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.
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