing against 2 of his friends from his baseball team. This made Aidan really excited, and for a moment Lori and I were both worried that he might want to socialize a bit too much during the game instead of playing hard. That thought ended about 30 seconds into the game after Aidan scored his first break away goal. In all, Aidan played 2 quarters of the 4 quarter game, and he scored 6 of his teams 8 goals. His team won 8-5, with all of the opposing goals scored while he was on the bench. It was a stellar start to what we hope turns out to be a great season. Here are a few pictures from the game:
Here are team Captains Aidan and his friend Davis awaiting the coin flip.
Here is Aidan just before the start of the game, giving instructions to his teammates.
Here is Aidan, red face and all, watching the game intently with his friend Gojet.
And finally, here is a picture of Aidan, getting congratulation from his baseball teammate buddy Aidan Nelson.
As soon as the game ended, we had to quickly get everything and everybody loaded in the CX-9 and drive across town for Aidan's baseball pictures. Aidan changed in the car while we were driving to the baseball park. That might not sound too difficult to some, but pulling up sliding shorts and installing and positioning a cup while the lap belt is tight across your waist, takes quite a bit of dexterity. We arrived in plenty of time, and we actually had about 15 minutes to sit in the vehicle and enjoy the cold AC. We got out of the car about at 3:35pm and made our way over to the picture taking tent. Aidan smiled for the camera, and miraculously his team sat still enough for a few seconds to get a team picture made. His team is the Braves, and last season they were allowed to dress exactly like the Major League Team that they were named after. Well, I believe that MLB had a licensing problem with that, so they are no longer allowed to mimic the MLB team's colors. Here are is a picture of Aidan in his uniform, and Aidan in his team photo.
The game was really hot, and Christopher got pretty restless. Lori did a fantastic job keeping him appeased, as I served as the bench coach for the team. Aidan had a really good game, and was one of the few kids that actually hit the ball that was being pitched by the coach. In this league, you get three pitched strikes to swing at, and if you do not connect with one of them, you get three swings from a tee. Aidan never had to use the tee, and we were really proud of him. Christopher was really proud of him too, but for some reason he found it hard to express himself.
After the game we finally got home about 5:45pm, and our outdoor activity quota had definitely been met for the day. I showered and changed, and then met up with a few old friends that I had not seen in 4 years. We played penny poker for about three hours on Saturday night, and I had a really good time catching up. Sunday was spent relaxing and gearing up for next weekend's activities. Not only do we have the games to attend, but a certain Monkeyboy will be turning 6 on Saturday. Yes, Saturday should be a realllllllllllllllllllllly long day. I can't wait.William
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