Sunday, December 30, 2018

Week 17


The last regular season game for the Patriots.  A first round bye is on the line.  And both my boys are home.  Best part of the game right there.
     In honor of the occasion, I made a muffuletta.  I also baked some potato skins.  I had to make sure my growing boys were well provided for.  It’s not often these days that I get to watch the Patriots with both my sons.  Those opportunities are growing less often.  Carpe diem.

Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Merry Christmas 2018

Hope you all are having a wonderful holiday.  The family is here.  Demi has outdone herself.  The decorations are amazing.  The food is tasty and plentiful.  Drinks are flowing, and so is the conversation.  It is great to catch up with my brother, sister in-law, and his sister in-law.
     The boys are playing with the cousins.  They are also old enough to converse with the adults.  My parents get to visit with everyone.  Gizmo got to bop about.  This is the true holiday.  The presents are nice.  But the family, the loved ones are what is import.  The boys get it.  This will likely shape their future holidays.

Monday, December 24, 2018

Christmas Eve 2018

The popular argument these days is is Die Hard a Christmas movie?  Not only is it a Christmas movie, so is Die Hard 2:  Die Harder.  That was our family movie of choice for this evening.
     I was just happy I could participate some.  Day 4 of diagnosed pneumonia is tough.  I tried to stay in quarantine, but I was getting cabin fever.  I even moved to the bedroom floor to stave off bed sores.  I came down to make tea or toast, so I could chitchat a bit.  It warmed my heart to see the boys helping Demi with the centerpieces.  
     The boys exchanged their gifts, per tradition.  They both were thoughtful of one another.  Demi and I exchanged this year too.  I wanted to give her the hat I bought her with the “L” in the font matching my tattoo.  After Die Hard 2, Caz actually went to bed.  So Coco left to play XBOX.  Demi and I watched the first showing of A Christmas Story.  Then I turned in.  I needed my rest.  Tomorrow is going to be a long day.

Saturday, December 8, 2018

Birthday 2018

This year, Caz is off at Auburn.  Coco is working.  Coco was also battling the IBS, which kept him in bed late.  Caz called to wish me a happy birthday.  Coco’s first words to me today were to wish me a happy birthday.  I felt like this was a glimpse of birthdays yet to come.  It is just going to be Demi and me.
     I would say the Demi and I will thrive as empty-nesters when the time comes.  We had the most amazing day.  We started out hitting a speed bump.  The first place we tried to grab a bite was closing.  After that, it was smooth sailing.  The Duxbury Rural Historical Society hosted a Christmas Open House.  The theme was the Wizard of Oz.  It might seem like an odd holiday pairing, but the decorators made it work.  The Emerald City theme really sizzled in the arrangements they came up with.
     We finally did get a snack at the Oysterman.  We got a harvest salad, fish tacos and oyster stew.  It was just enough to keep me going but not impact dinner.  I hadn’t really eaten all day.  Demi was just gnoshing.  The Army/Navy game played on the TV.  We had excellent conversations.  It was almost over too soon.
     The final stop was the Heritage Garden Museum.  They staged a holiday spectacular on their ground.  It is called Gardens Aglow.  Christmas lights were alight everywhere.  Lighted paths directs observers through the different areas of the park.  A group of fire pits allowed families to warm up or to toast marshmallows for S’mores.  A donut truck sold homemade cider or chocolate donuts.  Cafes sold hot chocolate, mulled wine, cider and assorted treats.  Santa held court in an antique Cadillac.  An old fashioned carousel, spun children around and around.  A father & son duo carved ice sculptures with cutouts for poses.  Demi and I held hands while meandered through it all.
     Dinner became an audible.  We weren’t starving , so we waited until we got closer to home.  We dined well at Solstice.  Dessert stole the show.  My warm gingerbread with eggnog ice cream tasted amazing.  Apparently, Coco was out shopping for my birthday present while we were eating.  The three of us met up at home later on.  What a day!  Both Demi and I were astounded at how perfect a day we had.  I think the days to come, birthdays or not, will be perfect too.

Saturday, December 1, 2018

Yard cleanup 2018

It would be really nice to have help out in the yard.  I have done most of the leaf removal thus far.  I have two sons.  Shouldn’t it be like old farm life?  That is one of the perks of having children, right?  I jest.  But I sure could use the help.
     One son is off at college.  The other son is working.  I get it.  They are off doing what they need to do.  I think they believe that I want to be out in the yard working.  I recall the battles when thy were younger, when I marched them out to help with chores.  They think I take great pleasure in taking them away from playing.  I would really rather be doing other things.  But this is what I need to do.  I take care of what needs doing.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

Early Morning Departure

Caz and Angie had a 6 am flight back to school.  They also had a tight window to make the shuttle back to Auburn from the airport in Atlanta.  Demi halfheartedly volunteered to get up and drive them to the airport.  I vetoed that.  I got up and let the kids sleep as long as I could.  I gauged traffic but we still had to leave shortly after 3:30 AM.  We had some chatting on the ride in.  More than I expected at that hour.  I was able to get in my last conversation with Caz before sending him down South.  I gave them a hug at the curb and sent them on their way.
     Coming home was even faster.  I toyed with going to the gym but I surprised myself.  Even after gassing up the 4Runner, I went back to bed.  And, I fell asleep.  What a novelty.  It wasn't a great sleep.  But it was better then nothing. I didn't want to fall asleep during Rivalry Weekend.  I had FSU and Auburn in the Iron Bowl, back to back. 
     It is hard sending Caz back to school.  This year was a bit better.  Knowing I would see him is less than month helped.  I can't imagine what it will be like sending them both off next year.  But I will put that off, for when I have to deal with it.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Thanksgiving 2018

It certainly was nice to have the whole family together this year.  This Thanksgiving seemed more traditional.  Family traditions are important.  (I may have mentioned that before:))
     I got up a bit early to go to the gym and to run.  I wanted to get in a workout to offset the gorging to come.  I ran better than I have in months.  That made me very happy.
     I woke the kids up for the Duxbury football game.  Caz was eager to have Angie experience a Duxbury Dragons football game.  She was nervous about the weather.  In fact, we all were.  It was a record day of cold.  We trotted out all the winter gear.  Caz and Angie even wore snow-pants.  The hand-warmers were collected in droves.  I busted out the LLBean Baxter State Parka.  It is the warmest coat they make.  It has pocket for your hands, that go into the down, so I knew my hands would be in great shape.  The wind chill was down to zero.  We all had face shields and sunglasses.  We didn't leave any exposed skin.  At half time, my toes were cold.  I had the smart wool socks and my warm, insulated LLBean rubber shoes.  Those couldn't keep the chill out.  The kids all had blankets but I don't think Coco wrapped his feet.  He was frozen at halftime.
     We met at the warming station, in the Steele building.  I saw the kids head there at halftime.  We had a split vote.  Caz really wanted to stay.  Coco really wanted to go.  Angie put on a good front and voice her desire to say, but I think her head and heart wanted to go.  The Dragons were up 21-0.  They looked like they were rolling.  We eventually decided to cut the game short.  We stopped for breakfast and hot chocolate on the way home.
     Thanksgiving at Lex's was great.  The battle of the turkey's, smoked against baked, was entertaining.  We all ate and ate.  The kids all played in the basement.  We actually had to pull the drinks off the deck before they froze.  We sat by the fire and watched football.  It was a really great get together.  Coco and Caz should have memories from this for all time.  That is all I really want.

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Cousins Day

Caz and Angie were really sweet.  They planned a whole day with Caz's younger cousins.  Caz and Angie wanted to take the kids out for a whole afternoon of fun.  And that is exactly what they did!
     Angie had been very thoughtful and had bought the kids Christmas presents.  Caz and Angie wrapped them here, then went to pick up the kids.  The four of them went to the movies to see the Grinch.  Then they spent some time in the mall arcade.  Not quite getting their fill of video games, they came back to the house to play Mario Kart.
     This excursion was a huge help to my sister in-law.  They were hosting Thanksgiving for a big crowd.  There was already a houseful of guests to entertain and to dodge, while getting the house and the food ready.  You know how family can be.  You love them, but they can be challenging at times.  My sister in-law certainly wasn't getting any help from her family.  They were mainly underfoot and creating roadblocks.  Having the kids out of the house was a huge relief.  She was so grateful.
     I am really impressed by Caz and Angie.  To have the forethought to plan a day with much younger cousins, when you have a short, finite time her to visit, is really sweet.  And Angie buying Christmas presents?  I know when I was in college, I was not thinking about a girlfriend's cousins.  Actually, I was pretty immature and selfish.  I probably didn't give enough thought and attention to any girlfriend at that time.  The price of the gifts doesn't matter.  All college kids are broke.  This is a prime example of being the thought that counts.  Really well done kids.  Kudos!

Sunday, November 18, 2018

Pick Up Day

Caz comes home today.  We pick him up from the airport around 8 pm.  It will be so good to have him home for Thanksgiving this year.  He is bringing his girlfriend home from Auburn too.  He is excited to show her a New England Thanksgiving.  We are happy to have her.  She and her family hosted Caz very graciously last year. 
     He has all kinds of things planned.  I love that he wants to spend time, taking his cousins out and about.  Even though there is a big age difference, they are a tight bunch.  I don't think a lot of 19 year olds would pay much mind to their much younger cousins.  Good for him.

Happy 80th Birthday

to my father.  The man who set the standard of what it means to be a father, for me.  The man came to this country, on his own, on a slow boat from China.  Immigration in San Francisco assigned him a name and a birth date.  He was taken by friends from San Francisco to live in Virginia because there was no room at his parents place in NYC.  He served in the USMC.  He worked multiple jobs while finishing college in night school.  He graduated when I was 4 years old.  He still worked multiple jobs to provide for his family. 
     My Dad supported everything we did.  He was a guru designing Pinewood Derby cars.  He filmed every sporting event we compete in, becoming the official videographer of the high school football team.  He did things he didn't really like, just to give us the opportunity to try things like sailing or camping.  A kid couldn't ask for a better father.  It is what I try to be for my sons.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Gamecocks

Coco was accepted to the University of South Carolina!  That is teriffic.  Still waiting to hear on the Honors College there but this is great.  He has choices of colleges now.  How excellent!  The Gamecocks are on the rise in football too. 

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Texas 2018

My buddy, Thatcher, had been telling me I had to come see a Texas Tech football game for years.  So since Coco was not playing a fall sport this year, I saw the opportunity to make that trip happen.  I picked the game months ago, Texas Tech at home, against Texas.  I set the date with Thatcher and now game time is finally here.
     It was a long trip on Friday.  We had to get up and leave for the airport shortly after 3 am.  That is early, even for me.  Demi was not happy but it was worth it to go see our friends.  We were really looking forward to seeing Lubbock.  This time was also exciting because their oldest son, and our youngest are in the midst of the college application process.
     Their son, Luke, had been accepted to Ole Miss, Arkansas and Texas Tech.  A couple days prior, Luke had been granted an exception to attend the TTU Business College as a Freshman.  Coco had just finished submitting the application to FSU.  We were still gearing up to apply to the South Carolina Honors College.  Auburn deferred Coco to general admission.  The boys would have a lot to talk about.
     It was cold in Lubbock.  The air temperature was 40 degrees, but with the wide open land, that wind just blows on and on.  There is nothing to bock it and it just does not stop.  It reminded me of the Loveliest Village on the Plains.  We didn't stay out long for the tailgating.  We moved quickly into the clubhouse to take advantage of the buffet.  I mean, a Texas buffet with brisket?  What's not to like?
     The game turned out to be very exciting.  We got to see the Masked Rider lead the team out of the tunnel.  The students throwing burrito wraps onto the field was interesting.  Seemed a bit of a waste but having thrown oranges at Colby, who am I to judge.  Tech came from 17 down in the 4th quarter to tie it up.  They left too much time though and Texas won it on a last second field goal.
     What a trip though!  We went to Cook's which was so cool.  It was right out of American Pickers.  The old gas and oil signs leading into and monopolizing the parking lot made for quite an entrance.  The antique signage continued inside, with both metal and neon signs.  Old restored cars were strewn outside and inside.  The food was great too.  Chicken fried steak!  Have to have it in Texas.
     The Thatchers were greats hosts.  Their home was so comfortable.  Everything is bigger in Texas and houses are no exception.  Single floor living is really appealing.  The white grape moonshine became our signature drink.  I can't wait to go back.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Election Day 2018

Midterm elections.  We introduced Caz to the wonders of the absentee ballot.  We failed to explain to him that you don’t have to vote for everything or everyone on the ballot.  He felt he didn’t do enough research and therefore was uncomfortable voting for someone he didn’t know.  That kept him from filling out the ballot.  So we all failed.  We offered to talk about the candidates and issues.  But forgot to talk about the actual voting process.  Learn from failure, right?

Saturday, November 3, 2018

Boys Weekend November 2018


It’s Coco and Dad weekend.  Caz is off at Auburn.  Demi is with the girls.  He had to work last night. So we didn’t get to hangout.  He missed a good Duxbury playoff game.
    Of course he slept late today.  He has been playing CoD ever since he woke up.  But football time is coming.  Alabama at LSU.  Pizza and wings.  We are set up.  Now we just need a good game.

Saturday, October 27, 2018

World Series Report 2018


This post could get interesting.  A huge lack of sleep due to last nights game.  The longest World Series game ever.  It finished at 3:30 am.  Coco and I stayed up for every pitch.
     Coco was so into the game, I almost didn’t care who won.  Almost.  Coco was looking up all kinds of baseball statistics.   The longest World Series game by time.  The longest World Series game by innings.  The longest baseball game ever.  I had to remind hi of seeing the score of the longest game in a mural at Pawtucket.  He told me about the two hall-of-famers who played in that game.  The effort by Nathan Eovaldi was epic.  The emotions of the game were intense.  And Coco and I were right there with each other until the bitter end.

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

World Series 2018 - Do Damage

The World Series starts tonight at Fenway Park.  The Sox take on the Dodgers.  Old school clubs.  Beat LA!
     I will say this again.  My sons have no idea what it is like to go without a championship for a long time.  Enjoy it now boys.  This is unprecedented for a city.
     I love that all the Boston teams stick together.  The Patriots, the Celtics & the Bruins have all wished the Sox well.  I have no doubt, players from those teams will be attending tonight.
     It will be different not having Caz here.  I hope he gets to listen to the game.  He does that now.  He listens to the Sox on the radio.  He told me it was a sign that he "is getting old."

Sunday, October 21, 2018

Honors College

University of South Carolina sent emails and snail mail to Coco.  His test scores qualify him to apply to their Honors College and Scholarships.  The scholarships associated with the Honors College include in-state tuition.  That is huge.  Coco understands what that means.
     It is a little confusing.  His regular admission application is still under review.  We are taking it as a good sign.  I think it moved the Gamecocks up on the list too.

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

College Bound 2.0

Coco did it!  He was accepted to college today!  I am so proud of this kid.  He has come so far.  He has overcome quite a bit.
     It was only 3 short years ago, things seemed hopeless.  School was almost relegated to an afterthought.  The IBS and Anxiety were raging.  Coco was on his way to missing over a hundred days of school.  We were grasping at straws to get him into school and into grade 10.
     Now?  He is going to college.  Where is still up in the air.  We have two more applications being reviewed and one more to submit.  But Coco has been accepted by the University of Alabama.  Wouldn’t that make things in this house interesting?
     Well done, son!

Sunday, October 14, 2018

Southern Tailgate Saturday

Caz and his girlfriend organized a great tailgate before the football game.  Caz’s girlfriend’s parent brought all the necessary accoutrements from Huntsville.  Caz got up early to secure a spot in the shade by his dorm.  It was a great spot.  We definitely needed the shade.  And having a bathroom handy was key.
     We started at noon.  There was pulled pork, several BBQ sauces, cole slaw, potato salad, cookies, brownies and lemon bars.  The kids were great.  They tossed a football around.  They stayed out of the beer cooler......
     The kids had to leave for the game around 4, to get their seats in the student section.  We got to hang around a bit longer.  Thankfully, the sun was behind the stadium by the time Coco and I took our seats.  Our seats ended up directly behind Caz’s girlfriend’s parents.  What were the odds?
     Demi stayed behind with Gizmo.  She did 3 loads of laundry for Caz.  She cleaned his dorm room.  What a trouper.  Fortunately, it was only a month after move in date.  The room hadn’t gotten that bad yet.  She also kept an eye of the food, keeping it warm for the post-game tailgate.  What a great day.  It’s one we can all look back on and smile, in the years ahead.  Family time.

Monday, October 8, 2018

The College Process

Coco submitted the next round of college applications.  Neither of these were on the common application..  One had addtitional short answers to write up.  But Coco has them in ahead of the deadline.  These two submissions are also SEC schools, Auburn and University of South Carolina.  These are the next two in the rankings behind FSU.  Both would be great landing spots for Coco.
     Sure, it would be easier on us to have them both at the same school.  But we want Coco to go to the place that is right for him.  It would also be cool if he and his buddy Tex, wound up at U of SC.  Columbia is a cool southern city.  The boys would have fun their.  And so would their parents.

Friday, October 5, 2018

Friday Night Lights 2018

It’s father/son night.  Coco and I are going to the Duxbury football game.  It is going to be the first fall night.  It is going to be football weather.  It is also Black Out Night.  The student section is supposed to wear all black.  Coco is in the spirit.  I love when he gets fired up to participate.  He even wanted to use my black Duxbury hat.  And he doesn’t mind riding to the game and being seen walking in with his dad.
     I don’t think Coco had seen Coach Downey in years.  He at least said hi and a few words about college.  We were up on the hill.  The students hadn’t arrived yet, so Coco wanted to hang with us for a bit.  Of course, as soon as some showed up, he took off.  But it was nice for a while.  I hope we get to go to a few more of these.  This is our last chance.  The Coco Senior Year Farewell Tour.

Friday, September 21, 2018

Football Fans & Feathers

What a successful day!
     Demi accompanied Coco on the campus tour of Auburn.  I got to go with Caz.  I wanted her to see the view from the Eagle’s Nest.  I think they both enjoyed the tour immensely.  I hung out around the Quad with Gizmo.  It was nice.  We hit a food truck for ice coffee.  Gizmo attained Auburn Rock Star status, making friends all over.  Caz got of out class just before the tour ended.  I sent Gizmo running across the grass to Caz.  What a happy puppy!  A happy boy too.  He was excited to see his dog.
     We bought grilled pimento cheese sandwiches and lemonade from Toomer’s Drugstore.  We hit the bookstore.  We visited Caz’s room.  The boys watched the dog, while Demi and I went to an event at the Raptor Center.
     Every Friday, before a home football game, the Southeast Raptor Center on campus runs a birds of prey exhibition.  They trot out owls, vultures, falcons and eagles.  These birds are well trained.  They fly right over patrons heads.  The instructors explain how the birds come to the sanctuary, how they are cared for and how we can help protect them.  It is really an amazing display.  We were so glad we went.
     Following the Raptor Center, was dinner.  BBQ at Jim & Nick’s.  Always a crowd pleaser.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Auburn 2018 - The Visit

It is off to Auburn again.  The whole family is going again.  That includes the Giz.  She is wracking up the frequent flyer miles.
     This trip would include an official campus tour of Auburn for Coco.  Caz is slowly warming up to the idea of his brother attending the same institution.  We also had tickets to the football game.  What a coincidence, right?  What were the odds?  Caz was also cooking up a big tailgate, since his girlfriend’s parents, and her roommates parents would be going to the game.  We were expecting a good turnout.
     It has only been a month since we dropped Caz off and moved him into his dorm.  But we really only got to see him for less than 24 hours that trip.  It will be nice to spend some more time with him.  At least he is coming home for Thanksgiving this year.

Monday, September 17, 2018

The Greensheet

DHS Guidance uses “The Greensheet” for seniors to send their high school transcripts to their potential colleges of choice.  A student has to fill out their list of colleges, with applications deadlines.  They also have to pay a $10 fee.  A one time fee.  It doesn’t matter how many schools are on one’s list.
     We needed Coco to submit this ASAP.  We had already submitted the application for the University of Alabama.  Their admissions office was only waiting on his grades.  A couple of other applications deadlines are right around the corner.  If the guidance office is like most administrative offices, then speed of delivery is not in their wheelhouse.
     Check off another item on the to do list.

Friday, September 14, 2018

Dragon Football 2018

This is it.  The first home game of the season for the Duxbury Dragons.  The last season for the seniors.  These are the guys I had the privilege of coaching for 7 years.  I am excited to see them play.  I am excited to see them excel.  It has been such a great time watching these boys grow into fine young men.  They likely have no idea how happy I am for them.  They do seem to love playing the game.  That is all I ever wanted for them.  Sure, winning is great.  But the love of the game should keep them together for years to come.  Much like the bonds I developed with my teammates, way back in the day.
     A lot of these guys are Coco’s friends.  They have been such solid, stand up guys over the years.  I hope Coco keeps these friendships for many years, decades to come.  It will be exciting to see how they fare after graduation.  It will be nerve wracking too.  Some of these friendships may not last.  This group seems like they will endure though.  If I had to bet, I would bet on them.  Go forth and conquer lads.  Carpe Diem.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

September 11, 2018

A day of rememberence.  A day to have conversations had before.  You recall where you were.  You recall what transpired and when.  I recall wanting to be home with my family.  I took Coco for a walk in the stroller.  I ran into my parents who had been up Salem at a museum. It is important to have these conversations.  It is important to remember.  It is important to carry the oral tradition on and pass it on to our children.  Caz is off to college, so right now Coco has to bear it alone.  He is the history guy though.  He likes to talk about historical events.  He will help us remember.

Sunday, September 9, 2018

College Application - Part Deux

Fire in the hole! The first college application for Coco has been submitted!  This one was actually really easy to work through.  We sat together but Coco was in the driver's seat.  He needs to be hands on.  At least, I think so.
     This application is an opportunity take the lead, to be self-sufficient.  It is all apart of the growing process.  Coco actually didn't put up any resistance.  I think he is a bit excited.  Now, the waiting begins.  This also creates the possibility of an in house rivalry.  Application number one has been submitted to the University of Alabama.

Saturday, September 8, 2018

ACT 2018

Coco took the ACT today.  It should be the last standardized test for him.  His SAT’s were great and all the schools on his list take the SAT.
     At least he has a calculator this time.  He got his stuff together last night.  He got up, albeit slowly, on time.  He got out of the house on time.  He says he feels confident about his performance.  I hope he is right.

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Back to School - One Final Time

DHS went back to school today.  The most wonderful time of the year.  Coco is officially a senior.  His last First Day of school.  Our last time sending a child to a Duxbury public school.  This is going to be a year full of lasts.
     I slipped Kyle his senior year letter last night.  He hasn’t said anything about reading it.  He couldn’t have missed it.  I left it right on his bed.  I do it for both the boys.  I like to document the big moments and times in their lives.  I made sure to print it. I made the mistake of using cursive once and that went over like a lead balloon.
     Some friends asked if we were sad.  Sad was not something I was feeling.  I am excited and nervous for Coco, all at the same time.  I want him to have a memorable senior year.  He needs to do well.  But he needs to have fun with his friends too.  Make it count Coco.  Make memories.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Back to College

How did this day come so quickly?  Is it really time for Caz to go back to Auburn?  I know the South starts early but this seems really early.  Caz actually flew down a few days ago to Nashville.  He needs to help move his stuff and his girlfriends stuff from Huntsville to Auburn.
     We had a hellacious time traveling this year.  We had to manage Caz’s bags, our bags, and Gizmo. It was a bit much.  The our flight was delayed almost 5 hours.  We had to board at one point, heat up the plane to where it was stifling, then debark for a bit before boarding, sitting, waiting, and finally taking off.  I was nervous about the rental car but it worked out.  We checked into the hotel quickly, then met Caz and his girlfriend out for dinner.  We got a sneak preview of her off-campus apartment first though.
     Dinner at Live Oaks was warm.  It is August in Alabama after all.  Live Oaks has a nice patio and they allow dogs.  They actually are very dog friendly.  It was not a fast meal, but that gave us longer to be with the kids.  A good start to this little voyage.

Sunday, August 12, 2018

Colby 25th

Mules unite!  A bunch of us couldn’t make the actual 25th Reunion back up on Mayflower Hill.  Chef was coming back this way to visit family.  He lives out in CO now but every 2-3 years he comes back for a few weeks.  Supermodel was on his way back from vacation with his boys.  Ugly John was not traveling for work.  The stars were aligned.
     The weather was not projecting to be good but it all worked out.  Thankfully, the screen house on the porch provided the needed shelter.  I cooked a bunch of cheeseburgers and hot dogs.  We had plenty of beer.  We gabbed for hours.  Sure there was a ton of reminiscing, but we all got caught up currently too.  It was great seeing their kids.  They grow so much in just a year, that not seeing them for 3-4 years is amazing.  They have all gotten so big.  These are the folks I wanted to see at Renuion.  Sure there were other friends up at Colby for Reunion that it would have been nice to see, but these are my people.  ABB!  Biscuits for Life!

Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Senior Picture 2018

Let the Senior Year activities begin.  Coco’s farewell tour starts today.  It’s Senior Picture time.  It’s funny.  The kid never wants to go to the beach anymore.  But where does he want his picture taken?  Duxbury Beach.
     We are using the same photographer who took Caz’s picture.  She is great.  She is taking some family pictures too.  At Caz’s request actually.  He wanted some pictures with his brother.  What a thoughtful guy.  Very impressive.
     Gizmo is coming too.  She is part of the family after all.  Demi gets to go shopping for all of us.  She grabbed multiple options for us all.  I actually really like the golf shirt she got me.  It’s really nice.  Comfortable too.
     Coco went and got his haircut a week ago.  Apparently, a week is the perfect time to allow just the right amount of growth after the haircut.  At least he is thinking.
     It was a windy night but we made it work.  There are some really great shots of Coco, right up against the Duxbury Beach sign across the bottom of Blakeman’s.  It looks excellent in both color and black & white.

Saturday, July 7, 2018

Levitate Music Festival 2018

I was surprised when Coco inquired into Levitate.  I didn’t think he enjoyed himself all that much last year.  It was more like he tolerated it.  But I guess having a girl you like interested in going helps.  And then ending up going with 3 ladies probably made the decision a slam dunk.
     He knew our friend had offered passes in the past.  He was really fired up when our friend came through.  He organized his crew.  He went and picked up the tickets.  He got his older brother to drive them to the fairgrounds.  He even walked all the way home with his friends.  They spent a solid 6-7 hours at the music festival.  I don’t think these bands are in Coco’s wheelhouse either.  But I think he like walking around the food trucks, crafts tents and stages.
     Demi and I were happy to have the crew back to our house after.  They ordered a pizza and hung out for a while.  It ended a bit earlier than I would have guessed but a good day for Coco.  I did like to see that.

Wednesday, July 4, 2018

July 4th 2018

Happy Independence Day, folks!  It is another day where Demi and I have an annual talk with the boys.  We tell them we want to know their plans, where they plan to be, and when they plan to be home (or to sleepover).  We tell them that we worry about other people.  It is a time of year where there tends to be a spike in impaired driving and poor decision making.  Caz got a taste of it one year when he was stopped by police three times in one night.  We tell them we love them and we want them to be safe.  Simple.
     I think they understand it too.  Of course Caz has to work for 9 hours of the holiday.  It means time and half though.  He went out after work.  But he let me know when he would be home.  Well after a little prompting anyway.
     Have a happy and a safe 4th of July.  Hope you are spending it with loved ones and enjoying your time together.

Friday, June 22, 2018

School’s Out 2018

Last day of school for Coco.  One final today.  Latin.  He should do well.  And he did.
     I was very surprised final grades came out today.  All fourth quarter marks.  All final exam grades.  Coco did really well.  He aced the final and the quarter for Physics, after starting with a C+.  He nailed it and brought his year grade up.  He had all A’s & a few B’s.  He should be really proud of himself.  Part of me thinks this is great.  What a rally and way to finish strong.  Part of me thinks he could do even better by working harder.  Maybe a little less time playing Fortnite.  But for now, I will let him celebrate his accomplishments.  He deserves to do just that.

Sunday, June 17, 2018

Father’s Day 2018

This was a strange Father’s Day this year.  I really didn’t get to see the boys.  Coco was working.  Caz slept late after being out late.  I went to the beach early, and stayed until 3 pm.  Demi joined me later.  Ideally, I would have us together as a family.  I will chalk it up to a circle of life thing.
     The best part of the day?  Present time.  But it wasn’t the presents themselves.  We did that late.  The boys asked around 6 pm, if they could play hoops with some of Caz’s friends.  I was really touched that Caz asked Coco to play.  That was fantastic to see.  When they came back and wanted to do presents, sure it was nice to see them excited about what they picked out.  But the card was the best.  They both wrote personal, heartfelt notes.  I really appreciate the thoughts and sentiments.  I love those two.  It is great they can express themselves.

Saturday, June 9, 2018

Cooking Lessons

Caz got up and announced he was making a grocery run to get fixings for French Toast.  Demi asked him if he knew what he needed.  He really didn’t.  He knew the staples but wasn’t confident he had it all.
     Upon return, he pulled out a pan and asked if he could use it.  He then proceeded to ask how to cook the French toast.  Demi got up a hair before me.  However, when I went to freshen up my coffee, there was a battle about to rage over cooking bacon.  Caz loves bacon.  He loves the eating of the bacon, but the cooking of the bacon, not so much.  He is afraid of the splatter.  Demi was overseeing but thing were getting contentious.  The kid needs to learning.  Learning can be painful....

Friday, June 8, 2018

ACT-ung Baby

Driving home from a fundraiser, at 11:30 pm, is not the time I expect a call from Coco that he can’t find his calculator he needs for tomorrow’s ACT.  It’s only the college boards.  Something he needs to get into a college of his choice.  This seems like the perfect time to start getting your things ready for an early AM.
     All I wanted to do was go home and fall into bed.  I spent an hour tearing the house apart.  I went out to the car to search.  I looked under couches.  Finally, we just ran out of places to look.  I went to bed extremely frustrated.  But tomorrow is another day.

Tuesday, June 5, 2018

Summer Visits

Caz’s girlfriend is up visiting.  Demi and Caz picketed her up from Logan today.  Caz is so excited.  Si is Demi actually.  The girlfriend is really nice.  We really like having her here.  It is fun to see them interact.  I do like to observe Caz like this.  He is very sweet.  I hope that means I set a good example.  I did try to teach the boys how to treat women properly.  Sure, I might be a bit old school chivalry.  I believe it’s a polite ideal.  It’s not mean to be condescending.  It is meant honorable and good.

Friday, June 1, 2018

Family Dinner

Even with both the boys working, we are trying to have family dinner nights.  It is an important time. Family time.  They need to know that it is important to slow down, even when tired, to take the time to break bread and talk with each other. Good habits start at home.  When they get older, maybe have kids of their own, I don’t want them to be lazy parents.  I don’t want them to have one of those environments where everyone is on the go, then ignores each other.  That is the easy way out.

Monday, May 28, 2018

Memorial Day 2018

We remember those today who paid the ultimate price to keep this great nation of ours free.  I always feel it is important to talk about this with the boys.  They will be the next generation to carry on the sentiment.  It is important for the boys to understand the sacrifice and all that goes into those who serve.  They can form their own opinions, but it starts with being informed.  They know their grandfather served.  And I believe they respect that.

Monday, May 21, 2018

Summer Work 2018

The supermarket era for Caz is over.  It was a good run.  But Star couldn’t give him enough hours.  He needed to make more cash.  Now, it’s off to his Grandfatrher’s favorite hardware store.  That should be fun for all of us.  He starts off with 36 hours a week for the next three weeks.  That’s far more than he ever got per week at Star.  Today, was training day one of two.  Then he is off and running.
     Caz gets that his dollar up here goes farther in Alabama.  He can make more up here over the summer,  and have more spending power when he goes back to school.  Finance and economics learning for my mechanical engineer.

Friday, May 18, 2018

Prom Part Deux - 2018

Second time around in 7 days.  This one has a bit more excitement.  Sure, this prom is at the rival high school over in Marsh Vegas.  But the girl Coco is going with seems special to him.  He won’t talk about girls and relationships much.  Caz was much more open.  But his excitement and mannerisms speak volumes though his silence.
     We had a whirlwind afternoon getting ready.  Coco had his shower and shave time planned down to the minute.  He wanted his hair still wet for the styling session with Demi.  He wanted to be on time for the photo shoot.  He planned the travel time.  He asked that this prom not be a big production.  Yet Demi, Caz and I all went with him for pictures.  Caz was a really good sport.  He went willingly and enthusiastically.  The girl’s family was very nice.  Coco still gets squeamish that her Mom knows him Mom from the gym.
     There is no vehicle procession at Marsh Vegas.  I think that is actually better.  The kids go and park their cars.  The kids line up and then walk the carpet in the gym.  The bleachers on either side are open to the public.  They project the kids up on a big screen.  It’s actually very orderly and nice.  Coco was close to the end.  He and she looked great.  They had big smiles.  He still had one when I picked him up at 1:30 am.  I am happy that he was not driving.  He would have been fine.  It was the number of poor drivers I saw on my way to get him.

Sunday, May 13, 2018

Mother’s Day 2018

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms out there.  A special happy day to Demi.  Khaleesi.  Mother of Dragons.  Green Dragons anyway.  You are the best.

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Prom Part 1 -2018

Coco’s first Prom.  Exciting stuff.  And he is actually going to 2 proms this year.  He isn’t even going in a group with his friends.  I think it started out that way but somehow the group spit into smaller groups.  He was really funny about getting the corsage.  He went and got his tux.  It was great that Coco asked his brother to go with him.  I know it was a way around going by himself, but it was still a nice sibling moment.  Kudos to Caz!  He had a long day of travel, flying from Nashfville, enduring delays, sitting in Friday rush hour traffic and then heading out 20 minutes after walking in the door for the first time in 4 months.  Quality brother time. That is special.
     The photo shoots went well.  We only had to make two stops.  The group that went in the limo too pictures at one house, Coco’s date.  That really didn’t take too long.  Then we met the kids at a house on King Caesar road.  One family was very gracious and offered any and all Prom goers to come and take photos by the water.  It was drizzling most of the time but they got some nice group shots of the kids, all the kids.
     It was a shame that the red carpet had to be inside.  The parade of cars dropping the kids off is a lot of the fun.  We got relegated to the 3rd floor.  It was a good thing Demi had the zoom lense on.  Tough angles but she got some good shots.  Fortunately our high school photographer was there on the floor.  She sent out the pictures to everyone.  Our little boy was off to the Auqrium.  A big night.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Big Smile

Coco was ecstatic to get his braces out today!  He wore braces for 33 months.  33 long months.  With the finish line in sight a few weeks ago, he really wanted them off before the Prom.  Correction.  Before the first of two Proms.  It was all up to him these last few weeks.  He had to be disciplined about wearing his bands.  Missioned accomplished.  Demi’s first day home after her vacation was spent at the orthodontist.  And it was worth it!

Friday, May 4, 2018

End of Year 1

Caz took his last exam as a freshman today.  What a fast year.  He is extremely nervous about the results.  He is worried about passing Calculus 2.  He is worried about keeping his scholarship.   I know he has worked hard.
     Now it is off to Huntsville for a week.  He is going to visit with his girlfriend before coming back home.  Can’t wait to see him.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Home Track Meet 2018

The first home meet of the season for DHS.  Coco's first home meet.  Big event.  Another milestone.  We got a surprise too.  Coco ran a race.  This was completely unexpected.  Demi arrived at the track to see Coco running by here.  He ran the 400m.  That is a tough race when you have trained for it, let alone never having run a race in your life.  He did just fine.  He finished.  And he was not last in his heat.  Coco also threw javelin.  He scratched and then didn't hit the minimum line but you know what?  He still threw it.  With his team.  In a real competition.  Great stuff.  He keeps making progress.

Friday, April 13, 2018

Happy 19th Caz!

On this lucky Friday the 13th, I wish my oldest child a very happy birthday!  I wish you were home to celebrate.  This is your first birthday away from home.  It’s strange not having you around.  I know it’s part of the circle of life, but it doesn’t make it any easier.  I wish you all the best.

Tuesday, April 10, 2018

Track Season 2018

Track season finally started for this season.  In typical New England fashion, the first meet of the season was postponed due to rain.  The conditions for today's meet was not much better.  It was cloudy, damp and cold.  Really cold.  I thought I came prepared.  I brought layers.  I brought a hood.  I brought boots.  My feet were numb by the end.  The aluminum bleachers don't help.  But these boots should really be warmer.
     However, this is an auspicious day.  The first ever track meet for Coco.  Bigger yet, it was an away meet.  He rode the bus with his team.  He socialized with his team.  That was the win right there.  Coco didn't even know I was there.  That was just fine with me.  He gets more keyed up when Demi and I watch him.  I preferred he didn't know I was there.  I didn't want to trigger his anxiety.  I was just happy he was there, on the team and with his team.  Well done, Coco.

Friday, April 6, 2018

Prom Season 2018

It’s official.  Coco has a prom date.  Like his brother, his date is a friend’s girlfriend’s friend.  Say that 3 times fast.  Coco has it a bit easier.  His date is a Duxbury girl, so no extra forms.
     Also like his brother, that circle of friends has no idea how they will get to the prom.  It’s too late for a limo.  Coco also cannot fit behind the wheel of his grandmother’s Mercedez.  That will come down to the wire.
     He missed the first cutoff to buy tickets.  He already voiced his acknowledgment that he is paying the late fees.  Somehow we are still paying for his date......

Monday, April 2, 2018

Charleston

What a great Anniversary trip!  Demi and I went to Charleston, SC for four days.  The weather got better every day.  Sure, there were some warm days back home.  But it was cold and snowing too.
     This was a big deal for Coco too.  He would be staying home alone.  He was responsible for Gizmo.  Fresh food and water for Gizmo.  Walking Gizmo.  Multiple trips outside for Gizmo to take car of business.  Not leaving food out where she could get at it.  Then he has to take care of himself.  He is like a plant, minus the direct sunlight.  But no one would be around to cook.  No one would be around to clean. He was instructed to empty the dishwasher, then get all his dirty wares in it. He was instructed to clean his room, the basement and the den,under penalty of lost video time.  He did it.  He waited until the last minute but he did it.
    The also worked and spent Easter Sunday with his grandparents, cousins, aunt and uncle.
     Demi and I got to tour a historic city.  We took a carriage tour.  We got a private car and walking tour.  We took the ferry to Fort Sumter.  What great sites!  The start of the American Civil War.  The architecture is amazing.
     The food and drink were fantastic too.  Good thing it is was walking city.  We walked 9.5 miles one day.  Really excellent and unique restaurants.  We went to one owned by Bill Murray.  Tons of seafood was featured.  We had great BBQ.  Husk Mixed up tremendous cocktails.  The local craft brewery was on point.  Truly an awesome vacation.

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

20 Years & Counting

Happy Anniversary Demi!  Hard to believe it's been 20 Years.  It went quickly. Looking forward to the next 20.

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

The Storm Which Wasn't

This Nor'easter was predicted all over the map.  The forecast started with minimal snow for the South Shore.  Then the totals kept creeping up.  Soon, the forecast called for two feet of snow.  School was shortened to a half day.  Work told us to work from home.  All for nothing as it turned out.  We got a few blasts of flakes but no accumulation.  I was just fine with that.  It was about time we skated.

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Round 3 - 2018

And we have another Noreaster, ladies & gentlemen.  This time we have snow.  There is a danger of more power outages.  More flooding.  More high winds.  The heavy wet snow has a tendency to pull down more trees and branches.  At least the South Shore is on the low end of the snow totals.  This will be a north and west event.  It is another region's turn.
     We got a lot of rain first.  That means wet slush under the snow.  The key is getting off the driveway before it freezes.  Then rushing over to get it off the old man's driveway and steps before he can start to shovel.  It is way too heavy for him.  I don't like him snowblowing it either, unless he uses the tractor.  Coco pitched in next door, which was extremely helpful.

Saturday, March 10, 2018

Newport Weekend 2018

The Demi birthday celebration continues.  A weekend away in Newport, RI with the Depots. It started on a sad note for me though.  I attended a wake for a high school friend's youngest brother last night.  This was the same kid to whom I gave my high school football practice shirt, when he was about 8 years old.  He was thrilled at the time.  He ran around the house and yard in that shirt.  He hardly ever took it off.  I can't believe he is gone.
     I was able to shake it off to have dinner with Demi and the Depots.  We had an amazing dinner.  We went to another establishment for drinks after.  Then it was dancing the night away in the Boom Boom Room.  A grand time for Demi.

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Round 2 - 2018

All rain this time.  Demi and I had to keep checking the attic. We realized that we lost roof shingles in the first storm.  By coincidence our construction guy was in the area.  But he was unable to get up on the roof with a tarp or to fix it, before this blast.  We didn't find any water, which is good news. And we didn't lose power.  All in all, not a bad storm.  There was more flooding over on the other side of town.

Monday, March 5, 2018

Back in Business

The lights are back on.  Almost 72 hours without power.  And you know what?  No complaints.  We were lucky.  We had the generator.  We had the wood stove going.  We have a gas cook-top.  The fridge held up well.  This whole ordeal was inconvenient at most.  Sure there was a cold shower at the gym, which was unexpected.  Like freezing cold.  Woke right the heck up.  But we are all healthy.  No damage to the cars.  We lost a few roof shingle.  But even that is not a full fledged breach.   People on Facebook are ridiculous in this town.  Hardly anyone prepares for these storms.  Very few can manage or know how to survive.  But they sure can complain.  They never would have made it through the blizzard of '78.

Saturday, March 3, 2018

Armageddon 2018

I really have never seen anything like the aftermath of this storm.  The damage was incredible.  So many trees were down.  The tall pines that usually snap, were totally uprooted.  A large number of people experience damage to their cars and houses, either from the wind directly or from a falling tree or debris.
     It is the only time I can recall, where there was a town by town travel ban put in place.  As soon as it was lifted this AM, I went out to get some some gas.  Little did I know at the time, mayhem was in abundance.  There was no power as I drove towards Marshfield center.  I quickly turned around and headed towards Pembroke.  The problem was, no power meant no traffic lights.  Most people nowadays are terrible drivers in perfect conditions.  When there is no traffic light?  Forget it.  No one knows the rules of the road.  Do you think anyone driving on route 139 was stopping at a traffic light?  Not a chance.  People trying to make a turn or cross route 139 were SOL.  They finally got inpatient and started right into traffic.  I went about 3 miles, avoiding a crash, until I had to turn around.  There was a tree across 139,  I tried a different way home but that was blocked.  Each next attempt at a new way home was blocked.  I finally had to go back the way I came out originally. 
     I got some coffee.  I ate quickly.  Then I grabbed every gas can I had, plus my father's.  I headed back out to route 139 but this time went route 3 north.  I figured heading away from the blast radius was a good idea.  As I past the first exit, I noticed an open gas station.  As I explored the next exit and struck out, I went back to the open gas station.  I got in line.  Yes, a line for gas.  How 1970.  At least I was in the short line.  I filled up the car and all my gas cans, then headed home to replenish the generator.

Friday, March 2, 2018

Storm Season 2018

The first major storm of the season hit today.  What is odd is that there is no snow.  The storm has hurricane force winds and a lot of rain.  If it was cold, we we would be buried in snow.   The lunar cycle is not in our town's favor.  The tide are exceptionally high, so flooding is inevitable.  The pictures I have seen are unreal.  I have never seen the water so high, in all my years living in this town.  We are talking 4 decades worth of calling Duxbury home. 
     Despite it all, the girls are trying to rally for Demi's birthday.  Two of the out of town guests can't make it.  One was flying.  The next flight would be Monday.  The trip to Cape Cod is canceled.  Now the local girls are just trying to get out to dinner.  Seems like a bad idea, but these grown a** women can make their own decisions.  Little does my sister in-law know but my brother is grabbing his chainsaw, just so she can drive into the neighborhood and come home.  A large tree is blocking their street. 
     Dinner is finally called.  We lost power just around 5 pm.  Demi is still trying to accomplish something, so she went for take out.  She struck out at 4 restaurants, since their power is flickering and no longer doing take out.  She grabbed Wendy's for Coco.  I am glad she is finally home, safe and sound.  We can all settle in for a movie.  The generator is running, so it will have to be a DVD.  Which is just fine.

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Happy 17th, Coco!

Happy Birthday to my youngest son.  You are growing into a fine young man.  You have come a long way in the last year.  Your health is under control.  School seems under control.  Good for you.  And have an excellent day!

Thursday, February 22, 2018

College Tour 2.3 - UGA

Coco was scheduled for an 8:30 am campus tour.  Fortunately, we did not have far to go.  We parked and walked over to the visitor center. 
     We got the standard informational tour.  We found out that we were not the only Massholes visiting that day.  A family from Pembroke was their too.  After getting all the information about UGA, they loaded us up on buses. 
     UGA is a long campus.  It's probably ever bit as large in area as Auburn and FSU.  But it is very narrow and runs North/South.  It is also a very hilly campus.  The bus makes several brief information stops before dropping the tour off at the high point on the North edge of campus.  Coco had already noticed yesterday, that UGA did not have the emergency stations with the blue lights, which are so common on college campuses today.  That actually concerned him. I don't think the tour's explanantion for that phenomenon, did anything to reassure him.
     I actually though UGA was a nice looking campus.  Coco was not impressed.  I don't think it is in his top 5 now.  And even though they say it doesn't matter where to you live when you apply, 85% of students are from GA. 
     Well, it was still a good trip.  This is how you find out what you like and what you don't like.

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

College Tour - Travel Day 2

Today, was another long drive.  It is 5 hours from Tallahassee to Athens, GA.  We left at a decent time.  I din't make Coco get up too early.  I figure we would stop for lunch in Macon, GA.  I had talked Coco into letting me stop at the Big House Allman Brothers Museam in Macon.  He didn't hesitate in answering yes.
     Of course, as things tend to go with the best laid plans, my side trip was not meant to be.  As I went to turn into the Big House, I noticed the gate was closed.  And locked.  I couldn't even pull over on the main road.  I parked at the first side street.  I walked back and took as may pictures as I could.  Then I punched in a search to Google Maps to find lunch.  We found a great little sandwich shop actually.  A hidden gem.
     We reached Athens early/mid afternoon.  After checking into the motel, conveniently located by a frat house and an adult video store......Coco and I walked to the UGA bookstore.  Coco really didn't want to walk but this kid needed to move his body.  We hoofed it over and found the bookstore, no problem  We even got a peek inside the football stadium.
     We had dinner at The Place.  If you ever go to Athens, I highly recommend it.  The food was terrific.  The chicken and waffles were life changing.  I mean, candied bacon?  How can you pass on that.  Dessert was amazing as well.  After dinner, we walked it off by check out some of area.  It is a really nice downtown.  It's bigger than Auburn.  A lot more choices of places to eat and things to do.

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

College Tour 2.1

Coco was scheduled for an 8:30 tour of FSU.  We got up and out of the house before 8 am.  As fate would have it, the FSU Visitor Center is in the Doak Campbell stadium complex.  Visitor Parking is located right next to the Unconquered statue, which he wanted to see.
     "How hot is it?" asked Coco.
     "70."
     "It feels so hot!"
     I responded, "you do know you wanted to go to school in the south, right?  You know it is only going to heat up as the day goes on.  And most of the time it is hot and humid?"
     "Yeah."
We had the standard informational session.  It was actually very good.  FSU now has fall, spring and summer acceptance.  Those are great programs.  It should help Coco's chances of getting in.  His grades will be a hindrance but his SAT's scores will bail some of that out.
     Coco noticed that besides bricks being used on the buildings, they were used on the walkway.  It was like FSU was taunting him.  He seemed fine with it, despite his aversion to brick.  The beautiful landscaping and palm trees helped.
     Coco was also fascinated that football tickers were included in the tuition price.  He expected it to be like Auburn, where football tickets were purchased separately.
     In the afternoon, we took in a FSU baseball game.  It was $2 Tuseday.  $2 to see a top 5 ranked baseball team.  The stadium was beautiful.  It rained most of the time.  By the 8th inning, Coco had finally had enough (which was far later than me, but I was not going to admit that), so we left a 1-1 ballgame.  FSU went on to win, scoring 5 runs right after we left.  This trip only cemented FSU as the leader in the clubhouse for his list.

Monday, February 19, 2018

College Tour 2.0

It's Coco's turn to tour college campuses.  No sooner do we watch the oldest son go off to college, than we turn around and we prepare the youngest son to follow suit.  Coco has a leg up on his older brother.  We took Coco to most of the campus tours that Caz went on.
     This has already paid dividends.  Coco already has a good concept of colleges.  He understood that not all colleges are made the same.  He really has a grasp on what is a big school and what is a small school.  He knows what a city setting looks like and what a rural setting looks like.  He knows that some school are strong in one major, while others are strong in a a different major.
     Coco also knows that he wants to go South, just like his brother.  He will not be applying to any schools up North.  So now we are off to see 2 schools which he has not seen before, Florida State (FSU) and University of Georgia (UGA). 
     Today was a long day of travel.  We left Duxbury for the airport at 6 am.  We landed in Atlanta around 12:30 pm.  Our rental car was not ready.  We had to wait 90 minutes.  We then had to drive 4 hours to Tallahassee.  We finally rolled into my aunt's house around 7 pm.  We knew we would have to turn it around quickly, so we could head out for dinner.  Coco slept the whole plane ride.  He slept the whole car ride.  And yet, he still fell asleep at 8:20 pm.  Teenagers sure can sleep.

Monday, February 5, 2018

Super Disappointment

Yes, the Patriots lost.  My loss though?  That was not having Caz for the viewing.  I missed having him around for the big game.  Demi did another amazing job with putting out a feast.  Coco had his specialty cream soda.  It wasn't the same without sharing all that with Caz.  He was fine.  He had a viewing party at Auburn.  He probably didn't bat an eye over the fact that this was our first Super Bowl not being all together.  But I knew.  I felt it.  It made the outcome even more upsetting.  This is how it goes though. It's part of the circle of life.  The kids grow up.  They go off on their own lives, their own adventures.  I hope eventually that seed of family, that sense of being part of a unit, that Demi and I have tried to instill into the boys takes root.  It blossoms into a longing to be a part of that again, when they start their own families.  Time will tell. 

Sunday, January 28, 2018

Overnight Exam

This weekend was a big test for Coco.  He was going to be left alone, overnight, for the first time.  Demi and I had an overnight excursion planned.  We told him last minute, on purpose.  Less time to plot any potential mischief.  We trust him.  We really didn't think he would be up to no good.  But you still have to prepare for the worst. 
     He was on his own for not even 24 hours.  He had to work Sunday, so that cut down the in house time.  We left him some money.  Coco was extremely happy, because now he could finally try out Dominoes.  Hey, whatever floats your boat. 
     Coco fed himself.  He took care of Gizmo.  He played endless hours of video games.  The house did not burn down.  There was no party.  He cleaned up, like he was asked to do.  He cleaned the den, the basement, and his bedroom.  He aced this test as far as Demi and I are concerned.

Friday, January 19, 2018

Mid Terms 2017

Coco had mid-terms all week.  I don't know when he studied for them.  I know he did some.  And I know he needed to crush it in Physics and Math.  He needs to pull up his second term grades in those subjects.  He also has to make up for his under performing freshman year.  Yes, it was related to his illnesses.  But he has the ability to make up ground.  As we know from Caz, junior year is tough.  It is the critical year for the college search.  The grades matter a lot.  Coco needs to exceed.  We don't want to put pressure on him.  It is a fine line trying to raise the bar on him but not invoke the anxiety.  There is no guidebook for this.  Demi and I are doing the best we can.  Every time we get a read on him, things change.  The same held true for Caz's ADD.  I probably feel more pressure than he does.  Which is fine by me.  I would rather shoulder the load, especially if that allows Coco to succeed.

Saturday, January 13, 2018

The Shrinking Nest

I will admit that it is hard knowing Caz is back at school but most college kids are still home.  The south start early.  A lot of Caz's buddies are home until the end of January.  I miss having him around.  I know he is happy back at Auburn.  It is just different.
     My sister in-law and husband came for a visit.  We couldn't do Christmas on The Island this year, when Caz was home.  My Mother in-law was sick.  My brother in-law was recovering from being sick.  There was a deep freeze going on.  We were worried about the pipes in the house. It just didn't happen.  It was nice that my sister in-law could come up though.  She got to see Coco at any rate.  I was looking forward to my college man socializing with his college cousins.  I think that would have been an interest dynamic.  I guess we will have to wait for this summer.

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

The List 2.0

It's Cooc's turn.  It's his college search.  He needs to make a list of colleges & universities, to which to apply.
     His list will all be southern schools.  He has no desire to go to school in the northeast.  He wants to attend a big school with big-time sports.  His number one right now is Florida State.  But I told him the same thing I told Caz, you need to make a list.  You need to have choices.
     So we used his school's recommended college search tool, Naviance.  Caz used it.  It worked well.  The parameters work nicely for searches.

The first draft:

Florida State
U of South Carolina
U of Georgia
LSU
Auburn
Alabama
U of Kentucky
Tennessee
Clemson
Mississippi State


This will change.  Maybe not by much.  But it is a start.

Monday, January 8, 2018

Goodbye to You

These goodbyes seem to be getting harder, not easier.  I took Caz to the airport today, so that he could return to Auburn.  This visit seemed too fast.  He was ready to go back though.  I get it.  I actually do remember that feeling.  He is better than I was.  He recognized how tough it is on his parents.  He gave me a huge hug on the curb, outside of Concourse C.
     I tracked his flight all afternoon.  He had a nice surprise waiting for him in Atlanta.  His girlfriend was there waiting for him, to drive him back to college.  Me?  I am putting of cleaning his room for another day.  I don’t want to go see it empty.  I know this is how it’s supposed to be.  But it doesn’t make it any easier.

Monday, January 1, 2018

Bowl Day 2018

Happy New Year!  Welcome back to the greatest day of college football viewing of the season.  The boys are doing their own thing.  They both slept past noon.  Coco is continuing his marathon Call of Duty WWII session.  Caz watched Auburn in the Peach Bowl with me.  A very relaxing and low key day.  Perfect start of the year.