Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
Well another year is gone. And a very eventful year it was. Kim & I celebrated our tenth anniversary with a trip to Las Vegas. We all went to Missouri for a family trip to memorialize Grandpa and Grandma Shipp. We joined in celebrating Mom's 70th birthday with a surprise visit to Estes Park. Daniel started Preschool and James moved to Lower Elementary.
On a somber note 2008 saw the departure of some family members. My Great Aunt Lybbis (Dad's Aunt), Kim's uncle Randy and to all intents and purposes Kim's Step dad Manny. It was a particularly tough holiday season with Randy passing in early November and the Manny experiencing his heart attack just before Thanksgiving.
On a positive note the year ended with 1 new addition to the family as Dan & Brenda welcomed a new child: William Ethan.
I made some progress on health issues: I had my bunion removed in January and continue the diagnostic process towards my Neurotomy. I didn't make much progress with my weight or exercise. Every time I take a step forwards I tend to take an immediate step back. But hopefully I will find a way to craft some time into my schedule and menu planning.
I would be remiss without mentioning the election and Hope. The election was very exciting, eliciting a lot of heated debate. And the final results were very moving. I know that Obama and the new Congress have a lot of work to do. But the message is there, and I believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel, however long the tunnel still may be. So there may have been some personal tragedy, and things in our personal lives may not change all that much to begin with. But Hope is there, and so long as there is Hope, and a willingness to accept our part in working for change then change will come.
So, here's to all who are with us, old and new: may you live your lives to the fullest, fulfilling all of your dreams and wishes. And to those who are no longer with us, thank you for all you were and did for us, you will always be remembered.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Another day at home
Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
So my vacation just keeps going (although there is an end in site unfortunately). 2 more days of sitting around trying to keep busy/amuse myself while simultaneously avoiding getting too mad at the kids. Last night Kim made a comment about how little I had gotten done in all my days off, oh well, so I am not Mr. productive, with lots of house projects. My goal during this time off was to relax, recharge the work batteries, and be there so the kids didn't have to go to Aunt Tammy's.
Today I might get some work done, or I may not. When Kim gets home from work I will help her if she is motivated to work on something. Otherwise I will just be happy if the house is still nice and clean after my time off.
So the Broncos ignored my pleas to make Shanahan coach of the year, and summarily canned him. My hope is that the Rams hire him ASAP, because I think he could bring a level of instant respectability to that team. Imagining Steven Jackson in that offense, with those huge holes, is an amazing image. And I think Bulger could be a perfect QB for the system. Obviously he would need a good Defensive coordinator but the hope would be that if he was only the coach, and didn't have personnel control that he could still have a respectable defense.
Well Emily's awake, and so are the boys, so much for quiet time. Time to figure out some breakfast and something for them to do for the day.
So my vacation just keeps going (although there is an end in site unfortunately). 2 more days of sitting around trying to keep busy/amuse myself while simultaneously avoiding getting too mad at the kids. Last night Kim made a comment about how little I had gotten done in all my days off, oh well, so I am not Mr. productive, with lots of house projects. My goal during this time off was to relax, recharge the work batteries, and be there so the kids didn't have to go to Aunt Tammy's.
Today I might get some work done, or I may not. When Kim gets home from work I will help her if she is motivated to work on something. Otherwise I will just be happy if the house is still nice and clean after my time off.
So the Broncos ignored my pleas to make Shanahan coach of the year, and summarily canned him. My hope is that the Rams hire him ASAP, because I think he could bring a level of instant respectability to that team. Imagining Steven Jackson in that offense, with those huge holes, is an amazing image. And I think Bulger could be a perfect QB for the system. Obviously he would need a good Defensive coordinator but the hope would be that if he was only the coach, and didn't have personnel control that he could still have a respectable defense.
Well Emily's awake, and so are the boys, so much for quiet time. Time to figure out some breakfast and something for them to do for the day.
Monday, December 29, 2008
NFL recap
Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
And so ends another NFL regular season, with my 2 favorite teams once again on the outside looking in (Rams & Broncos). And also the first season without playing Fantasy Football in 6 years. Lastly the first season with my renewed dedication to downplaying the significance football plays in my life.
Well the Rams season was just a sign of a lack of depth, poor drafts and bad luck. But they have figuratively thrown the rascals out, the GM and President who ran a once proud franchise into the ground are gone. And next year they will have a new coach, and GM. And I can only hope that whatever lightning the Falcons and Dolphins caught can be replicated by the Rams next year.
I think the Broncos season was actually a pretty stunning testament to the coaching prowess of Mike Shanahan. If you took any of the teams in this years playoffs and told them they had to lose their entire running back corps by week 6 I doubt any of them would have made the playoffs. The Broncos had 7 running backs on IR by the end of the season, that's astounding. That the Broncos were not only in contention but were in the playoffs this year until they ran out of gas, in those circumstances was truly amazing. I think if Hillis had not gotten hurt on that freak play they would have won one of those games they ended up losing, and made the playoffs (or if the Chiefs had played just 1 or 2 more minutes of defense). And everyone would have been talking about them as one of the 'teams no one wants to play'.
I really enjoyed this year without fantasy football. So much so that I doubt I will return to it next year. It just made Sundays so much more fun to watch, when I could just focus on the game and enjoy what was happening. It restored the fun of the game for me.
And last, because I stopped playing fantasy, I was able to be far more relaxed on Sundays and just blow off watching the games if I wanted to. There wasn't a pathological need to watch every minute of every game, and have it matter to me. And that was very important, I needed to find a way to reign in my fanaticism.
And so ends another NFL regular season, with my 2 favorite teams once again on the outside looking in (Rams & Broncos). And also the first season without playing Fantasy Football in 6 years. Lastly the first season with my renewed dedication to downplaying the significance football plays in my life.
Well the Rams season was just a sign of a lack of depth, poor drafts and bad luck. But they have figuratively thrown the rascals out, the GM and President who ran a once proud franchise into the ground are gone. And next year they will have a new coach, and GM. And I can only hope that whatever lightning the Falcons and Dolphins caught can be replicated by the Rams next year.
I think the Broncos season was actually a pretty stunning testament to the coaching prowess of Mike Shanahan. If you took any of the teams in this years playoffs and told them they had to lose their entire running back corps by week 6 I doubt any of them would have made the playoffs. The Broncos had 7 running backs on IR by the end of the season, that's astounding. That the Broncos were not only in contention but were in the playoffs this year until they ran out of gas, in those circumstances was truly amazing. I think if Hillis had not gotten hurt on that freak play they would have won one of those games they ended up losing, and made the playoffs (or if the Chiefs had played just 1 or 2 more minutes of defense). And everyone would have been talking about them as one of the 'teams no one wants to play'.
I really enjoyed this year without fantasy football. So much so that I doubt I will return to it next year. It just made Sundays so much more fun to watch, when I could just focus on the game and enjoy what was happening. It restored the fun of the game for me.
And last, because I stopped playing fantasy, I was able to be far more relaxed on Sundays and just blow off watching the games if I wanted to. There wasn't a pathological need to watch every minute of every game, and have it matter to me. And that was very important, I needed to find a way to reign in my fanaticism.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The dust begins to settle
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
3 days after Christmas things are slowly settling down, with out of town visitors returning to their homes. Sorry we didn't get as much time together, although the boys got some fun time with Aunt Elizabeth. We have a dinner over at Phyllis & Alan's today, which is a kind of make up Christmas dinner. But otherwise nothing else really planned.
Holiday thoughts and comments
It's been a strange holiday season for me, because I haven't seen nearly as much of my family as I normally do. The big reason was consideration for Connie, it was kind of rough. She was pretty good until she opened the picture of her and Manny from my Mom, then she broke down for a little while. Which I think was good, she needs to have some moments where she doesn't act so strong. But because of that we have been pretty focused on spending time with Kim's family over the holiday season.
The biggest thing, in retrospect, is that we usually have our Christmas Eve party so we could see people from both families. Well most of my family pulled a no show. All with good reason, it's just that we need to change up how we do things in the future so we don't run into this again.
Emily news
Emily came down with another ear infection, took her to the Dr. yesterday. It's a mild one, so hopefully we caught it early enough to nip it in the bud. The thing is, in observing Daniel lately I think it is clear he has had some hearing loss. There is nothing wrong with his cognitive functions, he is just fine doing anything that doesn't require listening, it's when he has to listen close that he has a problem. But because of that, we are extra vigilant and cautious when Emily shows signs of an ear infection.
Projects
Kim and I went out and spent our Christmas money yesterday and bought some blinds for the living room, kitchen and our bedroom. That should help with energy savings, and improve the look of those rooms. Which gives us our project for today and tomorrow. I had thought maybe, if we were motivated enough, we could tackle painting the kitchen. But Kim decided she wanted to relax more in these days off.
More teaching moments
Friday night I spent a good couple of hours putting together James' new Lego knockoff spaceship, which was a real pain in the neck. Then last night Austin spent the night and broke it apart completely. I was pretty upset, and I told James that I am done assembling his lego toys for a while. He was pretty sad, but I think he understood.
3 days after Christmas things are slowly settling down, with out of town visitors returning to their homes. Sorry we didn't get as much time together, although the boys got some fun time with Aunt Elizabeth. We have a dinner over at Phyllis & Alan's today, which is a kind of make up Christmas dinner. But otherwise nothing else really planned.
Holiday thoughts and comments
It's been a strange holiday season for me, because I haven't seen nearly as much of my family as I normally do. The big reason was consideration for Connie, it was kind of rough. She was pretty good until she opened the picture of her and Manny from my Mom, then she broke down for a little while. Which I think was good, she needs to have some moments where she doesn't act so strong. But because of that we have been pretty focused on spending time with Kim's family over the holiday season.
The biggest thing, in retrospect, is that we usually have our Christmas Eve party so we could see people from both families. Well most of my family pulled a no show. All with good reason, it's just that we need to change up how we do things in the future so we don't run into this again.
Emily news
Emily came down with another ear infection, took her to the Dr. yesterday. It's a mild one, so hopefully we caught it early enough to nip it in the bud. The thing is, in observing Daniel lately I think it is clear he has had some hearing loss. There is nothing wrong with his cognitive functions, he is just fine doing anything that doesn't require listening, it's when he has to listen close that he has a problem. But because of that, we are extra vigilant and cautious when Emily shows signs of an ear infection.
Projects
Kim and I went out and spent our Christmas money yesterday and bought some blinds for the living room, kitchen and our bedroom. That should help with energy savings, and improve the look of those rooms. Which gives us our project for today and tomorrow. I had thought maybe, if we were motivated enough, we could tackle painting the kitchen. But Kim decided she wanted to relax more in these days off.
More teaching moments
Friday night I spent a good couple of hours putting together James' new Lego knockoff spaceship, which was a real pain in the neck. Then last night Austin spent the night and broke it apart completely. I was pretty upset, and I told James that I am done assembling his lego toys for a while. He was pretty sad, but I think he understood.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So here we are, December 26th. I am at home with the kids while Kim returns to work as normal. James and Daniel are watching cartoons, while James sets up a massive battle on the pool table with all of his Star Wars guys. Daniel is running around with his new Batman figures. Emily is enjoying her freedom by playing with her many toys in the de-cluttered basement. And I am uploading Christmas pictures to Picasa (48% right now).
I told James and Daniel that they have the whole morning to just play and enjoy themselves. No plans to do anything or go anywhere until 2, when it is off to Grandma Cella for a couple of hours while Mommy & Daddy go have some quality time and do a little shopping.
I don't have to return to work for a week, so some good down time for me. We plan to get a few projects done, maybe pick up a few things that we didn't allow ourselves to buy before the holidays.
The Final Verdict:
Me to James: "Jimmy, did you have a good Christmas?"
James: "Yes, that was the first best Christmas ever!"
Me to Daniel: "Daniel, did you have a good Christmas?"
Daniel: "yes"
I think we (Kim & I) done good, we pulled off a couple of good parties and made sure the kids had a good Christmas.
So here we are, December 26th. I am at home with the kids while Kim returns to work as normal. James and Daniel are watching cartoons, while James sets up a massive battle on the pool table with all of his Star Wars guys. Daniel is running around with his new Batman figures. Emily is enjoying her freedom by playing with her many toys in the de-cluttered basement. And I am uploading Christmas pictures to Picasa (48% right now).
I told James and Daniel that they have the whole morning to just play and enjoy themselves. No plans to do anything or go anywhere until 2, when it is off to Grandma Cella for a couple of hours while Mommy & Daddy go have some quality time and do a little shopping.
I don't have to return to work for a week, so some good down time for me. We plan to get a few projects done, maybe pick up a few things that we didn't allow ourselves to buy before the holidays.
The Final Verdict:
Me to James: "Jimmy, did you have a good Christmas?"
James: "Yes, that was the first best Christmas ever!"
Me to Daniel: "Daniel, did you have a good Christmas?"
Daniel: "yes"
I think we (Kim & I) done good, we pulled off a couple of good parties and made sure the kids had a good Christmas.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Everything falling into place
Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
So Kim attacked the basement when she got home with her usual fervor and energy, really got it done right. Then last night we wrapped presents and assembled some other items for delivery from S.C. So by doing a little each night, cleaning, organizing, etc. everything should be ready and good to go by Christmas Eve, so no staying up late setting out presents for this family!
Once again I have to state how I marvel at my wife. When she sets her mind to something, like cleaning the basement, she just goes at it like a hurricane of cleaning force. It is truly amazing how she gets it all done. I wish I had that kind of drive. I can get other projects done, and I am great at clearing basic clutter. But when it comes to real cleaning and organizing I am forced to bow to Kim as the Mistress of that domain.
So Kim attacked the basement when she got home with her usual fervor and energy, really got it done right. Then last night we wrapped presents and assembled some other items for delivery from S.C. So by doing a little each night, cleaning, organizing, etc. everything should be ready and good to go by Christmas Eve, so no staying up late setting out presents for this family!
Once again I have to state how I marvel at my wife. When she sets her mind to something, like cleaning the basement, she just goes at it like a hurricane of cleaning force. It is truly amazing how she gets it all done. I wish I had that kind of drive. I can get other projects done, and I am great at clearing basic clutter. But when it comes to real cleaning and organizing I am forced to bow to Kim as the Mistress of that domain.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Daniel and Code Adam
Daniel and Code Adam
Child Safety II
The timing on this is very interesting for me personally. Because while I agree with all my mind about the Free Range Kids movement, something happened on Saturday that made me question it in my heart.
So we were at Wal Mart picking up a toy for James' friend's birthday party. Plus I was hoping I might see Daniel pick a small toy that might help fill out his stocking. So there we were, in an aisle, and Daniel was at the end of the aisle, playing with the toys on the wall. I was looking at something James was showing me, I looked up and Daniel was gone! So I spent a frantic couple of minutes running around the toy section before I enlisted the store staff. Which eventually led to a Code Adam being called. For those of you who aren't aware of what this means, when a Code Adam is called Wal Mart closes it's doors, no one is allowed to leave, and every available associate begins searching for the child in the store. This is the second time this happened to Daniel, and they found him a few minutes later in the frozen foods section of the store. I think this time he just got lost and started wandering, just missing me in the crowd.
I again reminded him to stay with me in the future. And I think this time it sunk in. But, needless the say, the thought of all the horror stories crossed my mind as I thought of what new horrible thing had happened to the family.
Now a busy Wal Mart isn't the same as letting kids cross the street, or even letting them go to the neighborhood park. But it certainly raised some cold shivers down my spine. And caused me to question my thinking on the general ideas of Free Range Kids.
But this article brought back to my mind why I love the idea so much. Because I myself had decided to implement some draconian policies for the kids over the holidays. I decided to limit their TV and video game playing. And this article reminds me of those changes. Obviously with the weather it isn't as easy to send the kids outside. But I can at least force them to play with their toys, interact, and not veg in front of the TV. It wasn't easy on Saturday, particularly for Daniel. But I know it will be better for them in the long run. My hope is that I can fight my own internal laziness and keep the rules in force. Because to be honest, much of what I can claim as just letting my kids be responsible is more my focus on something else, the same as my allowing them to destroy their play area.
To sum up, it is scary as a parent to let your kids be independent and free. It is harder work to teach them good habits like picking up after themselves than it is to just give them free reign. But the rewards of both will become apparent as your kids get older. James took to the shutting off of the TV and Playstation quite well, just creating a massive Star Wars battle. The only problem being he didn't want to pick up when it was time, so while it is easier to let James be free to play on his own, it is hard work to teach him to clean up. And while it is scary as hell when your kids disappears in a crowded store, he survived and it just turned out he was lost, which was a good teaching moment.
Weekend Recap
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
We had a pretty busy weekend, although it felt like we didn't get much done. As Kim mentioned this morning: Christmas is just coming up too fast. Saturday I moved our current main TV downstairs and set it up with the surround sound. James went to a friends birthday party, and had a great time. Saturday night we cooked Christmas cookies. Sunday we got a little more cleaning done and I got the new TV. Which works great! And we decorated the Christmas cookies. But things are not as bad as they seem as far as preparation and cleaning.
So the story behind the new TV is one of great generosity from my brother. He is moving, and in his infinite generosity offered us the TV. I am quite pleased with the TV, it has an excellent picture and it can be seen from anywhere in the living room. Which allows us to reconfigure the room a little, opening it up some.
A quick sports note: this will be a season of great growth for Jay Cutler and the other younger players on the Denver roster. But I just think we are doomed, barring a miracle. No NFL team can survive losing every healthy running back on it's roster. It's really staggering to contemplate really. We shouldn't be in this position at all given what has happened. So I am proud of the team, and while I can hope they win an improbable road game, I am not setting my heart on it.
We had a pretty busy weekend, although it felt like we didn't get much done. As Kim mentioned this morning: Christmas is just coming up too fast. Saturday I moved our current main TV downstairs and set it up with the surround sound. James went to a friends birthday party, and had a great time. Saturday night we cooked Christmas cookies. Sunday we got a little more cleaning done and I got the new TV. Which works great! And we decorated the Christmas cookies. But things are not as bad as they seem as far as preparation and cleaning.
So the story behind the new TV is one of great generosity from my brother. He is moving, and in his infinite generosity offered us the TV. I am quite pleased with the TV, it has an excellent picture and it can be seen from anywhere in the living room. Which allows us to reconfigure the room a little, opening it up some.
A quick sports note: this will be a season of great growth for Jay Cutler and the other younger players on the Denver roster. But I just think we are doomed, barring a miracle. No NFL team can survive losing every healthy running back on it's roster. It's really staggering to contemplate really. We shouldn't be in this position at all given what has happened. So I am proud of the team, and while I can hope they win an improbable road game, I am not setting my heart on it.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Rest in Peace Deep Throat
Today we witnessed the passing of a man whose courage helped our country avert a constitutional disaster. Yes his identity was kept quiet for a long time afterwards but that was for his protection, it still took courage to talk to Woodward and reveal what he did.
It is a true and sad fact that many of the problems we have with our current political culture can be laid at the feet of Richard Nixon. Nixon was the originator of the Republican 'Southern Strategy' that eventually led to the divisive regional politics of the 2000 and 2004 elections. His downfall, Watergate, led to the 'dumbing down' of the Presidential character. Because, since people no longer trusted the Presidents we had to elect of succession of Presidents whose biggest drawing card was that people would be willing to have a beer with them. I am not saying that every President since Nixon wasn't qualified for the job, just that the campaigns had to appeal to the lowest common denominator with their candidates.
So thanks Deep Throat for helping the nation get rid of the great crook. I think that with the election of Obama we might finally have turned a corner as far as electing a man who is truly qualified, and will restore dignity to the Office.
It is a true and sad fact that many of the problems we have with our current political culture can be laid at the feet of Richard Nixon. Nixon was the originator of the Republican 'Southern Strategy' that eventually led to the divisive regional politics of the 2000 and 2004 elections. His downfall, Watergate, led to the 'dumbing down' of the Presidential character. Because, since people no longer trusted the Presidents we had to elect of succession of Presidents whose biggest drawing card was that people would be willing to have a beer with them. I am not saying that every President since Nixon wasn't qualified for the job, just that the campaigns had to appeal to the lowest common denominator with their candidates.
So thanks Deep Throat for helping the nation get rid of the great crook. I think that with the election of Obama we might finally have turned a corner as far as electing a man who is truly qualified, and will restore dignity to the Office.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Friends and networks
Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
So the dramatic expansion of my circle of friends on Facebook in recent months has made me think about how circles of friends expand. I have written before about the expansion and contraction of circles of friends. Which I still think applies. But this idea is more about how people's relationships post school, work, moving etc. creates little groups. And the impact of Facebook is to bring those little groups back together.
School is the easiest example, because I have seen it happen so much lately. After school people drift apart. They move, go to different schools, get jobs, get married, etc. As a result they lose touch with a lot of their friends from school. About 5 or so years ago my CSS friends circle was fairly limited: my 3 closest friends, and then a scattering of other contacts. And this was despite the fact that I was a pretty regular attendee of alumni events, therefore seeing those people who chose to show up at those events. And that was fairly typical, in fact most people had an even smaller circle of school friends.
What I have seen in the past 6 months to a year has changed that. Facebook has allowed all of these people who join to start seeing each others little groups, and in many cases reuniting people that hadn't been in contact, and in some cases hadn't even thought about, in many years. And that has been amazing. And the resultant growth of the circle of friends has also been amazing. Almost exponential. And CSS is starting to tap into this (and I am sure similar organizations will as well). I would hazard a guess that this coming years CSS Alumni weekend will see probably the highest attendance in a very long time.
My CSS group isn't the only one like this. My Boulder/CU friend circle has also seen a similar explosion. I have suggested a reunion like event for that group, but the interest was low. But who knows? Maybe all it will take is a major event to bring these people together. There was an event like this when a popular band from the area reunited for a couple of shows, and in fact I was one of the only people who didn't attend. So maybe this coming year something similar will bring people together, and I will force myself to attend.
If this sounds like an advertisement for Facebook, it is in a way. I think it is a wonderful networking tool. It can be addictive and a little too diverting at times. And in fact sometimes downright annoying. But overall I have found it to be a wonderful tool and resource.
So the dramatic expansion of my circle of friends on Facebook in recent months has made me think about how circles of friends expand. I have written before about the expansion and contraction of circles of friends. Which I still think applies. But this idea is more about how people's relationships post school, work, moving etc. creates little groups. And the impact of Facebook is to bring those little groups back together.
School is the easiest example, because I have seen it happen so much lately. After school people drift apart. They move, go to different schools, get jobs, get married, etc. As a result they lose touch with a lot of their friends from school. About 5 or so years ago my CSS friends circle was fairly limited: my 3 closest friends, and then a scattering of other contacts. And this was despite the fact that I was a pretty regular attendee of alumni events, therefore seeing those people who chose to show up at those events. And that was fairly typical, in fact most people had an even smaller circle of school friends.
What I have seen in the past 6 months to a year has changed that. Facebook has allowed all of these people who join to start seeing each others little groups, and in many cases reuniting people that hadn't been in contact, and in some cases hadn't even thought about, in many years. And that has been amazing. And the resultant growth of the circle of friends has also been amazing. Almost exponential. And CSS is starting to tap into this (and I am sure similar organizations will as well). I would hazard a guess that this coming years CSS Alumni weekend will see probably the highest attendance in a very long time.
My CSS group isn't the only one like this. My Boulder/CU friend circle has also seen a similar explosion. I have suggested a reunion like event for that group, but the interest was low. But who knows? Maybe all it will take is a major event to bring these people together. There was an event like this when a popular band from the area reunited for a couple of shows, and in fact I was one of the only people who didn't attend. So maybe this coming year something similar will bring people together, and I will force myself to attend.
If this sounds like an advertisement for Facebook, it is in a way. I think it is a wonderful networking tool. It can be addictive and a little too diverting at times. And in fact sometimes downright annoying. But overall I have found it to be a wonderful tool and resource.
Plans within plans within plans
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
What would a holiday be without plans? It's a great time of year for me because I can make and coordinate all kins of plans. So we have plans for some friends to come over Friday night (which means we had to make a cleaning plan). Then we have to plan for the Christmas Eve party, which means another cleaning plan. And then of course Christmas Day is all about the planning and coordinating Christmas morning, brunch, Christmas dinner, evening etc.
Kim and I were planning while we were at my company Holiday party. We have more after Christmas plans as well. It's just fun fun fun.
So I had another diagnostic shot in my neck last night, which went ever better than the first one. Then we got the ornaments up on the Christmas tree. It's beginning to feel like Christmas is really here.
What would a holiday be without plans? It's a great time of year for me because I can make and coordinate all kins of plans. So we have plans for some friends to come over Friday night (which means we had to make a cleaning plan). Then we have to plan for the Christmas Eve party, which means another cleaning plan. And then of course Christmas Day is all about the planning and coordinating Christmas morning, brunch, Christmas dinner, evening etc.
Kim and I were planning while we were at my company Holiday party. We have more after Christmas plans as well. It's just fun fun fun.
So I had another diagnostic shot in my neck last night, which went ever better than the first one. Then we got the ornaments up on the Christmas tree. It's beginning to feel like Christmas is really here.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Some Changes
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
I finally (after some tinkering and forum search help) was able to get the Reactions link enabled. Right now there are only 2 options: 'I like this' or "Didn't Read this'. I would like readers to actually click on these if possible for applicable posts (quick updates and Family news don't necessarily apply of course). It would just be nice to get some feedback on what posts people read, don't read etc.
I finally (after some tinkering and forum search help) was able to get the Reactions link enabled. Right now there are only 2 options: 'I like this' or "Didn't Read this'. I would like readers to actually click on these if possible for applicable posts (quick updates and Family news don't necessarily apply of course). It would just be nice to get some feedback on what posts people read, don't read etc.
Some good family news
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
I got a call this morning from my mom who called to let me know my brother Dan got some good news: he and his wife Brenda have just heard they are getting another baby! This will be their second adopted baby. This is great news, I always thought they would make good parents, and having spent some more time this summer with my niece CC I am certain of it.
So welcome to the family William Ethan! I think you'll learn to like it here.
I got a call this morning from my mom who called to let me know my brother Dan got some good news: he and his wife Brenda have just heard they are getting another baby! This will be their second adopted baby. This is great news, I always thought they would make good parents, and having spent some more time this summer with my niece CC I am certain of it.
So welcome to the family William Ethan! I think you'll learn to like it here.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Weekend update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So, a pretty uneventful weekend. Saturday Kim worked in the morning, then we did a big grocery trip, then we took the kids swimming at the Y, which we hadn't done in quite some time. Sunday we had planned on going and getting a family photo done, so we had to venture out into the cold for a little while. Then Kim worked the rest of the day so I had a relaxing afternoon and evening.
The swimming was a lot of fun, James has finally reached the point where I can just toss him around in the little pool and he can make his way back to surface, which is just great. Some of my fondest memories are of reckless fun play in the pool with Dad or uncle Frank throwing us around. And it was great to finally be able to do the same with my kids. Although it was clear we need to get Emily into the water more, she was pretty fearful at first. So we will have to make a plan to get out there more often.
Sunday we went to get our pictures taken, but the camera wasn't working right, so after 3 sittings we had to reschedule. The kids were pretty good about it. Then we went home and huddled there, watching the Broncos fizzle away a chance at the Division championship. But I just turned it off at half time, realizing there was no need to torture myself.
So a good weekend overall, starting to make plans for the upcoming holiday. We have most of our Christmas shopping done at this point. So the weekends are pretty relaxed.
So, a pretty uneventful weekend. Saturday Kim worked in the morning, then we did a big grocery trip, then we took the kids swimming at the Y, which we hadn't done in quite some time. Sunday we had planned on going and getting a family photo done, so we had to venture out into the cold for a little while. Then Kim worked the rest of the day so I had a relaxing afternoon and evening.
The swimming was a lot of fun, James has finally reached the point where I can just toss him around in the little pool and he can make his way back to surface, which is just great. Some of my fondest memories are of reckless fun play in the pool with Dad or uncle Frank throwing us around. And it was great to finally be able to do the same with my kids. Although it was clear we need to get Emily into the water more, she was pretty fearful at first. So we will have to make a plan to get out there more often.
Sunday we went to get our pictures taken, but the camera wasn't working right, so after 3 sittings we had to reschedule. The kids were pretty good about it. Then we went home and huddled there, watching the Broncos fizzle away a chance at the Division championship. But I just turned it off at half time, realizing there was no need to torture myself.
So a good weekend overall, starting to make plans for the upcoming holiday. We have most of our Christmas shopping done at this point. So the weekends are pretty relaxed.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Family News
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So in the midst of everything else that has been going on I have neglected to share the big news: Emily has started walking! It's still mostly just zombie or frankenstein monster walking, but it is walking none the less. She has been know to walk across the living room unaided or down the hall way. And she has reached the point where I can walk her from her room to the living room just holding onto 1 hand. This is quite an accomplishment and I didn't want it to pass unnoticed. It also means that her status as destructo has escalated. She is very definitely into anything and everything now. And we have to return to keeping a close eye on her around the stairs in case she decide to try and walk down. Here are a couple of shots of her.
James had his first Holiday pageant, which we went to on Thursday night, very cute little presentation. From watching however it appears that my poor son has inherited his fathers sense of rhythm (or lack thereof). But he still looked quite cute in his little elf costume (alone and with friend Sage):
So in the midst of everything else that has been going on I have neglected to share the big news: Emily has started walking! It's still mostly just zombie or frankenstein monster walking, but it is walking none the less. She has been know to walk across the living room unaided or down the hall way. And she has reached the point where I can walk her from her room to the living room just holding onto 1 hand. This is quite an accomplishment and I didn't want it to pass unnoticed. It also means that her status as destructo has escalated. She is very definitely into anything and everything now. And we have to return to keeping a close eye on her around the stairs in case she decide to try and walk down. Here are a couple of shots of her.
James had his first Holiday pageant, which we went to on Thursday night, very cute little presentation. From watching however it appears that my poor son has inherited his fathers sense of rhythm (or lack thereof). But he still looked quite cute in his little elf costume (alone and with friend Sage):
Friday, December 12, 2008
Sports figures in the wrong era
Dear James, Daniel and Emily,
With the resurgence of the 'Wildcat' formation in the NFL this season (which is basically just Single Wing formation) I noticed anote to one of my favorite writers where someone pointed out how the best player to run this offense would be Michael Vick. And ever since then I have been thingking of how some players are really better suited for a different era in their sport. They might have been successful or not in their era's but dropped into this different era their skills would have been even better suited. So here's a list of some that I was thinking about:
Michael Vick As previously mentioned putting him in a single wing 'wildcat' formation would have made him even more dangerous. Basically make him a regular running back with a drop back QB, then roll that formation into the mix once in a while. Just devastating.
Ralph Sampson One of the other quintessential players for this list. Before knee injuries wiped him out he was the ultimate mobile power forward that the current NBA era favors. He was tall, capable of defending mobile players and grabbing rebounds, but had a limited post offense, and had a hard time defending the powerful 'true' centers of his era. But drop him in todays era with his skill set and he would wreak havoc.
Kordell Stewart See the above Michael Vick entry, 'Slash' was another phenomenal athlete who would thrive as an out of the back field receiver/running back/throwing threat.
Doug Flutie Considered too short for his time, imagine him in todays spread the field, multiple throwing lane run 'n shoot offenses. He still managed a decent career, but if he was entering todays NFL, with a coach who was willing to build an offense around him like Sean Payton has with Drew Brees he would have been a regular Pro Bowl regular.
Lionel 'Little Train' James Bo Jackson's team mate at Auburn was a dangerous threat as a return man, but was considered 'too small' for anything else. When you see Darren Sproles busting huge gains on screen passes or draws that is a Little Train clone. It helps that they play for the same team.
Brian Bosworth and Tony Mandarich This is more of a joke based on the fact that current scientific achievments have apparently allowed NFL players to avoid drug screening that in an earlier era prevented these 2 amazing specimens of the wonders of chemical advancements from excelling as they were expected to.
With the resurgence of the 'Wildcat' formation in the NFL this season (which is basically just Single Wing formation) I noticed anote to one of my favorite writers where someone pointed out how the best player to run this offense would be Michael Vick. And ever since then I have been thingking of how some players are really better suited for a different era in their sport. They might have been successful or not in their era's but dropped into this different era their skills would have been even better suited. So here's a list of some that I was thinking about:
Michael Vick As previously mentioned putting him in a single wing 'wildcat' formation would have made him even more dangerous. Basically make him a regular running back with a drop back QB, then roll that formation into the mix once in a while. Just devastating.
Ralph Sampson One of the other quintessential players for this list. Before knee injuries wiped him out he was the ultimate mobile power forward that the current NBA era favors. He was tall, capable of defending mobile players and grabbing rebounds, but had a limited post offense, and had a hard time defending the powerful 'true' centers of his era. But drop him in todays era with his skill set and he would wreak havoc.
Kordell Stewart See the above Michael Vick entry, 'Slash' was another phenomenal athlete who would thrive as an out of the back field receiver/running back/throwing threat.
Doug Flutie Considered too short for his time, imagine him in todays spread the field, multiple throwing lane run 'n shoot offenses. He still managed a decent career, but if he was entering todays NFL, with a coach who was willing to build an offense around him like Sean Payton has with Drew Brees he would have been a regular Pro Bowl regular.
Lionel 'Little Train' James Bo Jackson's team mate at Auburn was a dangerous threat as a return man, but was considered 'too small' for anything else. When you see Darren Sproles busting huge gains on screen passes or draws that is a Little Train clone. It helps that they play for the same team.
Brian Bosworth and Tony Mandarich This is more of a joke based on the fact that current scientific achievments have apparently allowed NFL players to avoid drug screening that in an earlier era prevented these 2 amazing specimens of the wonders of chemical advancements from excelling as they were expected to.
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
There is news. They did a CT scan of his brain on Tuesday and determined that there is no change from the EEG that was done. Which means there is no discernible brain activity. So while the brain stem and involuntary actions are working, he is in a vegetative state and will likely remain that way, with little to no chance of recovery.
This is all very sad, but the family is handling it, and we are supporting each other. I spoke to some parents at James' school, who apparently read this blog, and they expressed their condolences and support, for which I was thankful. There really has been a tremendous amount of support on the web through all of this, and I hope to take the time at some point to gather it all up in a document and pass it along to Connie. In the mean time thank you on the family's behalf for all of the expressions of support in this terrible time.
There is news. They did a CT scan of his brain on Tuesday and determined that there is no change from the EEG that was done. Which means there is no discernible brain activity. So while the brain stem and involuntary actions are working, he is in a vegetative state and will likely remain that way, with little to no chance of recovery.
This is all very sad, but the family is handling it, and we are supporting each other. I spoke to some parents at James' school, who apparently read this blog, and they expressed their condolences and support, for which I was thankful. There really has been a tremendous amount of support on the web through all of this, and I hope to take the time at some point to gather it all up in a document and pass it along to Connie. In the mean time thank you on the family's behalf for all of the expressions of support in this terrible time.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Everything Should Taste Like Bacon
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
My newest obsession
Got my first jar last night, tried it out on some green beans at dinner, yummy. This is actually a very good thing, because I don't need to be eating lots of real bacon, but I love the flavor, so an excellent compromise. Mix this with some Emeril's Essence and I may never need another condiment/spice.
My newest obsession
Got my first jar last night, tried it out on some green beans at dinner, yummy. This is actually a very good thing, because I don't need to be eating lots of real bacon, but I love the flavor, so an excellent compromise. Mix this with some Emeril's Essence and I may never need another condiment/spice.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Family update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
First, there is no new news on Manny, and for now I will not post anything more on that unless something definitive changes. So overall we had a good weekend. I got out of the house to the library on Saturday, which was nice to redevelop that habit. We got some things done around the house as far as winterizing. And we got out and enjoyed the nice weather yesterday, even playing some basketball in the driveway for the first time in quite a while.
I insulated and patched some holes in the kids area of the play room, which should restrict the amount of cold air that seeps in there. We will have a better idea of how effective it is in the next couple of days I suspect. But it was nice to at least do something around the house again.
The basketball was actually with hoop at it's lowest level and mostly with the little kids: James, Selena, JonDel, Chyanne, Austin. So needless to say I had to control myself, otherwise it felt a bit like Shaq playing against your average Y team. But it was good exercise, and it was nice to see the kids doing something other than vegging in front of the Playstation.
Otherwise, life is returning to some level of normality.
First, there is no new news on Manny, and for now I will not post anything more on that unless something definitive changes. So overall we had a good weekend. I got out of the house to the library on Saturday, which was nice to redevelop that habit. We got some things done around the house as far as winterizing. And we got out and enjoyed the nice weather yesterday, even playing some basketball in the driveway for the first time in quite a while.
I insulated and patched some holes in the kids area of the play room, which should restrict the amount of cold air that seeps in there. We will have a better idea of how effective it is in the next couple of days I suspect. But it was nice to at least do something around the house again.
The basketball was actually with hoop at it's lowest level and mostly with the little kids: James, Selena, JonDel, Chyanne, Austin. So needless to say I had to control myself, otherwise it felt a bit like Shaq playing against your average Y team. But it was good exercise, and it was nice to see the kids doing something other than vegging in front of the Playstation.
Otherwise, life is returning to some level of normality.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Blogging and Gonzo
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So last week I read Outlaw Journalist and the thing that struck me was how much the world has changed since the days that HST was writing. And how much his technique and style have influenced the world of journalism.
The reality is that most of Hunter's work would have fit right in with the blogosphere as it is now. The quality of the writing would have been a cut above of course, but the general ideas of not just reporting but being a part of the story. And making the coverage of the story the story are really right up the alley of our new Web 2.0 webernet.
You can see the acceptance of Hunter's style and approach (not the drugs and alcohol part) in just about everything out there now. The thing is, with all of the advances in technology and speed, the news and facts are right there and within easy access to anyone with a laptop and some time to google. SO almost every article and piece of coverage loses the old third person objectivity that used to be a requirement. Instead it has become spin, what did you see at that rally? What was your opinion of what you saw and heard?
And with the advent of mobile computing and micro blogging, like Twitter, just about everyone can provide the stream of thought and consciousness reporting that mad much of Hunters work jump out. There is no reason to write things down on a notebook, go home, gather your notes, organize them, then write out the story. Instead your view gets out there 160 characters at a time.
Whether that's a good thing is left to more critical thinkers than me. Suffice to say I think it's great. The key is to understand that pretty much any news you get now is only going to show 1 side of the story, but you don't have to wait very long to get the other side. Critical thinking will become more important, the ability to sift the wheat from the chaff, but that is a good thing in my opinion. Better that people have lots of resources at their disposal, forcing them to think, than being spoon fed news and information from 3 networks and 1 newspaper.
So last week I read Outlaw Journalist and the thing that struck me was how much the world has changed since the days that HST was writing. And how much his technique and style have influenced the world of journalism.
The reality is that most of Hunter's work would have fit right in with the blogosphere as it is now. The quality of the writing would have been a cut above of course, but the general ideas of not just reporting but being a part of the story. And making the coverage of the story the story are really right up the alley of our new Web 2.0 webernet.
You can see the acceptance of Hunter's style and approach (not the drugs and alcohol part) in just about everything out there now. The thing is, with all of the advances in technology and speed, the news and facts are right there and within easy access to anyone with a laptop and some time to google. SO almost every article and piece of coverage loses the old third person objectivity that used to be a requirement. Instead it has become spin, what did you see at that rally? What was your opinion of what you saw and heard?
And with the advent of mobile computing and micro blogging, like Twitter, just about everyone can provide the stream of thought and consciousness reporting that mad much of Hunters work jump out. There is no reason to write things down on a notebook, go home, gather your notes, organize them, then write out the story. Instead your view gets out there 160 characters at a time.
Whether that's a good thing is left to more critical thinkers than me. Suffice to say I think it's great. The key is to understand that pretty much any news you get now is only going to show 1 side of the story, but you don't have to wait very long to get the other side. Critical thinking will become more important, the ability to sift the wheat from the chaff, but that is a good thing in my opinion. Better that people have lots of resources at their disposal, forcing them to think, than being spoon fed news and information from 3 networks and 1 newspaper.
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
The title is misleading, there is no update actually. He has been moved to the Hospice floor and that's where he'll be for the duration of time he has left. It's sad, but there's nothing more to be done. Connie hasn't been there for a couple of days and is actually beginning to move on.
While no one is lucky to lose a close family member, the people who will benefit from this is Tammy's kids. Because Connie is going to have Tammy move in, so they can split the bills and both maybe get ahead a little. There are a lot of potential negatives to this, but the positive is the cousins will benefit from a considerably more stable lifestyle now with Grandma there every night to cook dinner on time and get them to bed etc. And I think the whole Jay fiasco has forced Tammy to mature some, she's still Tammy, she'll always be late for things, her kids will be rowdy etc. But overall she has been a rock for Connie through all of this. Not that Kim wasn't there, but being the shoulder to cry on is not necessarily Kim's strength.
The title is misleading, there is no update actually. He has been moved to the Hospice floor and that's where he'll be for the duration of time he has left. It's sad, but there's nothing more to be done. Connie hasn't been there for a couple of days and is actually beginning to move on.
While no one is lucky to lose a close family member, the people who will benefit from this is Tammy's kids. Because Connie is going to have Tammy move in, so they can split the bills and both maybe get ahead a little. There are a lot of potential negatives to this, but the positive is the cousins will benefit from a considerably more stable lifestyle now with Grandma there every night to cook dinner on time and get them to bed etc. And I think the whole Jay fiasco has forced Tammy to mature some, she's still Tammy, she'll always be late for things, her kids will be rowdy etc. But overall she has been a rock for Connie through all of this. Not that Kim wasn't there, but being the shoulder to cry on is not necessarily Kim's strength.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Well no news at this point, still in a waiting period. Connie is now getting badgered by the finance people to the point where she doesn't want to be at the hospital. Seeing something like this makes me very glad that we have health insurance so if, heaven forbid, something did happen, that would not be one of our concerns.
Connie has worked out a lot of the day to day emotions, to the point where she is ready to return to work next week. Although I do wonder if she will break down at some point when all of this tragedy comes crashing down on her.
On the plus side, she at least has a chance to make the necessary arrangements for the service now, without feeling pressured to hurry. I hope she takes advantage of that and arranges a service that will make her happy.
Well no news at this point, still in a waiting period. Connie is now getting badgered by the finance people to the point where she doesn't want to be at the hospital. Seeing something like this makes me very glad that we have health insurance so if, heaven forbid, something did happen, that would not be one of our concerns.
Connie has worked out a lot of the day to day emotions, to the point where she is ready to return to work next week. Although I do wonder if she will break down at some point when all of this tragedy comes crashing down on her.
On the plus side, she at least has a chance to make the necessary arrangements for the service now, without feeling pressured to hurry. I hope she takes advantage of that and arranges a service that will make her happy.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Manny Update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Nothing new to share really, his body is still functioning, they had planned to move him to the hospice floor, but now they think he has contracted pneumonia. So that changes things.
Last night I had dinner with my mom and she told me something that helped me, it seems that when my grandmother Mimi died (albeit at 86) there was a similar reaction. She was sick, on a respirator, and then they made the choice to take her off the respirator, and she survived a day and 2 nights before she passed on. So, while this is still very hard, it is not as unexpected as I originally thought.
Nothing new to share really, his body is still functioning, they had planned to move him to the hospice floor, but now they think he has contracted pneumonia. So that changes things.
Last night I had dinner with my mom and she told me something that helped me, it seems that when my grandmother Mimi died (albeit at 86) there was a similar reaction. She was sick, on a respirator, and then they made the choice to take her off the respirator, and she survived a day and 2 nights before she passed on. So, while this is still very hard, it is not as unexpected as I originally thought.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So I jumped the gun, as it were. They took him off the respirator last night, and he did not pass away, instead his body kept right on breathing. So now begins what could be a prolonged wait. This is really pretty agonizing. With the brain damage it would be a miracle for him to come back, it is really the brain stem and involuntary actions that are keeping going. So there is a DNR on him, and he will go eventually, just no telling exactly when. Which just makes it all the harder on the family, because while we have to try and get back to 'normal' life, knowing that he is still there in the hospital doesn't make it any easier.
So I jumped the gun, as it were. They took him off the respirator last night, and he did not pass away, instead his body kept right on breathing. So now begins what could be a prolonged wait. This is really pretty agonizing. With the brain damage it would be a miracle for him to come back, it is really the brain stem and involuntary actions that are keeping going. So there is a DNR on him, and he will go eventually, just no telling exactly when. Which just makes it all the harder on the family, because while we have to try and get back to 'normal' life, knowing that he is still there in the hospital doesn't make it any easier.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Manny Update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So today Connie is arranging to take Manuel off life support. It is a sad, somber day. I am doing my best to help with the arrangements for the service etc. And thanks to all who have sent their best wishes and support. We have all felt the outpouring of support, especially Connie, and I think she might not have made it through the past week nearly as well without all of the support she has received.
As soon as the arrangements have been made for a service I will let people know. I know it will be quite large. The outpouring of support and quantity of well wishers and visitors at the hospital last week was astounding, the nurses all commented on it.
I haven't yet come up with the best words for my own eulogy here, that may take a couple of days. Last night when we were talking about the people who might speak at the service I admitted that while I would like to speak, I know that I probably wouldn't get through any speech without choking up.
Tomorrow I will return to work, I was fortunate to not miss many actual work days through all of this. And I know my work will be understanding of any time I need to take.
So today Connie is arranging to take Manuel off life support. It is a sad, somber day. I am doing my best to help with the arrangements for the service etc. And thanks to all who have sent their best wishes and support. We have all felt the outpouring of support, especially Connie, and I think she might not have made it through the past week nearly as well without all of the support she has received.
As soon as the arrangements have been made for a service I will let people know. I know it will be quite large. The outpouring of support and quantity of well wishers and visitors at the hospital last week was astounding, the nurses all commented on it.
I haven't yet come up with the best words for my own eulogy here, that may take a couple of days. Last night when we were talking about the people who might speak at the service I admitted that while I would like to speak, I know that I probably wouldn't get through any speech without choking up.
Tomorrow I will return to work, I was fortunate to not miss many actual work days through all of this. And I know my work will be understanding of any time I need to take.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Sad sad news tonight. We had the family for dinner tonight, which was good, because the prognosis after a second opinion from another neurologist is that, barring a miracle, Manny is not coming back, the brain damage is too severe.
The kids: Dennis, Tammy, Kim and their families (including Steve) are planning on going to Connie's tomorrow and clean the house up, not remove his stuff or anything like that, just clean it up. That and assess exactly how much work remains on the kitchen remodel so we can plan that out and get it done as soon as is feasible.
The goal is to soften the blow for Connie as far as 'real life' as much as possible. She is very sad of course, but she has also very clear rationally made some decisions on the things that she needs to do as far as the finances etc. My biggest fear is her withdrawing into herself in response to all the tragedy in her life in recent months and years. Which was why it was so important to have another fun family dinner tonight, despite the circumstances. Because the bottom line in a situation like this is that the people you look to is your family. And one of the things I love so much about Kim's family is that despite their differences and difficulties they are very close and quick to go to each others aid when necessary. So I think we can pull her through this, but I will still look for a professional to help her as well.
Sad sad news tonight. We had the family for dinner tonight, which was good, because the prognosis after a second opinion from another neurologist is that, barring a miracle, Manny is not coming back, the brain damage is too severe.
The kids: Dennis, Tammy, Kim and their families (including Steve) are planning on going to Connie's tomorrow and clean the house up, not remove his stuff or anything like that, just clean it up. That and assess exactly how much work remains on the kitchen remodel so we can plan that out and get it done as soon as is feasible.
The goal is to soften the blow for Connie as far as 'real life' as much as possible. She is very sad of course, but she has also very clear rationally made some decisions on the things that she needs to do as far as the finances etc. My biggest fear is her withdrawing into herself in response to all the tragedy in her life in recent months and years. Which was why it was so important to have another fun family dinner tonight, despite the circumstances. Because the bottom line in a situation like this is that the people you look to is your family. And one of the things I love so much about Kim's family is that despite their differences and difficulties they are very close and quick to go to each others aid when necessary. So I think we can pull her through this, but I will still look for a professional to help her as well.
The Waiting continues
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So Day 5 now, fourth day with no prospects of leaving the house. The kids and I are slowly starting to drive each other nuts. The thing is I can't do much for Connie and the family right now. I don't want to take the kids to the Hospital, and since we are in a waiting vigil there's nothing more to do. And I know that Tammy wants to be there, both for herself and for Connie. And Tammy's kids are even less suitable for the hospital than ours. So I have to make myself available as baby sitter for them. Which is driving me and the boys even more nuts, because at this point they are pretty tired of the cousins. But, with no end in sight there isn't much choice.
The update as of last night was looking worse. Manuel was not responsive yesterday, and his functions appeared to be degenerating. Connie told Kim that his shoulders are starting to acquire the hunched in look that Grandma and Randy had at the end, for whatever that's worth. Again, we still don't have anything definitive, and the prognosis can change at any time.
Kim pointed out last night how this makes poor Connie's holidays even worse. Not just this year either. The thing is Manny's birthday falls on Christmas, so every Christmas will remind us of him. Plus every Thanksgiving will have his shadow over it. And her Mother passed on Mothers Day last year, so that is a double whammy. It's just a real bad streak for her, and I feel so sorry and wish there was something more I could do. I don't know if the posters will get out in time to raise the funds that she will need to pay for things. It's just... yuck, not much fun to think about. But this is one of the reasons I have this blog, writing does help a lot, even if no one really reads what I write.
So Day 5 now, fourth day with no prospects of leaving the house. The kids and I are slowly starting to drive each other nuts. The thing is I can't do much for Connie and the family right now. I don't want to take the kids to the Hospital, and since we are in a waiting vigil there's nothing more to do. And I know that Tammy wants to be there, both for herself and for Connie. And Tammy's kids are even less suitable for the hospital than ours. So I have to make myself available as baby sitter for them. Which is driving me and the boys even more nuts, because at this point they are pretty tired of the cousins. But, with no end in sight there isn't much choice.
The update as of last night was looking worse. Manuel was not responsive yesterday, and his functions appeared to be degenerating. Connie told Kim that his shoulders are starting to acquire the hunched in look that Grandma and Randy had at the end, for whatever that's worth. Again, we still don't have anything definitive, and the prognosis can change at any time.
Kim pointed out last night how this makes poor Connie's holidays even worse. Not just this year either. The thing is Manny's birthday falls on Christmas, so every Christmas will remind us of him. Plus every Thanksgiving will have his shadow over it. And her Mother passed on Mothers Day last year, so that is a double whammy. It's just a real bad streak for her, and I feel so sorry and wish there was something more I could do. I don't know if the posters will get out in time to raise the funds that she will need to pay for things. It's just... yuck, not much fun to think about. But this is one of the reasons I have this blog, writing does help a lot, even if no one really reads what I write.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Manny Update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
1. The neurologist did an EEG yesterday and finally got back to Connie with the results last night. Basically the prognosis is improved, the chances of catastrophic injury are slimmer than was first thought. And he cautioned that we need to wait at least another 48 hours before any conclusions can be made about the permanent situation. So more waiting, but not as grim as we thought.
2. They took him off the sedatives and the seizures have stopped. He is showing signs of reacting to physical sensation and to some verbal input. So Connie's mood is considerably more upbeat, and she was able to leave the hospital and get some rest.
3. We will be hosting Thanksgiving at our house for Kim & Manny's family. It won't necessarily be a sit down formal meal, so much as a grab what you want when you show up type of affair. We have some cleaning and food prep, but it is under control.
4. And I plan for our house to continue to be a gathering and resting place. And if anyone wants to send flowers they can send them here:
1912 Armstrong Ave
Colo. Spgs. CO 80904
1. The neurologist did an EEG yesterday and finally got back to Connie with the results last night. Basically the prognosis is improved, the chances of catastrophic injury are slimmer than was first thought. And he cautioned that we need to wait at least another 48 hours before any conclusions can be made about the permanent situation. So more waiting, but not as grim as we thought.
2. They took him off the sedatives and the seizures have stopped. He is showing signs of reacting to physical sensation and to some verbal input. So Connie's mood is considerably more upbeat, and she was able to leave the hospital and get some rest.
3. We will be hosting Thanksgiving at our house for Kim & Manny's family. It won't necessarily be a sit down formal meal, so much as a grab what you want when you show up type of affair. We have some cleaning and food prep, but it is under control.
4. And I plan for our house to continue to be a gathering and resting place. And if anyone wants to send flowers they can send them here:
1912 Armstrong Ave
Colo. Spgs. CO 80904
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Manny update
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
First, for those who have no idea who I am talking about when I mention him, Manny is Kim's stepfather, Connie's husband. So this has a huge impact on the family.
Connie finally got away from the hospital for a couple of hours last night, coming to our house and eventually getting a couple of hours of rest. Tammy has barely left the hospital either. Steve has stepped up, helping drive the kids around, and then taking them home last night and getting them to bed.
There has been no shortage of offers of help and assistance and for that we are all grateful. This morning I have to get a shot in my neck, but once that is done I will be home for the duration. And I foresee our house becoming the family and close friends gathering place, and a place for Connie to get some respite from the emotional stress of the hospital. It will be hard on the boys, but I have already explained to James that this is something we do, it's part of being in such a wonderful family, we pull together in good times and bad.
As far as a medical update, the news is not good. At this point he is in a coma, and while they are doing as much as they can to determine the extent of the damage, it appears there was a serious amount of damage done to the brain. There is no way to know or predict that he will come out of this, although the prognosis is not good. So again, all of your good thoughts and prayers are welcome.
First, for those who have no idea who I am talking about when I mention him, Manny is Kim's stepfather, Connie's husband. So this has a huge impact on the family.
Connie finally got away from the hospital for a couple of hours last night, coming to our house and eventually getting a couple of hours of rest. Tammy has barely left the hospital either. Steve has stepped up, helping drive the kids around, and then taking them home last night and getting them to bed.
There has been no shortage of offers of help and assistance and for that we are all grateful. This morning I have to get a shot in my neck, but once that is done I will be home for the duration. And I foresee our house becoming the family and close friends gathering place, and a place for Connie to get some respite from the emotional stress of the hospital. It will be hard on the boys, but I have already explained to James that this is something we do, it's part of being in such a wonderful family, we pull together in good times and bad.
As far as a medical update, the news is not good. At this point he is in a coma, and while they are doing as much as they can to determine the extent of the damage, it appears there was a serious amount of damage done to the brain. There is no way to know or predict that he will come out of this, although the prognosis is not good. So again, all of your good thoughts and prayers are welcome.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Manny
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So last night around 9:30 (maybe later) I received a call from Tammy stating: "Kimmy needs to get to Mom's right away. Manual collapsed and he's not breathing." Kim wasn't home, she was at work, so I managed to get a hold of her around the time Tammy called to say that they had gotten a pulse and were taking him to the hospital. It seemed that Manny had a major heart attack. He had surgery soon after he got to the hospital, where they placed a shunt on the major lower artery, which was blocked. So we had gone down to the hospital (after Dad showed up to sleep on the couch and listen for sleeping kids waking up, yeah Dad!). And we waited until around 2 AM with Tammy, Connie and Manny's uncles and aunt.
The operation was a success as far as his heart, but he is in a coma now, with no idea when or if he will recover. They can't be sure what (if any) damage was done to the brain. According to the Dr. it's a waiting game the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery to see if the rest of the body recovers.
So Kim & I went into work today (although I eventually left early because I couldn't stay awake and focus on the training class I was in). Tammy is at the hospital with Connie and will probably remain there as long as she can. Kim & I will probably go back to visit sometime this evening.
It's a tough thing, and obviously super hard for Connie, coming so soon after the death of her little brother Randy. And now to play the waiting game makes it doubly hard. All we can do is hope and pray and think positive thoughts. None of us are all that religious but for those of you who are, any thoughts and prayers you make would certainly be appreciated.
Monday, November 24, 2008
This week
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
I won't be posting as much because I will be in training the next 2 days, then off work the rest of the week. Plus having the preliminary test procedure done on my neck Wednesday morning.
Quickly: we had a good weekend, got some painting done, and had a good shopping trip to Denver. We are hosting a family thanksgiving for Kim's family this year so they have somewhere to go. So we have lots of work to do around the house.
I won't be posting as much because I will be in training the next 2 days, then off work the rest of the week. Plus having the preliminary test procedure done on my neck Wednesday morning.
Quickly: we had a good weekend, got some painting done, and had a good shopping trip to Denver. We are hosting a family thanksgiving for Kim's family this year so they have somewhere to go. So we have lots of work to do around the house.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Buena Vista PTA » Online Petition
Buena Vista PTA » Online Petition
Please go to this site and sign up to keep the school open. You don't have to be a parent or even related to care about this. The proposed plan is to close the school, moving the kids to various elementaries. And move the high school students from Bijou school to the Buena Vista location. Which means bringing High school students into the middle of our neighborhood.
Please go to this site and sign up to keep the school open. You don't have to be a parent or even related to care about this. The proposed plan is to close the school, moving the kids to various elementaries. And move the high school students from Bijou school to the Buena Vista location. Which means bringing High school students into the middle of our neighborhood.
It's Friday!
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
And boy am I happy about it. This has been a long week, well not really but I have manage to get used to short weeks all fall what with kid's days off or sick days for the kids etc. Working 5 full days is a bit of a novelty right now.
So we have a busy weekend planned this week. I have to get the stairwell painted, replace the light fixtures and get the railing backup finally. Kim plans to get the doors in the hallway painted to complement the fact that she repainted the entire hallway on Monday. Plus we are planning on taking the boys to the Lego outlet store in Denver on Sunday.
We have to get all this done because we are hosting a family Thanksgiving for Kim's family, as this will be the first major holiday so close to Randy's passing. But I am confident we can do it, barring some major child catastrophe.
And boy am I happy about it. This has been a long week, well not really but I have manage to get used to short weeks all fall what with kid's days off or sick days for the kids etc. Working 5 full days is a bit of a novelty right now.
So we have a busy weekend planned this week. I have to get the stairwell painted, replace the light fixtures and get the railing backup finally. Kim plans to get the doors in the hallway painted to complement the fact that she repainted the entire hallway on Monday. Plus we are planning on taking the boys to the Lego outlet store in Denver on Sunday.
We have to get all this done because we are hosting a family Thanksgiving for Kim's family, as this will be the first major holiday so close to Randy's passing. But I am confident we can do it, barring some major child catastrophe.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Big Sort
The Big Sort
Continuing his theory, the writer breaks down the 'real demographics' of the most recent election. And it isn't pretty for the all is rainbows people. The reality is that Obama won by getting people to vote who hadn't voted as much if at all before. And those people lived in distinct communities. And living in one of the McCain counties I can attest to what it's like.
It's interesting, and it is an indicator that if things do go bad, that we might see some pretty extreme politics in the next 4 to 8 years, things that might mirror or even rival the 'Patriot Movement' of the 90's.
Continuing his theory, the writer breaks down the 'real demographics' of the most recent election. And it isn't pretty for the all is rainbows people. The reality is that Obama won by getting people to vote who hadn't voted as much if at all before. And those people lived in distinct communities. And living in one of the McCain counties I can attest to what it's like.
It's interesting, and it is an indicator that if things do go bad, that we might see some pretty extreme politics in the next 4 to 8 years, things that might mirror or even rival the 'Patriot Movement' of the 90's.
Friendship
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So, still basking in the glow of a wonderful dinner and couple of hours chatting with my old friend Mark. Thanks again for the dinner Mark. Mark & I went to high school together and have kept up over the past 23 years. But we hadn't spent any real time together in probably 8 years. We saw each other briefly about 4 years ago, but it was at a party so there wasn't a lot of one on one time.
So we got togehter last night, and I will admit that I was a little nervous before seeing him. We live in very different worlds: I do my daily grind in the digital mines while Kim works in a grovery store. Mark is a highly paid consultant working with the American Cancer Society, lives in Washington DC and his wife is a consultant as well.
But literally as soon as he arrived it was like we had seen each other yesterday. The conversation flowed easily and we talked about practically every topic under the sun. It was great. Which got me to thinking that one of the signs of a truly great friendship is the ability to go long periods of time without seeing each other and still act like the period of time wasn't there. There are other signs of course, but that to me is one of the biggest. The same thing happened a couple of years back when I got together with my college friend Brian. And it's an amazing thing.
So thanks again for the excellent meal Mark, and while the length of time doesn't appear to matter, let's still try not to go 7-8 years between meetings next time.
So, still basking in the glow of a wonderful dinner and couple of hours chatting with my old friend Mark. Thanks again for the dinner Mark. Mark & I went to high school together and have kept up over the past 23 years. But we hadn't spent any real time together in probably 8 years. We saw each other briefly about 4 years ago, but it was at a party so there wasn't a lot of one on one time.
So we got togehter last night, and I will admit that I was a little nervous before seeing him. We live in very different worlds: I do my daily grind in the digital mines while Kim works in a grovery store. Mark is a highly paid consultant working with the American Cancer Society, lives in Washington DC and his wife is a consultant as well.
But literally as soon as he arrived it was like we had seen each other yesterday. The conversation flowed easily and we talked about practically every topic under the sun. It was great. Which got me to thinking that one of the signs of a truly great friendship is the ability to go long periods of time without seeing each other and still act like the period of time wasn't there. There are other signs of course, but that to me is one of the biggest. The same thing happened a couple of years back when I got together with my college friend Brian. And it's an amazing thing.
So thanks again for the excellent meal Mark, and while the length of time doesn't appear to matter, let's still try not to go 7-8 years between meetings next time.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
God & the GOP
Kathleen Parker puts herself in front of the GOP firing squad
To paraphrase Ronald Reagan: "I didn't leave the Republican Party, it left me". I have always felt that once the Religious conservatives become a major player in the Republican Party I was no longer a part of that party. There is nothing wrong with personal religious beliefs, and in fact there is nothing wrong with evangelizing. But once you start acting like government should hold to any set of moral beliefs I think you start down a slippery slope. I think the Founders intention was to avoid having anyone feel like their government was preventing from subscribing to a set of beliefs. And that is what the Neo-Con Christian Right is doing in my opinion.
I think this election cycle has been a real wake up call for people like Parker. They have been forced to realize what a deep hole they dug over the last 30 years in aligning themselves with the James Dobson's of this world. The party of Barry Goldwater and Abraham Lincoln is a shell of itself now, having sold its values for votes.
To paraphrase Ronald Reagan: "I didn't leave the Republican Party, it left me". I have always felt that once the Religious conservatives become a major player in the Republican Party I was no longer a part of that party. There is nothing wrong with personal religious beliefs, and in fact there is nothing wrong with evangelizing. But once you start acting like government should hold to any set of moral beliefs I think you start down a slippery slope. I think the Founders intention was to avoid having anyone feel like their government was preventing from subscribing to a set of beliefs. And that is what the Neo-Con Christian Right is doing in my opinion.
I think this election cycle has been a real wake up call for people like Parker. They have been forced to realize what a deep hole they dug over the last 30 years in aligning themselves with the James Dobson's of this world. The party of Barry Goldwater and Abraham Lincoln is a shell of itself now, having sold its values for votes.
Farewell to Fantasy
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So this year in August I abruptly decided not to play fantasy football. At the time it was because I was still feeling bitter and upset with myself for not being able to handle the Lakers playoff games. But, with 2/3 of the season gone I have to say that this has been the easiest, most enjoyable football season for me in quite some time. Yes the Rams have been horrid, and the Buffs have struggled and the Broncos have been marginally good, but I have gotten more enjoyment out of just watching the games for the games sake and not caring about the stats, than I have in a long time.
This past Sunday I was even able to almost completely blank out the little ticker on the bottom of the screen that displays the stats. I still would like an option to watch without the ticker at all, or tape a strip of tape across the TV, but I can survive.
The bottom line is that I am making it official, I am retiring from fantasy football. I will not play fantasy again. It turns football into a chore, and takes the fun out of it for me. So no more for me.
So this year in August I abruptly decided not to play fantasy football. At the time it was because I was still feeling bitter and upset with myself for not being able to handle the Lakers playoff games. But, with 2/3 of the season gone I have to say that this has been the easiest, most enjoyable football season for me in quite some time. Yes the Rams have been horrid, and the Buffs have struggled and the Broncos have been marginally good, but I have gotten more enjoyment out of just watching the games for the games sake and not caring about the stats, than I have in a long time.
This past Sunday I was even able to almost completely blank out the little ticker on the bottom of the screen that displays the stats. I still would like an option to watch without the ticker at all, or tape a strip of tape across the TV, but I can survive.
The bottom line is that I am making it official, I am retiring from fantasy football. I will not play fantasy again. It turns football into a chore, and takes the fun out of it for me. So no more for me.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Family health update
So after a rough weekend Kim took EMily to the Dr. today, only to discover that the horrendous diaper rash was actually an allergic reaction to the Augmentin. So no more of that for her. But on the bright side the ear infection is gone, so no reason to take more anitbiotics. And Kim reports that she has been in a good mood all day!
Tinkering Again
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Tinkering with Layout and blog title again, just because I can.
Tinkering with Layout and blog title again, just because I can.
Excellent point
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
For all of those people cheering in the streets that we have finally turned a corner in politics.
Remember the price of freedom is eternal vigilance, as hard as we all worked to reach this point, it could all disappear or reverse course in a heartbeat. .
Monday, November 17, 2008
The racist backlash to Obama's presidency
This is not surprising to me
Except maybe the scale, and immediacy.
But there's nothing like the combination of economic bad times and cultural change to create some nasty fringe groups. And the responses to the failure of Proposition 8 in California are coming from the same source. It all comes down to blame: when times are rough people look around for someone to blame. And there is nothing like the aftermath of a Presidential campaign where phrases like "palling around with terrorists' were dropped by major party candidates to stir the pot. I thought that McCain hit the right chord with his concession speech, but that doesn't mean that some of his supporters (or Obama opposers) were/are in such a conciliatory mood.
So nothing like the initial return of the Republican 'Culture War' to spawn a return to the 90's era of White Pride movements. And if you will recall the culmination to that was Oklahoma City. I can only hope that the SPLC and law enforcement are more aware of things this time around.
Except maybe the scale, and immediacy.
But there's nothing like the combination of economic bad times and cultural change to create some nasty fringe groups. And the responses to the failure of Proposition 8 in California are coming from the same source. It all comes down to blame: when times are rough people look around for someone to blame. And there is nothing like the aftermath of a Presidential campaign where phrases like "palling around with terrorists' were dropped by major party candidates to stir the pot. I thought that McCain hit the right chord with his concession speech, but that doesn't mean that some of his supporters (or Obama opposers) were/are in such a conciliatory mood.
So nothing like the initial return of the Republican 'Culture War' to spawn a return to the 90's era of White Pride movements. And if you will recall the culmination to that was Oklahoma City. I can only hope that the SPLC and law enforcement are more aware of things this time around.
Board Responses
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So I have already received 5 response to my e-mail to the board, to see them click for more. Overall, positive thoughts and feedback. I think that the more letters like mine that they receive the more likely it is that we at least save Buena Vista. We shall see, I can't go to the board meetings every week, and especially not this week, but maybe I will make my way to the PTA meeting this week.
Thomas Strand:
"Thanks very much for your email. It is very well thought-out and points out several issues ( the importance of smaller neighborhood schools, and the need for better marketing of what is working so well in District 11) that we will take to heart.
I'm very pleased that Buena Vista Elementary School and it's successful Montessori Program, are working so well for your two boys. I can assure you that your Board of Education will not just accept the Contractor's Report on school utilization at face value and will carefully listen to all parties and stakeholders ( like you ) before we proceed to action.
Thanks again for participating and caring so much."
Bob Null:
"Michael,
Thank you for your comments and concerns with regard to Buena Vista. I
assure you that no closing/merging decisions have been made with regard to any
schools in D-11 at this time. the consultants report, does portray, recommendations in an accounting context, but there are several other factors to take into consideration also. We have much thinking and discussing, including sessions with
the public and you parents, before any decisions are made with regard to
things that may impact any of our "kids".
You can rest assured that your Board of Education will consider all factors when making the tough decisions ahead.
Thanks again for your input,"
Jan Tanner:
"Mr. Ruch,
Thanks for sharing your concerns about issues facing us and for your support of the Montessori program at Buena Vista. Please know that we intend to make decisions that are in the best interest of our students, aiming to increase student learning.
There will be opportunities for you and the community to be involved and help the Board make decisions regarding school reutilization. I hope you continue to participate."
Charlie Bobbitt:
"Thank you for the great words on Buena Vista and its Montessori program. I also think Buena Vista is a great asset for the district and would personally like to see the district explore expanding the program. I agree that it has made a positive impact on enrollment. The board is a long ways from making decisions so your input is very important. Thank you for taking the time to write."
So I have already received 5 response to my e-mail to the board, to see them click for more. Overall, positive thoughts and feedback. I think that the more letters like mine that they receive the more likely it is that we at least save Buena Vista. We shall see, I can't go to the board meetings every week, and especially not this week, but maybe I will make my way to the PTA meeting this week.
Thomas Strand:
"Thanks very much for your email. It is very well thought-out and points out several issues ( the importance of smaller neighborhood schools, and the need for better marketing of what is working so well in District 11) that we will take to heart.
I'm very pleased that Buena Vista Elementary School and it's successful Montessori Program, are working so well for your two boys. I can assure you that your Board of Education will not just accept the Contractor's Report on school utilization at face value and will carefully listen to all parties and stakeholders ( like you ) before we proceed to action.
Thanks again for participating and caring so much."
Bob Null:
"Michael,
Thank you for your comments and concerns with regard to Buena Vista. I
assure you that no closing/merging decisions have been made with regard to any
schools in D-11 at this time. the consultants report, does portray, recommendations in an accounting context, but there are several other factors to take into consideration also. We have much thinking and discussing, including sessions with
the public and you parents, before any decisions are made with regard to
things that may impact any of our "kids".
You can rest assured that your Board of Education will consider all factors when making the tough decisions ahead.
Thanks again for your input,"
Jan Tanner:
"Mr. Ruch,
Thanks for sharing your concerns about issues facing us and for your support of the Montessori program at Buena Vista. Please know that we intend to make decisions that are in the best interest of our students, aiming to increase student learning.
There will be opportunities for you and the community to be involved and help the Board make decisions regarding school reutilization. I hope you continue to participate."
Charlie Bobbitt:
"Thank you for the great words on Buena Vista and its Montessori program. I also think Buena Vista is a great asset for the district and would personally like to see the district explore expanding the program. I agree that it has made a positive impact on enrollment. The board is a long ways from making decisions so your input is very important. Thank you for taking the time to write."
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Another day at home
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So Kim has to work today, making Saturday and Sunday her work days this weekend, no fun. Emily has hard a tough couple of days, another ear infection coupled with a cold and congestion has made her a shell of herself, her little cries and yells are just pitiful. Plus the augmentin gives her nasty diarrhea, which has led to hellacious diaper rash. So it has not exactly been a relaxing couple of days. The funeral for Randy was OK, I actually missed the service with Emily in the back but I did attend the celebration of life, which went well.
But Emily appears to back to her old self, at least partially today. She is roaming around the basement while James plays pool and Daniel watches and gets in the way. So I am hoping for a more normal day at home, with the kids being able to just play while I putter around, get a few things done and watch some football.
One moment from the bar that really stood out was I got stuck in the corner to eat and I looked up at the small table where the rest of the family was and saw Connie smiling and laughing while joking with her 3 kids and various grandchildren. And I realized what a special person she is, and how much family can mean in a moment like that.
So Kim has to work today, making Saturday and Sunday her work days this weekend, no fun. Emily has hard a tough couple of days, another ear infection coupled with a cold and congestion has made her a shell of herself, her little cries and yells are just pitiful. Plus the augmentin gives her nasty diarrhea, which has led to hellacious diaper rash. So it has not exactly been a relaxing couple of days. The funeral for Randy was OK, I actually missed the service with Emily in the back but I did attend the celebration of life, which went well.
But Emily appears to back to her old self, at least partially today. She is roaming around the basement while James plays pool and Daniel watches and gets in the way. So I am hoping for a more normal day at home, with the kids being able to just play while I putter around, get a few things done and watch some football.
One moment from the bar that really stood out was I got stuck in the corner to eat and I looked up at the small table where the rest of the family was and saw Connie smiling and laughing while joking with her 3 kids and various grandchildren. And I realized what a special person she is, and how much family can mean in a moment like that.
Friday, November 14, 2008
My letter to the D11 School board
I am writing as a concerned parent of 2 children in the Montessori program at Buena Vista Elementary. I know the board has not yet made a decision on this but I wanted to make my voice heard and raise a few points.
1. Our 2 boys are in 1st grade and pre-school, the oldest is in his third year at Buena Vista, the younger is in his first year. And I can tell you that they are getting an outstanding educational experience from the school. The teachers, and the Montessori program in general have been excellent for both of them. And the knowledge that they are going to school with kids from their neighborhood, whom they could walk to school with as they grow older is crucial to their development.
2. I have read the consultants report, and in a cold, accounting sense their recommendations make sense. But that report does not address 2 important points. First, the impact of neighborhood schools, in this time when parents are finding it harder and harder to spend time with their kids because of work considerations, the knowledge that their kids are part of a neighborhood where they know other kids, and where the parents can help each other, is just huge. Closing neighborhood schools and forcing kids to travel farther, breaks up that closeness.
Second, I don't think we should retreat from our schools, and surrender our students to other Districts. The report notes that the District is at a negative loss of permitted students. And I believe one of the reasons is the people of District 11 have allowed their schools to become a laughing stock. And I don't think that is inevitable. I think that schools like Buena Vista, with the Montessori program, should be held up as outstanding examples, and used as a dfraw to keep students in the District and draw students from outside the District (which it is already doing).
3. One of the things that most partents desire, especially in an elementary setting, is a low student to teacher ratio. And closing and merging these schools offsets what has become one of the true positives for a lot of these schools. Instead of the more individual attentions the students get at all of the schools, the students who are having to switch, as well as the kids whose schools absorb the new students, will have to face much larger classes, and the teachers will have to cope with more students. Hurting both groups in the long run.
4. I know that it is hard to justify what seem to be excessive expenses in these difficult times. But I think that the failure here is in showing and demonstrating to the community all the good that comes from these schools, so they are not viewed as just drains on their pocket books. Again, show the people what an excellent education the kids are getting, show them the value they are getting for their tax dollar.
1. Our 2 boys are in 1st grade and pre-school, the oldest is in his third year at Buena Vista, the younger is in his first year. And I can tell you that they are getting an outstanding educational experience from the school. The teachers, and the Montessori program in general have been excellent for both of them. And the knowledge that they are going to school with kids from their neighborhood, whom they could walk to school with as they grow older is crucial to their development.
2. I have read the consultants report, and in a cold, accounting sense their recommendations make sense. But that report does not address 2 important points. First, the impact of neighborhood schools, in this time when parents are finding it harder and harder to spend time with their kids because of work considerations, the knowledge that their kids are part of a neighborhood where they know other kids, and where the parents can help each other, is just huge. Closing neighborhood schools and forcing kids to travel farther, breaks up that closeness.
Second, I don't think we should retreat from our schools, and surrender our students to other Districts. The report notes that the District is at a negative loss of permitted students. And I believe one of the reasons is the people of District 11 have allowed their schools to become a laughing stock. And I don't think that is inevitable. I think that schools like Buena Vista, with the Montessori program, should be held up as outstanding examples, and used as a dfraw to keep students in the District and draw students from outside the District (which it is already doing).
3. One of the things that most partents desire, especially in an elementary setting, is a low student to teacher ratio. And closing and merging these schools offsets what has become one of the true positives for a lot of these schools. Instead of the more individual attentions the students get at all of the schools, the students who are having to switch, as well as the kids whose schools absorb the new students, will have to face much larger classes, and the teachers will have to cope with more students. Hurting both groups in the long run.
4. I know that it is hard to justify what seem to be excessive expenses in these difficult times. But I think that the failure here is in showing and demonstrating to the community all the good that comes from these schools, so they are not viewed as just drains on their pocket books. Again, show the people what an excellent education the kids are getting, show them the value they are getting for their tax dollar.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Gun sales and the paranoid right:
Aother example of things that are wrong with our priorities
The mere fact that there are people who honestly believe that the election of Obama means the 'darn gummint and them uppity minorities are coming for them' is an example of how twisted things have become. Think of all those assault rifles and handguns that will now be out there on the market in the years to come, sold by private individuals at gun shows etc. allowing more wing nuts to buy them and stock up their militia's and eventually lead to another Waco or Virginia Tech. Articles like this really piss me off. And people wonder where the infamous 'cling to guns and God' comment and thought originated from?
The mere fact that there are people who honestly believe that the election of Obama means the 'darn gummint and them uppity minorities are coming for them' is an example of how twisted things have become. Think of all those assault rifles and handguns that will now be out there on the market in the years to come, sold by private individuals at gun shows etc. allowing more wing nuts to buy them and stock up their militia's and eventually lead to another Waco or Virginia Tech. Articles like this really piss me off. And people wonder where the infamous 'cling to guns and God' comment and thought originated from?
Kim's Uncle Randy
Obituary
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Obituary I think this covers what I knew of him and everything I saw in the 12 years Kim & I have been together.
Randy (and really all of Kim's family) was always cordial to me, willing to take the joshing and gentle ribbing that I have been known to dish out. And giving back as good as he took. And he was always an excellent host for the many years we went to his house to watch the 4th of July fire works.
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Obituary I think this covers what I knew of him and everything I saw in the 12 years Kim & I have been together.
Randy (and really all of Kim's family) was always cordial to me, willing to take the joshing and gentle ribbing that I have been known to dish out. And giving back as good as he took. And he was always an excellent host for the many years we went to his house to watch the 4th of July fire works.
The President, the Economy, and the Lag
This mirrors/echoes one of my own arguments for backing Obama
That is the effect of the'bully pulpit'. While any President can try to be optimistic, some are just not very good at it, or in George II's case proved to be clueless. While Obama exudes the necessary confidence etc. to get people to some extent to ignore reality and regain their confidence. I think our situation is a good example of this: my company is well suited to weather the economy (the fact that they just announced that they will absorb the increased cost of insurance rather than increasing empoyee shares being a prime example) and Kim's working in a busy grocery store, we are not really seeing any personal effect of the recession. However we have been getting increasingly more cautious in our spending. But I think we will be less cautious now, especially with out Christmas spending for the kids. I am not saying we will recklessly rack up credit card debt, but we will be more likely to get the kids nicer presents.
And knowing that we have a President who will be doing his part to spur the economy, rather than ignoring the obvious or flailing around in reactive mode improves my mind set. And now we might be more willing to plan a decent vacation next year than before, because we might see a better tax refund than in previous years.
That is the effect of the'bully pulpit'. While any President can try to be optimistic, some are just not very good at it, or in George II's case proved to be clueless. While Obama exudes the necessary confidence etc. to get people to some extent to ignore reality and regain their confidence. I think our situation is a good example of this: my company is well suited to weather the economy (the fact that they just announced that they will absorb the increased cost of insurance rather than increasing empoyee shares being a prime example) and Kim's working in a busy grocery store, we are not really seeing any personal effect of the recession. However we have been getting increasingly more cautious in our spending. But I think we will be less cautious now, especially with out Christmas spending for the kids. I am not saying we will recklessly rack up credit card debt, but we will be more likely to get the kids nicer presents.
And knowing that we have a President who will be doing his part to spur the economy, rather than ignoring the obvious or flailing around in reactive mode improves my mind set. And now we might be more willing to plan a decent vacation next year than before, because we might see a better tax refund than in previous years.
Misc.
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So had yesterday off to stay home with the kids since the boys had Veteran's day off, and I am trying to reduce the time with in laws if possible. And it turned out for the better as both Daniel and Emily were/are under the weather. Plus I went to see the Dr. myself as I noticed a Rosacea outbreak on my eyelid this week and figured that was a sign that I need to get on some meds for it.
I am not sure what is wrong with the 2 little ones, they are running low grade fevers, but otherwise no other real symptoms other than irritability. I came into work today because I have some stuff I need to get done, although I might have to leave early to run them to the Dr. if they are worse this morning.
The Doctor order some anti-biotics to try and get the rash and redness from the rosacea under control and I plan to use them for the full course this time. I want to get it under control before I have to face anything seriously disfiguring.
So I wasn't able to get what I wanted done either around the house or out of the house as the kids wouldn't really let me take more than a couple of minutes of time to work on anything.
So had yesterday off to stay home with the kids since the boys had Veteran's day off, and I am trying to reduce the time with in laws if possible. And it turned out for the better as both Daniel and Emily were/are under the weather. Plus I went to see the Dr. myself as I noticed a Rosacea outbreak on my eyelid this week and figured that was a sign that I need to get on some meds for it.
I am not sure what is wrong with the 2 little ones, they are running low grade fevers, but otherwise no other real symptoms other than irritability. I came into work today because I have some stuff I need to get done, although I might have to leave early to run them to the Dr. if they are worse this morning.
The Doctor order some anti-biotics to try and get the rash and redness from the rosacea under control and I plan to use them for the full course this time. I want to get it under control before I have to face anything seriously disfiguring.
So I wasn't able to get what I wanted done either around the house or out of the house as the kids wouldn't really let me take more than a couple of minutes of time to work on anything.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Unusual weekend recap
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Uncle Randy, uncle to Kim, Dennis and Tammy, little brother to Connie, Gerald and Phyllis, friend to countless others, Rest In Peace.
So with the looming cloud of his passing over the weekend it was hard to focus, and we ended up watching Tammy's kids most of the weekend. But we went ahead and had Kim's party on Sunday and it was a nice party. It was a good weekend for sitting around playing games on the computer and watching some movies and football.
The plan is to have the funeral followed by a celebration of life on Saturday, but no details yet. My main focus will be on keeping the kids in line and respectful, and then providing the shoulder to cry on for those who need it.
Uncle Randy, uncle to Kim, Dennis and Tammy, little brother to Connie, Gerald and Phyllis, friend to countless others, Rest In Peace.
So with the looming cloud of his passing over the weekend it was hard to focus, and we ended up watching Tammy's kids most of the weekend. But we went ahead and had Kim's party on Sunday and it was a nice party. It was a good weekend for sitting around playing games on the computer and watching some movies and football.
The plan is to have the funeral followed by a celebration of life on Saturday, but no details yet. My main focus will be on keeping the kids in line and respectful, and then providing the shoulder to cry on for those who need it.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
School closings
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So in the boys Friday folders we got news that the consultants who were hired by District 11 had made a recommendation that among other things the District should close their school, Buena Vista. I took the time to download and peruse the reports.
First, I have to take a moment to rant about Colorado Springs and El Paso County. I love this city, it is my hometown, and I have made the choice to live here after living in a few other places. And I know that Kim feels even stronger about refusing to relocate. That being said, the anti-tax crusaders are doing their absolute level best to make me want to leave. Intellectually I grasp the reasons people feel that lower taxes are good. But those reasons simply don't make sense in my opinion. Not any more. Our current economic climate is poor, I know that, but we cannot afford to strip down our infrastructure more. Eventually for every company that wants to relocate here for the low taxes there will be 2 families that will want to leave or choose not to relocate to a place where the people will not shell out for a decent education for their children, decent roads and public safety.
So the reports again make sense intellectually. The growth rate in District 11 is negative. And there are more students attending schools outside of District 11 than students from other districts are choosing District 11. And in the face of growing costs for school maintenance etc. it makes raw economic sense to close/consolidate schools.
But I think all this does is short change the students and handicap the teachers. Students get more from a healthy neighborhood school where they can go to school with their neighbors and have the chance to walk to school etc. And if the school population is smaller than the students will benefit from a smaller student to teacher ratio. And if the schools start to improve then maybe the students who might be going elsewhere now might return. It's kind of like a small business: if your customers go to a different location do you close up and move or do you improve to draw your customers back?
I think that we need to improve our local schools and reduce the drain of students who go outside of the District or neighborhood rather than just give up. In the case of Buena Vista there was a proposal to make it a magnet Montessori program. I think a number of people do not realize what a great benefit it is to have a Montessori education here in the neighborhood. And a number of parents in District 11 do not even realize it exists. Well the same could be done in other schools, not necessarily Montessori, but other special programs, that can attract/keep students rather than giving up.
So in the boys Friday folders we got news that the consultants who were hired by District 11 had made a recommendation that among other things the District should close their school, Buena Vista. I took the time to download and peruse the reports.
First, I have to take a moment to rant about Colorado Springs and El Paso County. I love this city, it is my hometown, and I have made the choice to live here after living in a few other places. And I know that Kim feels even stronger about refusing to relocate. That being said, the anti-tax crusaders are doing their absolute level best to make me want to leave. Intellectually I grasp the reasons people feel that lower taxes are good. But those reasons simply don't make sense in my opinion. Not any more. Our current economic climate is poor, I know that, but we cannot afford to strip down our infrastructure more. Eventually for every company that wants to relocate here for the low taxes there will be 2 families that will want to leave or choose not to relocate to a place where the people will not shell out for a decent education for their children, decent roads and public safety.
So the reports again make sense intellectually. The growth rate in District 11 is negative. And there are more students attending schools outside of District 11 than students from other districts are choosing District 11. And in the face of growing costs for school maintenance etc. it makes raw economic sense to close/consolidate schools.
But I think all this does is short change the students and handicap the teachers. Students get more from a healthy neighborhood school where they can go to school with their neighbors and have the chance to walk to school etc. And if the school population is smaller than the students will benefit from a smaller student to teacher ratio. And if the schools start to improve then maybe the students who might be going elsewhere now might return. It's kind of like a small business: if your customers go to a different location do you close up and move or do you improve to draw your customers back?
I think that we need to improve our local schools and reduce the drain of students who go outside of the District or neighborhood rather than just give up. In the case of Buena Vista there was a proposal to make it a magnet Montessori program. I think a number of people do not realize what a great benefit it is to have a Montessori education here in the neighborhood. And a number of parents in District 11 do not even realize it exists. Well the same could be done in other schools, not necessarily Montessori, but other special programs, that can attract/keep students rather than giving up.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Kids politics
What do you do when your childs partisanship is too extreme?: "As is often the case, the shimmering ideal of childhood innocence doesn't last long in the face of real kids."
I have noticed this same trend in the kids, especially James. It comes out a lot in games and when I am watching sports. It becomes a black and white us v. them issue very quickly. Often when I am watching a football game in which I have no vested interest, instead just watching because I like to watch football, James will come in and ask who 'we are going for'. And when I replay that I am not really cheering for any team, that I am just watching for the heck of it, he seems kind of disappointed, like 'what's the sense in watching if you dont't care who wins?'
And of course this did carry over to the election. James wasted little time on Wednesday pointing out to his buddy Jon Del that Obama won. (Of course the fact that Jon's parents are quite likely fervent Republicans made the point all the more interesting) THe other night at Dillon's birthday party poor Dillon made the comment "I am sorry to all the Obama supporters but I hope McCain wins" Of course Dillon is 12, and I already knew his mom, Dennis' Ex, was a McCain supporter, so I cut short the discussion by asking him if he said that because his mom liked McCain, to which he said yes. That kept some of the other adults from jumping all over him. So it clearly is an issue of the kid's acquiring the interests of their parents.
I have noticed this same trend in the kids, especially James. It comes out a lot in games and when I am watching sports. It becomes a black and white us v. them issue very quickly. Often when I am watching a football game in which I have no vested interest, instead just watching because I like to watch football, James will come in and ask who 'we are going for'. And when I replay that I am not really cheering for any team, that I am just watching for the heck of it, he seems kind of disappointed, like 'what's the sense in watching if you dont't care who wins?'
And of course this did carry over to the election. James wasted little time on Wednesday pointing out to his buddy Jon Del that Obama won. (Of course the fact that Jon's parents are quite likely fervent Republicans made the point all the more interesting) THe other night at Dillon's birthday party poor Dillon made the comment "I am sorry to all the Obama supporters but I hope McCain wins" Of course Dillon is 12, and I already knew his mom, Dennis' Ex, was a McCain supporter, so I cut short the discussion by asking him if he said that because his mom liked McCain, to which he said yes. That kept some of the other adults from jumping all over him. So it clearly is an issue of the kid's acquiring the interests of their parents.
An Apology to the baby boomers from Gen X
http://www.salon.com/mwt/feature/2008/11/07/havrilesky/index.html
"We want to follow this man, and trust him, and give him our full support."
This reminds me of something one of my friends stated: 'that he can't believe he placed this much faith in someone".
Voting is an exercise in faith to some extent. And it is just as easy to be cynical about politics as it is religion. So now a gneration knows what it means to really be excited about a politician again.
"We want to follow this man, and trust him, and give him our full support."
This reminds me of something one of my friends stated: 'that he can't believe he placed this much faith in someone".
Voting is an exercise in faith to some extent. And it is just as easy to be cynical about politics as it is religion. So now a gneration knows what it means to really be excited about a politician again.
Surprising considering the source
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/06/AR2008110602126_2.html
Kathleen Parker is one of the more conservative Op-Ed's out there so this is pretty surprising. Although she got pretty thoroughly savaged for her criticism of Sarah Palin. So maybe she has seen the error of her ways, at least as far as the nasty personal attacks that the Neo-Cons have been levying in recent years.
Kathleen Parker is one of the more conservative Op-Ed's out there so this is pretty surprising. Although she got pretty thoroughly savaged for her criticism of Sarah Palin. So maybe she has seen the error of her ways, at least as far as the nasty personal attacks that the Neo-Cons have been levying in recent years.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thoughts on the Election, and election night
Thoughts on the Election, and election night
First, I am posting this a day late because in keeping with my normal practice I want to have Kim's birthday message remain the only post for a day.
Second, everything was tempered by the news that's Kim's uncle Randy may not last much longer, and in fact might not make it through the night. So this understandably tempered my emotions somewhat. However, as Kim said, things have changed, we have seen so little of him over the past 3 years, despite the fact that he lives just a few blocks from us, that it won't have the same impact it would have had 5 years ago. But it is still sad, and very sad to see Connie have to face the fact that her baby brother is dying, particularly when you consider that this would be the third close family member to pass away in a 5 year period.
So, it is done, and I will admit to getting awfully chocked up at the end last night, I was in tears several times during Obama's acceptance speech. It is just such a huge thing, such an amazing sign of change for this country. I posted a couple of articles yesterday that best sum up why this has such an amazing impact on me. This election was a sign of not just hope in general, but of hope for our children. A sign of thanks for all of the people who worked and strived and suffered to get us to this point. And a message of hope for the children of this country that now, finally, we can move past our country's worst legacy, that the American Dream is truly something that we all can share.
These are some of the highlights from his Acceptance speech that really got to me:
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."
"This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that's on my mind tonight's about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing: Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old. She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons -- because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.
And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America -- the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.
At a time when women's voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can.
When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs, a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can.
When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can.
She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that "We Shall Overcome." Yes we can.
A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination.
And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change.
Yes we can."
The images and voices from Tuesday night are just so amazing. Seeing Jesse Jackson, mute, unblinking, then with tears in his eyes. The huge celebration in Atlanta and the one girl just on her knees, crying. It all was so amazing, and heartfelt. It is almost to impossible to overestimate the impact this election had on millions of people of color in this country.
Here are a couple of articles commenting on the impact of this vote that really struck me yesterday:
Once again Mark Cuban (of all people) finds the right words:
An excellent summation of the real meaning of this election
"As any successful CEO will tell you, leadership, vision and motivation has far more impact on results than any tax cut or increase. While I prefer lower taxes, I can tell you that no entrepreneur or CEO worth a damn in this country gives up or works less because of a change in tax policy."
Cuban hit the nail on the head for me, to all those people who argue that a progressive tax policy somehow stifles the urge to succeed this is my response. The people who really truly work hard, strive to succeed, and achivee, in business, science, arts, athletics, any endeavor, they do not let the prospect of a higher tax rate stifle that urge. The only people I can think of who might say that are those who want an excuse to stop working.
Peggy Wallace comments on her Dad and Obama
"My father lived long enough to come to an understanding of the injustices borne by his deeds and the legacy of suffering that it left behind."
"Perhaps it would be a way of reconciling in his own mind that what he once stood for did not prevent freedom of opportunity and self-advancement from coming full circle; his final absolution."
I will admit I went through a (thankfully short lived) phase of my life when I wasn't the most tolerant person. And during and after that time I made it a point to study extremist groups, specifically the White Supremacist types. And the one biggest thing I took away from my studies of the more successful Southern Democrat politicians, the one's who stood in the doorways, who turned a blind eye to the bombings and lynchings. It was that the most successful ones politically: Wallace, Theodore Bilbo, Strom Thurmond, their politics were based on an appeal and support of the poor (well the poor whites). Wallace in particular was a huge champion of the poor, his social policies that he enacted as Governor, as well as his platforms, were all geared towards helping 'the poor working man'. I am not saying that excused their racist politics and policies. Just that it was an important thing to bear in mind. And I think that in the big picture, some of these men who realized the error of their ways, like Wallace, and who are now looking down (or up as the case may be) are proud of America today.
And last, for those people who are not so gracious in defeat, who are making bitter, obnoxious comments about their President Elect (up to and including one poster on the Fox News web site who basically advocated his assassination) I can only feel sorry for you. I can only hope that in the next 4 to 8 years, as you see how much of an impact this man will have on our country, that you see the error of your ways.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Happy Birthday Kim
Happy Birthday to Kim, my lovely wife
I love you now more than I ever have, you are my rock, the best mother I could ever hope for for my children. A selfless, caring woman who is always there and willing to lend a hand or shoulder for anyone in need.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
More articles showing what this election means in the big scheme
http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/1103/p09s02-coop.html
http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/eastside93/2008/11/i-didnt-vote-for-obama-today.php
Both really explain in better wording than I have done what this election potentially means. That it is about the future, and making that future better.
http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/eastside93/2008/11/i-didnt-vote-for-obama-today.php
Both really explain in better wording than I have done what this election potentially means. That it is about the future, and making that future better.
National Holiday?
I think that the Presidential Election day should always be a National Holiday. It wouldn't have that big of an economic impact as it only happens every 4 years. It would encourage people to vote, as it would eliminate the excuse of not having enough time before/after work. And it could be full of the kinds of patriotic stuff just like 4th of July.
Today is the Day- Musings and thoughts on Election Day
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Days like today are what this country is truly all about. Because today we leave all of the noise, the fear, the hatred, the stupidity behind. Today is the day we as citizens get to exercise our rights and make a choice, and then when the choice is made the country falls more or less behind whomever wins. I have made my choices pretty clear here for quite some time, but what makes today special is that after today that doesn't really matter, because the country will have made it's choice, for better or worse. And Americans of every stripe will unite behind that choice.
Days like today are what this country is truly all about. Because today we leave all of the noise, the fear, the hatred, the stupidity behind. Today is the day we as citizens get to exercise our rights and make a choice, and then when the choice is made the country falls more or less behind whomever wins. I have made my choices pretty clear here for quite some time, but what makes today special is that after today that doesn't really matter, because the country will have made it's choice, for better or worse. And Americans of every stripe will unite behind that choice.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Holding my breath
So it is just waiting time, waiting to see what happens tomorrow. I am very cautiously optimistic that Obama will win. But in the words of Mencken: "No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public." So despite the preponderance of evidence, I refuse to think it's a sure thing.
Weekend Recap
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
So a good long (4 day) weekend. I took Thursday and Friday off as both boys had the days off from school and knowing that also meant Tammy's kids would be off I figured it was for the best. It turned out for the best in the long run, as Daniel managed to pick up an ear infection so there was some need for relaxing. Plus there was the stress of Halloween, then Dillon's birthday party, followed by Emily's birthday party, the 3 hurdles. And to top it off Kim's uncle Randy took a serious turn for the worse Sunday morning, which made Emily's party a more somber affair.
So we did the Halloween thing on Friday, which I already talked about some. I uploaded the pictures to the Picasa site. (quick sidebar, I upgraded to Picasa 3, I like it, a little easier interface, and the ability to add text to the photo's it fun) Saturday was pretty relaxed, just hung around the house until it was time to go to Dennis' house. Then it was off to the party, which was a nice little affair (Official Happy Birthday to Dillon BTW).
Sunday morning we were greeted with the news that Randy had gone from bad to worse, the results of the bone marrow biopsy came in, not good. So the attendance for Emily's party was down, and the mood amongst the adults was more somber than usual. But I think Emily had a good day, thanks again to everyone for all the wonderful clothes and presents.
So I managed to survive 3 whole days alone with the kids, more or less intact. And we managed to handle parent-teacher conferences, Halloween, 2 birthdays with everyone intact. So we are down to Kim's birthday this coming weekend, then Holidays. SO things should settle down a little, just in time for me to get some yard clean up work done.
So a good long (4 day) weekend. I took Thursday and Friday off as both boys had the days off from school and knowing that also meant Tammy's kids would be off I figured it was for the best. It turned out for the best in the long run, as Daniel managed to pick up an ear infection so there was some need for relaxing. Plus there was the stress of Halloween, then Dillon's birthday party, followed by Emily's birthday party, the 3 hurdles. And to top it off Kim's uncle Randy took a serious turn for the worse Sunday morning, which made Emily's party a more somber affair.
So we did the Halloween thing on Friday, which I already talked about some. I uploaded the pictures to the Picasa site. (quick sidebar, I upgraded to Picasa 3, I like it, a little easier interface, and the ability to add text to the photo's it fun) Saturday was pretty relaxed, just hung around the house until it was time to go to Dennis' house. Then it was off to the party, which was a nice little affair (Official Happy Birthday to Dillon BTW).
Sunday morning we were greeted with the news that Randy had gone from bad to worse, the results of the bone marrow biopsy came in, not good. So the attendance for Emily's party was down, and the mood amongst the adults was more somber than usual. But I think Emily had a good day, thanks again to everyone for all the wonderful clothes and presents.
So I managed to survive 3 whole days alone with the kids, more or less intact. And we managed to handle parent-teacher conferences, Halloween, 2 birthdays with everyone intact. So we are down to Kim's birthday this coming weekend, then Holidays. SO things should settle down a little, just in time for me to get some yard clean up work done.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
First major hurdle cleared
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Halloween is done. The first major hurdle of the extended weekend. Astounding weather: just gorgeous. I have uploaded pictures to the Picasa Site.
Halloween is done. The first major hurdle of the extended weekend. Astounding weather: just gorgeous. I have uploaded pictures to the Picasa Site.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
At Home today
Parent-Teacher conferences for the boys, so stayed home as well. Which was good because Daniel now has an ear infection today, had to take him to the Dr. Plus going to do the Early Voting thing this afternoon.
At Home today
Parent-Teacher conferences for the boys, so stayed home as well. Which was good because Daniel now has an ear infection today, had to take him to the Dr. Plus going to do the Early Voting thing this afternoon.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Star Wars Pocket Models
Star Wars Pocket Models
Star Wars Pocketmodel Trading Card Game - Wizkids
This is the game that I have been playing with James lately. As games go it is not super sophisticated, but it is fun, and there is enough strategy to keep me interested while James just like to blow up my ships.
Build Instructions :: Star Wars Pocketmodel TCG
Here's an example of building an X-Wing, which is quite cool. This is just an example.
Build Instructions :: Star Wars Pocketmodel TCG
This is the Republic Gunship, we also have a large version of the same thing that is for displays, and also can be used for teaching.
There are times that I feel bad playing with James, because Daniel doesn't get to play, but he is only 3, and just isn't ready for something this complex yet. But James and I so far have had fun. I started playing a basic, stripped down set of rules, and I have gradually added more rules. Hopefully this weekend I will get the chance to play some more and finish out the basic rules.
I am contemplating creating a scenario: Blow up the Death Star! We have a goodly number of X-Wings and Y-Wings and Tie Fighters. So I just have to write the correct rules for gun emplacements, then we would have all we need to recreate the epic battle from Episode IV. But that won't happen for a little while longer, I need to get James' knowledge of the game down pat first, so game play comes as second nature. Right now he has a tendency to forget basics still, and has to be reminded.
Useful tips
Google Smarter
(or, Google More Smartly, if you're smart with grammar)
Illustration by Jason Lee
It's only a matter of time before you can upload the entire Internet to your brain. Until that glorious day, these tricks will save you some keystrokes.
Get good sources. Add "site:edu" or "site:gov" to limit your search to school or government domains. To target specific sites, type, say, "neutrino site:Harvard.edu."
Convert currency and units. Easy: "12 parsecs in light years" or "12 dollars in euros," for example.
Check your stocks. Take a deep breath, then enter a ticker symbol to see a real-time quote.
Narrow by file type. To find PowerPoints, Excel spreadsheets, or books scanned into PDFs, add "filetype:ppt" (or any other extension) to your query.
Search ranges. Use two periods between two numbers, like "Wii $200..$300."
Expect flight delays. Type in the airline, then your flight number.
Define yourself. To get the definition for a word, just type the word define: followed by the word. Include the colon and space.
(or, Google More Smartly, if you're smart with grammar)
Illustration by Jason Lee
It's only a matter of time before you can upload the entire Internet to your brain. Until that glorious day, these tricks will save you some keystrokes.
Get good sources. Add "site:edu" or "site:gov" to limit your search to school or government domains. To target specific sites, type, say, "neutrino site:Harvard.edu."
Convert currency and units. Easy: "12 parsecs in light years" or "12 dollars in euros," for example.
Check your stocks. Take a deep breath, then enter a ticker symbol to see a real-time quote.
Narrow by file type. To find PowerPoints, Excel spreadsheets, or books scanned into PDFs, add "filetype:ppt" (or any other extension) to your query.
Search ranges. Use two periods between two numbers, like "Wii $200..$300."
Expect flight delays. Type in the airline, then your flight number.
Define yourself. To get the definition for a word, just type the word define: followed by the word. Include the colon and space.
538, best pure poll results
http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/
This is an excellent site for an accurate summation of all of the many many political polls out there. It is even endorsed by the Freakonomics guys for methodology.
This is an excellent site for an accurate summation of all of the many many political polls out there. It is even endorsed by the Freakonomics guys for methodology.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Another Blog
So I am considering dividing my attentions and starting s separate blog for politics, current events etc, and keep this one for family stuff, what do you all think?
Cool new gadget
This allows me to post quick thoughts from my iGoogle page. Which will save me time with the short links.
Weekend Recap
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
A day late because I wanted Emily's Birthday post to have a day to itself. So, overall a nice, relaxing weekend, which was good because Emily was getting over her ear infection, and Kim caught the same cold I am recovering from. James continues to surprise me. And a realization about something we have to do differently for James.
Yes it was a house full of grumpy sick folks. Emily was better after a day of rest on Thursday and gradually more rest over the weekend. Then poor Kim caught the cold, and I thought I was past it, only to have it hit me with one final blow. But we are all getting better, last night everyone stayed in their own beds the whole night, and everyone got a decent nights rest.
So James has a pretty good amount of money in the bank that he can spend, from birthday's, Christmas, chores, Easter etc. So on Saturday we went to the store to pick up a present for his friend's birthday party, and I told James that he could spend some of that money, and he has enough to get pretty much anything he saw in the toy area. But he chose not to buy anything, he said he wanted to keep saving! This from a 7 year old! It's just odd I don't know where he gets it from. Kim & I are generally pretty frugal, but we're not cheap by any stretch. Now there may have been some confusion in his mind, he thought he had to have the money with him, the next day when I explained that we could buy what he wanted, and then transfer the money out of his bank account he was a little more willing to spend, but still only a little, preferring to save the better amount of his money.
On Sunday James and Daniel went to a friend's birthday party, where they appeared to have fun. But afterwards we got treated to another of James' fits of complaining that no one wants to play with him or do what he wants to do. And it got me thinking, Kim & I are just going to have put forth more effort towards having James' school friends over to the house, and his going to their houses. Because while he is good for short spurts with other kids, he tends to get to this point where he wants to do something, and they don't. So I think that what is needed is just some more time one on one with the other kids, away from the comfort zone of family and Jon Del. So he will learn the all important skills of give and take when playing with other kids.
A day late because I wanted Emily's Birthday post to have a day to itself. So, overall a nice, relaxing weekend, which was good because Emily was getting over her ear infection, and Kim caught the same cold I am recovering from. James continues to surprise me. And a realization about something we have to do differently for James.
Yes it was a house full of grumpy sick folks. Emily was better after a day of rest on Thursday and gradually more rest over the weekend. Then poor Kim caught the cold, and I thought I was past it, only to have it hit me with one final blow. But we are all getting better, last night everyone stayed in their own beds the whole night, and everyone got a decent nights rest.
So James has a pretty good amount of money in the bank that he can spend, from birthday's, Christmas, chores, Easter etc. So on Saturday we went to the store to pick up a present for his friend's birthday party, and I told James that he could spend some of that money, and he has enough to get pretty much anything he saw in the toy area. But he chose not to buy anything, he said he wanted to keep saving! This from a 7 year old! It's just odd I don't know where he gets it from. Kim & I are generally pretty frugal, but we're not cheap by any stretch. Now there may have been some confusion in his mind, he thought he had to have the money with him, the next day when I explained that we could buy what he wanted, and then transfer the money out of his bank account he was a little more willing to spend, but still only a little, preferring to save the better amount of his money.
On Sunday James and Daniel went to a friend's birthday party, where they appeared to have fun. But afterwards we got treated to another of James' fits of complaining that no one wants to play with him or do what he wants to do. And it got me thinking, Kim & I are just going to have put forth more effort towards having James' school friends over to the house, and his going to their houses. Because while he is good for short spurts with other kids, he tends to get to this point where he wants to do something, and they don't. So I think that what is needed is just some more time one on one with the other kids, away from the comfort zone of family and Jon Del. So he will learn the all important skills of give and take when playing with other kids.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Happy Birthday Emily!
Happy Birthday Emily
To my little Girl, 1 year old today!
You are a joy and a wonder, and such a wonderful part of my wonderful family.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Friday thoughts
Dear James, Daniel and Emily
Musing on different things today. Stayed home yesterday as Emily got another ear infection and I had to take her to the Dr. Back at work today, trying to catch up on the Internet boards. James and I have been learning to play the Star Wars pocket model card game, and having some fun with it.
There appears to be a genetic weakness in my kids on this ear infection thing. James had a few, although he is especially susceptible to strep throat. But Daniel kept getting ear infections, eventually having to get tubes put in. And this is 3 for Emily in 4 months, so as the Dr. said, if she gets another one too soon it may mean tubes for her as well. No fun. Poor Emily was just miserable yesterday, she would try to sleep, and wake up after 20-30 minutes crying, then try to get back to sleep. The longest she napped was the hour or so I had her laying on my chest while I slept. But she actually slept most of the night last night, and was in a much better mood this morning.
So I spend a lot of time arguing politics on the Gamers Haven site. And my primary opponent is a vehement libertarian, often arguing with him is like trying to convince a dog to act like a cat. But it is entertaining most of the time. And taking a day off means a whole days worth of arguments to catch up on and refute.
I came across great article today which goes a long way toward refuting this whole pile of crap that the McCain campaign is spouting about Obama being a socialist. The reality is that a graduated tax system is not socialist, and it is in fact a foundation of our economic system. What some people seem to forget is that programs like the New Deal, and many of the regulations that were dropped during the Reagan-Bush Era Republican administrations were there to 'save' Capitalism from itself, a fact that even Alan Greenspan has been forced to concede on some level.
So my friend Rob gave me some Promo packs for this Star Wars game. Initially I was going to hand them out in the goody bags for James' birthday, but Kim thought that wasn't a good idea so we kept them. So he and I have been punching out the ships and I watched the instructional video on their web site. So I decided to teach him the basic rules, and we have been having fun playing it. Now it is time to make the rules more complex, and possibly pick up a regular starter set. It's a fun little diversion for me, and James seems to really dig it.
Musing on different things today. Stayed home yesterday as Emily got another ear infection and I had to take her to the Dr. Back at work today, trying to catch up on the Internet boards. James and I have been learning to play the Star Wars pocket model card game, and having some fun with it.
There appears to be a genetic weakness in my kids on this ear infection thing. James had a few, although he is especially susceptible to strep throat. But Daniel kept getting ear infections, eventually having to get tubes put in. And this is 3 for Emily in 4 months, so as the Dr. said, if she gets another one too soon it may mean tubes for her as well. No fun. Poor Emily was just miserable yesterday, she would try to sleep, and wake up after 20-30 minutes crying, then try to get back to sleep. The longest she napped was the hour or so I had her laying on my chest while I slept. But she actually slept most of the night last night, and was in a much better mood this morning.
So I spend a lot of time arguing politics on the Gamers Haven site. And my primary opponent is a vehement libertarian, often arguing with him is like trying to convince a dog to act like a cat. But it is entertaining most of the time. And taking a day off means a whole days worth of arguments to catch up on and refute.
I came across great article today which goes a long way toward refuting this whole pile of crap that the McCain campaign is spouting about Obama being a socialist. The reality is that a graduated tax system is not socialist, and it is in fact a foundation of our economic system. What some people seem to forget is that programs like the New Deal, and many of the regulations that were dropped during the Reagan-Bush Era Republican administrations were there to 'save' Capitalism from itself, a fact that even Alan Greenspan has been forced to concede on some level.
So my friend Rob gave me some Promo packs for this Star Wars game. Initially I was going to hand them out in the goody bags for James' birthday, but Kim thought that wasn't a good idea so we kept them. So he and I have been punching out the ships and I watched the instructional video on their web site. So I decided to teach him the basic rules, and we have been having fun playing it. Now it is time to make the rules more complex, and possibly pick up a regular starter set. It's a fun little diversion for me, and James seems to really dig it.
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