Tribute

Our family has been moved by sorrow with the passing of Uncle Dan. And this sorrow will be transformed into celebration of a beloved man, a special soul.

While I never formally met Uncle Dan, he was known to me by several email communications we shared and cards sent to Bodhi and Buddha and Amanda. Indeed, I really knew Uncle Dan through one of his principal legacies, Amanda.

Uncle Dan is actually Grandma’s Uncle, and so Amanda’s Great Uncle, and so Bodhi’s and Buddha’s Great, Great Uncle. And there has never been a doubt in my mind, or my own “knowing him,” of his true greatness. It was always clear that Uncle Dan is and always will be one of Amanda’s very few, true heroes---like her mom, like GiGi, like Papaw, like her Aunt Chris. Uncle Dan is also a treasured, special, special, special mentor to Amanda, a bigger than life gifted defense attorney, a champion of the underprivileged, an iconic figure representing the hope of good triumphing over evil, powered by knowledge, education, intellect, dogged determination, and an indomitable will I have come to know and especially associate with as being a Grills.

Uncle Dan, to Amanda, is what sociologist Glaser referred to as a real role model. Through Amanda’s eyes I have been shared a vision of Arizona as a near mythical place where Uncle Dan reigns supreme, where wild pigs have been given sanctuary by an inimitable litigator who will neither tolerate meddling neighbors nor troublesome interference of any sort or source, where Amanda has so indelibly been imprinted with both the encouragement and necessity of higher education, and most importantly credible assurances that of course she could do it—she could do or be anything she wanted—she was a Grills (a message reinforced by MooMoo, who closer to home helped engineer a young woman’s promise, a young woman’s destiny—a Grills woman).

Young Bodhi and Buddha, too, will come to know Uncle Dan. They must. They have Grills in them. And they need the strength, unique personality, intellect, compassion, and courage of Uncle Dan to fulfill their destiny. Upon the death of my father, it was recommended I read a book titled No Voice is Ever Wholly Lost by Louise Kaplan. I kept this book. And I want Amanda to read it, and MooMoo, and GiGi, and each of our family. I want Bodhi and Buddha, someday, to read this book. It is about grief, and loss, and comfort, and truth—and it is true, no voice is ever wholly lost. Her beloved Uncle Dan has always, essentially, spoken to me through my beloved Amanda. He ever will.

Vaya con Dios, Uncle Dan, travel in peace and love; smile upon those whom you have touched, and through the window of eternity please reach across time and space and gently touch our Bodhi and Buddha, your great, great niece and nephew, so that they forever will be assured of your presence, as you may be assured they will forever know you and your lasting voiceJ.

Last time Mommy was with Uncle Dan, 2001.
Aunt Ti and Mommy made the long journey to Tucson to visit Uncle Dan.    Mommy was contemplating attending the University of Arizona after Uncle Dan pulled some strings and had Mommy accepted (I had missed the admission date) since I was in Queens, NY with plans of attending John Jay. Uncle Dan lifted Mommy's spirits after having my dreams of living and attending school in NY crushed.   

Your Great Papaw Grills and Great Aunt Chris comforting their brother, Great Uncle Dan.

Sibling Love, sibling support.

Nate and Great Uncle Dan :)

When it seemed as though Mommy wouldn't be given the opportunity to say goodbye to Uncle Dan on the phone, Mommy had you two make a video, as did Mommy so that Aunt Chris could hold it up to his ear.  Mommy has gone back and forth if I should post these pictures and videos, but Daddy absolutely believes I should, for both the two of you and for Uncle Dan :)

Second part of video.  You two are so dang sweet!

Mommy's final goodbye 

Ronstadt Family Deathbed Tribute In Song

Bodhi’s Boo Boo

Mommy awakened and loaded the DVD player up with “Hip Hop Abs,” and “got busy with it,” as I had promised myself and the two of you.  You both were excited, but once it started both of you had a meltdown, good grief.  Bodhi, you decided to watch instead of participate (no big deal other than you said you didn’t like Mommy looking at the guy ha/ha, who happened to be HOT hee/hee), but you Jude man, oh man!  You kept throwing yourself against Mommy and yelling, “I WANT YOU MOMMA, PICK ME UP MOMMA!”  Mommy ignored you until you quit, ugggh!  Bodhi, you decided to get busy with it toward the end of the 30 minute workout.  You did some of the moves, and you were adorable! 

Mommy then hopped in the shower and got you two dressed.  We went to Big Lots to pick up some organic garden soil that was on sale for our vertical garden.  We also went to Walgreens so that Mommy could pick up some eye makeup that was on sale.  Mommy picked some up for Grandmoo too since you Jude  man broke Grandmoo’s.  We stopped by Grandmoo’s to give her the eye makeup but she didn’t like it, she thanked us and we headed on our way.  Once home we packed up the stroller to go walking with the Rudd’s.  We walked forever!  You guys played with the Rudd clan in the Kokomo Beach yard (our old stomping grounds), and then we headed home.  You guys played together at our house in the backyard for a while.  Mommy showed Dianna our vertical garden and she helped Mommy decide where to put it, and helped Mommy carry a bag of soil to fill it.  Dianna and her clan then headed home to get ready for dinner and gymnastics.  Mommy was debating whether or not to take the two of you to watch, but holy heck Mommy was tired and of course in the middle of a project. 

Mommy had chicken in the oven, when Sister Kelly arrived to see the two of you.  Mommy invited her to eat (the same dinner we had last Monday) again this Monday with us.  Sister Kelly was game and even agreed to help Mommy out by making the rice and green beans.  You two played outside, running in and out, while Sister Kelly cooked and while Mommy planted our garden.  You both helped on and off, but were more interested in playing.  We ate dinner with Sister Kelly and then you two headed back outside with Mommy.  Sister Kelly had to run back to work to get her cell phone she had forgotten.  Sean Franky arrived about that time, and he carried the other three 80 pound bags of soil from Mommy’s car to the garden (Mommy bought 8 ha/ha).  Mommy was losing steam by this point.  Sean Franky was talking to Mommy while you two played and while Mommy planted, when you, Ms. Bodhi fell.  Neither Franky or myself thought too much of it…neither of us saw you fall, but you fall all the time and this was no different.  Oh boy were we wrong.  A couple of minutes later you started screaming, Bodhi.  You were complaining that your elbow hurt.  Mommy thought you probably had nurse’s elbow since you complained of the same pain.  Sister Kelly arrived back in time to give you lovings.  Franky, Mommy, and Sister Kelly all checked out your arm.  Sister Kelly took you inside and made you a spot on the couch (with Hello Kitty movie going) and placed ice on your arm.  Mommy finished outside with Jude man, and then came inside.  Once Daddy arrived home, Mommy finished planting and came inside to give you a bath Jude.  Bodhi, your arm was hurting so we didn’t mess with giving you a bath…we just gave you some medicine and put you to bed.  Bodhi, you break everyone’s heart when you are hurting! 

Sand Box Fun :)

The Girls!

Appreciating Every Minute with the Two of You!

Today was a relaxing day at home.  Mommy is trying to catch up on blog entries...  it's been an emotionally exhausting week with Uncle Dan's health deteriorating quickly.  Mommy had a much needed fun last night with Sam, Laura, and Dianna, but today is all about taking in every minute with the two of you and Daddy. You guys are my world, my everything!   I am truly blessed to have you both as well as Daddy.   Mommy loves you to the moon and back!

Farmer's Market Opening Day

Mommy of course awakened thinking about Great Uncle Dan.  Mommy knew you two were excited to visit the farmer's market, it's opening day.  Mommy struggled to get going but managed to get showered and dressed.  Once Daddy arrived home, he picked up a package to mail for Mommy with instructions to stop by an ATM for our farmer's market adventure.    Once Daddy arrived home again, we all headed to the farmer's market.  We purchased syrup, tomato plants, and cookies.  With every purchase we were given a ticket to put our name and number on for a drawing.  After our farmer's market adventure, we then stopped at Coney Island for lunch.  We ate our lunch and were headed back home when Mommy received a call.  Mommy didn't recognize the number, and just about didn't answer it...but it could have been work so I answered.  To Mommy's surprise, it was a lady from the farmer's market telling Mommy that we had one the drawing, but that we had to stop by today to get the goods!  Mommy was beside herself excited, Mommy never wins contests ha/ha!  You two accompanied Mommy to pick up our goods, and boy did we get some goods!  We received an Amish made angel food cake, eggs, cookies, kettle corn, a pottery vase, a hand towel, and plants!  Wow, how cool was that!  We took our goodies and headed home.

You two were tired, so Mommy put you both down for a short nap.  Jude, you helped Mommy plant our herbs and then it was dinner time.  After dinner and play time, Mommy put you two to bed.  Mommy didn't tell you tonight was Momma's Night, and that Mommy was having friends over.  However, you two always sense when Mommy is doing something unusual or outside of our routine.  You both got up 100 times checking things out.  You both eventually fell asleep, and then Mommy's guests arrived.  First, Dianna, then Samara, and then Laura.  We ate treats, drank wine, and then spent time out back by the fire when it finally quit raining.  Daddy worked in his office getting work done, and you two slept the night away.  Mommy brought out four shots of Wild Turkey, and we all sent Great Uncle Dan a Wild Turkey cheers....Uncle Dan's drink of choice.  We wrapped up our night, satisfied of having a few adult hours with the "Girls" while our babes were being tended to by their Daddy's :)  What a great group of girls.  We've gotta get Aunt Ti into the mix!  

Sweet dreams sweet babes!  Mommy loves you to the moon and back!

Sending Great Uncle Dan All Our Love!

This morning Mommy noticed that our answering machine was blinking.  Mommy and Daddy are bad about checking our old answering machine (which picks up prior to our voice mail and fax machine ha/ha) usually people just call our cell phone if they can't reach us at home.  Nothing could prepare me for the devastation and depression that was about overwhelm every part of me!  It was Great Papaw Grills informing Mommy that he had been trying to get in contact with Grandmoo and shared that Great Uncle Dan had been diagnosed with cancer in his liver, lungs, and spinal cord :(  Papaw had reported that he was told Uncle Dan has an estimated two weeks to two months!  Mommy immediately felt faint, my stomach turning, my heart pounding, and overwhelming sense of grief!  Mommy immediately called Grandmoo who had confirmed that she spoke with Papaw while I was at work last night :(  Mommy then called Daddy, who too felt incredibly ill from the news.  Mommy then sent Aunt Ti a text.  Aunt Ti and Mommy went on a seven day adventure in Tucson, AZ with Great Uncle Dan just prior to our 21st birthday, and we often reminisce about our Tucson adventure with Uncle Dan.   Aunt Ti was shocked and saddened by the news as well. 

You two knew Mommy was sad, both of you said, "Mommy it will be okay."  You two sat and held Mommy's hand and we said a little prayer for Uncle Dan, praying that he not be suffering and that he get to enjoy his final days, weeks, months in this world.  You two were so precious, you took it so seriously...repeating everything Mommy said ;)  Mommy has been surrounded with friends enduring grief. loss, and depression... so Mommy decided today was the day we brighten some spirits.  We headed to Krogers to get Mrs. Hale (a cancer survivor) her annual spring flower bouquet.  We also picked up some orange sun flowers for Aunt Dianna who has had a trying week.  We arranged our bouquets and went on a mission to deliver.    Mommy plans to do something nice for Aunt Ti, who has had the blues for some time, as well Aunt Laura and Aunt Sam.  When we delivered Mrs. Hale her flowers, Stites Cleaners was completely gutted from the flood.  A guy at the cleaners said he make sure Mrs. Hale received her flowers.  We then headed to some nurseries to pick out some flowers for Mommy's planters.  Bodhi, you helped Mommy plant flowers in each of the containers.  Mommy couldn't help but to tear up thinking and worrying about Uncle Dan.

Mommy decided to sit down and write Uncle Dan an email.  Mommy knew it's highly unlikely that he has Internet access, however, I had to at least try to get a message to him.  He is unable to talk, and in the hospital.  Uncle Dan never married, never had kids, and lived a Hunter S. Thompson life style (matched with intelligence and creativity for sure).  Mommy's been told that Uncle Dan knows family is on their way.  Mommy wants to fly out and see him, however, Great Papaw, Great Aunt Chris, and Granmoo have a plan in place, so we'll see if and when it will be possible.  We are sending positive vibes, hugs, and love your way Uncle Dan!!!! 

Aunt Dianna then brought her clan down so we could on a much needed hormone regulating walk.  We walked several miles, with you two in the stroller for much of it.  We stopped and visited an elderly man that was dying to talk to someone (he apparently lost his wife a year ago) and he had an entire backyard filled with Tulips and other flowers.  All eight of us told the nice man what color we wanted and he picked us each a flower to take home.  We thanked him, after chatting with him for some time, and then finished our walk.  Mommy then took you two home and fed you breakfast for dinner.  You two didn't want to eat prior to our late walk, and we were gone until late.  Mommy gave you both a bath and then tucked you into bed.  

Mommy decided to do some cleaning.  Aunt Dianna has been so stressed that I offered to host "Girl's/Momma's Night" so Mommy felt obligated to do some light cleaning before retiring to bed.  Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes.  Life is so short, and we are never guaranteed a tomorrow...try to find joy and blessings in every moment!  

Mrs. Hale's flowers :)

For Aunt Dianna :)

Our sweet and hot peppers :)

Happy Rested Babes

Good morning babies!  Daddy reports that you, Ms. Bodhi walked downstairs your black furry vest on HAHAHA!  You are so funny!  Daddy shoo’d you upstairs to “put some undies on that booty,” I’m sure J  Jude man, last night you went to bed so early, you crawled in bed with Mommy at midnight instead of 1am.  You opened your door and said, “Mommy?”  I said, “come on turd ball.”  You laughed and ran into Mommy’s room with three of your stuffed doggies.  Daddy was downstairs working on the computer for school (so he’s been sleeping on his couch in his office since our bed is so crowded and he wakes up at weird times to get things done).  As you were crawling into bed Jude, you said, “one doggy, two doggy, three doggy, thank you Momma.”  You then wrapped your arms around my neck and were face to face with me.  You said, “ahhhh, Momma you are so nice, gorgeous, nice.”  You were so happy that Mommy didn’t tell you to go back to bed, as I always do if you try to come sleep with us before 1am.  That’s our rule, you have to start out in your own bed.  Your internal clock is rarely off, you are usually in our bed at 1am.  

Mommy got up, opened all the blinds, made all the beds, turned off all the night lights, let the doggies out to potty, and poured you both a bowl of cereal.  Daddy had the coffee going, of course J  Mommy can’t get out of bed without coffee!  You both wanted to play with play-doh after breakfast.  Mommy agreed and took the opportunity to brush Ms. Allie outside and get my morning vacuuming done.  I usually vacuum during the mornings that I work, and during the evenings that I do not work.  The dog hair drives Mommy insane and it’s an everyday battle!  Mommy got a ton of hair off of Ms. Allie this morning, so hopefully a few more days of heavy brushing and her fur will settle down. 

Bodhi, by 11am, you wanted to take a nap.  Mommy managed to get you both dressed and fed lunch before you crashed.  GiGi had suggested that Mommy put you both down for a nap prior to leaving for work, and she would come over and sit while you two were napping.  She’d then take you two her house after you guys awakened.  Mommy called the house at 3:15 pm because I had forgotten my driving instructions, GiGi reported that you, Buddha, were awake and following her around, but you, Ms. Bodhi were still asleep.  That’s usually how it goes J 

Once you two awakened, GiGi took you to her house for the evening.  Mommy managed to get back into town at around 8:30 p.m., so Mommy sent Daddy a text message stating that I would pick you two up.  You both were happy to see Mommy and reportedly had a great time (of course).  GiGi sent some additional fruit home for you both.  GiGi reported that you two were angels and that the nap made a world of difference.  Once home, Daddy had just arrived home from work too.  Daddy and Mommy tucked you both into bed and gave you lots of lovin’s J

Seriously?  Bodhi, you found one of your old paci's, and asked to have it.  Of course GiGi gave it to you ha/ha  That's just what I need, to have to break you of the paci AGAIN!

Mmmmm mmmm mmmmm!  GiGi's yummy home cooking.  As usual, you two amazed GiGi and Gi-Pa with everything you two ate!

Bodhi's Blue Day

Mommy forgot to mention...Bodhi, you weigh 44 pounds and are 42 1/2 inches tall. Buddha, you weigh 36.8 pounds and are 40 1/2 inches tall :)  Momma has some BIG babies!  No one believes you two are only two and three years old!  

Anyway, today was all about you, Bodhi!  Mommy managed to sleep in an extra hour since Daddy was home, however, Daddy is still feeling horrible and running a fever, so Mommy knew it would probably be best if I get you two out of the house.  Mommy had promised you a "Girl's Day" since you are Momma's girliest girl ha/ha and you've been begging Mommy to take you to get your nails done, and recently you've decided you want blue hair.  Buddha, you joined us on our girl adventure...and loved every minute of it, even if you were a bit jealous.  

We first went to the salon school to get your nails painted by a nail tech in training, Bodhi.  You picked out a dark shade of blue, of course, and a lady showed Mommy some temporary hair paint that you streak onto your hair.  You of course insisted on blue :)  You were so excited and acted so big.  You sat up in the chair with your arms extended out, watching everything that was being done to your nails :)  Jude, you sat on Mommy's lap eating candy (the ladies gave you a cup of fish candies) and you watched contently while your sister got pampered.  When the lady finished, you thanked her and sat under the nail dryer like a little lady.  Buddha, you could no longer contain yourself.  You had to put your hands under the dryer too.  By this time the sugar was kicking in...Mommy limits your guy's sugar, specifically for you, Buddha...you go insane!  After your sister had been sitting under the dryer for about five minutes, you were bouncing off the walls.  It was time to bounce on out of there and head to Grandmoo's.  

Grandmoo had Mommy set up an appointment with Aunt Lacey to get her haircut.  We were running a bit behind, but we picked up Grandmoo and got her to Aunt Lacey's.  It was obvious that Lacey was upset.  She informed us that she wasn't her normal chipper self, she had been having a horrible day.  Aunt Lacey's friend had passed away the day before, and this morning she ran over and killed her family pet, their cat.  Too make a bad situation worse, Aunt Lacey told us how her daughter had witnessed it :(  Mommy and Grandmoo gave Aunt Lacey hugs, as did the two of you, and we re-scheduled Grandmoo's appointment.  Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Lacey and her family!  

Bodhi, Mommy had planned to put your blue stripes in your hair while Grandmoo was getting her hair cut, so you were disappointed.  However, you handled it very well, like a big girl.  So, when we arrived at Grandmoo's, Grandmoo fixed you up a pretend salon, and Grandmoo colored your boings blue :)  You then decided that Mommy needed some blue stripes, and then Grandmoo and Mommy decided that you, Buddha, needed a few blue stripes too.  Mommy looks ridiculous, and the temporary dye is unlikely to wash out in time for Mommy to go to work tomorrow, however, the two of you look like little rockers :)  We were headed home after visiting Grandmoo's Beauty Shop, when you both begged Mommy to take you two to McDonalds for dinner.  Mommy had sent Aunt Dianna a text offering to make chicken for you two and her family, so that we could paint her living room, but Aunt Dianna didn't get the text messages in time :(  Sooooo, Mommy reluctantly agreed to take you two to McDonalds. Mommy thought it would be a good way to conclude our day of adventures together.  

Bodhi, you tried making friends with some older girls in the Play Place.  You were so cute and carried on a conversation like a sweet little girl..."Hi, my name is Bodhi, do you want to be my friend and play with me, we can play tag or hide-and-go-seek?"  "I'm three years old, how old are you?"  "I got blue streaks in my hair, see."  The two little six year old girls listened to you, but they didn't want to play your games :(  Mommy was furious and my heart broke for you, Bodhi!  Mommy explained that they are much older than you, but that you did so good talking to them :)  Mommy suggested that you play with Bubby, so you took Bubby's hand and went and played like no big deal.  Uggggh!  I know this is just the beginning.  However, you are so incredibly special, I'm certain that these heart breaking moments for Momma will be rare occasions for you, Bodhi.  You are so incredibly sweet and unbelievably smart, everyone should and will want to be your friend!  

After our McDonald's adventure, Mommy took you both home and Daddy helped Mommy put you two sweet babes to bed.  Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes!  Jude, you did great.   Bodhi, I hope you enjoyed your special day :)  You are so incredibly special and so loved!

PS After I got you two to bed, Mommy received a call from Great Great Aunt Betty...Aunt Betty called to let Mommy know that Great Uncle Dan was taken to the hospital this morning.  Uncle Dan has pneumonia and some other health problems :(  We will all be sending Uncle Dan our love, positive vibes, and prayers!!!  

Bodhi's first time getting her nails done :)

Rain Rain Go Away!

Monday's beautiful weather was followed by more rain, ugggh!  Mommy was worried that our old house and Grandmoo's house would flood again :(  However, everyone is in good shape.  Mommy was told by our tenant that the water heater checked out ok, but that she was waiting for her husband to return to town so that he could check out the furnace, fingers crossed!  

When 2pm rolled around, Mommy took you two to Grandmoo's.  When we passed by Dianna's home, Jude, you shouted, "Momma, stop, stop, drop me off at Aunt Dianna's."  Ha/ha Mommy sent Dianna a text message, but Dianna had to work, and said you could spend the day with her Dad who was watching her kids.  You didn't like that idea.  Mommy then continued our journey to Grandmoo's.  You both shouted, "Grandmoo!" when we arrived.  However, when Mommy went to leave, you, Jude, started screaming.  You are definitely in a phase...you have to tell people bye like 10 times or you get upset. Bodhi, you followed suit and screamed and cried as well.  Mommy gave you both several more hugs and kisses, but you two were crying as Mommy pulled away.  Grandmoo was able to get you both settled down and you of course, you both reported having a fun time.  Grandmoo says that you both were a bit cranky, and you, Bodhi, had a meltdown at dinner.  Grandmoo said she told you that you didn't have to eat, so you left the room and returned a few minutes later, happy as could be.  I don't know why you have your meltdowns, but you just give yourself a time-out and minutes later you are always fine, smiling and giggling....weirdo! ha/ha  

Daddy picked you both up from Grandmoo's and took you home.  Daddy said you both had bedtime requests for snacks and cups of ice water, but when Daddy returned with your crackers and water, Jude...you had crashed ha/ha  Daddy said neither of you initially wanted to go to bed until Mommy arrived home from work, but neither of you could keep your eyes open :)  

Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes!

Beautiful Sunny Day Outdoors

This morning we had a scheduled check-up appointment for you, Mr. Buddha.  It was your one year ear appointment to check on your second set of tubes, and thankfully so...you have been pulling at your ears since Friday.  Dr. Harmon checked your ears and sure enough, you had developed an ear infection, poor boy!  Dr. Harmon wrote you a prescription and he was so impressed with you and your sister, he dug through one of his drawers and pulled out two certificates for free frosty's from Wendy's.  Dr. Harmon told you two what it was for, but you two figured it out by the picture on it ha/ha and Dr. Harmon told Mommy that he knew where we were going for lunch and that he insisted that you, Jude get one for your throat (you had been saying your teeth were hurting)  :)

So, our next stop was Wendy's. You two ate and enjoyed your frosty's :)  You both were exhausted and cranky after eating.  Mommy had to stop off at Meijers to get your prescription filled.  You both felt much better after Mommy allowed you both to pick out a toy while waiting.  Once in the car you both were whining and fussing.  Mommy decided that you two were going to go down for a nap, but you both had a different plan.  After a couple of hours of battling you both, Mommy said enough is enough.  Mommy got you both re-dressed, and then we went on a walk with the Rudd clan.  We walked and walked and walked.  Then you guys got some play time in the backyard with Kota, Nathan, Norah, and Rowan :)  Sister Kelly arrived just as the Rudd's were getting ready to leave.  Sister Kelly joined us for dinner.  Mommy made baked chicken with rice and green beans, yummmo!  It was a hit :)  Just as we were finishing dinner, Grandmoo arrived :)  She had brought Franklin over to our neighbor (they have officially adopted him) YAY!  They are giving Franklin such a great home, they love cats!  Grandmoo was relieved to be back to just Momma Kitty and Baby Kitty (who solely reside in Grandmoo's sun porch since she too is allergic).  After visiting with Grandmoo, Mommy took you both upstairs to clean your dirty bums :)  Then it was off to dream land for the two of you.  Mommy then got busy cleaning our downstairs.  Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes.

Mommy managed to snap a couple of pictures of you, Bodhi. Jude, you would have awakened and insisted on sleeping with Momma, but Momma needed to clean.

Sunday Clean-Up

All over town Mommy viewed families cleaning up the flood damage.  Mommy couldn't help but feel horrible for the families that were displaced and lost their belongings, we are so lucky that our home is high and dry.  Mommy spoke with our tenant, and her spirits remain high and she is counting her blessings that the basement flooding didn't reach their first floor :)  She is going to call to have some friends come by and check out our water heater and furnace Monday.  

After our overnight adventure with Franklin, Mommy got busy cleaning up your room, Ms. Bodhi.  You told Mommy that Franklin jumped on your bed in the middle of the night (the night before) and said, "Bodhi, Bodhi, Bo, Bo," to which you said you responded, "What, what, what, Franklin?"  HAHAHA!  The funny thing is, Grandmoo warned that Franklin has a routine and that he would probably have a surge of energy and demand that you play with him at some point throughout the night...well, he sure did!  You, Mr. Jude, decided to play in Mr. Franklin's kitty litter box (the few minutes I was not supervising you), luckily Mommy had just cleaned it out.  However, Mommy's stomach dropped when I saw all the kitty litter thrown all OVER the room.  I was furious, so furious I didn't even say anything.  Most of it got cleaned up yesterday before Franklin went home, but today was when the major detail clean-up was initiated.  

You two played, and Mommy cleaned, cleaned, and cleaned some more.  All that cleaning lead to Mommy cleaning out and organizing all your toys, your closet, the entire upstairs, and the downstairs living room.  We have three bags that will be donated.  FYI, we are no longer keeping stuffed animals unless it's a kitty, a dog, or the occasional bunny or pig.  Mommy put back some special stuffed critters, but Mommy will be donating a ton of animals for some lucky children to take home.  Bodhi, you love your kitten collection, and well since having a kitty inside will NOT work, it's all stuffed kitties for you...unless, it's an outside cat that can join Ella and Dora in the kitty mansion.  We all LOVED Franklin, he was such a neat cat, it's really too bad he wouldn't work outside.  He was totally bummed when we returned him yesterday, as were you, Bodhi.  Jude, you love your doggies, but you could honestly care less.  You really aren't into anything, though you have started to like Spider Man, and all things princess :)

On a side note, Mommy found Franklin a great home, and Grandmoo couldn't be happier.  Mr. Franklin will be residing next door until June when his new parents will be moving to their new home.  It's a funny story.  Mommy had noticed that our Baby Ella was hanging out next door an awful lot.  There were also more and more blocks of time that I couldn't find Ella anywhere.  I couldn't figure out where she was going and why she wasn't eating her tuna some nights.  Well, our new neighbors, who are only temporarily living next door, didn't know Ella belonged to us.  They named her "Pancake" and had been taking her inside, feeding her, and loving on her throughout the day ha/ha!  Baby Ella does love attention, and sadly she has missed our companionship over the winter.  Our neighbors had even had one of their family members come over while they were away for a few days to feed Ella...what a sucker!  They report that she loves to watch tv inside, as well as from their porch too.  Well, Franklin is Ella's brother, and they realize that Ella likes to be outside, and they aren't comfortable with allowing her to go outside (especially in the neighborhood of their new home), so rather than adopt our Ella (Mommy just wants her to be happy and  was thinking about allowing them to adopt her) they were excited to meet Franklin (who needs an inside home).  Well, it worked out and Franklin is one happy kitty :)  YAY!

So, back to our Sunday...we all cleaned, organized, and played the day away.  You two discovered new toys, and helped your Mommy move toys from one area to another.  We had a very productive day, and though it doesn't sound like much fun, you two thoroughly enjoyed rediscovering some of your old "new" toys :)

Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes.  Thank goodness we have your ear check-up tomorrow Jude man.  You have been picking at your ears, and your nose will not quit running.  We'll get you some medicine tomorrow.  

Flood Waters

Today and most of this past week has been times of concern for widespread destruction of property (and in some places loss of life) due to flood waters. Daddy made his way cautiously through the city to his Saturday morning workplace The Family Services Association building on South Main Street to facilitate his domestic violence program. Essentially, the only open north-south corridors through the city were U.S. 31., Dixon Road and Apperson Way---this needless to say has impacted traffic congestion and made travel difficult. The downtown area near the Kokomo High School gymnasium was incredible, and sad, to witness!

Once home from work, Mommy and you Jude Liam made your way cautiously over to check on Grandma—her home (and our house being sold on contract) on South Leeds Street was perilously close to destruction—thank goodness the flood waters came up short in penetrating Grandma’s house! You and Mommy took Franklin back over, as we simply couldn’t house him anymore due to your allergies, BodhiL. The two of you spent time with Grandma and witnessed for yourselves how close Grandma came to disasterL.  The basement in our old house was completely filled with flood water, clear to the second step just before the first floor.  We will be anxiously waiting to hear the final damage and if we continue to have a contract sale. 

Most of our remaining day together, once Mommy and Buddha returned home, was spent lying around the house; Daddy developed a fever and was frankly very much out of commission and as each of you noted, an ass.

Later in the evening, Sister Kelly and Brother Aaron and Brother Sean Frankie came by, Daddy and Brother Sean made a run to Sam’s Club to look for some items of interest to Brother Sean in anticipation of his move to an apartment at the end of this month. Brother Sean found a tv stand he is perhaps interested in returning with Mommy or Daddy and purchasing in a week or so.

Once back home, Daddy made a run to purchase some Pizza King ham and cheese subs and Stromboli’s for all of us to enjoy for dinner. Sister Kelly and Brother Aaron brought over some films to watch, including Wreck it Ralph which was a major big hit with both of you, Bodhi and BuddhaJ. They also brought an adult film dvd recently released for us to watch after babies settled in for the night, but Daddy ended up settling in for the night before anyone so there was no viewing of the grown-up movieL, a recent critically acclaimed film about slavery directed by Quentin Tarantino. 

All-in-all, the weekend carried the heavy weight of anxiety brought on by flood waters, and a fever Daddy just couldn’t shake (and a “grumpiness” Daddy is also sad to confess) and little to especially note by way of focusing positive energy on our two baby angels; still, we celebrate loving family and an opportunity to witness the miracle of two beautiful, special children remaining the center of attention in a wonderfully beautiful home---and certainly we do not fail to recognize our many blessings!

“Night, night.”

Worst Flood On Record

All that rain this week finally caught up with us! Aunt Dianna sent Momma a text stating,  the Kokomo Tribune is reporting, "The Howard County Commissioners have declared a state of emergency extending through at least the next seven days.  Also, the ity of Kokomo has issued a press release declaring this the worst flood on record.  The water is 18.34 feet above the base of Wildcat Creek and is the highest recorded since the gauge was installed in 1950."  

Needless to say, our day started in pure panic and ended in pure panic.  Mommy called Grandmoo to get updates.  Mommy was also receiving texts from our tenants of our previous home.  Mommy jumped in the shower, got you two dressed, and then we battled the traffic to get over the one bridge (on Apperson) that wasn't flooded.  You two were amazed seeing all the homes under water as we drove downtown.  Jude, you of course wanted to go swimming in it, and Bodhi, you are so smart...you responded to brother with "Bubby it's poop water, look how dirty it is ha/ha!"  The entire 20 minute car ride to Grandmoo's (that usually takes less than 2 minutes) was filled with, "Mommy, look, Momma what's that?!"  We eventually made it, and Mommy's heart sank.  Grandmoo was at risk of losing everything, and Mommy anticipated our tenants telling us they were done...not to mention the potential damage this flood could do to our old house, uggggh!

Jude, you watched out the window in Grandmoo's guest bedroom in amazement.  Grandmoo and Bodhi were visiting the cats and had no idea where you were.  Mommy was outside talking the neighbors, so when I came inside and couldn't find you, I was freaking out.  Well, there you were, standing at the window talking to yourself ha/ha!  You two and Mommy couldn't talk Grandmoo into coming and staying with us.  She said if her house was going to float away, she was going to watch it!  Mommy talked Grandmoo into allowing us to at least take Franklin, a cat that had just been returned, and waiting for a new home.  So we packed Franklin up and headed home.  Mommy got Daddy's office all cleaned up and ready for Grandmoo should she decide to come over for the night.  Grandmoo talked both the electric company and the gas company into leaving her utilities on.  Grandmoo says Great Papaw Grills taught her enough to make her sound like she knows what she's doing...she told them that she could turn the utilities off should she become flooded :)  Grandmoo was the only one in the neighborhood with heat, but four other families benefited from Grandmoo and were permitted to keep their electricity on because of Grandmoo's smooth talking ha/ha!  

All of Grandmoo's furniture and rugs were elevated as much as possible, and then we prayed and had our fingers crossed.  Grandmoo was told at the time we were there visiting, the water was expected to rise another three feet, uggggh!  At least Grandmoo doesn't have a basement to worry about.

Rainy Day Thursday

This morning was a busy Thursday morning, per our usual Thursday morning routine.  It was another gloomy rainy day, the rain keeps coming.  Mommy got us all packed up and dropped you two off at GiGi's and Gi-Pa's house by 1:30 p.m.  Mommy then headed to Lafayette for work, and I received several text messages from Daddy..."drive carefully,"  "watch for flooding,"  and "be very careful, the roads are flooding."  Ha/ha, your Daddy is always stressing when it comes to bad weather conditions.  

Mommy took you both inside, but you, Buddha, didn't want your Momma to leave.  This was a FIRST.  GiGi couldn't believe it, little guy didn't want to be at GiGi's and Gi-Pa's!!!  Buddha wanted his Mommy.  You did change your tune quickly however :)  GiGi said, "Ohhhhh Juders, you don't want to stay with GiGi?"  You immediately said, "yes!" Ha/ha  You still didn't want Mommy to leave though.  

GiGi reports that you flipped a switch on the treadmill when no one was looking Jude.  GiGi and Gi-Pa couldn't get it to work, and you, Buddha chimed in, "I will fix it," and you flipped the switch hee/hee  Yep, that did it.  Bodhi, when Mommy arrived to pick you up, you barged in on Mommy while I ran to use the potty.  You quickly reported, "Mommy, I got into it with GiGi."  Say what???  Turns out, you and your sicky and fevering brother, both decided that you both wanted GiGi's attention and wanted GiGi to rock you---and not the other.  Oh boy.  GiGi of course didn't know what to do, and was even in tears when telling the story, good grief.  Gi-Pa luckily stepped in and grabbed you, Jude man.  GiGi is something else.  She said she could never pick between the two of you and it broke her heart.  You both recovered quickly, thankfully.  GiGi however was up all night worried sick about the both of you, uggggh!  You two survived, as did GiGi ha/ha!

Apparently it was pile on Gi-Pa time :)-

Mommy’s Little Ducklings

Daddy refers to you two as Mommy’s little ducklings.  You both are never far from right behind me, if not on top of me, especially recently.  This morning, Buddha, you woke your Momma with your usual chatter and singing, followed by rubbing my face and then laying right on top of my back ha/ha, good grief.  Aunt Dianna sent Mommy a text telling Mommy to, “GET UP, TIME TO WALK.”  Well, not really, she sent me the weather forecast for the day (as if I have any concentration in the morning ha/ha)  and then decided when we could go and avoid the rain J  Aunt Dianna is a morning person (though she’ll tell you not by choice) and Mommy is a night owl, so we've been taking turns taking our walk to accommodate our individual preferences ha/ha  This morning was Aunt Dianna’s day J  Buddha, you were up and at em’, “Yay, I get to see Norah and Kota and Rowan….”  Mommy had you dressed and ready to roll.  You, Ms. Bodhi, were all curled up in a ball in your bed (with a pillow over your head, just like your Daddy).  You said you didn't want to go, so Mommy said ok, you can stay with Daddy while Mommy and Bubby meet up with Dianna.  It didn’t take you long and you were up, smiling, and also ready to go.  It was a bit colder than the past few days, so Mommy put sweat suits on you, and grabbed some blankets for the stroller.  You two loved it.  We walked and walked and walked!

After our walk, Mommy took you both inside and fed you breakfast.  Bodhi, you requested oatmeal, and Buddha, you wanted “Wally cereal.”  You both ate and then ran around like wild critters.  It wasn't long before you two wanted lunch.  Mommy made you both tamales for the first time, or “Dora Tamales.”  You both LOVED the tamales.  Buddha, you weren't crazy about the crust (crazy boy) but you loved the beef inside.  Bodhi, you ate every bit of your tamale, and then reported that it was the best lunch you have ever eaten.  Mommy loves Mexican food too J

After lunch, you both went and curled up with your Daddy on his couch in his office.  Daddy had been complaining about his back, so he slept all morning (after going to a doctor’s appointment a day early-your Daddy has done lost it).  Mommy got you two settled with Daddy and then I was off to the animal shelter to walk doggies.  Purdue was there fixing animals, so Mommy had some extra help walking the hounds in between surgeries.  Mommy managed to get all the dogs walked, such a great feeling!  I then rushed to Lucas Home Furnishings to pick up our new couch cushion covers, to replace the ones that ripped after washing.  Mommy got to see Kandi Lucas, and catch-up J  They are such great people.  Mommy then rushed home just in time for Daddy to leave for his presentation thingy- it’s Daddy’s last Wednesday session J 

Mommy took you both outside to play (yes, Mommy is going to be pooped by the time you two go to bed).  You both played in the sandbox, helped Mommy spread grass seed and straw, pulled some weeds, and scooped a few piles of poop.  Mommy had put chicken in the oven to bake while we played/worked in the yard.  Jude, you didn’t nap today, and Daddy says you were a handful while Mommy was gone (I don’t think you were all that bad, obviously Daddy wasn’t closely supervising you because you destroyed you and your sister’s rooms I later discovered after my long day).  Once we got our yard seeded, and you two were through with swinging, sliding, and making sand cupcakes and sand coffee, we headed inside.  Jude you were past fussy at this point.  Mommy decided to throw you both in a bath prior to dinner (yes, we are going to be eating late) but Jude, you were in major meltdown and the idea of a bath calmed you down.  After a quick bath, Mommy got you dressed and ready for bed.  Mommy managed to cook the noodles while you two were playing in the bath, so Mommy finished up dinner, by this time we were all starving!  Mommy made you each a plate of chicken noodles, cream corn, and mashed potatoes J  It was delicious, and we all gobbled it down.  Mommy fed the kitties, watered the dogs, picked up the house, did the dishes and then it was on to bed, for all of us!  Daddy arrived home just as I was putting you both to bed.  Daddy surprised Mommy with a Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha, YUM!  After enjoying my coffee, Mommy fell asleep.  Sweet dreams my sweet sweet babes!  J

Hahahahah sucker!  Mommy just discovered this picture of Aunt Dianna on her camera :)

Our peppers have sprouted, finally!

That's a tattoo on your arm Jude man, not a bruise :)-

Hello Sweet Pepper :)

Another Day, Another Project

These past several weeks have been particularly grueling at work for Daddy, one project after another, each inevitably impinging on our family time and distancing Daddy from his babies and his best friend. Today witnessed the completion of another project, the product of Daddy nearly pulling an all-nighter (someday, the two of you will understandJ), which anymore is much more than all Daddy can give. Wow!

Daddy barely had time to respond to the familiar summons of a little boy standing at the top of the stairs, pleading “Michael…Michael…are you down there?” So Daddy (MichaelJ) stopped the flow of his near all-nighter to respond to that plea with gifts of grapes for a little boy and a little girl in exchange for some morning kisses and a cup of strawberry coffee with sugar and cream for Mommy in exchange for promises of kissesJ. Mommy then responded to Daddy’s plea for help and took over finishing breakfast for babies, and then being smothered by attention from the two of you as you attempted to make up lost Daddy quality timeL.

Daddy had to get off to work, then Mommy undertook the business of getting both of you dressed and completing a project of your own in preparing a starter garden for later transfer to our outdoor as yet undesignated garden spotJ. Mommy of course also prepared lunch for the two of you and played songs on our kitchen radio so the two of you could dance for herJ.

Mommy then made off to Grandma’s house with her precious cargo, so that Grandma could take over the charge of entertaining and being entertained by two special baby angels. Mommy then had to find her way to Lafayette to go to work until late in the evening (Daddy texted Mommy to please be careful, as Daddy always worries about the roads flooding when heavy rain occurs; Daddy always flirts with Mommy once he starts texting her and had to be told to stop because Mommy was to busyJ).

When Daddy finished work at school, he then went to his Domestic Violence Intervention Program facilitator job and worked until just past 8:00 p.m. After work there, Daddy gathered up some pinwheels and prevent child abuse plastic cups as gifts for each of you and rushed to the grocery store to pick up some grapes and apples to fulfill his pledge to both of you that Daddy would bring home a treat for you. It was approaching 8:30 p.m. when Daddy finally got to Grandma’s and Grandma was waiting out front with each of you decked out in your pajamasJ. Grandma said you both were angels, as usual, as she assisted Daddy in loading you in the car, and after some “see you later alligator’s” we finally were able to go home.

Daddy herded each of you willingly to your beds and embraced each of you with hugs and kisses and extra hugs and kisses on behalf of Mommy, and Ms. Bodhi and Mr. Buddha were soon in dream landJ. Daddy made his tired-ass way downstairs, fed the kitties, did the dishes, put away groceries and settled in to complete a journal entry and eagerly await Mommy coming home from work. Whew…another day, another project. “Night, night!”

PS During breakfast, you two out of the blue, started talking about missing Great Papaw Grills in Tennessee.  Mommy quickly told you two to stop and wait to finish your conversation after I got Daddy's cell phone ha/ha!