On a recent "pajamas and cocoa day" the kids were allowed to take a stuffed animal to school; Alex chose to bring in Big Bear. He always brings in Big Bear, and not because he is his favorite. Big Bear is his escort because he is the biggest bear in the bed. He proudly rides next to Big Bear on bus 55 and escorts him to class, collecting smiles along the way.
I believe that despite being streetwise, Alex takes pride in his youth, and is in no hurry to grow up; this display is his embrace of his youth. This seems to me to be wisdom well beyond the street. Of course, small, itsy, bitsy part of it may be, that he might have just wanted the attention. :)
RAP (12.26.2008)
Friday, December 26, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
They Still Hear the Bells
Jake is absolutely in love with "The Polar Express," so we took Michael and Alex up to Massillion to ride that fabled Christmas train. Legend has it the train will stop at your door Christmas Eve, but we took no such chance; Bill scalped us tickets (they are in high demand and you can only get them through a lottery).
The train was decorated as the season dictates and the chefs, elves, conductors (all volunteers) did a great job of entertaining the kids. They brought hot chocolate and cookies as we headed to the North Pole. Once we arrived, we saw Santa, the Grinch, Frosty and a variety of characters from our seats in Car 7. At that point Santa embarked on the train. Michael and Alex may have been a few years too old for some of the evening, but they most certainly were not too old for Santa. They lit up as they talked about Christmas, and he handed them each a sleigh bell, one that they were still able to hear. RAP (12.24.2008)
The train was decorated as the season dictates and the chefs, elves, conductors (all volunteers) did a great job of entertaining the kids. They brought hot chocolate and cookies as we headed to the North Pole. Once we arrived, we saw Santa, the Grinch, Frosty and a variety of characters from our seats in Car 7. At that point Santa embarked on the train. Michael and Alex may have been a few years too old for some of the evening, but they most certainly were not too old for Santa. They lit up as they talked about Christmas, and he handed them each a sleigh bell, one that they were still able to hear. RAP (12.24.2008)
Buy a 5 grandkids Photo Session, Get 1 Son Free
For obvious reasons, we couldn't send you postcard with this photo until now. Taking advantage of everyone being in town Thanksgiving weekend, we gathered the grandchildren for a portrait done on Black Friday.
Shortly after the session, we received a phone call indicating that calamity struck; the batch was lost by the studio. We had to gather the kids once more and do it again on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, before everyone dispersed. To make things more challenging, Ellie didn't want to leave father's arms. We used the missing pictures as leverage to get the classic deal of buy a 5 grandkids photo session, get one son free. We had all the children sit a top of Billy, and covered him in a black cloth. You can't see him in the final image, but he was there, and here is the proof that there is more than meets the eye. RAP (12.24.2008)
Shortly after the session, we received a phone call indicating that calamity struck; the batch was lost by the studio. We had to gather the kids once more and do it again on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, before everyone dispersed. To make things more challenging, Ellie didn't want to leave father's arms. We used the missing pictures as leverage to get the classic deal of buy a 5 grandkids photo session, get one son free. We had all the children sit a top of Billy, and covered him in a black cloth. You can't see him in the final image, but he was there, and here is the proof that there is more than meets the eye. RAP (12.24.2008)
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Competitive Fire
The boys' basketball games are on Saturday; to get them ready I have been taking them to the gym at the Rec Center Friday nights. We practice for an hour, and then go swimming. It is very popular, and their are big bodies all over the court, so we also do drills that don't involve shooting.
I want to encourage and help Michael to run like he is capable. He has always been fast, but he has not been running with good form, and not tapping into his 5th gear. So I corrected their form and had them run a gasser. Alex won, and I wasn't going to have that, so I had them run again and again until Michael won. He had downed a bottle of water and was breathing through his mouth, which I did correct, so he was hurting. More interestingly was that Alex was struggling too, but his fire wouldn't let Michael win just to get it over with. When Michael finally won, he earned it.
RAP (12.23.2008)
I want to encourage and help Michael to run like he is capable. He has always been fast, but he has not been running with good form, and not tapping into his 5th gear. So I corrected their form and had them run a gasser. Alex won, and I wasn't going to have that, so I had them run again and again until Michael won. He had downed a bottle of water and was breathing through his mouth, which I did correct, so he was hurting. More interestingly was that Alex was struggling too, but his fire wouldn't let Michael win just to get it over with. When Michael finally won, he earned it.
RAP (12.23.2008)
Thursday, November 20, 2008
It Isn't What You Have, But How You Use It
Alex's parent-teacher conference was today, and as usual his academics were stellar, with the exception of spelling (wonder where that comes from). Hearing that your child is bright and gifted is nice, but there are a lot of smart people with a myriad of talents.
Mrs. Johnson then told a story about a child who was noticeably suffering from anxiety about going to speech therapy for the first time. "Awex" has been going to it for years, and asked his teacher if he could assure the boy. Permission was granted; Alex walked over, put his hand on his back and told the kid that speech is a lot of fun because Miss Eickholt gives you candy and plays games with you. He also informed him that, "You are lucky. I love it." The boy's anxiety dissipated with those words. Alex doesn't even remember who the kid was, because this wasn't out of the ordinary for him. This is what he does, and who he is.
RAP(11.20.2008)
Mrs. Johnson then told a story about a child who was noticeably suffering from anxiety about going to speech therapy for the first time. "Awex" has been going to it for years, and asked his teacher if he could assure the boy. Permission was granted; Alex walked over, put his hand on his back and told the kid that speech is a lot of fun because Miss Eickholt gives you candy and plays games with you. He also informed him that, "You are lucky. I love it." The boy's anxiety dissipated with those words. Alex doesn't even remember who the kid was, because this wasn't out of the ordinary for him. This is what he does, and who he is.
RAP(11.20.2008)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
My Creation
You never know what will capture a child's imagination, so it is important to expose them to a variety of things. Birthday and Christmas gifts from people less familiar with them are good for this, but what is even better is when the gift isn't even for them; such is the case with a present by the name of "Snap Circuits," Michael received for his 11th.
This simple science kit is designed to allow a child to safely play with electricity has captured Alex's imagination, so much so. that when we were watching TV as a family last week, he was getting frustrated that the commercials weren't long enough for his experiments. He riffled through 50 projects in the book, but has since started designing his own. I certainly did not know that this would so engage him like it did, but fortunately it found its way to him.
RAP (11.19.2008)
This simple science kit is designed to allow a child to safely play with electricity has captured Alex's imagination, so much so. that when we were watching TV as a family last week, he was getting frustrated that the commercials weren't long enough for his experiments. He riffled through 50 projects in the book, but has since started designing his own. I certainly did not know that this would so engage him like it did, but fortunately it found its way to him.
RAP (11.19.2008)
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Do You Have Time to Do Know... You Know What?
Saturday night we journeyed to see a sneak preview of the new Disney film, "Bolt," in 3D. We allowed each boy to choose one friend to accompany us. Alex chose Koh, and Michael selected Susanne. We think Michael is sweet on her without even realizing what that is yet, but it wasn't even a proto-date as evidenced by Michael's wardrobe.
Proto-date or not, he had a good time and was jumping up and down in elation as we dropped her off. He told her father that he "had a great time, and I hope she had a great time too." Her dad responded, "Yeah, I am sure she did." Michael's attention then turned back to Susanne, and he said with a sheepish enthusiasm, "Tonight.. do you have time to do know... you know what?" After the jaws were lifted off the ground, it was explained that he was talking about meeting on "Club Penguin."
RAP (11.18.2008)
Proto-date or not, he had a good time and was jumping up and down in elation as we dropped her off. He told her father that he "had a great time, and I hope she had a great time too." Her dad responded, "Yeah, I am sure she did." Michael's attention then turned back to Susanne, and he said with a sheepish enthusiasm, "Tonight.. do you have time to do know... you know what?" After the jaws were lifted off the ground, it was explained that he was talking about meeting on "Club Penguin."
RAP (11.18.2008)
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
"Relentless" and "Resilient"
On Sunday Michael's team had an end of the season party at the Iacono's in Shawnee Hills. They talked about each player as they presented them with their trophy; when asked to describe Michael the words chosen were "relentless" and "resilient," and I don't think any two words could make me happier.
In football, as in life, there is always someone bigger, faster, stronger and more talented out there; in Michael's case, a 5th grader competing against kids 1 and 2 years his senior, most were. Those are things you have limited control over, but what you do have dominion over is your effort and attitude. You can go to the whistle, and you can pick yourself up when you are knocked down; you can be relentless and resilient, and that is what I wanted him to learn from football.
RAP (11.12.2008)
In football, as in life, there is always someone bigger, faster, stronger and more talented out there; in Michael's case, a 5th grader competing against kids 1 and 2 years his senior, most were. Those are things you have limited control over, but what you do have dominion over is your effort and attitude. You can go to the whistle, and you can pick yourself up when you are knocked down; you can be relentless and resilient, and that is what I wanted him to learn from football.
RAP (11.12.2008)
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Did What We Could Do
Suzanne and her Labrador, Woody, stopped by yesterday afternoon, as she has been in the habit of doing lately. I wanted to make certain that she knew she was welcome, so I sprung into action and did what I could do for kids on a cool, autumn afternoon; I made my hot chocolate adorned with a whipped cream mountain and sprinkled with chocolate shavings.
The afternoon progressed well, and at the end Michael did what you would expect a gentleman to do; he escorted her back home. Upon his return, he did what he could to prolong the evening. He used technology to meet with her on Club Penguin while talking to her on the phone.
RAP (11.11.2008)
The afternoon progressed well, and at the end Michael did what you would expect a gentleman to do; he escorted her back home. Upon his return, he did what he could to prolong the evening. He used technology to meet with her on Club Penguin while talking to her on the phone.
RAP (11.11.2008)
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Symmetry
One of the advantages of having the boys read the same stuff I did, or playing the same games I once played, is that it helps create a foundation of shared experiences that will, hopefully, allow us to understand each other as time passes. Their recently concluded first seasons of football has been that to an extent.
Alex's team gathered for the final time this past Sunday at the bowling alley over in Plain City, near the Amish restaurant. I secretly smiled to myself when I learned the location, because after many of my home football games in high school my friends would pick me up after I was showered and dressed, and take me to that very same emporium. I don't recall ever bowling with them; instead, I poured quarters into the pinball machine in an experience much like Michael and Alex just had.
RAP (11.6.2008)
Alex's team gathered for the final time this past Sunday at the bowling alley over in Plain City, near the Amish restaurant. I secretly smiled to myself when I learned the location, because after many of my home football games in high school my friends would pick me up after I was showered and dressed, and take me to that very same emporium. I don't recall ever bowling with them; instead, I poured quarters into the pinball machine in an experience much like Michael and Alex just had.
RAP (11.6.2008)
Friday, October 31, 2008
From Different Eras
Michael and Alex were both born in the 20th century, but you could argue that they are some what both misplaced in time. Michael uses computers, but likes to work with paper, whereas Alex prefers to manipulate electrons using buttons and peripherals, but is capable of using paper. Neither would dream of using a typewriter, the staple of the last century.
This divide is a little clearer when you examine their recent interactions with the fairer sex; when I was young, one might call a girl on the phone. Instead, Michael actually goes to the door of the young lady that he sort of, kind of has his an interest in, such as a gentleman of the 19th century would. Alex, on the other hand, is fully a denizen of the 21st; a young lady, whom he does not like and certainly not in that way, setup an appointment to meet Alex in a pizza parlor on Club Penguin a social networking website for the youth.
RAP(10.31.2008)
This divide is a little clearer when you examine their recent interactions with the fairer sex; when I was young, one might call a girl on the phone. Instead, Michael actually goes to the door of the young lady that he sort of, kind of has his an interest in, such as a gentleman of the 19th century would. Alex, on the other hand, is fully a denizen of the 21st; a young lady, whom he does not like and certainly not in that way, setup an appointment to meet Alex in a pizza parlor on Club Penguin a social networking website for the youth.
RAP(10.31.2008)
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Look Mom, No Braces
In 2007 Alex had the foresight to ensure that his braces would come off on October 28th 2008, just days before trick or treat. That appointment has passed, and now he is ready to gorge himself on the treats that he has had to deprive himself over the past year.
However, he lacked the vision to realize that getting them off would be most unpleasant. I would venture, that in the middle of the removal, he was ready to keep them on and forgo the treasures of beggar's night. Alas, he made it through and now brandishes a smile that showcases his newly straight teeth all the time. Well, all except those moments when you remind him that he will have to go through once more in a few years.
RAP (10.30.2008)
RAP (10.30.2008)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
My Brother Started It
Some people are notable in that they are tall, strong or fast. Alex's exceptional aspect seems to be in the way he works with people. At the end of the school day they release the students in reverse age order, and Alex goes to greet his brother each day.
He did this on Friday, but he also decided to instigate the "O-H" "I-O" cheer; one person yells "O-H" and everyone responds "I-O." Alex ending up whipping the entire school into a frenzy as they marched out. He had fifth graders not only following his lead, but coming over to give him fist bumps as the school exuded an electric atmosphere that will not be soon forgotten. Michael's gifts are different, but he recognizes his brother's talents, and even bragged to a kid, Colin, who was in awe, "My brother started it."
RAP (10.28.2008)
He did this on Friday, but he also decided to instigate the "O-H" "I-O" cheer; one person yells "O-H" and everyone responds "I-O." Alex ending up whipping the entire school into a frenzy as they marched out. He had fifth graders not only following his lead, but coming over to give him fist bumps as the school exuded an electric atmosphere that will not be soon forgotten. Michael's gifts are different, but he recognizes his brother's talents, and even bragged to a kid, Colin, who was in awe, "My brother started it."
RAP (10.28.2008)
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
He Coudn't Charm His Way Through This
I try to ensure that the boys are well rounded, but it is apparent that Alex has not been introduced to the Greek tragedies that focus on hubris; only one young, brash and unaware of the tales of Bellerophon, Icarus and Oedipus would tempt fate by saying, "I can charm anyone, if I want to."
Alex soon learned he couldn't charm a big, fast, outside linebacker that made him look like a timid, unsure matador. Part of the reason his charm works is that he is bold and fully commits to it. He is not doing that on the field of play. Alex needs to learn is that it is OK to fail, if you do so at full speed. He won't win every battle against a superior opponent, but if throws himself into it he will win some of them, if he wants to.
RAP (10.22.2008)
Alex soon learned he couldn't charm a big, fast, outside linebacker that made him look like a timid, unsure matador. Part of the reason his charm works is that he is bold and fully commits to it. He is not doing that on the field of play. Alex needs to learn is that it is OK to fail, if you do so at full speed. He won't win every battle against a superior opponent, but if throws himself into it he will win some of them, if he wants to.
RAP (10.22.2008)
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
When Will I See you Again?
On October 17th 1997 at 3:30 p.m. in the Carolina's Medical Center in Charlotte North Carolina Michael Alexander Patton was born. The day we entered the hospital Summer reigned, but by the time we departed it had given way to Autumn.
I returned home on his 11th birthday around 4:00 p.m. and spied him at the end of the street talking with Suzanne. She is a 6th grader whom he gets along very well with. It is not quite a romance; it is more of a proto-romance, a friendship with warm feelings. They played together until 6:30 p.m. when she was expected to be home. Bill, Wendy, Jake and Ellie arrived around 6:00 p.m., but I let Michael continue to focus on her because it is a good thing to have a fetching girl want to be with you. Like I said, it is not a romance, but I can think of worse ways to start out your 12th year than with a girl asking "when will I see you again?
RAP (10.21.2008)
Monday, October 20, 2008
Even in a Bar of Chocolate
Michael overflowed with excitement as he unwrapped his first present last eve; He was so exuberant that it was a big Hershey's candy bar! A 20 dollar bill was also attached to it, but you would have never known that if you had witnessed his enthusiasm. In fact, the party goers had to point out that there was a bill with President Jackson's visage taped to one side.
Later, one of the children was vehemently opposed to watching any form of animation, for he was much too sophisticated in his mind's eye to take joy from anything so infantile. I was pleased when the other kids overruled him, and I was also happy that this child was not mine. I love that my Michael is still the toddler that greeted me at first light with bright eyes and a broad smile, standing in his crib patiently, happy and content; a person who does not cast away simple joys as new ones enter his life, one that finds delight anywhere, even in a bar of chocolate.
RAP (10.20.2008)
Later, one of the children was vehemently opposed to watching any form of animation, for he was much too sophisticated in his mind's eye to take joy from anything so infantile. I was pleased when the other kids overruled him, and I was also happy that this child was not mine. I love that my Michael is still the toddler that greeted me at first light with bright eyes and a broad smile, standing in his crib patiently, happy and content; a person who does not cast away simple joys as new ones enter his life, one that finds delight anywhere, even in a bar of chocolate.
RAP (10.20.2008)
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Last of the Mohicans
Take a good, long look at Alex in that picture, because changes are coming soon. Not only will his tan continue to wane as the days grow shorter, but on October 28th his braces come off and you will see his pearly whites once more. Yes, Alex, ever sly, made certain that they would be removed in time to enjoy his haul this Halloween.
Overall, braces were not a traumatic experience for him, especially compared to glasses. In fact, another child in his class, Christopher O., decided he wanted braces because Alex has them. Soon Chris's wish will be granted, but I do wonder if he will want them off on October 29th?
RAP (10.16.2008)
Overall, braces were not a traumatic experience for him, especially compared to glasses. In fact, another child in his class, Christopher O., decided he wanted braces because Alex has them. Soon Chris's wish will be granted, but I do wonder if he will want them off on October 29th?
RAP (10.16.2008)
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
From Comics to Prose
An interesting evolution is underway; Michael has long been a story teller, and his preferred medium for his tales were in the illustrated pages of comics. However, for his latest endeavor he was taken a new path, weaving his plot and characters in the more traditional prose format.
When he first divined his new story ideas he created illustrated artifacts, such as renderings of the cast, equipment and maps. It seemed that a new comic series was eminent, but at some point he decided to sit down and craft it on the laptop, letter by letter. He chose this path on his own; we did not suggest, hint or prompt it at all. Now, he is always asking for the laptop, and wants to work on his story all the time. So far, it is a solid tale told "in media res," a somewhat advanced technique, which makes we wonder what his next metamorphosis will be as an author.
RAP(10.15.2008)
When he first divined his new story ideas he created illustrated artifacts, such as renderings of the cast, equipment and maps. It seemed that a new comic series was eminent, but at some point he decided to sit down and craft it on the laptop, letter by letter. He chose this path on his own; we did not suggest, hint or prompt it at all. Now, he is always asking for the laptop, and wants to work on his story all the time. So far, it is a solid tale told "in media res," a somewhat advanced technique, which makes we wonder what his next metamorphosis will be as an author.
RAP(10.15.2008)
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Thank You Sir, May We Have Another
Last year Michael lacked the altitude, and for a year he waited; Saturday eve his moment arrived, and this year he did posses the height that allowed him to fly across the farmland, speeding along a zip cord with a youthful exuberance that Peter Pan would be pressed to exceed.
Alex never thought twice about the riding the zip cord after last year's festival; he prefers to remain grounded. With the slightest encouragement, he remained in line with his brother and watched his friends make their trips unscathed. Right up to the final moment his trepidation was palpable, but with a fateful step he overruled his fears and surrendered himself to a faith that everything will be alright. At the end of his journey, Alex may not be ready to enlist in the Lost Boys, but his smile made me wanted to fly.
RAP (10.9.2008)
Alex never thought twice about the riding the zip cord after last year's festival; he prefers to remain grounded. With the slightest encouragement, he remained in line with his brother and watched his friends make their trips unscathed. Right up to the final moment his trepidation was palpable, but with a fateful step he overruled his fears and surrendered himself to a faith that everything will be alright. At the end of his journey, Alex may not be ready to enlist in the Lost Boys, but his smile made me wanted to fly.
RAP (10.9.2008)
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The Power of Advertising
Monday afternoon Michael, Alex & Jenny spied a white car pulled over with its hood up, smoke pouring out of the engine with its owner surveying the situation. Michael proclaimed, "I sure hope that guy has Nationwide, because Nationwide is on your side." Michael is a bit innocent and trusting, and things that others might be skeptical of he accepts, so for a moment his intentions were unclear to his mother. However, they were never mysterious to his partner in crime, Alex, who quick as ever, responded, "I agree. Plus Nationwide gives you $500 cash back. Mom, do we have Nationwide?" Smirking in response to the surreal conversation she informed them, "No, we have Allstate. We're in good hands with Allstate." To which Michael mischeiviously queried "You mean State Farm?" It may not be "who's on first," but it amused everyone and is illustrated a more sophisticated side of Michael that should please the Mad Men everywhere.
RAP (10.8.2008)
RAP (10.8.2008)
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Food Comes from the Land
Saturday we made our annual pilgrimage to the apple orchards and pumpkin patches of Lynd's Fruit Farm in Pataskala. There are similar places closer to our house, but we have so much history that it has a hold over us. Michael so heavily associates it with October. It will be quite a moment the autumn that we do not return. Alex has just as much fun, but he is not a child of October like his brother.
We picked up hay, jam, candy sticks, kettle corn and a variety of things. However, it is always the pumpkins and apples that matter in the end; they ensure the boys understand that food comes from the land and not from aisles of concrete and linoleum of the market.
RAP (10.7.2008)
We picked up hay, jam, candy sticks, kettle corn and a variety of things. However, it is always the pumpkins and apples that matter in the end; they ensure the boys understand that food comes from the land and not from aisles of concrete and linoleum of the market.
RAP (10.7.2008)
Monday, October 6, 2008
Denied or Spared
Due to Michael's allergies, Alex has been, depending on your point of view, denied or spared the fast food that is a staple of the modern diet. However, on Saturday mornings when his practice finishes before his brother's we indulge him with cini-minis from Burger King.
Alex is a someone who likes to do things with style and an ordinary snack for team would not do; he promised his teammates that he would bring them cini-minis for his snack. His game is after the hours they are sold, so we were a bit incredulous. However, we agreed that if he could get them to do it, we would do it.
Yesterday he went to the establishment on Sawmill Road and talked to the manager, Missy. She said that they couldn't do it, but after explained his story and flashed her his baby browns. She dialed the regional manager and relayed the story and age. Alex carried the day once more, and his team will not be denied or spared his largess.
RAP(10.6.2008)
Alex is a someone who likes to do things with style and an ordinary snack for team would not do; he promised his teammates that he would bring them cini-minis for his snack. His game is after the hours they are sold, so we were a bit incredulous. However, we agreed that if he could get them to do it, we would do it.
Yesterday he went to the establishment on Sawmill Road and talked to the manager, Missy. She said that they couldn't do it, but after explained his story and flashed her his baby browns. She dialed the regional manager and relayed the story and age. Alex carried the day once more, and his team will not be denied or spared his largess.
RAP(10.6.2008)
Friday, October 3, 2008
The Days are Cooler, Darker and the Colors are Richer
The days are cooler, darker (making us play in the velvet of twilight) and the colors are richer: autumn is arriving. This weekend we will embrace the season fully as we expect to go the pumpkin patch, gather apples in an orchard and partake of a hay ride in two.
An integral part of our autumns is the boys' birthdays; at the moment our biggest activity is planning the celebration for Michael's eleventh. He has asserted control over it this year, and I am glad he has decided to return it to our house. I've always thought that those were the best parties and had the most character, plus I can't wait to break out the dark lights and dry ice. Michael's best friend Jon moved to Louisiana and that has been hard on him; it is my hope that his party can be a tonic and help him connect with others as well as he did with Jon. Aiding him socially is one of the biggest reasons I have always put so much into their parties, and for the most part I think it has worked. With some good fortune perhaps this party will help autumn's days be bright and warm for Michael.
An integral part of our autumns is the boys' birthdays; at the moment our biggest activity is planning the celebration for Michael's eleventh. He has asserted control over it this year, and I am glad he has decided to return it to our house. I've always thought that those were the best parties and had the most character, plus I can't wait to break out the dark lights and dry ice. Michael's best friend Jon moved to Louisiana and that has been hard on him; it is my hope that his party can be a tonic and help him connect with others as well as he did with Jon. Aiding him socially is one of the biggest reasons I have always put so much into their parties, and for the most part I think it has worked. With some good fortune perhaps this party will help autumn's days be bright and warm for Michael.
RAP(10.3.2008)
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Just Two Boys and Ball
Things are very busy for the boys; football, piles of homework and never ending demands all eating into their ever important playtime. Sunday night while I was baking cookies, the boys were horsing around in the backyard, allowing me to capture a few photos between batches.
Nothing special really, just two boys and ball playing a keep away chase me game like boys have always done. On the other hand, maybe that makes it really special; in this era of pixels, bytes and high speed internet boys still choose to spend their ever dwindling free time running around playing made up games that require no electrons.
RAP(10.1.2008)
Nothing special really, just two boys and ball playing a keep away chase me game like boys have always done. On the other hand, maybe that makes it really special; in this era of pixels, bytes and high speed internet boys still choose to spend their ever dwindling free time running around playing made up games that require no electrons.
RAP(10.1.2008)
Friday, September 26, 2008
Symbolic Subtext
I have always tried to watch the same programs as the boys, and have them share the TV shows that I take in. I contend this exposes them to better programs, and that it allows me to educate them as we watch the them.
I think this has paid dividends with Michael because his special genius seems to be story telling. I was very pleased watching "Heroes" with him the other night when he recognized that the choice of the word "godspeed" from an early scene was meant as foreshadowing when we witnessed a quick thief steal a mcguffin. Later in that episode, a character whose hallmark was an insect appeared the whole episode without it and Michael noted its absence. I was pleased that he was scrutinizing for more than plot, effects and thrills and instead was tuning into the symbolic subtext.
At this juncture Michael's storytelling has been expressed in prose and comics (he has a new series under development), but this week he has started to make movies with our camera. His first attempts are simple efforts designed for laughs, but I have no doubt that he will take what he has observed and create well told stories if he continues with it.
RAP (9.26.2008)
I think this has paid dividends with Michael because his special genius seems to be story telling. I was very pleased watching "Heroes" with him the other night when he recognized that the choice of the word "godspeed" from an early scene was meant as foreshadowing when we witnessed a quick thief steal a mcguffin. Later in that episode, a character whose hallmark was an insect appeared the whole episode without it and Michael noted its absence. I was pleased that he was scrutinizing for more than plot, effects and thrills and instead was tuning into the symbolic subtext.
At this juncture Michael's storytelling has been expressed in prose and comics (he has a new series under development), but this week he has started to make movies with our camera. His first attempts are simple efforts designed for laughs, but I have no doubt that he will take what he has observed and create well told stories if he continues with it.
RAP (9.26.2008)
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Make it Happen
For my final high school game the coaches wanted to have some fun, and let me play free safety and set it up so that Iwould score a touchdown. Our offense made it to the goal line, the young lineman were primed to give it their all for me, and I was ready to go in on the next play; then Dan Colletto threw an interception.
Alex plays a position that does score touchdowns, but hasn't had one yet, because the QB gets sacked, throws it a different receiver or tucks the ball and runs. Alex wanted one, so he did something about it, an Alex type thing. While the defense was on the field, he started to throw the ball with the coach on the sideline. As I watched it, I knew exactly what he was doing, and I smiled. It worked too; as the clock ticked down the coach told us that they created a special play for the next snap; one where the QB had only receiving option: Alex in the endzone. Then the ghost of Colletto struck and the QB fumbled the snap. He may not have gotten his touchdown Sunday, but I am certain he will use his "Alexness" to make it happen before his senior year in high school.
RAP (9.23.2008)
Alex plays a position that does score touchdowns, but hasn't had one yet, because the QB gets sacked, throws it a different receiver or tucks the ball and runs. Alex wanted one, so he did something about it, an Alex type thing. While the defense was on the field, he started to throw the ball with the coach on the sideline. As I watched it, I knew exactly what he was doing, and I smiled. It worked too; as the clock ticked down the coach told us that they created a special play for the next snap; one where the QB had only receiving option: Alex in the endzone. Then the ghost of Colletto struck and the QB fumbled the snap. He may not have gotten his touchdown Sunday, but I am certain he will use his "Alexness" to make it happen before his senior year in high school.
RAP (9.23.2008)
Friday, September 19, 2008
When His Time Comes, He Will be a Good One
Football may be rough and tough endeavor where the strong and aggressive triumph, but playing it has not altered Michael's disposition; he is as sweet as he has ever been. Last night a book the boys were reading brought up the concept of neutering pets. It was a completely new and alien idea to them, and it lead to the disclosure that our cats have been neutered.
This made our little defensive tackle, who takes on boys a head taller then himself in the fabled war zone known as the line of scrimmage, teary at the thought that Bruce and Grayson will never be fathers. I regret that he was sad, but it pleases me to know that he thinks being a father is that important. Furthermore, these types of things make me certain that when his time comes, he will be a good one.
RAP (9.19.2008)
This made our little defensive tackle, who takes on boys a head taller then himself in the fabled war zone known as the line of scrimmage, teary at the thought that Bruce and Grayson will never be fathers. I regret that he was sad, but it pleases me to know that he thinks being a father is that important. Furthermore, these types of things make me certain that when his time comes, he will be a good one.
RAP (9.19.2008)
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Thinking, Instead of Reacting
The boys are progressing in their football endeavors. Both do really well on some plays and are generally running until they hear the whistle. The one thing they are not doing yet, that I really want them to do, is run at full speed. It appears that they are moving at 3/4 speed all the time. Part of it is they are still thinking, instead of reacting. You play fast when you know what to do.
What I want them to do is what Michael did when we spied an Ice Cream truck in the distance while watching Alex's game; as soon as I put a Lincoln in his hand, he was gone. They way he cleared those 200 yards you would swear he is going to be a track star. No hesitation, just relentless pursuit of his goal of getting to the Ice Cream truck before it moved on. One day, I hope that the football will be like a snocone, push up or bomp pop.
RAP (9.17.2008)
What I want them to do is what Michael did when we spied an Ice Cream truck in the distance while watching Alex's game; as soon as I put a Lincoln in his hand, he was gone. They way he cleared those 200 yards you would swear he is going to be a track star. No hesitation, just relentless pursuit of his goal of getting to the Ice Cream truck before it moved on. One day, I hope that the football will be like a snocone, push up or bomp pop.
RAP (9.17.2008)
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Where You Are, Isn't Where You Have to Be
With their lack of experience, small size and lack of aggression football hasn't been a walk in the park for the boys, but last week practices contained good omens.
While walking Alex to practice I noticed that he was dragging a bit, but then his eyes lit up; he saw that the boys were playing some sort of game without shoulder pads, just horsing around. Like a bolt of lightning he was instantly in the fray having a good time.
Later, at Michael's practice, our little guy was overjoyed that he got a tackle in a scrimmage. Thrilled to the bone he told me, "I never look forward to going to practice, but I always have a good time."
That is manna for my soul. I need to keep reminding them that on my first day of football practice I was the slowest kid on the field, but 3 years later I was the fastest kid in my school and anchored the 4x100 meter relay; Where you are, isn't where you have to be.
On Sunday, Alex had his first slobbernocker block and Michael 'hurt' an offensive lineman, both boys defeating opponents a head taller. They may not end of up as football machines 3 years from now, but they are starting to get it.
RAP (9.16.2008)
While walking Alex to practice I noticed that he was dragging a bit, but then his eyes lit up; he saw that the boys were playing some sort of game without shoulder pads, just horsing around. Like a bolt of lightning he was instantly in the fray having a good time.
Later, at Michael's practice, our little guy was overjoyed that he got a tackle in a scrimmage. Thrilled to the bone he told me, "I never look forward to going to practice, but I always have a good time."
That is manna for my soul. I need to keep reminding them that on my first day of football practice I was the slowest kid on the field, but 3 years later I was the fastest kid in my school and anchored the 4x100 meter relay; Where you are, isn't where you have to be.
On Sunday, Alex had his first slobbernocker block and Michael 'hurt' an offensive lineman, both boys defeating opponents a head taller. They may not end of up as football machines 3 years from now, but they are starting to get it.
RAP (9.16.2008)
Friday, September 12, 2008
Dawn and Dusk
In recent days, Alex has been sleeping hard; he has to coaxed out of his slumber and is asleep within minutes of ascending to his bunk. We think he is growing, and that is what is making him sleep so well; as soon as he has gained some altitude, we expect a return to covertly reading after hours with a flashlight under his covers. Although, he needs his sleep, he has always fought it, and it is quite amusing how he runs out of his room, with his eyes closed, as if the sandman were in pursuit trying to pull him back to bed.
Michael has never needed as much rest as his brother. Some of the happiest moments of my life were checking in on a 7 months Michael before I went to work. I would walk in to see him, and most mornings he was already awake, standing in his crib, bathed in the early morning light, patiently waiting with a contagious enthusiasm that made you glad to be alive. When the boys go to bed, Michael does not fall asleep quickly, but he doesn’t protest either; instead, he lies in his bed and thinks. He says that he "saves up his thoughts during the day to think about at night."
RAP (9.12.2008)
Michael has never needed as much rest as his brother. Some of the happiest moments of my life were checking in on a 7 months Michael before I went to work. I would walk in to see him, and most mornings he was already awake, standing in his crib, bathed in the early morning light, patiently waiting with a contagious enthusiasm that made you glad to be alive. When the boys go to bed, Michael does not fall asleep quickly, but he doesn’t protest either; instead, he lies in his bed and thinks. He says that he "saves up his thoughts during the day to think about at night."
RAP (9.12.2008)
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Joys that Lie Outside our Routine
Life has a tendency to be heavily planned; school bus at 8:20 a.m., practice at 6:00 p.m., and bedtime at 9:30 p.m.. Our lives are often very full, and even with the downtime here and there our modern conveniences fill our time enough that we never truly become bored.
As important as our schedules are to us, viruses and bacteria are indifferent to them. Last week was Alex's turn to be under the weather, and he had to miss school, enough school that he had his fill of games, television, and movies. At such a time, you need to look harder, and find other things to occupy your mind; Alex discovered a set of Lincoln Logs and had a grand time building a cabin. He was quite proud of it, and it was the first thing he wanted to show me when I stepped into our house. While being sick is unpleasant, it does also give us afford us the opportunity to escape our day to day and find the joys that lie outside our routine.
RAP (9.10.2008)
As important as our schedules are to us, viruses and bacteria are indifferent to them. Last week was Alex's turn to be under the weather, and he had to miss school, enough school that he had his fill of games, television, and movies. At such a time, you need to look harder, and find other things to occupy your mind; Alex discovered a set of Lincoln Logs and had a grand time building a cabin. He was quite proud of it, and it was the first thing he wanted to show me when I stepped into our house. While being sick is unpleasant, it does also give us afford us the opportunity to escape our day to day and find the joys that lie outside our routine.
RAP (9.10.2008)
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Freedom of Childhood's End
It has been our tradition in recent years to have the boys camp out on the first and last nights of summer. This year the boys camped out not a single night at the end of the season; instead they spent the night under the stars for three consecutive evenings. They had guests, authored and performed plays, and even made the backyard seem infested with Titania's fairies at Summer's end. They loved every minute of it, but I don't know if was the woods were calling them so much as the freedom of childhood's end.
RAP (9.9.2008)
RAP (9.9.2008)
Monday, September 8, 2008
Lessons Learned from the Struggle
Shemy was in town last week before the home opener, and we made sure that we took the time to see him and his bride. He sat next to Alex, and talked about football with him as you would expect.
He chose to focus on the skills of the game, and was trying to set Alex's mentality in way to have him improve the way he catches a ball. You need that, but what I want the boys to get out of football is a bit more philosophical. Through out the years I have effectively communicated my "never give up" mantra such that it is now their own, but I am hopeful that football can help them take the step beyond resilience. Most things in life you can't control; for the most part one can't control whether you are the fastest, strongest, smartest, tallest, most charismatic or good looking; you can influence them, improve them, but you have to work with the gifts you were given. The only things you can control is the effort that you give and the attitude you carry with you, and the struggles involved in football, where attitude has such an enormous impact, are an ideal tutor for such a lesson.
RAP (9.8.2008)
He chose to focus on the skills of the game, and was trying to set Alex's mentality in way to have him improve the way he catches a ball. You need that, but what I want the boys to get out of football is a bit more philosophical. Through out the years I have effectively communicated my "never give up" mantra such that it is now their own, but I am hopeful that football can help them take the step beyond resilience. Most things in life you can't control; for the most part one can't control whether you are the fastest, strongest, smartest, tallest, most charismatic or good looking; you can influence them, improve them, but you have to work with the gifts you were given. The only things you can control is the effort that you give and the attitude you carry with you, and the struggles involved in football, where attitude has such an enormous impact, are an ideal tutor for such a lesson.
RAP (9.8.2008)
Friday, September 5, 2008
Run to the Whistle
Football has been interesting. Alex has an aggressive mindset that should put him on defense, but he is a tight end. Likewise, Michael should be a wideoout, instead they have him as a 2 technique. Both are relatively small, because they foolishly group 2 years together, and our guys are both on the young side. It is not pretty in many ways, but one thing does bring my heart joy: they are now running to the whistle, and in the end that is the sort of thing I want them to get from their foray into tackle football.
RAP (9.5.2008)
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Arguing Narrators
The boys spent the final summer nights, those of Labor Day weekend, camping in our backyard, and as fate would have it inspiration struck from out of the blue. I was the lone sole awake as Michael came in, searching for a hard surface to write on. He wanted to create a play; his script was more of a story board with prose, due to his comics background, for a work he christened "The Arguing Narrators."
It was a tale about one narrator being interrupted by a second narrator with hijinx ensuing. In the encore performance you see here, Michael is the first narrator and Alex is his foil. The original performance was done in the tent that evening for the neighbor girls, Kami and Daniela. Perhaps Michael's inspiration was not mysterious, but a gift from a pair of young muses.
RAP (9.4.2008)
It was a tale about one narrator being interrupted by a second narrator with hijinx ensuing. In the encore performance you see here, Michael is the first narrator and Alex is his foil. The original performance was done in the tent that evening for the neighbor girls, Kami and Daniela. Perhaps Michael's inspiration was not mysterious, but a gift from a pair of young muses.
RAP (9.4.2008)
Thursday, August 28, 2008
First Concert
I try to expose the kids to a variety of things, and the latest foray into broadening their horizons was their first real, as opposed to our 4th of July parties, concert. It was a small festival featuring an array of small, alternative, artists (honeyhoney, ism, darker my love, tickle me pink, vhs or beta, etc.) that offered the kids the full concert experience.
They hung out at the second stage, they were in the pit and they lounged on the lawn. They didn't get it all (they still don't get why I was trying to get they to say "Hello, Cleveland" and "Play Freebird," but most people wouldn't), but it gave me confidence that we could take them to a bigger show; Michael likes the Foo Fighters.
So what did they think? Michael liked the music (we all liked honeyhoney); Alex liked that they served White Castles.
RAP (8.28.2008)
They hung out at the second stage, they were in the pit and they lounged on the lawn. They didn't get it all (they still don't get why I was trying to get they to say "Hello, Cleveland" and "Play Freebird," but most people wouldn't), but it gave me confidence that we could take them to a bigger show; Michael likes the Foo Fighters.
So what did they think? Michael liked the music (we all liked honeyhoney); Alex liked that they served White Castles.
RAP (8.28.2008)
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Impossible to Discount Any Longer
The first day of school made it impossible for Michael to discount any longer that his best friend, Jon, moved to Baton Rouge this summer; as he tried to sleep, an uncontrollable sadness swept over him as the loss become unignorable.
Talking about school yesterday, Alex used the phrase, "the friends I know." You can easily read into that that he understands everybody else are simply friends he doesn't know yet. Michael is not like Alex, and is instead is similar to me; his way is to have a few, very close friends, but as rewarding as that can be it also carries a significant penalty when you lose one.
As an adult, I can minimize the impact of distance in the modern world, but that doesn't help you when your friend isn't at your lunch table or hanging out at recess. The only hope I could offer him last night was the idea that if we returned to Mardi Gras once more this year, I bet Jon would come see us. The idea of hanging out with Jon during the carnival parades made him happy, and it also made it more likely that we will once more return to New Orleans in February.
RAP (8.27.2008)
Friday, August 22, 2008
A Good, Well-Rounded Kid
Michael is a good big brother, and his leadership inspires Alex; I contend that Michael's love of reading has encouraged Alex to become the great reader he is, and I would also argue that Michael's innocence preserve Alex's. That may seem a little silly; the older child keeping the younger one more innocent, but Alex is more worldly and streetwise than big brother.
One may worry that Alex could lose his individuality to Michael's lead, but I assure you Alex is his own man. Sometimes Alex guides Michael; it was his drive to play football that encouraged Michael to go it a shot. Also, Alex has his own interests as demonstrated by the past weeks of chess and cupcake camp. I am pleased with how his well rounded, eclectic tastes have mixed with his brother's stewardship; Alex Patton, a football playing, chess enthusiast, baker, bookworm who is worldly wise, but is wise enough to linger in the golden days of childhood seems like a good, well-rounded kid to me.
RAP (8.22.2008)
One may worry that Alex could lose his individuality to Michael's lead, but I assure you Alex is his own man. Sometimes Alex guides Michael; it was his drive to play football that encouraged Michael to go it a shot. Also, Alex has his own interests as demonstrated by the past weeks of chess and cupcake camp. I am pleased with how his well rounded, eclectic tastes have mixed with his brother's stewardship; Alex Patton, a football playing, chess enthusiast, baker, bookworm who is worldly wise, but is wise enough to linger in the golden days of childhood seems like a good, well-rounded kid to me.
RAP (8.22.2008)
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
"You Have a Wonderful Boy"
Recently, while checking out at the Krogers on Bridge Street, Michael vanished. Jenny was momentarily panicked, but her fears passed as soon as she found him several registers away. It turns out that Michael had spied an elderly gentleman in a wheelchair and, being Michael, offered to assist him unloading his groceries onto the belt. The man accepted, and by the time Jenny caught up with him they were almost done. She was about to lecture Michael, but that was short circuited when the gentleman spoke. In a most sincere way, he told her, "You have a wonderful boy."
RAP (8.19.2008)
RAP (8.19.2008)
Monday, August 18, 2008
A Future in Politics
Before Alex was born, I predicted that he would be able to be elected to office if he so chose; as time passes, and his skills and personality are revealed, my chatter seem more and more like a premonition. The most recent foreshadowing came Monday when Alex informed us that he organized the kids at chess camp so that they shared their snacks with each other. That evening Chris Obert was caught raiding his pantry by his mother; he was inspired to bring more items to share (Chris also now wants braces because Alex has them!). On Tuesday the fever peaked, as one little girl, whose name Alex does not even know, got carried away during the feast of Alex and enthusiastically told the others, "we need people like Alex to end world hunger." After which she proclaimed, "if he were to run for president, I would vote him!" A hearty cheer erupted as the lunch room morphed into scene reminiscent of parliament as the others kids loudly added their "me too"s! By the way, have I ever told you that if Alex wants one, I think he has a future in politics?
RAP (8.18.2008)
RAP (8.18.2008)
Friday, August 15, 2008
Inspired by Their Expedition to the Water Slides
Inspired by their expedition to the water slides on the other side of the Scioto, the boys built one of their own. By built, I mean cobbled together PVC pipes and garden hoses on our swing set slide. Of course their is nothing Rube Goldberg about such a construction in a child's mind's eye; from their perspective it is a glorious creation that will only grow more magnificent as time passes.
The neighbor kids joined in the fun, but at the core of it was Michael and Alex, Alex and Michael. They are different people, but perfectly matched. I say it over and over again, but the best gift we have ever given Michael was Alex. One day, we won't be here, but it makes me happy to know that in those days they will have each other.
RAP (8.15.2008)
The neighbor kids joined in the fun, but at the core of it was Michael and Alex, Alex and Michael. They are different people, but perfectly matched. I say it over and over again, but the best gift we have ever given Michael was Alex. One day, we won't be here, but it makes me happy to know that in those days they will have each other.
RAP (8.15.2008)
Thursday, August 14, 2008
The Company of Good Friends and the Perks of Age
Last Friday the boys made their inaugural trek to Zoombezi Bay. It is adjacent to the Columbus Zoo, on the other side of the dam, placing it all of a quarter mile from our house. One would think that they would have made it early this summer, but as always, the boys lives are full.
Their first encounter with the new water slides, pools and attractions was in the company of the Chesters. Even though we don't socialize with them frequently, each time is joy. I have snapshots of Michael and Jack in strollers together (at the Zoo), making him Michael's oldest friend. Lizzie is a firecracker and gets along with Alex very well, and little Anna is just adorable. Michael, Jack, Alex and Lizzie were allowed to roam the grounds freely as long as they stayed together. This was big for Jenny, and only came to pass due to Judy's wise tutelage. That wisdom allowed the boys to not only experience the company of good friends, but also some of the freedom of getting older.
RAP (8.14.2008)
Their first encounter with the new water slides, pools and attractions was in the company of the Chesters. Even though we don't socialize with them frequently, each time is joy. I have snapshots of Michael and Jack in strollers together (at the Zoo), making him Michael's oldest friend. Lizzie is a firecracker and gets along with Alex very well, and little Anna is just adorable. Michael, Jack, Alex and Lizzie were allowed to roam the grounds freely as long as they stayed together. This was big for Jenny, and only came to pass due to Judy's wise tutelage. That wisdom allowed the boys to not only experience the company of good friends, but also some of the freedom of getting older.
RAP (8.14.2008)
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Lessons Aren't Just for Kids
Football has started, and as I hoped, it is not easy; they are being worked hard, and they are persevering through it. At the end of the day, I have no doubts that they will be better for it. It is my hope that it can teach both of them a some things.
Michael needs to learn to pay attention more and learn to act with more urgency; their is no better feedback system than getting (safely) hit to aide in that.
Alex needs to learn to not take the easy way out, and I think he is getting there. Just being out in the evening sun for two hours voluntarily is a very good thing. There is a lot to be learned in choosing a harder path that has a small payout for a lot of investment.
The lessons aren't reserved for the boys though. After I witnessed Alex stand straight up during tackling drills, I was showing Michael how to improve his form. However, Michael fired out low, hard and tackled well. I need to remember they are different boys, with dissimilar strengths and weakness that are need of diverse lessons. I hope and believe that his foray into football has lessons for both, and perhaps for me also.
RAP (8.13.2008)
Michael needs to learn to pay attention more and learn to act with more urgency; their is no better feedback system than getting (safely) hit to aide in that.
Alex needs to learn to not take the easy way out, and I think he is getting there. Just being out in the evening sun for two hours voluntarily is a very good thing. There is a lot to be learned in choosing a harder path that has a small payout for a lot of investment.
The lessons aren't reserved for the boys though. After I witnessed Alex stand straight up during tackling drills, I was showing Michael how to improve his form. However, Michael fired out low, hard and tackled well. I need to remember they are different boys, with dissimilar strengths and weakness that are need of diverse lessons. I hope and believe that his foray into football has lessons for both, and perhaps for me also.
RAP (8.13.2008)
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Get off the Sidelines
Once upon a time, the boys, or at least Michael, danced freely with me, and even at parties. However, on Saturday night dancing the night away was not their heart's desire. I didn't want to let that stand, because in life you have more fun if you are out there doing instead of being glued to a chair.
Knowing that it is something that they would enjoy once they took the initial plunge, I sought to send them out on the dance floor. Of course, this was not a situation where you could just push them into the pool and get it over with (although I did try that by gently suggesting that they migrate away from the sidelines). My solution to let them save face and to increase the enticement factor was to let them "dance" in their socks. This allowed for slippy, slidey fun that was a gateway to the parquet and allowed me to witness an evening of fun as I watched glued to my chair.
RAP (8.6.2008)
Knowing that it is something that they would enjoy once they took the initial plunge, I sought to send them out on the dance floor. Of course, this was not a situation where you could just push them into the pool and get it over with (although I did try that by gently suggesting that they migrate away from the sidelines). My solution to let them save face and to increase the enticement factor was to let them "dance" in their socks. This allowed for slippy, slidey fun that was a gateway to the parquet and allowed me to witness an evening of fun as I watched glued to my chair.
RAP (8.6.2008)
A Good Childhood and a Solid Foundation
Michael and Alex have extensively traveled across America for such young lads; in the last 18 months the list includes New Orleans, Miami, New York, San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Hawaii among others locals.
It is not just the breadth of their experiences, it is the depth. In our most recent trip they have seen old friends of theirs and of ours, gone to Comic Con and the seashore, experienced a Dodgers' victory on a crisp night and Universal Studios on a sunny day, all while slipping into a Southern California world entirely alien to their own. I am exhausted just chaperoning their lives. As their father I can give them a good childhood and a solid foundation; I hope that these sojourns, and the experiences from them, we have escorted them on contribute to both.
RAP (8.6.2008)
It is not just the breadth of their experiences, it is the depth. In our most recent trip they have seen old friends of theirs and of ours, gone to Comic Con and the seashore, experienced a Dodgers' victory on a crisp night and Universal Studios on a sunny day, all while slipping into a Southern California world entirely alien to their own. I am exhausted just chaperoning their lives. As their father I can give them a good childhood and a solid foundation; I hope that these sojourns, and the experiences from them, we have escorted them on contribute to both.
RAP (8.6.2008)
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Snoopy For President!
As we disembarked from the high speed, technological marvel known as "The Mummy" at Universal Studios Hollywood, Alex and Michael remarked that they could not find the "Snoopy for President" sign. I thought "Huh?" but moments later it came back to me.
Last summer, when we visited Universal with their cousins, the boys were reluctant to ride such a fearsome attraction. Being "The Mummy," it was ominous and foreboding, so I changed the narrative by suggesting that one of the ride engineers left an Easter Egg: one of the ghastly ghouls was holding up a sign that proclaimed "Snoopy For President." It worked. They rode it last year and liked it, and did not even flinch about riding it this year. I guess when you are looking for a silly beagle, things just aren't as scary.
RAP (8.5.2008)
Last summer, when we visited Universal with their cousins, the boys were reluctant to ride such a fearsome attraction. Being "The Mummy," it was ominous and foreboding, so I changed the narrative by suggesting that one of the ride engineers left an Easter Egg: one of the ghastly ghouls was holding up a sign that proclaimed "Snoopy For President." It worked. They rode it last year and liked it, and did not even flinch about riding it this year. I guess when you are looking for a silly beagle, things just aren't as scary.
RAP (8.5.2008)
Monday, August 4, 2008
One More Time
It has been a Simpsons' trip; first we met Matt Groening, and now we have experienced the just opened Simpsons ride at Universal Studios. The boys loved the Kwik-E-Mart and were tickled as pink as the Lard Lad donut that we bought there. As amusing as it was, it was merely an appetizer for the main event: the new attraction that took over the old Back to the Future ride. As you waited in queue, they showed much of a Simpsons episode where they skewed amusement parks, but sprinkled in footage that was exclusive to the ride.
Once we boarded the vehicle it was comic mayhem as Sideshow Bob tried to destroy the Simpsons. As you would expect the ride ends with the family on the couch, but on this particular journey it was peppered with laughter than the usual smirk generated by the opening. The boys liked it so much, that we had to catch a repeat later that day.
RAP (8.4.2008)
Once we boarded the vehicle it was comic mayhem as Sideshow Bob tried to destroy the Simpsons. As you would expect the ride ends with the family on the couch, but on this particular journey it was peppered with laughter than the usual smirk generated by the opening. The boys liked it so much, that we had to catch a repeat later that day.
RAP (8.4.2008)
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Take, Take, Take and Give
In many ways Comic Con is all about the fans; we go there and we are given goods, buy exclusive merchandise, interact with out favorite creators and hustle sketches among many other ways. But it is not all take, take, take. We came across Jason Kruse who authored, "The World of Quest." Alex read it a few years ago and since then, it was picked up by the WB and transformed into a Saturday morning cartoon. Alex does not like some of the changes the network suits implemented when they animated it and he shared his laments with Mr. Kruse. He was overjoyed that Alex could talk about his work point for point and said that our little man was the first person he had met that had read the book instead of just watching the show. This gift of Alex's visibily made his day, and perhaps his convention.
RAP (7.30.2008)
RAP (7.30.2008)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Sometimes the Best Things Aren't Planned
In the days leading up to Comic Con, we told the boys about some of the creators, and they got excited. Michael, in particular, was enthused to meet Jacob Chabot, author of the humorous tome, "The Mighty Skullboy Army." Until we found him in artist's alley, Michael kept querying, "Where is Jacob Chabot?"
Meeting him was the highlight of his Comic Con until we ran across a group of people huddled around a certain hero of Michael's: Matt Groening. He was kindly bidding adieu to the crowd, trying to escape the floor, and we were happy just watching him. As he lingered, generously making time for the children, Michael worked his way up through the masses, and engaged him in a conversation, the only one we saw him have with anyone. Michael told him about the letter he wrote and then shared his ideas: a Bartman villain named the "Choker" and an online Kwik-E Mart called the "Clicky Mart." Matt seemed to like his ideas and even gave Michael his business card. Sometimes the best things aren't planned and plotted; they just seem happen if you get yourself out where the action is.
RAP (7.29.2008)
Meeting him was the highlight of his Comic Con until we ran across a group of people huddled around a certain hero of Michael's: Matt Groening. He was kindly bidding adieu to the crowd, trying to escape the floor, and we were happy just watching him. As he lingered, generously making time for the children, Michael worked his way up through the masses, and engaged him in a conversation, the only one we saw him have with anyone. Michael told him about the letter he wrote and then shared his ideas: a Bartman villain named the "Choker" and an online Kwik-E Mart called the "Clicky Mart." Matt seemed to like his ideas and even gave Michael his business card. Sometimes the best things aren't planned and plotted; they just seem happen if you get yourself out where the action is.
RAP (7.29.2008)
Monday, July 28, 2008
New Spectacles
When Alex was first told he needed glasses he got a little teary. Then, at the final fitting, he became stoic trying not to let his disappointment seep through as he protested quietly about trivial things. It was not an atmosphere of joy and celebration so much as one of resignation. I tried to spin it as much as could, telling him about my first pair when I was 4 and welcoming him to the club; however, I wear contacts day to day and this stratagem had little success.
We were headed to Dayton to see my parents that morning, so I secretly called ahead and requested that my father wear his glasses this day as a subliminal show of solidarity. That seemed to work, so much so that when my dad took his off, Alex wanted to take his off too. At this point Alex conceded to himself, and the world, that he could read things far away that he could not before. Soon concession snowballed into enthusiasm, as he started comparing what he could spy at a distance with and without his new spectacles.
RAP (7.28.2008)
We were headed to Dayton to see my parents that morning, so I secretly called ahead and requested that my father wear his glasses this day as a subliminal show of solidarity. That seemed to work, so much so that when my dad took his off, Alex wanted to take his off too. At this point Alex conceded to himself, and the world, that he could read things far away that he could not before. Soon concession snowballed into enthusiasm, as he started comparing what he could spy at a distance with and without his new spectacles.
RAP (7.28.2008)
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