From Different Eras

Shenanigans
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)

Look Mom, No Braces

Look Mom, No Braces
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)

My Brother Started It

Run Like the Wind
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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 Coudn't Charm His Way Through This

He Can't Charm His Way Through This
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)

When Will I See you Again?

Good Choices
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)

Even in a Bar of Chocolate

Wow, A Giant Chocolate Bar
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)

Last of the Mohicans

Last of the Mohicans
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

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)