Little Buddy gets a haircut.... if you can call it that.

Well, I did it. I cracked under pressure. Repeated, relentless pressure from a darned cute and logical youngster. Oh, did I mention Dad was right behind?

Jackson wanted a haircut... but not just any haircut. He has wanted a mowhawk for as long as I can recall. The heat's been turned up lately (no pun intended) because it's just plain *hot* outside and he was looking pretty shaggy. Responses to 'Hey, pal, it's time for a cut' have been met with 'Ok, I'm ready for my mowhawk.' Easy delay tactic and frankly I've avoided a straight answer for long periods of time because as cute as they can be, they're an odd haircut and I like more 'traditional' cuts. Even a buzz is a step up in my book. But, I digress.

I caved in a weak moment last Friday and we headed to the barber. I can't tell who was more excited- Jackson or Matt. Matt did admit that it was a sort of vindication for all the times his mother said 'NO!' when he was growing up. My theories are two-fold:
- At least there's still one smart woman in the family
- It'll grow

*sigh*

A somber day.

Today is a somber day for our family. My father's dear sister, Arlene, went to heaven shortly after noon today. A victim of a suprise stroke less than two weeks ago, she went from talk of recovery and rehab to neruologist recommendations to do what the family could to make her comfortable.

My Aunt Arlene was a wonderful woman, who made a big impact on my life. Ever showing with a smile and voice of an angel, she *always* took a special interest in us 'little girls.' She doted and dwelled, spending far more time than anyone else at busy family gatherings and functions, just to make us comfortable. And, beyond a heart spanning no bounds she had the voice of an angel that marked the start of each holiday season for years. With her church group, there were performances that I can remember watching from the spot she saved us in the front row. She encouraged us to sing, taught me to whistle and made melody of anything possible.

My heart breaks that she left this world too soon, but also rejoices in her union with God. She walked closely with him each and every day and I have no doubt she, herself, was saved a front row seat next to Him. May she rest in peace.

Do something, today.

Some people are born political, right? They get involved, they go to city council meetings and spend spare time mailing politicians to move agendas along. We have never been those people, and I mean never. Don't get me wrong... we're law-abiding, voting, opinionated folks who stand up for what we believe in without clubbing others over the head with our viewpoints. That is, until now.

We've been on a journey for quite some time now; and when I say journey... I really do mean JOURNEY. It's been years in the making to truly figure it all out and we're finding some sense of direction now that we've closed in on some details. We learned recently that Jackson has autism (he is 1 of the 150 you read about!), and more specifically Asberger's Disorder (hereafter referenced as ASD). Not sure what it is? Click here for full details... and know that Bill Gates lives with this neurological disorder today. With good therapy and the right mindset, gifts that come with this disorder can overpower the challenges and make really amazing people.

Before we campaign for your support, I'll add small commentary here:

No, we didn't know this was Jackson.... but had a sneaking suspicion for a long time that there was something about him... and we met totally unreal, smart, fabulous people at the U and Fraser Child & Family who suddenly provided amazing clarity for us.

Yes, it is overwhelming. Some days things go great. Some days they really, really don't. When they don't, we try to look around and pay special attention to the term 'high functioning.' Then we thank God for the fact that he can do as many things as possible and for modern therapies that can support him while he's young to give him the skills he'll need for life.

No, we don't have it all figured out. This makes me the craziest. Just when I have a plan, we have to sidetrack, derail or go through some major red-tape with insurance, providers or some other thing. This is one of the most frustrating things I've ever done so far... but I will be patient and learn. God makes no mistakes in the challenges he serves up to us. That said, I sure hope he's listening because this isn't easy! Oh, and if he could drive to one of the 86 appointments we have cooking to work this through, that'd be great.

Yes, we want your stories, contacts and information. We're taking it all in, a day at a time, and making plans. I've learned more from friends who 'have a friend who....' than you'd ever believe. These things are not mistakes; I have an unbelievable list of uncanny coincidinces that have helped us along the way thus far. I have no doubt our guardian angel is tired and working overtime with us... and I wonder, should I leave her cookies or diet soda?

No, please don't look at him or treat him 'special.' This is my single biggest fear as his mother, mama bear and best friend. Play with him like always and enjoy who he is- the quirky, funny, super-intelligent boy that he is. We do every single day..... EVERY SINGLE DAY.

So, here's where politics intermingle. We learned (the VERY hard way) that many insurances don't cover therapies critically needed for kids like Jackson. It's astounding and makes my blood boil. Autism is considered a neurological disorder, however, neither medical or mental health coverages kick in (I received a lovely letter that it's an excluded condition on our policy from UnitedHealth Care/Medica - BIG, typically 'awesome' insurers!). Beyond us, there's a bigger universe of people who are left to (a) not treat their children, (b) treat them with private funds for very, very costly therapies or (c) try a combination of private pay while filing for very expensive assistance strategies. It's a long haul for families who are already tired. Tired of insurance, tired of trying to get 'accepted' to see the right doctors. Just tired. So, there's a movement underway and it could really use your help. Read up on this and know... any support you show affects families everywhere in Minnesota, now including ours.

...............................................................

Take Action on the ATAA Bill!
The Autism Treatment Acceleration Act (ATAA) has been introduced in the Senate (S.819)and House (H.R. 2413). ATAA is comprehensive federal legislation that addresses critical challenges facing the autism community, including increased funding for scientific research, treatment and services. A key section of the bill requires all insurance companies to provide coverage for evidence-based, medically-necessary autism treatments and therapies, ending the insurers’ long-standing discrimination against children with autism.

Click here to make your voice heard and encourage your representatives to co-sponsor this bill. It takes one minute and can make a HUGE difference!

Freshman Semi-Formal.

Tyler's officially closing out the 9th grade year and as a hoorah, the school hosts the freshman semi-formal. What they forgot to put on the invitation: "Be amazed at your kid, how he grew and what a gentleman he has become."

Happy Mommie's Day!

A lovely photo of me and mah boys on Mama's Day. More details l8r.

Ever miss junior high?

Nope, didn't think so. This is true, no lie- a message that came in the emailed announcemnts I receive daily from Tyler's school:

ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR MONDAY

NO AIR CONDITIONING AT WJH – Mr. Roos stressed to our students that as the temperature goes up, so does the importance of clean hygiene and the use of deodorant.

I'm not saying another word.

New sleeping bag in the house....

I should know better.

When I said take a shower and get *really* clean, I wasn't exactly meaning "use two cans of shave cream." I should be more clear.

I should know better than to laugh.

It only (rudely) supports behavior we don't encourage. BUT, that said, how can you not bust out when you hear this exchange:

Matt: Jackson, please come downstairs. I need you.
Jackson: Wait, I'm taking over a planet up here.
Matt: Yes, but I need you now.
Silence.
Matt: Jackson?
Silence. Then Matt's footsteps up the stairs to the office where both Jackson and I are.
Matt: Jackson (irritated)
Jackson: "Jackson's not here right now. Please leave a message at the beep. BEEP!"

Solar Powered.

I have been accused on many an occasion of being solar powered. No lie. It probably has something to do with my inability to sit still when it's nice outside. I literally feel twitchy, like I'm missing some great thing when the sun smiles down from the sky. How could you not when this is my view today?

Little Chef.

Jackson has been the recipient of many a meal... and he's a man of discriminating tastes. Or, one might say he's really specific. As in 'I thought picky kids were made from picky parents.' I have since recinded the thought, since God sent us Jackson to remind me that I'm totally off in my line of thinking and that in fact, we're not picky, Jackson is who he is and that's how he's going to roll. In other words, woman, quit making random judgements! Oh, and there's probably an 'I told you so' coming from the heavens when the clouds part, too.

Fast forward to Jackson running upstairs on a recent weekend to confirm HE made breakfast. MADE breakfast! The photos posted here are a momento of his efforts, which he confirmed he'll be taking on the road to Auntie Dee next. Oh, and I can't say enough great things about the seperator plates he picked... a FAVORITE of mine! :-)

Fugitive on the loose.

We knew it'd happen at one time or another - really. We have a bearded dragon and he eats live crickets. I'll not digress into HOW we came to the fugitive status, but I will lay out a few hints (crickets put in their box with a hiding spot, somebody picked them up, tripped on a lego, they went flying...). You get the idea.

Fast forward to the past two nights of chirp-chirp-chirping. I knew two got free (small, not freakazoid kind)but MANNNNN they make a big chirp. So, hunting began last night and thanks to many echoes in the boys' bathroom I had my first capture (er, kill). But his friend was harder to find.

Chirp, chirp, chirp. Chirp-chirp-chirp. CHIRP CHIRP CHIRP. It was like chinese water torture.

Enter from the left: my hero. Matt took matters into his own (soon to be crazy hands) and found the chirping was coming from inside a heating vent in the bathroom. No worries! He sprayed tub and tile cleaner and HIT the target. Who knew we'd be reduced to using cleaning supplies to erradicate a critter... but I like the outta-the-box thinking!

My hero, my hunter.

Yea Yea Yea.

Who has a blog and doesn't write on it. Seriously? Isn't that the point of this kinda place? Sure. All I can say is that we've been really busy. But hey, who cares- we're ba-ack.

So, you really want to know what's searing my mind for a post today? Old Navy. I love, love, love Old Navy but I have to say their current Ad Campaign is making me crazazazay. And I mean it. Not only is it uber-suggestive (as in 'quick flip the channel before my kids hear the mannequins calling each other sexy'), it features headless people who have personalities. Worse yet, they stocked the photo shoot and video set with all sorts of 'extra parts' on these mannequins... so it's just downright creepy. See the photo below featured in the circular? It ain't right.


















So, here's my message to Old Navy: If you love us, please stop the madness. We know you must have sunk some coin into some fruit loop agency to do the work... but seriously. You've gotta stop. Puhleeeease!

Spring ahead!

Ever wonder where daylight savings time started? I did, so here's what I found:

The moving forward of the daylight saving time start date was part of the federal Energy Policy Act adopted in 2005.

Thus, on this Sunday evening you will have one more hour of sunshine than on Saturday.

Daylight savings time first began in the United States during World War 1 in an effort to conserve fuel used to generate artificial lighting. It was suspended after the war ended, but was restored again during World War 2. In the years that followed, some states and communities continued to have daylight savings time, but the time periods varied.

Under the Uniform Time Act passed in 1966 any state that adopted daylight savings time would have to follow the dates set by the federal government.

Today all states in the nation except Arizona and Hawaii observe daylight saving time.

Many other nations, including the European Union, for instance, observe daylight savings time during a period beginning the last Sunday of March and extending until the last Sunday of October. Most of Mexico and all of Canada have daylight savings time as do Russia and China.

What, we've been busy.

I promise, we've not abandoned ship. It's been busier than usual over here. Between school, hockey (x2), colds and the flu (yes, I used the F word) we have been fighting, fighting, fighting to get a grip. So, my tribute in tonight's post is for Tyler, who has been working like a dog to keep up. More to come on the rest of us soon.


toothpastefordinner.com

Missing!

Missing: One gallon of New York Vanilla ice cream.

Description: Roughly 9" tall, 6 inches round and creamy orange-ish in color. Shy around people holding cans of root beer and visually anxious when large spoons are displayed. Be careful, we don't know what our missing ice cream will do. Approach with caution.

Last seen:
Bottom drawer of the freezer, nestled happily between frozen pork chops and Birds Eye mixed vegetables.

Witnesses:
None that will come forward as being 'on scene', however, we're positive we have a reptile that saw something.

Crime scene report: The detective on the scene reported very cool temperatures with proof that something happened within a day or so before. This was evident, as all forks were previously accounted for in an adjacent area and (*Gruesome content to follow*) spatters of melted ice cream were found near the bottom of the cool scene (a.k.a. freezer drawer). There was limited evidence of a struggle, however, the top to the container was found half buried in the laundry, several rooms away. Witnesses at the scene were too jarred to speak and buried their head in hands repeating "We just don't know what went wrong. They were so happy."

Any leads can be sent to momsonafreakingrant@yahoo.com. The curent key suspect is about 4'1", 65 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. He was overhead talking to family member about a 'really bad stomach ache.' Wonder what that was all about.

Will work..... for hugs.

With a 14 year old boy in the house I've found it's sometimes challenging to get a hug. It's not like he doesn't like me, it's just that there are rules around when you CAN hug. Like these:
- Never when the guys are around
- Never when a girl is looking
- Not when I'm just waking up
- Not when you're in the way of the refrigerator
- Not when I am texting (I might say something I don't mean in my non-verbal weird communication with friends)
- Not when you're on the sidelines
- Not when we're at the rink
- Certainly not when there's a full moon. You get the picture.
I don't take it personally, I take it as the age. I do, however, get sneak hugs and frankly sneak hugs make my day (any day). They're the kind that show up, are meaningful for a brief moment and quick enough to avoid all of the reasons listed above. I worked for a sneak hug last night, without knowing it.

Tyler made it to the rink in St. Paul and noticed 20 minutes shy of gametime that he was missing shinpads. I put the pedal to the metal and we made it with 2 minutes to spare. I did not stay (Jackson wasn't feeling well) and came home to continue my drone fun of laundry. When he arrived home nearly 2 hours later, he walked in the door very quietly, said nothing and hugged me with the biggest and strongest arms ever. Ahhh, a sneak hug. I will work always for hugs and the idea that sometime in the future hugging on the sidelines, at the rink, under a full moon, in presence of friends and even when hungry will be a common thing again.

Perceptions start early.

We had quite a weekend (more on that later), spending a LOT of time in the car. While doing so, we got on the subject of teachers. Those Tyler likes, those Jackson likes and well, substitute teachers. Jackson goes on to mention he recently had a substitute teacher with long hair and was really cool. In fact, the teacher told the kids just last week that he was once in a REAL rock band and played the guitar. Jackson sounded somewhere between amazed and worshippy when he got quiet for a moment and said "..... well, I guess that explains why he always wears sneakers."

Unbelievable.

We choose to live here, and this is WITHOUT the wind. Booyah.

Have-to Post, 'cause I did it once too....

Enough said...3rd grade, on the tall slide at Handke elementary. The teacher had to climb the slide, in the winter, from the slippery side to pour warm water on my tongue. Oh, the memory of her flying down the slide the first two failed tries....

...................................
January 15, 2009

HAMMOND, Ind. - In a scene straight out of the movie "A Christmas Story," a 10-year-old boy got his tongue stuck to a metal light pole. Police said the unidentified fourth-grader was able to tell them that a friend dared him to lick the pole Wednesday night. Temperatures in Hammond were around 10 degrees at the time.

By the time an ambulance arrived, the boy was able to yank his tongue off the frozen pole.

Police said ambulance personnel explained to the boy's mother how to care for his bleeding tongue.

School's closed.

It's way too cold, there's no school and nobody really wants to take a step outside until it warms up even a little. So, we've hunkered down in the house and cranked up a nice, warm fire. This day has seen quite a bit of activity, including:

- 3 Showers and a bath (Jack just wanted to be wet again, I guess!)
- Feeding Spike a cricket or two
- (More, non-permanent) Marker Tattoos
- 2 bedroom moves (Jackson simply moves his toy bins... and a couple other 'key' items from room to room)
- Development of a new trophy room (a.k.a.: line them all up in the great room under the windows in order of height)
- Feeding Spike a cricket or two
- Rock band (Please, God. No more Eye of the Tiger)
- Book reading
- Drawing
- Feeding Spike a cricket or two (catching a theme?)
- Webkinz
- Taking Spike for a walk... around one of Jackson's "new" rooms (which, by the way has now manifested in my office by way of a TWIN mattress and perfectly made, out of place, bed)
- Movies

I will say, however, this day is very tough for the crickets we keep to feed Spike. They have become entertainment... and, as I was typing this I just heard Jackson (in reaction to a tiny cricket chirp): "ZIP IT or you're DESSERT!"

Why?

The healthy fear of an orthodontist.

I'll start off by saying I adore our orthodontist. He's a guy who's been around the block many times and has perfected his science. It's also a foregon conclusion that when Tyler's braces finally come off (crossing fingers for the next few months) Jackson is a patient in waiting. So I'll rewind to our recent visit to the orthodontist.

Tyler goes in to the office alone. He's old enough and the staff doesn't need me breathing down their necks. While he's in there, I saw a very pale-faced young man emerge. He then approached the front desk and proceeded to try to make an appointment, sans mother (who was not in the waiting room). After several 'Are you sure you can't do it after school' requests he finally agrees he'll have to have his mom call. He then left, clearly worried and jittery.

Tyler then comes out, a little wide eyed and says 'let's go.' I make the follow-up appointment and we head to the car. In the car he debriefs me on his status and then says "Thank God I'm not that other kid." I ask which one. He refers to the tall pale kid. Apparently the kid has challenges with eating the right foods and hygiene... and the usually uber-kind, gentle Dr. P gave him an earful (loud enough for all to hear), stating the next time he is to be seen for broken anything he'll not be fixing anything he'll TAKE THEM OFF. It turns out this kid was in for like his 10th visit for broken ____(brace, bracket, wire, whatever).

I just want to say I dig Dr. P, totally. I swear this guy was trained in teeth and scare tac ops (the advanced training). The good news? My kid swore off any situation that would put him in that chair with that message; either way, he rocks.

What???

Part I:
So it's on toward evening and I'm trying to get Jackson to sleep. I snuggle in next to him, he cuddles me back and says "Mama, I love you!" I'm thinking what a sweet wonderful boy... then, upon investigation of my face he says:
"Mom, do you use Spin Lash Mascara?"
"No."
"Oh, I can tell. Your eyelashes are clumping. Spin Lash Mascara would really take care of that for you."

Part II:
Jackson comes tearing downstairs, upset. He says Spike bit him. I check his finger and all is well. Upon further investigation, I ask how he was bit (trying to figure our the obvious- is the lizard aggressive, what's the deal). Here's how the incident was described:
"Well, I was playing tag with him (yeah, visualize that). I tagged him and he opened his mouth. I was checking to see what he'd do, so I stuck my finger in and he bit it."

Writing assignments.

In Jackson's big forray back to school this week I think the teacher assigned the students something along the lines of preparing a thank you note. I was pleased and quite surprised that we were recipients; thinking wow, the handwriting is coming along and the content was pretty good. I am a little worried at the last line, however. "How was your Christmas?" makes me wonder if we spent the holidays with an imposter or evil twin!

Spike attacks.

Don't worry. It's not as dire as the subject line reads. It turns out bearded dragons CAN have fun. Again.... still not furry but he's growing on us more all the time. Last night, he was the subject of full on combat.

The infomercial kid.

I'm so lucky, every day. Today especially, as Jackson has picked out several new items for me compliments of the many, many infomercials on tv and his excessive free time on holiday break. His picks this week?

Item 1: The Buxton organizer. Jackson's favorite feature is security. As in, it's slung so tightly to your body and lays soooo flat that there's no way a thief can grab it and run. Oh, and it stores two regular size water bottles for when you get thirsty and need to water a horse.

Item 2: Blendy pen (complete with blendy belt if you order in the next 15 minutes). "Real life isn't just black and white, it's full of wonderful hues you should own!" After seeing what he did with sharpies, I'm totally afraid of blendy pens.


Item 3: Green bags. As in "Mom, did you know you can extend the life of your fruits and vegetables from 9 days to 16 days with Green bags? That always happens to us- think of how long our bananas would last!" My question is: do I WANT bananas that have been around 6 days?!

So, my plan? Turn off the TV, strap on the buxton (loaded with water and blendy pens) and head for the grocery store to stock up on fruit that will last well into the next century. Or... just turn off the TV!

Spike comes in handy...

When playing Star Wars....

Meet Spike.

Name: Spike Tuneberg
Age: 1 (I'm a teenager)
What: Bearded dragon
Why I'm cool: Jackson *loves* me, I eat live crickets (his mom doesn't love that) and salads (she's wayyy better with that), I'm super curious and gentle. I like to hang out and cause just a little trouble (after all I am a teenager).

Highlights so far:
- Jackson's face on Christmas Eve when he met me. Totally priceless.
- Jackson noticed I might be needing the restroom... and took me to do my business on the toilet yesterday. AND I WENT. I saw that cat on Meet the Fockers and thought I'd try it myself.
- (Low light): The Dad here came in the other night at *midnight* proclaiming I was dead. He tapped the glass, touched my head and I didn't move. I was like "Dude, I just moved in and I'm TIRED." So he got the Mom-lady out of bed, she wandered in... moved a couple things and picked me up (I think he's a little afraid of me). Hmmm, magically I was just sleeping, as I suspected she still wanted to be.

Happy Holidays 08.

Friends and Family,

Happy Holidays. Another year has slipped by, making me truly ponder the statement my Dad once made "Don't forget- the years go faster as you get older." I always thought he was SO OLD when he said that. Well, pot- meet kettle.

This was a year of constant learning, adjustments and patience, I'd say. This holiday note finds our family constant(ly on the move) as ever- with Tyler a 9th grade Freshman and Jackson a 2nd grade wiseguy (and I mean that in the nicest possible way!). Let's see... where to start..

Ok, how about Matt and I? Kids always go first! We're good. Matt is still healing from shoulder surgery; he had a multitude of fun going with his shoulder, which rendered it pretty unuseful. He had surgery a few weeks back and with the touch of a good doc, he will be good as new... but a ways down the road. PT, patience and a guilty conscience when he gets too overzealous should take care of that. He remains at Midwest, still looking to diversify where he can. His biggest role remains that of 'Dad in action'. He is our get it done guy; spending most of his days pacing ice rinks, offering to toss baseballs or gathering up the rope while we're out wakeboarding. He did manage to get just a couple rounds of golf in this year (sadly) and we're hopeful we can call that rehab next year so he can play more. We're trying to find hours 25-29 each day... any advice would be great!

As for me (Heidi), all is also well. If he's Dad in Action, I guess I'll be Woman in Action. While this joint rotates around the smaller crew, I continue to work part time at MRM. I love what I do and find myself so lucky to have that! In my spare time, I'm on the run... to hockey, football, baseball, lacrosse... you name it! I will also say there isn't a minute I'd give back. Matt and I did manage to escape for a weekend last fall; I had a conference in Orlando and dragged him (willingly) along with me. Thanks to our in-laws, we reveled in a few days on the Atlantic Coast in Florida. The trip re-energized our batteries and we came back ready to roll.

Speaking of ready to roll.... that's our Jackson. While only 7 1/2, he doesn't give the impression of a passive little guy EVER. His spirit is so bright we are rare to find an occasion with him without laughing or pulling our hair out. Incidently, we've managed to do both at the same time several times this year. He is a fan of Math but not school as a whole, as he confessed to us mid-year that his true calling on this earth is to be an artist. Specifically, an artist who sketches with pencils- if you're wondering. Because artists are also well-rounded, he wanted to sign up for both hockey and football this year. He liked flag football fairly well and is skating across the street as I type this, with Tyler. He is also a big fan of music (guitar!), rock collecting (you don't know until you take a walk with this kid) and many things Pokemon (which we thought we were done with when Tyler turned 10). He is signed up to take a few classes at the Science Museum, where they do amazing things with lego construction yet this winter. He's gaining height rapidly and losing teeth left and right... another just last evening. Cute, awkward and ya wanna squeeze him.

Speaking of squeezing... it's possible with Tyler, he's just a little bigger, now 14 standing nearly 5' 11" and 165 pounds. It's hard some days to remember he still has a "boy" brain, as he is closing in rapidly on Matt's stature and height. 9th grade is treating him as well as can be expected; he has the traditional likes and dislikes of most... love of Gym and Home ec (food!) and less love for English and Math. He revolves around a few specific things daily: food, sleep, hockey and his cell phone. We've been told this is normal but are still astounded when he can sleep 14 hours at a time, with the only reason to rise being his stomach. He does work a bit for the appetite and sleep; currently in the throes of a new hockey season. He worked quite a bit this summer to make the team he wanted and was fortunate enough to do so (Bantam A). Along with that, he expanded his horizons- taking in a summer of traveling baseball, Lacrosse (yes, it wickedly overlapped with baseball) and football (yes, that wickedly overlapped with fall hockey). He's a man on the move, but all is good. I'm constantly reminded that he's within arm's reach of driving, and got a good taste of things to come when Tyler passed a boater safety test and started manning the helm of the jet ski... something that was exciting and freaked us out at the same time. Ok, maybe just me.

As a family we managed to take in another amazing summer on the St. Croix with our in-laws, Frank and Denise and Auntie Mae. Jackson continued work on swimming strokes and both boys made a run for it tubing until the sun went down many, many days. We are so fortunate to have a haven close to us. We have also spent time with Grandma Penny (who was dragged through rain and thunder to baseball - and loved it), Grandma Karen (who was dragged through ice to hockey and loved it) and many a day with Grampy; our favorite being this fall when a crazy rotten tomato fight ensued. I can't say the clothing ever came clean but it was worth every moment. We had another very special moment with Auntie Mae this summer (her 95th year on this planet!), enjoying an awesome day of baseball that I was able to arrange (thanks to awesome friends in the right places!)... and a day we'll never forget for sure.

To us, each day is a gift and we are here to learn, respect and love one another. With boys- some days easier than others! :-) In closing, I recently saw a quote that sums things up perfectly and want to share:

Life is not a journey where you should arrive intact and buttoned up.
It is a journey you should end sliding in head first covered in dirt letting out a heartfelt 'WHOOP!"

With that, you have our love and best wishes this holiday season. XO, The Tuneys

Top 5 Quotes of the week

Ho, ho, ho. I'm a little behind, probably due to the "excitement" of the holiday season. The usual- too much going on, too little time to do it. So, a consolidation of quotes this week:

5. "If you tell me what you got me, I'll tell you what I got you... but don't tell mom, 'cause she'll get mad." -Tyler, snuggled up with Jackson before bed. And yes, I would get mad... no tellllliiiiinnnnnng!
4. "Are we done here yet, or what?" - Matt, in the middle of our shop-til-we-drop date on Friday.... still in store number 1 of the day.
3. "Even though that kid says there's no Santa, I'm going with what Mom says. If you believe, you receive." - Jackson, in response to the vermin kid telling him there's no Santa *again.*
2. "It's soooo not hot out here." - Tyler, on his way out of the hockey rink Saturday night. Yes, that's the same day we got like a foot of snow and it was -10... and dropping.
1. "You can't call them YOUR cookies. You used that thing right there, and that is a Betty Crocker cookie thingy. That makes them Betty Crocker cookies and they are trademarked." -Jackson, in response to me showing him MY *inspired* holiday cookies. I guess that makes him the kid of a mother in advertising!

Ode to Beaker.

Totally my fave, for all my life. Enjoy the holidays with (one of) my main men.

The ghost of Christmas past.

Tyler's going to hate me if he ever looks here, but I ran across a few photos from Chrismas past... and couldn't resist the post. Please pick me up at the curb with my bags.... as soon as I'm discovered I'm sure that's where I'll be banished!

Visions of Gingerbread...

One of our annual traditions was fulfilled Saturday afternoon, when we made an official 2008 Gingerbread house. We've been doing this for as many years as I can recall... and I have yet to see one completed with all the parts, without teeth marks or shy a few pieces. So instead of the usual drather about what was missing, I was keeping track of something else. Comments. You know, the kind that just 'fall' out of the mouth of a child completely surrounded (and blinded) by gingerbread, candies and frosting? This year's tribute is the top 5 things I heard while making the house of '08:
5) We don't really need that whole wall. I can just eat it.
4) Tyler won't know we ate it, let's just do it.
3) Two for me, one for the house. Two for me, one for the house.
2) Fine. If we can't eat it now, we can eat the whole thing when Tyler's home on Friday, right???
1) You know in math we're learning symmentry? Well, there aren't the same number of red and white mints, which means no symmetry. I ate one to make it even.

Fighting the inevitable.

It's official, we're fighting the inevitable. I remember this situation from many years ago and here we are again.

Tyler was 7 (same age as Jackson) when the kid across the street relentlessly crooned 'there is no Santa, it's just your parents.' We spent a good chunk of time working back through what Santa really is, stretched it a year or two more and finally concluded something that's held to this day: If you believe, you receive. Enough said.... and Tyler still puts out the Santa cookies and carrots for reindeer.

So you'd think I'd be more prepared when another little vermin polluted Jackson's mind this week with the same kind of stuff: there is no Santa, it's your parents, Santa is for babies. But in all honesty, I'm not. Freud would probably have something to say about Santa representing my desire to keep my kids young (maybe he's right?) but I'm saying this: don't wreck the season. Santa represents my kids' ability believe in something magical and something good in this ever changing, stressful world. While he is not the reason for the season, he's a good runner-up and mascot. For now, we'll keep the mystique, intrgue and suspense of his visit going. So take that, little non-believing vermin kid.

The failing nurse.

It's no secret. I'm the worst nurse, ever. At the sight of blood (and often times even just the thought) I go weak. As in: light in the head, woozy, running off to barf. This is why I have it so good- I have a husband who IS really good with blood when he needs to be. So, we balance out (I can do barf any day and he cannot).

You can imagnine what kind of nurse I've been to my poor husband. I delivered drinks, food and medication regularly until I got a whiff of 'hospital smell' on him and felt ill. Then I distanced, darting in every so often to tend to him and scurried away. Today I became even luckier. I'll spare you the details but will share that today was the day to take care of Matt's surgical dressing and implanted pain pump (that had to come out). THANK GOD FOR DENISE FARR. And after that, thank DENISE FARR herself. Seriously. While she worked on what I think is *the*worst*thing*in*the*world* I swept, took out the trash and avoided like the plague. Now that hospital smell is gone, I'm tending to my fella again.

I will close with one thought: I'm no scientist but I'm pretty sure my ailment in this area is due to being the 4th child in a line of 4. The two sisters before me are both nurses and I've drawn the conclusion that they sucked up all of the 'see blood and be ok' genes. TOTALLY makes sense.... right?

A little screwy.

Matt had shoulder surgery today. Most importantly: he lived and there was no amputation. Just kidding- these things are always so dramatic and without a big cliffhanger, he made it through with flying colors.

The doctor shared a lot of good news- he found what he expected and the procedure was fairly straightforward and consistent with what he anticipated. He did share a little unexpected news related to his shoulder, in that clavicle/socket bones were not exactly working well with the damage that was done. Thankfully he was able to remedy the issue by removing some of the bones and putting them back together with a screw or two.

Funny thing is.... I've always known he was a little screwy. Now it's just official. This poor-taste nurse is now going to return to the patient... :-)

Giving Thanks

I will interrupt this usually fun place for a word of seriousness. I know, that's not usually what you find here but I think it's fitting given the weeks we've been experiencing as of late.

Spend this week giving thanks. Seriously. Think past the turkey and the fabulous nap you'll get afterward (if you're male)... think about what it means to be loved, in a family that loves you, cared for by others, healthy. Then, send good thoughts to others who may be struggling to keep jobs (or recently have lost them), others who are ill and anyone who might need an extra angel's nudge.

Conferences.

We attended conferences at Jackson's school last night. For the most part, he has great teachers and likes what he's doing there. We did, however, notice a lack of spark between he and a certain teacher and guessed it had something to do with her straightforward methods. She's a bit black and white... and if you know Jackson... he's many shades of grey. So imagine this:

The teacher is working on an analogy to explain why you have to read books 'at your level' before tackling Harry Potter (which Jackson is begging to personally read... but not quite equipped to do without assistance). She starts off by saying:

"Jackson, that would be like rowing a boat with just one oar. You would go in circles."

He looks her in the eye and says:

"You would only go in circles if you didn't alternate using the oar on both sides of the boat. In that case, you'd go straight."

She looked flustered, shuffled her papers and continued. Inside I was smiling the brightest smile ever. Finally someone else got a dose of the kid that outsmarts me daily.

North Shore Exploration

What a great weekend. We hit the North Shore for Tyler's hockey tournament... and realized how divine it was to visit without 3 feet of snow on the ground. We were able to get strolls on the boardwalk (albeit wrapped in a scarf and mitties)and explore a bit... without the hassle of summertime and fall crowds. We made the rounds and had a great time.... and yes, Tyler's team did pretty well. Oh, are you also wondering where he is? In the photos? Oh, that's easy. Under the definition of teenager you'll find two detailed explanations:
- One who evades a mother's camera at all costs and releases a killer of a smile only behind closed doors or in the presence of beautiful girls
- One who intentionally goes out of their way to remain unrecognized when in proximity of other peers of the same age group because they, too, landed on this earth without families and have their own abilities to support, drive and feed themselves without the help of others. History shows this species has also been known to succumb to parental acknowledgement after 10 PM at home (let's talk!), when very lonely, sad, hungry, tired, in need of money, extremely happy or generally trying to figure out life.

We'll take what we can get.... he's a great kid!

You know you're getting old when...

Once upon a time I thought I'd never get old. I thought I might age a little but, interestingly, my insides have never aged. I feel inside similar to how I've been my whole life.... except I seem to sag a bit more and have these special lines (crow's feet?) around my eyes. I wondered for a very long time when I'd be 'grown up.' We had Tyler, yet I didn't feel grown up. We bought a house, yet I didn't feel grown up. When I looked around, I saw all these grown uppy things... but the only difference was youthful (inside) me was like ok, maybe I'm getting there but it's not official. I have since found times when it's truly official. They call me Mrs. Tuneberg. Who is that? They say, Jackson, your Mom can decide. I think 'Oh, that's me!' These are grown up things that indicate I'm aging.

So tonight I look at Tyler's homework (the act in itself does not indicate aging, merely helping another through study). He was assigned a project on Nitrogen, as they're learning atomic symbols, etc. One of the components of the assignment was to clarify it's use(s). My mind immediately went to lawn fertizilation, fuel, stainless steel and other pretty specific areas. I realized I was old when I read the first line of the report.

Nitrogen is used for power in paintball guns.

It's official, grab me a cane.

Play-doh. What you didn't know.

Did you know it could be microwaved? Neither did we... until Sunday when we got a good whiff of something warm... and strangely smelly. We buzzed downstairs to find Mr. Fixit himself (Jackson) with a chair in front of the Microwave. He apparently decided that he'd like it to fast-forward dry (rather than waiting the entire time), hence the very (un)bright decision to nuke the stuff.

I will say the idea was good in theory. He was making an aggate from many differing types of play-doh and it was very realistic. Maybe it was the real rock aggates he also embedded into the mass before hitting the heat?

Pumpkin Pie.

Jackson has an obsession with Grampy's pumpkin pie. We've been scratching our heads for quite some time now- really unsure how a kid with so many 'specifics' around what he'll eat is so in love with the orange pie. On a recent visit to Grampy's Jackson called ahead with two simple statements "Grampy, fire up the oven! We're coming for dinner and we need pumpkin pie!" As usual, Grampy didn't dissapoint. He made not one- but two pies. One for there and one for Jackson to take home. I think it's those kind actions that launched the Grampy & Jackson sing-a-long about (none other than) pumpkin pie. Enjoy.

Quick answers to common questions.

Yes, we are alive.
No, we've not been eaten by a monster or struck by mysterious illness.
Yes, we'd like to be home more.
No, it's not fully possible right now.
Yes, Tyler made the Bantam A team.
Yes, Jackson starts on Saturday (in earnest).
No, Tyler did not dress up for Halloween. Opted to harass youngsters (nicely) instead and hit a gathering or two.
Yes, Jackson dressed up. Photos forthcoming.
Yes, I traveled to NY this past week for a business meeting.
No, I did not keep the trip to JUST business. Dee joined me for a weekend in NYC.
Yes, photos are forthcoming.

*whew* more to come soon.