tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57051803714109239452024-03-13T13:55:25.048-04:00The Tovsky TribeTwo were Twins, Three were a Trifecta, but Four, Four makes us Tribe!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger590125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-27170828752964643632019-07-10T00:47:00.000-04:002019-07-10T00:48:55.127-04:00A Letter to my Sons As they become Teenagers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Dear Chase and Ryder,</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 13th birthday</td></tr>
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13 comes after 12. I've known this since I was a toddler learning to count. So, why is it that the dawn of 13 feels awkward, almost unnatural? My baby boys are teenagers and every bit of your being, your size, your attitude proves this to be true.<br />
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I don't remember exactly when it was that you stopped climbing in bed with me in the middle night. Nor do I know when you no longer wanted me to tuck you into your own bed. Both things seem like yesterday and 100 years ago since the last time. Now, you don't remember to call me when you arrive home (and I am not there) or to even call me when you arrive somewhere else. You barely check-in while you are out. I know you are teenagers, you're busy, and social, and can't be expected to remember to call mom, or even text me. I mean, it isn't as if your phones are glued to your hands. :) I also know that there is no way for you to understand, maybe not until you are the father to a teenager or maybe not at all, that as your mom I am connected to you- the cord was cut long ago but the connection to the heartbeat never gets cut- and I worry, and I like to hear your voice, hear your smile, remind you that you're loved. I know how that must sound to you. I was a teenager once too. Even if you don't believe that.<br />
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Ryder, not too long ago, you would come downstairs after a night's sleep and see if you were taller than me yet. This time last year you were not. Then one day in the last year, I am not even sure when, you came down and were my height for the day. Literally, for the day. The next day you were taller. And, every day since you've been growing and growing and growing. You are close to two inches taller than me, your feet are almost a size 11, you wear adult sized clothing and raid dad's closet, your voice is deeper, your shoulders are broader, your muscles are becoming more defined, and you have the slightest mustache (but are not ready to shave.) And, this is the beginning. You are just starting to grow and mature and become a man.<br />
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Chase, your face has changed and widened (partially due to the expander you recently got,) and you just look more mature. You broke 5 feet and 90 pounds which caused for a full sprinted run celebration around the house. And, though you are not quite my height yet, I am pretty sure this will be the last birthday letter I write that I can say I am taller than you. I will revel in that for one more moment.<br />
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Even with the changes, the growth, the aging, I look at you both, as these newly minted teenagers, and I see your baby faces as if they are superimposed over the faces of the young men you are. I still see Ryder's huge, brown, almond-shaped eyes filled with wonder and passion. I still see Chase's cavern-sized dimples that are filled with charm and wit. I suppose I will always see you this way.<br />
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Your 13th birthday comes at a time when we have been suffering through a very painful year. The year began with dad's unemployment on 1/2/2019. In early February we were met with the news that Uncle Marc, who had been battling dementia, had a short time remaining. His imminent death came just after his birthday and, to mark the day in the worst possible way, it was the same day that Pop-Pop was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. We buried Uncle Marc then spent the next 5 weeks with Pop-Pop before his untimely death brought our world apart, particularly my world. I don't mention all of this as a way to bring you down, but I do find it important to document because it has been the worst time in my life and the hurdles I've been jumping, continue to jump, are sure to have affected you both in ways I haven't even fully been aware. I am so sorry for any pain you have been feeling through this difficult time. The onset of your teenage years is even more relevant, however, as it is a highlight in otherwise dark time. We always celebrated your birthday and Pop-Pops together (his was July 9th) marking this year in a difficult way. I know Pop-Pop meant a lot to you both and I hope that you treasure the impact he had on your childhood and let his lessons continue to mold you as you become adults.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last birthday you were able to celebrate with Pop-Pop- your 12th his 79th</td></tr>
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It is much harder to document the year that has passed now that you are older and barely fill me in on your lives. This year started with Ryder doing a skate camp where he earned the skate camp champ award. Soon after, you attended a Rock Camp at Coyles where you spent the week learning to play bass in a band. The week ended with an awesome concert. It was really fun to watch and you had so much fun. Soon after that you got your tonsils removed. Your recovery was much better than expected, you were a great patient, and your dosing of laughing gas prior to your surgery gave us all a good laugh. Chase, you ended your summer with your first hockey tournament with your new team (where you could wear #28 again.) Being the only "new kid" on the team I guess you felt you had to prove your worth because your team won the tournament, undefeated, and you had 10 points (8 goals and 2 assists on the weekend.) And, you both started training for your bar mitzvah.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skate Camp Champ</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock Camp Jam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back at it with Wildcats Pee Wee AA</td></tr>
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September brought the start of 7th grade and middle school. You were both so excited to begin and seemed to have a pretty easy transition. You both made some new friends, while holding on tightly to your old friends, and managed to handle school pretty well with the independence that was given. Chase you played soccer for HMS, which was fun though you didn't win one game. Chase you maintained very good grades, were in all honors classes, and was on honor roll, high honors, or better every marking period. Ryder, you did pretty well, when you wanted to, your biggest issue being, as usual, your own self. Occasionally you would forget to hand in the homework you completed and other times you didn't bring it home at all. But, in spite of that, you maintained good grades and had two marking periods on honor roll, as well.<br />
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Your social lives picked up, you made plans without talking to me, and you rarely fill me in on what you're doing or what's going on. Luckily, you do still bring your friends arounds and I love it when you have them here. A lot of your social life was around the bar and bat mitzvahs you were attending. This is part of being 13, but it was still nice for me to see you dressed up and acting like young gentlemen.<br />
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Ryder you had another year playing basketball only this time you were on one of the best teams in the league, you had great coaches, and you had a real opportunity to improve your game with coaches who could help you. Ethan was on your team, which was great, and you did a great job, played well, got a lot of rebounds, and had so much fun. After basketball ended you started lacrosse. You moved up to the A level this, 7th and 8th graders, and though your team was not great you played very, very well on attack, scored a lot of the team's goals, and improved. Your team saved the last game of the season for the big win. It was awesome.<br />
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Chase you had a great season of hockey. This year marked your 3rd and final year as a Wildcat. It marked your 2nd and final year at the Pee Wee level. It marked your first year playing AA hockey and on Jules Tarsi's team, a team he has been working with for many years. It was your best season of hockey yet. The coaching was amazing, the practices were amazing, the competition was really good, your teammates were really good, and you made you some amazing friends. So did I. We all really loved this team and it is sad that it is now done. Even though you were moving on to Bantam regardless, the Wildcats organization folded come season's end and you played your final game as a Wildcat ever. At the banquet you received the special Coaches award and were applauded for your hard work, focus, and all around great character. You lead the team in points, goals, and assists, and you were a leader on and off the ice for the team. We are so very proud of you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last time in a Wildcats uniform</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the coaches and the "coaches award<br />
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In late March, you both were loving and supportive grandsons and shaved your heads in support of Pop-Pop's battle. Your gesture was kind, your love was apparent, and you both looked so cute with buzz cuts.<br />
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In June we went camping with the crew again and had the annual last day of school party. We were busy and enjoyed life despite the struggles we have endured since January. And, though I just recapped some highlights of the past year, you are teenagers now, teenagers who don't think they need their mother all that much, so I find it important to talk about the future.<br />
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We celebrated your birthday with a small family party and a few friends who slept over. It was fun. The big party comes in September when we celebrate your B'nai mitzvah.<br />
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Teenagers are more social, more independent, believe they know everything there is to know, and love to flex their muscle through grunts and attitude. You are no different than typical teenagers, it seems. But, with this independence and active social life and interest in girls comes more responsibility. We expect more from you and will demand it as necessary. Big decisions will stare you in the face more often than you realize and you will have to choose what path to follow. I hope you dig down deep into who you are and choose the right path, do the right thing, be who you are, and walk away when necessary. Of course, you will make mistakes, you will choose wrong. All I ask is that you learn from your mistakes and never, ever be afraid to talk to me about it. I will always support you and will always help you get through anything.<br />
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Continue to have good friends and be a good friend. Having a supportive circle makes the big decisions easier to make. Be respectful, always. To each other, to others, to adults, and especially to girls. Always. You will break some hearts, and you will likely have your heart broken, but that is all a part of growing up and you will get through it. Nothing is too hard to overcome. Don't ever forget that.<br />
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Try to work on being better brother's- to each other and to Turner. You are both really good to Decker. I know the sibling relationship is one to easily take for granted but it won't be too long from now that you will realize that there is no better friend, no better teammate, than your very own brother. Respect that, your lucky to have each other and two others.<br />
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I have a hard time accepting that you are teenagers. I get upset on the days you tell me I am ruining your life, even though I know it is just the teen attitude talking. But, every single moment of every single day I marvel at the wonders of you both. Your differences, your similarities, the way your balance each other out. You are both kind and funny. You are smart. Ryder you are creative and passionate and sensitive and adventurous. Chase you are charming and witty and sweet. I am so very proud to be your mom and I love you so.<br />
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Happy 13th birthday!<br />
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<a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2018/07/a-letter-to-my-sons-on-their-12th.html">12th birthday letter</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-86140351007800499862019-05-06T14:23:00.001-04:002019-05-07T11:43:42.167-04:00I Love You, Dad! I Miss You, Dad! You're in my heart forever and ever!I've done, I do, a terrible job of keeping this blog up to date. Birthday letters get published months after the date, if at all, and milestones I want to write about collect as drafts in the unpublished file. It shouldn't come as a surprise, time management is not my forte (good thing I am cute<b>:)</b>. But, I am taking a moment to publish the eulogy I wrote for my dad because HE deserves a space dedicated to him. A space I can go back and reflect, a place all of us can reflect on.<br />
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It happens to be the 5 year anniversary of the passing of Jamie. I don't know how it has been that long. I do know that the pain hasn't lessened much though it is easier to breathe now than it was in May 2014. I still, we all still, miss him every day. We think about him, we talk about him, and he lives on. Through our love. Although I still get sad to think that he has passed, I do always smile with my memories of him. I hear his very specific annunciation of words, a sort of mixed dialect of accents. I hear his laugh, especially every time Todd makes a joke. Each time I cook a recipe he would like, or play a game he loved to play. 5 years he is gone, yet he is never, ever far from where we are.<br />
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I use that as a lesson, I guess. Dad's only been gone three weeks. Three weeks today. The pain is still severe. I very often still have an inability to breathe, and I still breakdown into tears for what seems like no reason at all. His death remains surreal. I will forget at times, then be stabbed by the reality of it as if there is an actual knife in my heart. I know it won't get better. I know it won't ever hurt less. I do hope it does get a little easier to live without him. And, I know, like Jamie, he will live on in my heart.<br />
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Decker and I have a bedtime routine. I ask him a series of a questions, he answers, then I kiss him goodnight. It started when he got upset that I was leaving the room even though he was ready to go to bed. I told him "I leave the bedroom, but I am still with him." Then the routine started. It goes like this:<br />
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Me: What kind of sleep do I want you to get?<br />
Him: GOOD NIGHT SLEEP<br />
Me: What kind of dreams do I want you to have?<br />
Him: SWEET DREAMS<br />
Me: How much do I love you?<br />
Him: SO MUCH<br />
Me: Where do I stay when I leave the room?<br />
Him: IN MY HEART<br />
Me: For how long?<br />
Him: FOREVER AND EVER<br />
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This is a routine I cherish. His brother's think it is cute, too and were disappointed to learn it was never a part of their routine (we had our own things.) But, when dad died, these ending lines became so relevant. It was how I explained to Decker what it meant that Pop-Pop had died. It was part of the explanation that we couldn't see Pop-Pop any more, we couldn't talk to him, but just like when I leave your room at night, he is in our hearts forever and ever. Decker liked it. So, did I. I am not sure if the message was for him or for me. Maybe both. Probably all of us.<br />
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There's no doubt he is with me every day, but it doesn't change the fact that I miss him, terribly. I love you, dad, You're in my heart forever and ever!<br />
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Here are the words I spoke at his funeral.<br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"My dad played tennis against Arthur Ashe. He threw a football, with nothing less than perfect spiral, over the roof of the neighbor’s house to win the throwing contest. He was the American Legion batting champ. He hit more homeruns than, well, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">everyone</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. He didn’t start playing tennis until high school and, yet, still managed to excel quickly and become a full-scholarship athlete before going on to become a tennis pro. We’ve all heard these stories. We’ve heard them </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">repeatedly</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> over the years, even here today. We have heard them so many times that you all know how each one ends. But, the funny thing is, I realize now that this repetition, it was for us, so that we would never forget the stories, forget his legacy- Not then, and certainly not now that we won’t be able to hear him tell them anymore.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is no denying it- my dad was a great athlete. But, as I tell my sons as they aspire towards their own athletic dreams, “the athlete does not make the man. The man makes the athlete. Character will always trump skill, hard work will always beat out talent.” And, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">that </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">is the summary of my dad. He may have talked a boastful game, and his “Successes” certainly grew as he got older, but they were just the stories. In life, he was humble and kind. He never let his talents be enough, he never rested on them nor took them for granted. He worked HARD for everything. He practiced tirelessly and never stopped learning or improving. When I was growing up, he insisted on that same level of work and practice from </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">me</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, his poetic and scattered daughter, and he was the reason I had success in many things. Because he pushed me. He studied with me. He made sure that I got in my hundred pitches a day, along with my wrist flips and the weight lifting, even though I would have rather been talking to my friends on the phone. It was 10pm and there was 6 ft. of snow outside, it didn’t matter, he handed me a pair of boots, and said the weight of the snow would be good resistance for my legs and would help me become a faster pitcher. He was right, of course. Though I never had his level of discipline, I admired his determination and his ethic, was grateful for his belief in me and I never, ever wanted to let him down.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">I was fortunate because my dad was my team’s coach, so all of my friends knew him He was the coach for all the pick-up games in the neighborhood and cheered everyone on as we swung for the fences. He always made it a point to know the important people in my life, even as an adult. I spoke to him almost daily and though he always wanted to first know how I was doing, and Todd, and what each of the boys were up to, he would also always ask about different friends of mine and just had a genuine interest in their lives. He loved people, and a friend of mine was a friend of his. He had a nickname, or a quip, or an antecdote, for just about everyone. Most of you are probably repeating his one liner about you right now. </span></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was daddy’s little girl, literally right up until Monday. I may be in my 40’s and have a slew of boys who call me mom, but don’t be fooled, I am still daddy’s little girl who cried in his arms until his very last breath. I looked up to him my entire life. When I was a kid I walked around the basement in his University of Maryland letterman jacket. Wearing it, I felt like the champion I knew he was. I wanted to grow up to be just like him- Though I didn’t follow his exact path, his footsteps were just too big to fill and I was never any good at tennis, I find that I am just like him in all of the ways I didn’t expect - like Every time I can’t find my keys, or when I triple check for my wallet that is exactly where I left it- and, each time I repeat a story or a forget a name, or use 5 stirrers to stir my Wawa coffee, I am reminded that I have, if nothing else, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">his charming aloofness.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> But, I hope to be even a little bit like him in all of the ways that made him special.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He was kind, and gentle, and simple. He was funny, and silly, and found himself to be</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> quite amusing.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> He was determined and focused in the areas he chose to be and never slowed down in his commitment to working towards excellence.He was a man of great character, deep loyalty, and strong conviction. He was a champion, right up til the end. He loved his work, his family, his friends, and his patients, and lead a life of decency. He has always guided me, my moral compass was always aligned to his, he was always my North star.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"> I get sick when I think that my dad is no longer here to help lead me, or to be a part of the memories and the laughs. My heart breaks when I think how Decker, my youngest son, will need the help of his brothers and all of us around him to even remember my dad. I cry as I realize that I can’t give him a hug or throw a ball with him or hear one of his many impersonations. Though the pain is insufferable, without me even realizing it, my dad prepared me for THIS day, the day I would have to continue on without him, my entire life. By filling my heart with support and encouragement and unconditional love, he prepared me. By teaching me that hard work is the only work and excellence can be achieved, he prepared me. By modeling kindness and gratitude and generosity, he prepared me. By finding the lighter side of things and making me laugh he prepared me. By always putting his wife, his children, his family first, he prepared me. By building my character on the foundation of his own, he- prepared- me - For this day- for this time- when I would no longer have him here with me, he prepared me and gave me everything I need to move forward, he imparted it in my brain and cultivated it in my heart, and I know he will always be with me, and my children. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Our lives are better because you were in it, dad, I love you so! "</span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-76792592109727333702019-01-09T10:14:00.000-05:002019-07-06T10:23:41.629-04:00A letter to my son on his 10th birthdayDear Turner,<br />
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Double High Fives for my favorite ten-year-old. Double Digits. Tweendom. 4th grade. Big kid. All of these are accurate descriptions of your age, your life stage, but none of them sum up the core of who you are.<br />
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Your 9th year got off to a memorable start as your (our) beloved Eagles made a remarkable playoff run which led them to becoming Super Bowl Champs. All of this was under the helm of "back-up" quarterback, Nick Foles, after MVP candidate Carson Wentz went down with a season-ending injury late in the season. We all watched, and cheered, and wore Eagles green in pride for the four weeks between season ending and their journey to being the Champions. Of course, every world championship comes with a victory parade- and on a very cold day in February we joined the many millions in the sea of green to celebrate our beloved underdogs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXm1LA8kdOsn4OxePoJBDP10Xhxv7UjXVL8JHq8gMgv5zNtR4g_4-maNw9qfp6rhVDmbLm3pEdysPKeH7tZEVNJJ5ftNW3RitfhBTxilys8pIvJG6QVVZsHDZjEcs8F5xxeAEcQQyW7Jw/s1600/IMG_2345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXm1LA8kdOsn4OxePoJBDP10Xhxv7UjXVL8JHq8gMgv5zNtR4g_4-maNw9qfp6rhVDmbLm3pEdysPKeH7tZEVNJJ5ftNW3RitfhBTxilys8pIvJG6QVVZsHDZjEcs8F5xxeAEcQQyW7Jw/s320/IMG_2345.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating our birds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ADs7RleaFOmuUOwdI6mjmMYEQnlrfKGe7wJCNMLzR3Yg8JG3H-z2uQ1UfAeHxmpy-SVM6KQolbzwjMEe8XwBtH9_ta9EvSCksmNY_TY0c7N-tXjlr_NImzhhOxMTZUMgK5ZVUs_cNwU/s1600/IMG_6755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ADs7RleaFOmuUOwdI6mjmMYEQnlrfKGe7wJCNMLzR3Yg8JG3H-z2uQ1UfAeHxmpy-SVM6KQolbzwjMEe8XwBtH9_ta9EvSCksmNY_TY0c7N-tXjlr_NImzhhOxMTZUMgK5ZVUs_cNwU/s320/IMG_6755.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The moment they became Superbowl Champs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption">The Eagles Parade</td></tr>
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It seems appropriate to begin your birthday letter with this memorable event because there is no bigger sports fan than you. You love to watch (and re-watch) every game and highlight from every sport. You know stats and details and can analyze with the best of them. You still collect your football and basketball cards and take great pride in keeping them neat and organized. You and your buddies love to trade and we can easily bring a smile to your face by presenting you with a pack of cards. You even love to watch your brothers' games and can offer them coaching advice as you breakdown each play.<br />
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You are not just a spectator, as you play sports too. You enjoyed another great basketball season with all of your close buddies on your team. You played your first season of lacrosse, which you enjoyed very much. And, under the strict tutelage of Mike Pohar, you are gaining a real understanding and sharper skill for the game. And, this past fall you played your first season of travel soccer. Your team won your division with an undefeated season in league play and you had a great time. Considering this was the second time since you were 5 that you played organized soccer you had a great season, learned so much, and improved as a player. As you continue your training and development, I know there are a lot of great things to come.<br />
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You finished out a fantastic 3rd grade school year. What started out as a little disappointing, being separated from most of your crew and not getting the teacher you had hoped for, ended up being great. Mrs. Cerra was a great teacher who really made your year fun. You started off the first 6 weeks of school being the top points earner for Class Dojo, after a while she couldn't even reward you points anymore because you were so far ahead of everyone else. You formed friendships with new kids and remained close to your group of friends. During your conference Mrs. Cerra began with one word, repeated 3 times, and written all in caps: KIND, KIND, KIND. She went on about your kindness, and your leadership, and your ability to help friends and show patience. Turner, we could not be more proud of you for hearing these remarkable traits being so evident in the classroom. I am thrilled that you let your heart and soul shine through amongst your peers and you do so in a way that is charming and compelling and makes me people want to be around you.<br />
4th grade began on a very high note with "new" teacher Ms. Shanberg, who is proving to be fantastic, and so many buddies in your class, and halfway through the year it is turning out to be your best year yet.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First day of 4th grade</td></tr>
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You are a dynamic being. You know everything but not in a know-it-all sort of way. You hear everything, which only reinforces and confirms everything you already know. You are kind and sweet, yet strong and tough. You are sensitive, yet can turn on the rage against your brother's in a heartbeat. And, when you do, no one wants to be in your way. You can rough and tumble with the guys or curl up for a snuggle and a movie or enjoy a quiet board game. You can play by yourself, have imagination, and still break into song and dance on a whim.<br />
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You have an amazing group of friends, a crew who are each sweet, and funny, and athletic in their own way, and when you're all together it is fun to watch. You love to socialize, both with your crew and with your brother and their friends who, in many ways, are your friends too. And, you like to socialize amongst the adults, as well. And, somehow, even at 10 years old, you can talk amongst us almost as if you belong.<br />
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We went to Niagara Falls this past year. Though we went for hockey we all had a great time. Seeing the Falls in the middle of the winter is a sight to be seen and we are lucky we got to enjoy it together. You favorite food is Tacos and it has even become your nickname and this past years halloween costume. Your favorite tv show is Survivor and AGT and your favorite movie is an inappropriate viewing of The Hangover, which is hilarious, so I can't blame you.<br />
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You are active and wise and just starting to develop a bit of the 10-year old attitude that I remember your brothers getting around the same time. You're in a difficult position, being sandwiched between twin older brothers and a baby brother, and I hope you know that I know this. I know that it can be a struggle but there is never a moment that you don't stand out. You are smart beyond your years. You are responsible. You are a hard worker. You know the rules and you follow them. You like things a particular way. You are funny and silly and like to be a part of the joke. At home, you try to keep up with Chase and Ryder, but among your friends you are a leader. The parents joke you will be the frat house president, and they are probably right. You are fun and in control and people like to be around you, even with your smelly feet.<br />
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You are a big kid, taller than almost all of your friends and almost as tall as Chase at 56 inches. This is almost 3 inches of growth from last year. You are strong, and broad, and weigh 108 lbs. You wear a size 5 shoe and every time I turn around you are bigger, and taller, and stronger.<br />
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We celebrated your 10th birthday all week long. You had the crew sleepover on Friday, where you enjoyed a taco bar, an ice cream bar, and endless rounds of mini-hockey. The next day you played basketball and watched hockey. On Sunday, you had the crew return to watch the Eagles play the Bears in a nail biting play off game that ended with the Eagles as the victors after the famous "double doink" missed field goal by the Bears kicker. Then, on Monday, you and I and Michael and Denise went to the Flyers game and watched the terrible Flyers get beat up by the even worse Blues in the debut game of the new head coach Craig Berube. We had so much fun and I am pretty sure 10 got off to a great start.<br />
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Turner, you are an amazing kid. I wish you wouldn't doubt yourself and would recognize your talents and your skills for all that you are. You are so many wonderful things and have more strengths than most kids your age. Take hold, my dear boy, you are destined for great things.<br />
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Happy birthday, Turner. I love you so.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">birthday shirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">make a wish</td></tr>
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<a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2018/01/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-9th-birthday.html">9th Birthday Letter</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-36166958196806985972018-07-08T15:00:00.000-04:002019-07-07T09:08:21.514-04:00A Letter to my Sons on their 12th Birthday.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear Chase and Ryder,</div>
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TWELVE! I count up by one each year but the math never makes any sense. A dozen years ago you both made me a mom. A dozen years ago seems like a lifetime ago and a blink of an eye all at once. A dozen years and one day ago I had no idea how deep love could run. Nor how a dimpled smile could light up a room or a deep belly laugh could echo for hours. I didn't know a cuddly hug could melt my stress to nothing nor that a deep gaze into hazy, almond shaped eyes would touch my soul. A dozen years and a day ago there was so much I didn't know. You two and your brothers have been my teacher, my muse.<br />
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I look at you both in awe most days. Chase, though you look older, of course, your face is almost exactly the same as it was when you were a baby. You have gotten taller, even if the marks on the door jam indicate otherwise, and you just have a more mature look to you that doesn't allow me to deny this growing up thing. Not even for a bit. Ryder, unlike Chase, your look has changed since you were a baby, though you are still handsome as ever (:)-) Everyday you are taller and bigger, though you like to measure yourself against me, you're not there yet. Soon enough I will look up to you. And, I do love your faces, but they are hard to see because they are so often buried in your phones or shadowed by the glare of the Fortnite on the television. <a href="https://www.epicgames.com/fortnite/en-US/buy-now/battle-royale">Fortnite</a> is a video game that merges Hunger Games and Minecraft into a cartoonish Battle Royale and causes addiction, true addiction, in each player as they strive to be the final victor. This game has painfully taken over our home, most of America, and the greater part of the world. True story.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Faces (2 years10/2008)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3XBW5zvR3kRdClYvtDNkP9ohyphenhyphenjuMIUD40M6Vnfc9REUlMW8aiz7o3g3uSKqU9PogvjA9tS357RBBnb6dT3v423dd9tE96b9kSjAKy8a64JUuwUSonU82VFLqFR45LeedcFWWBR1cy-E/s1600/IMG_4891.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3XBW5zvR3kRdClYvtDNkP9ohyphenhyphenjuMIUD40M6Vnfc9REUlMW8aiz7o3g3uSKqU9PogvjA9tS357RBBnb6dT3v423dd9tE96b9kSjAKy8a64JUuwUSonU82VFLqFR45LeedcFWWBR1cy-E/s320/IMG_4891.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12-year-old faces</td></tr>
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This past year you completed 6th grade. The school year began with Chase having a great class (overloaded with friends) and a great teacher in Mr. McElrath. Ryder was less fortunate with the new Ms. McMaster as the teacher. You had friends in the class and a had a good school year in spite of her not being anywhere near the top of your favorite teacher list. Chase, you were hoping to have an amazing and fun last year of elementary school and you had set your own goal of being recommended for the all honors track in Middle School. Both were accomplished quite easily, your grades were great and your RI score remained far about grade level. Ryder, you set out to enjoy your final year of elementary school and learn to overcome some of your focus issues. Both were also accomplished and the year was a big success. You were both involved with many school activities. You performed in both the winter and spring chorus (which you didn't love, and the overall 6th-grade performance in the winter concert sure did leave something to be desired.) You were, as you put it, forced (by me) to be in the school play. It was an enjoyable play, <u>Jukebox Time Machine</u>, and though it was similar to last year's <u>A Kids Life</u> (one of your many complaints) it really was great to watch. You each had a small role, inclusive a fun dance, and Ryder got to play an extra part portraying a Beatle. Although you both claimed daily to "hate it," (especially Chase) you sure did seem like you were having a great time on show night. You were also both on student council again, Chase on the Spirit Committee and Ryder on the Art Committee, and you were both, once again, chosen to be a conflict mediator. All year, you were socially active and involved and enjoyed every minute of your last year of elementary school. You both ended your elementary school days by performing in the talent show. Ryder you played bass in a band and performed an awesome rendition of "Iron Man." Chase, you and Bobby Snyder did a hilarious "baby" dance to a medley of songs. It had the whole school laughing. You also participated in all of the end of year activities including the district-wide 6th-grade track meet. Although RES didn't make out as the big winners of the day, you both loved being in the events and have a new found interest in track and field. You also enjoyed the end of year dance, the 6th-grade swim party, the trip to Lincoln Financial Field, and graduation which allowed you to move-up to HMS and earned Ryder the award of "most likely to have a Superhero named for you."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcvb54TFoPR2dv5hO9sLnr5VSEedU0XofHS39RgkM41KDSfql3xTNteAa1B5WFptyU3yinZajn61UAWfDe1jQLJnAtkRXQ1eHnRPcG_qW4ilKHJAHgiqfp2xTc70bQ7GOcD31ZHmQSHU/s1600/IMG_1583.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcvb54TFoPR2dv5hO9sLnr5VSEedU0XofHS39RgkM41KDSfql3xTNteAa1B5WFptyU3yinZajn61UAWfDe1jQLJnAtkRXQ1eHnRPcG_qW4ilKHJAHgiqfp2xTc70bQ7GOcD31ZHmQSHU/s320/IMG_1583.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chorus Concert</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivh0tjErYwVsxc1uukas0wNwiLlgA8FWihiVHD9ilU_dET59-9Ork1xadBHy6BlqxDGaOiNYdOvuBzrotx8f3Ko3lAVi6M04IJoKtvKBHHjAvJ7FEZ-tS90HrU2qsoFQu7JmbbNjT78jM/s1600/IMG_2227.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivh0tjErYwVsxc1uukas0wNwiLlgA8FWihiVHD9ilU_dET59-9Ork1xadBHy6BlqxDGaOiNYdOvuBzrotx8f3Ko3lAVi6M04IJoKtvKBHHjAvJ7FEZ-tS90HrU2qsoFQu7JmbbNjT78jM/s320/IMG_2227.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryder as a Beatle in a Juke Box Time Machine</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SgUUsGoLdJgf828zu-bT2ElpT-6_fmVWtJAHeIK7D0fPZEqRwQxeQhyphenhyphenGQ0HtgLw82dSc31NSr1j5wCKqp8vQlmbea2x0wPHsEsx6ocEPGf4VP_6krRzx_owLymYI2g_pNzF8BkEoB7M/s1600/IMG_1021.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SgUUsGoLdJgf828zu-bT2ElpT-6_fmVWtJAHeIK7D0fPZEqRwQxeQhyphenhyphenGQ0HtgLw82dSc31NSr1j5wCKqp8vQlmbea2x0wPHsEsx6ocEPGf4VP_6krRzx_owLymYI2g_pNzF8BkEoB7M/s320/IMG_1021.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase doing the funky dance</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh748_zfcmKd_i9FMJ_Z8CwilZnWEn5sZyPb6ABfjJO6mL1FSBrmGI0DXGy8alwalG62UBKv6OeT8LSCbP2uO9o82nNiS2fBptQO4yCfP9_sVuoUWu_v-GMd_6zJUDQEn5CSPIS9oLYsc8/s1600/IMG_1617.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh748_zfcmKd_i9FMJ_Z8CwilZnWEn5sZyPb6ABfjJO6mL1FSBrmGI0DXGy8alwalG62UBKv6OeT8LSCbP2uO9o82nNiS2fBptQO4yCfP9_sVuoUWu_v-GMd_6zJUDQEn5CSPIS9oLYsc8/s320/IMG_1617.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conflict Mediator</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8niA7iFmQvsFt44UiN5shnFAcczbxxHna2vQEljS09vN97A2uZhFzN7_O28oS-MAhXw5U4bzBVbdyYdhDjPbglaGgKSIj5MHvnvKKnrPO7rmw2VjyG_pPcPNpg5fpt8BHDy-ex726yW8/s1600/IMG_3891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1024" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8niA7iFmQvsFt44UiN5shnFAcczbxxHna2vQEljS09vN97A2uZhFzN7_O28oS-MAhXw5U4bzBVbdyYdhDjPbglaGgKSIj5MHvnvKKnrPO7rmw2VjyG_pPcPNpg5fpt8BHDy-ex726yW8/s320/IMG_3891.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase doing the 100-meter sprint at the track meet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Ryder hitting the hurdles at the track meet</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MYiSTVT35MOwgpxg1oeuifa8Pp9PKFwHP9sI83am8OrMc6CCjeBu4_tH7_EO4b59TwvwSIltg1NIXzqpROlLoXeVv0XeQoXxQmHUWSRfZE6hgw8Gj2knt6FM587tn3HSQ1CTlccJBMk/s1600/IMG_4278.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MYiSTVT35MOwgpxg1oeuifa8Pp9PKFwHP9sI83am8OrMc6CCjeBu4_tH7_EO4b59TwvwSIltg1NIXzqpROlLoXeVv0XeQoXxQmHUWSRfZE6hgw8Gj2knt6FM587tn3HSQ1CTlccJBMk/s320/IMG_4278.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6th-grade swim party</td></tr>
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Chase's talent show act</div>
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Ryder's talent show act</div>
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Socially you had an exciting year, stepping out a bit more and with a social calendar that I had to track at times. You engaged via text with many friends, some old some new, and learned a few lessons in the way relationships work and the meaning of friendship. Your best friends are still Ethan, Connor, and each other. Of course, Chase includes Quinn on that list and Ryder, you have Aidan and Jake. You both keep your friends close and are a good friend to all of them. You are navigating through a complex social world and are doing so with them by your side and you are all learning the ropes together. Additionally, there's a list of other names who are good friends of yours (Luke, Connor L, Jonny, Bobby, Gavin...to name a few) and I hope you continue to maintain these friendships as you move on to middle school.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase, Ryder, Turner, and Ethan- the 4some</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Ryder, Connor, Chase</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Ryder, Jake, and Aidan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_ODkpHGRoEQyzQGhlrSxD-9SojMyiWRZOljOJr1zcr4fbkaya41YcjWzHP7p8sV2R6tvosYvtW6lOjRp91ZHu0IxWMs4bqN7NfZCsjvTlUn6mLMmkh8Q48wRs-AMkx-Wa__RKOqBBS4/s1600/IMG_3015.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_ODkpHGRoEQyzQGhlrSxD-9SojMyiWRZOljOJr1zcr4fbkaya41YcjWzHP7p8sV2R6tvosYvtW6lOjRp91ZHu0IxWMs4bqN7NfZCsjvTlUn6mLMmkh8Q48wRs-AMkx-Wa__RKOqBBS4/s320/IMG_3015.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase, Quinn, Luke</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUAt9Imxv_2cysWRjp1m1FEgZd5h0Jlz41wE8qtaOlAS2Q7HQ8Pk6nWK0qXMo0le5KS6STkpqF4d0eLosdwKADw9aRvYYqlQyGw5t4OAkvnxh_Wkg3Dr3vWyy1zXlHrqxTsWU7nNG1uw/s1600/IMG_8578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUAt9Imxv_2cysWRjp1m1FEgZd5h0Jlz41wE8qtaOlAS2Q7HQ8Pk6nWK0qXMo0le5KS6STkpqF4d0eLosdwKADw9aRvYYqlQyGw5t4OAkvnxh_Wkg3Dr3vWyy1zXlHrqxTsWU7nNG1uw/s320/IMG_8578.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryder, Connor L, Connor S, Chase, Ethan</td></tr>
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We were busy with sports this year, as always. Chase, this year you played your first year as a Pee Wee in hockey, playing for the Wildcats A National team. It was a team filled with a lot of good players and, though your team ended the season under .500, and you had to change your jersey number, you did learn to play better hockey and took strides in improving your own game. You also played for Council Rock South's Middle School team. That team was the easy champion of the league and you were a great contributor to the team's success. Unfortunately, both hockey seasons were stunted due to a <a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/10/a-load-of-pumpkins-and-2-broken-wrists.html">set of broken wrists that occurred in late October</a>. This took you out of 6-weeks of the season, plus another few weeks of getting back in shape, which set you back a little when you <a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/11/no-more-broken-wrists.html">returned to the ice.</a> But, you still did great. You were the second highest point scorer for the middle school team trailing by such a small differential that had you played even one more game you probably would have surpassed him. For the Wildcats you were the 5th highest in points, most of which came from assists, which says a lot considering not only the time you missed but the line you were on had the teams leading scorer (goals and points) and you didn't get as much access to the puck as a result. Your biggest accomplishment in hockey came after the season, however. Two broken wrists may have set you back a little early on but when you went to evaluations for the upcoming season you proved that there was no holding you back from succeeding. One of the best players in all 4 evaluations you earned yourself a coveted spot on the AA team. When it came time to decide if you wanted to play AA or play on A National with a coach you love and your friends you were thoughtful and decisive and chose what was best for your hockey. Although you have to split up from your hockey buddies to join this team, you are excited to be playing with these players who you say are "really, really good hockey players." I am proud of you, you earned this spot with hard work and determination. Additionally, you played soccer for Phoenix Fireballs last year. Well, you were supposed to play. Unfortunately, the broken wrists prevented you from being a part of most of the Fall season and, though you played in the Spring, the team was a little deflated by then. You do enjoy soccer and are hoping to get to play in middle school. You also made the decision to NOT play baseball this year. This was hard on me but you were very happy with your choice. You are a good, smart baseball player and I, being a baseball lover, would love to see you play again one day but I supported your decision to take a step back as you just said it wasn't that much fun anymore. You and I both survived baseball season without playing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt_Oe2JDa1Bl9Pu35n7CWv-K8sw7l1M4SXL1AUJANpqCAATKXWFke2eIn-GZ1733fBiSp0Mt2jX8CNn5ncIGMLnC3KyQI7tKmQ8z38RyzFlP-HwaP1XII7Lu7rjCGpiZDpmGqHMtEpTo/s1600/IMG_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt_Oe2JDa1Bl9Pu35n7CWv-K8sw7l1M4SXL1AUJANpqCAATKXWFke2eIn-GZ1733fBiSp0Mt2jX8CNn5ncIGMLnC3KyQI7tKmQ8z38RyzFlP-HwaP1XII7Lu7rjCGpiZDpmGqHMtEpTo/s320/IMG_0333.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pee Wee A National</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur7PfmWnJMUODqGLLOfuhxHnyXZdh9j_A7-Uy9D3tV0k1_On5fzNAaWqG-pX4KYjNCmMFddfugPGZ6H2I-4Ne_OEjA7rIrht3t9EL4CvBBDTZtYUc7F0NmsOEq9ks31I9SpahOJccGnE/s1600/IMG_1043.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur7PfmWnJMUODqGLLOfuhxHnyXZdh9j_A7-Uy9D3tV0k1_On5fzNAaWqG-pX4KYjNCmMFddfugPGZ6H2I-4Ne_OEjA7rIrht3t9EL4CvBBDTZtYUc7F0NmsOEq9ks31I9SpahOJccGnE/s320/IMG_1043.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two broken arms, one disappointed boy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrt27qhZs6UtmYrojf_fttgztBvY-Za19Xk90KzzhbYi_CXw3j2dgx8IA4y8TORP5xJmM1Sj2c-QTuPPVmHWfQ5N2RQRIlwFqQ3UJt9qpOM1QnTPM81bsSDfeXJfV14bpjXmWG0dwuRAQ/s1600/IMG_2852.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrt27qhZs6UtmYrojf_fttgztBvY-Za19Xk90KzzhbYi_CXw3j2dgx8IA4y8TORP5xJmM1Sj2c-QTuPPVmHWfQ5N2RQRIlwFqQ3UJt9qpOM1QnTPM81bsSDfeXJfV14bpjXmWG0dwuRAQ/s320/IMG_2852.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CR SOUTH MSB Champs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-dOsZkWXfyw5U90BfA_Ov9F3lPH6yT62dTRshiHHpoaXbbnmEkGw1Nq2Znga2txCGvfkmS6K1Fyg3N4wxyTgFbiyL5xsSFA9GSUrL64bJur1y4Uj1EKll__5TuDT5Gd4pRL322-7mRw/s1600/img_7627x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-dOsZkWXfyw5U90BfA_Ov9F3lPH6yT62dTRshiHHpoaXbbnmEkGw1Nq2Znga2txCGvfkmS6K1Fyg3N4wxyTgFbiyL5xsSFA9GSUrL64bJur1y4Uj1EKll__5TuDT5Gd4pRL322-7mRw/s320/img_7627x.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#71 for one season</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Ryder, you played another great season of basketball and lacrosse. Though your basketball team wasn't much to brag about, you as a player showed great strides in improving, overcoming adversity, and dealing with a weak team and coach. You practiced often and worked hard at each game and practice. You really love the game. For lacrosse you also had a great season. You moved from defense to attack which proved to be a successful move and allowed you to use your muscle and your skill and score a lot of goals with your very hard shot. Unfortunately, the team wasn't all that great, but the enjoyment of the game was not lost and your skills improved tremendously.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWWnPL640-Vdo1XfbpakPu-ptz_9Fbt4B0Q1BcidQ-OJzswXJM32pi49mQ1TQY6n6pIyj-fXWc-iNXRk5mXla_xNmX7eaopFsVG9IGWoQxavR8HJprPY7l6qMXDuxGGvFd33ZH5KXZdc/s1600/IMG_3737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWWnPL640-Vdo1XfbpakPu-ptz_9Fbt4B0Q1BcidQ-OJzswXJM32pi49mQ1TQY6n6pIyj-fXWc-iNXRk5mXla_xNmX7eaopFsVG9IGWoQxavR8HJprPY7l6qMXDuxGGvFd33ZH5KXZdc/s320/IMG_3737.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lax player #10</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswuopDbMxNeo-7PeB5doNqbs1zaTzFB7V1vJaepM-NEF6QWmVOUBmSP_Vnt16ql3IejTPM1WFxQ9x9cv8chrlGsSfYUyjJup7xT4yGSv-tOe4wGj7wZ7Jd6zfbsNfsGvk4KCd2nrr6iE/s1600/IMG_2112.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswuopDbMxNeo-7PeB5doNqbs1zaTzFB7V1vJaepM-NEF6QWmVOUBmSP_Vnt16ql3IejTPM1WFxQ9x9cv8chrlGsSfYUyjJup7xT4yGSv-tOe4wGj7wZ7Jd6zfbsNfsGvk4KCd2nrr6iE/s320/IMG_2112.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up for the shot</td></tr>
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We celebrated your birthday with a mix of friends over to swim, both boys and girls for the first time. Since many of your friends were out of town on your birthday, this time we were able to include the girls without exceeding the pool's maximum capacity. It was a lot of fun, what a great group of kids. After, Ethan, Sean, Quinn, and Gavin Block spent the night.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewziYqHQkV6ULrdsOGq_OQm5VBcyZjZImbarRIGWiE5wEUe4HTenvwj5v-UrzFQ8eq2rsHykAoWCbRqbqB6681QBgGKxHVkfXv13XJ_se10Juvg449_7jr_mETq-QD29ksDV7tGBs5dM/s1600/IMG_4873.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewziYqHQkV6ULrdsOGq_OQm5VBcyZjZImbarRIGWiE5wEUe4HTenvwj5v-UrzFQ8eq2rsHykAoWCbRqbqB6681QBgGKxHVkfXv13XJ_se10Juvg449_7jr_mETq-QD29ksDV7tGBs5dM/s320/IMG_4873.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12th birthday party</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6zqWUdA73fxphym0TxItI19skM-pOgCoOToWhwdAMVak2r78QxUCZE2El64eShXPjj-_SwOlU6md-pygp0XQwcOvEVqYkl6YaDq3NUMT0Y3VEhpw2vDWNh76EppuuYKDCXKbf0lfIv0/s1600/IMG_4880.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6zqWUdA73fxphym0TxItI19skM-pOgCoOToWhwdAMVak2r78QxUCZE2El64eShXPjj-_SwOlU6md-pygp0XQwcOvEVqYkl6YaDq3NUMT0Y3VEhpw2vDWNh76EppuuYKDCXKbf0lfIv0/s320/IMG_4880.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepover</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">You went to your first concerts this year. The first one was Green Day, which was amazing. We went with the Levin's and the Morena's and had an absolute blast. No one loved it as much as you, Ryder, because Green Day is your all-time favorite band and what better first concert then Green Day? We then followed that up with an impromptu attendance at Imagine Dragons with Jenn and Ethan. We had such a great time and, without expecting to, I enjoyed it so much and danced most of the night. Although I do like their songs, my favorite part was Tom Petty tribute they played halfway through.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHK5MAmEnz4VQ5X5ldObXzHnTdtw9JoumyX7xsQhyphenhyphenrE95HQ8E2aUK-ibQ5cOhQIHl2Eka4uulm3X_CGnOMs11sNsAHXlouCsiPKt9uo2tSHDSTgACZgFJa-Y39EJHh6cWaGqoPaqY-Z4k/s1600/IMG_0403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHK5MAmEnz4VQ5X5ldObXzHnTdtw9JoumyX7xsQhyphenhyphenrE95HQ8E2aUK-ibQ5cOhQIHl2Eka4uulm3X_CGnOMs11sNsAHXlouCsiPKt9uo2tSHDSTgACZgFJa-Y39EJHh6cWaGqoPaqY-Z4k/s320/IMG_0403.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tailgating at Green Day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GuSiQTZrciPsxbT9eLDtuuz2efPEdyymkgAiCqldukWbMG6spfiaFV_5OhjmFbqKzp8b1FtB9PFKwul1msq14UuEitUfat_CH0ioMDTEmoYimRlOk0EidHIbEODEZ9-rYEOAGFzB7j8/s1600/IMG_0461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GuSiQTZrciPsxbT9eLDtuuz2efPEdyymkgAiCqldukWbMG6spfiaFV_5OhjmFbqKzp8b1FtB9PFKwul1msq14UuEitUfat_CH0ioMDTEmoYimRlOk0EidHIbEODEZ9-rYEOAGFzB7j8/s320/IMG_0461.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#1 Green Day fan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaztLWt0-dxehlBFhII2wwNSN1DY4WxF-MprFiQO8ik34uyTdleBu5qVkB36oWrWHOilVw7_08KRH-zHMjrOFF2r23ABUT9vet4eSnrbwrbVqUIj4kCCt473VFxAy7VXqFeXHh-JJZoQ/s320/IMG_1113.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imagine Dragons- 2nd concert in two months</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaztLWt0-dxehlBFhII2wwNSN1DY4WxF-MprFiQO8ik34uyTdleBu5qVkB36oWrWHOilVw7_08KRH-zHMjrOFF2r23ABUT9vet4eSnrbwrbVqUIj4kCCt473VFxAy7VXqFeXHh-JJZoQ/s1600/IMG_1113.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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Other highlights from this year, to name just a few, included a viewing of the total eclipse of the sun, a trip to Niagara Falls (of course for a hockey tournament,) Chase's funniest Halloween costume yet, an Eagles Superbowl LVII win and the experience of their victory parade. The year went fast with so many fun things happening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaB91HyeJLPDjhAmYukH7bIxFkbz7Yp2cyTMUPXSLNVXi9So3rt1N7TWTAupeSj4vPFRqVLPWoiJV6byQcNIoWxLdVznNxAcFvK6XaDIhedKiBTEXpegRwU1tj0gTcrDGzE05JasLoZw/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaB91HyeJLPDjhAmYukH7bIxFkbz7Yp2cyTMUPXSLNVXi9So3rt1N7TWTAupeSj4vPFRqVLPWoiJV6byQcNIoWxLdVznNxAcFvK6XaDIhedKiBTEXpegRwU1tj0gTcrDGzE05JasLoZw/s320/IMG_0246.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viewing of the Solar Eclipse</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAI4X42lnvIPGMVcfw8c8KRU7unOQb6U1mOBrMoOhAwexfpXu4uEBBFCpu02G13qK-kWwBqK7wTF7JiSyzR2LJDUViPW9ojEVSqyldPdxtYzBMYzl9vLc4LGRTYPyOxzb0DtnbcaHrzQ/s1600/IMG_0247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAI4X42lnvIPGMVcfw8c8KRU7unOQb6U1mOBrMoOhAwexfpXu4uEBBFCpu02G13qK-kWwBqK7wTF7JiSyzR2LJDUViPW9ojEVSqyldPdxtYzBMYzl9vLc4LGRTYPyOxzb0DtnbcaHrzQ/s320/IMG_0247.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solar Eclipse viewing glasses</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDu2cdvFfq02DNNYaEXptveROzcq7v94l73FuqQYqEZnhsKpnyBzIz8JssMsJROsUbtpxCh5ijXS3JXSbBo7T1F5HmdDRVeNZRcLANM10iMXAPVOux7Wr_8Oe5cofimWcodg35EnPUac/s1600/IMG_2008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyDu2cdvFfq02DNNYaEXptveROzcq7v94l73FuqQYqEZnhsKpnyBzIz8JssMsJROsUbtpxCh5ijXS3JXSbBo7T1F5HmdDRVeNZRcLANM10iMXAPVOux7Wr_8Oe5cofimWcodg35EnPUac/s320/IMG_2008.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niagara Falls in January- It was beautiful</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkT4TDF4Tk6IufCzFYCu8xsGQbU62DCz6kQ6ZSh4gnK0suDpSe8uO9c89dLC_QERzmU4Cm4LSFlOdPdvPjrJ2Xfg8Y_YFH_b44cUNNsTHpiui5loDCQtHfPtbphroK8J3Y_LpGK4dMn8I/s1600/IMG_1053.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkT4TDF4Tk6IufCzFYCu8xsGQbU62DCz6kQ6ZSh4gnK0suDpSe8uO9c89dLC_QERzmU4Cm4LSFlOdPdvPjrJ2Xfg8Y_YFH_b44cUNNsTHpiui5loDCQtHfPtbphroK8J3Y_LpGK4dMn8I/s320/IMG_1053.JPEG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase as Dora (with two broken wrists)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPu1l1YGdTPfQtqf-3GzA36N_6sbrab7W9nZjhC3JG1wcODCvql9UvRZT9dZecvWafJSWDNNWaK2L4oZQP2arAINkgbqxDq0W5QLm1Z-SdXo6VpqWWaC_RpbGPNt9OwFimjLlzyDEi68/s1600/IMG_2283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPu1l1YGdTPfQtqf-3GzA36N_6sbrab7W9nZjhC3JG1wcODCvql9UvRZT9dZecvWafJSWDNNWaK2L4oZQP2arAINkgbqxDq0W5QLm1Z-SdXo6VpqWWaC_RpbGPNt9OwFimjLlzyDEi68/s320/IMG_2283.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eagles Superbowl Party</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwica6a4e8ir_HH6ApWiaytBdGVAjwsU6HeIDNxgqVgS9QqrAJc_zMmQqrnU4ejaRczPajhGBiyTkF6v7i1wytVWvcSuIi98mrWLtegXYb5cBR9ujuzNd5wynToNCg-Mg1gT8oWoNtxfE/s1600/IMG_2408.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwica6a4e8ir_HH6ApWiaytBdGVAjwsU6HeIDNxgqVgS9QqrAJc_zMmQqrnU4ejaRczPajhGBiyTkF6v7i1wytVWvcSuIi98mrWLtegXYb5cBR9ujuzNd5wynToNCg-Mg1gT8oWoNtxfE/s320/IMG_2408.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eagles Victory Parade</td></tr>
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<br />
Although you look so much taller to us, and older, the scale at Dr. Abir's office has Chase measuring 57 inches and 80.4 lbs. Breaking 80 is a big deal and it is an inch and a half growth since last year, but all of us think you look even taller than that. Ryder, you grew 2 inches and now measure 60.5 inches and 124 pounds. You are showing no signs of slowing down your growth.<br />
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You both enjoy playing any pick-up sport, especially basketball, riding bikes, swimming, watching endless youtube, a good movie (preferably a comedy or a thriller), and watching TV. You both still love Survivor. Ryder, you seem to know about and watch every show on television. It is amazing when you say "oh, yeah, I have seen that!" Neither of you prefers to read, but Ryder has more of a tendency to pick up a book and enjoy it. Ryder, you also enjoy playing bass guitar, listening to music, and drawing. You are an amazing artist and I wish you would pursue it more. You like to learn new tricks, enjoy playing video games, and are overly involved with Fortnite. You are good kids, you are smart, and charming. Ryder, you continue to be a dynamic and kinetic force of energy, full of passion, and creativity, and sensitivity, and stubbornness. You are deep and interesting and cool as can be, even with, or maybe because of your fun and quirky side. Chase, you are focused on what you want and a bit aloof to everything else. You are quick-witted and funny and like to take it easy. You choose to succeed and are willing to put in the work necessary to meet your goals, and as a result, my dear boy, I expect big things from you.<br />
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I am so proud of you both for your similarities and your differences and would never want you to be any other way.<br />
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Chase, as you move on to middle school and get closer to becoming a teenager I would like to see you open your eyes about to outside the Chase bubble. Take it in and recognize the world that surrounds you a little more and start to see how you can have an impact on those things around you, for better or worse. And, Ryder, I want to see you be less impulsive, particularly as you will have bigger decisions to make. I want to see you take a moment to think and then use your very large heart and deep thinking mind to make the right decisions. I want to see you both take on more responsibility at home, in life. Continue to be good kids, good friends, good brothers, and good sons. Continue to be who you are as you grow and mature. You are great kids, becoming great young men and every moment of every day I am proud to be your mom.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoXBoD9saENXRF_7Rb5CtEPl3-IFeGFpU8uRT3JM4DP1Ky1PCRdiwf7lBEzWvWxa_mj2I2XBmadcYNz_1rYQCgierfqPXrfIaa4wKCvtXPRVPSY_w9YNfMRDPvB_Xee_SyjQBM1SVg6E/s1600/IMG_4887.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoXBoD9saENXRF_7Rb5CtEPl3-IFeGFpU8uRT3JM4DP1Ky1PCRdiwf7lBEzWvWxa_mj2I2XBmadcYNz_1rYQCgierfqPXrfIaa4wKCvtXPRVPSY_w9YNfMRDPvB_Xee_SyjQBM1SVg6E/s320/IMG_4887.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHbR2zCu7OLM1hS1pRhiuzVSo7u1QiCW1KlGnX-VIwveTA_HYG0iW7vF0upajb8gy8tigeOw9gSWYsZsu4V8QxhobGhw2FPRfpKRFlqzO60Cd7Ik3BiyAxUYTSQZFmlyuYjI-G3_cy1w/s320/IMG_4894.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Happy 12th birthday, I love you so.<br />
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<a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/07/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-11th-birthday_7.html">Chase's 11th birthday letter</a><br />
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<a href="https://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/07/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-11th-birthday.html">Ryder's 11th birthday letter</a></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-48770745027335629522018-03-03T23:39:00.000-05:002018-03-23T10:49:09.252-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 3rd Birthday!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMy0H3si52RXuwSAT4-O-lguZzusMOzSAedjtnIlXhQEoFTpz9Z2k2EGb3MPYA_uHOmwikSyErtT9SLBrmJ6mZIrPwpk66n-ae_4sK9Y1QAdoUluja0khUo_fiU9pemeeNyrTM6Qf24M/s1600/IMG_2682.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
Dear Decker-<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWADC2z0Pu-9R8UuXYZOimKH1QrTjA6DRXEw6NlOas4igvQL04Pe0pVSE_YE2iUkex8yVX0XgD9CMwaO7cu-ICy9ERPn7MyXQ396sMz-CYpDBTBRYCUxQ65uwwo_42009hKGPUHxXLIQ/s1600/IMG_2621.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWADC2z0Pu-9R8UuXYZOimKH1QrTjA6DRXEw6NlOas4igvQL04Pe0pVSE_YE2iUkex8yVX0XgD9CMwaO7cu-ICy9ERPn7MyXQ396sMz-CYpDBTBRYCUxQ65uwwo_42009hKGPUHxXLIQ/s320/IMG_2621.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
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Happy 3rd Birthday to you, my very special little boy. You are turning 3 on 3/3, lucky numbers, lucky day. And, though I hope that is true for you, it is really me who is the lucky one. Because, Decker, you are my son and your kind soul and sunshine filled eyes and funny sense of humor and wise ways are my, are all of ours, lucky gift today and every day.<br />
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In the last year, you went from a long, curly-haired toddler to a short, straight-haired big boy with an incredible amount of awareness and know how. It is almost as if all of the baby in you was stored within those curly locks. Last summer, when they landed on the barber's floor, we had no idea that they would not grow back nor that your babyhood was being swept up with them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-qpHSONcFmwFPf4gwdhmtPB9od_mjih0OlmfhqM2vYqaiHmqOuaWwprl8f8b1QP4Fqck7CbVpZuWPrSI-KJHEYMAT5B11CngcmWQiqPosBSU-zufrMd2q-MLv_jDHMvbosohGLgLKKk/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-qpHSONcFmwFPf4gwdhmtPB9od_mjih0OlmfhqM2vYqaiHmqOuaWwprl8f8b1QP4Fqck7CbVpZuWPrSI-KJHEYMAT5B11CngcmWQiqPosBSU-zufrMd2q-MLv_jDHMvbosohGLgLKKk/s320/IMG_7281.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 year old Decker with curly hair</td></tr>
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You are fun, Decker. Moments, days, can be so easy with you because you make it fun. Your voice is filled with excitement, and your steps bounce with positive energy. You understand things you are told, like to follow most rules, are careful in the way you do most things, and are happy to just be with whomever it is you're with. You can play quietly by yourself building towers or guns (😳) out of Legos, racing cars, or making me your special Mac and Cheese for lunch. We can play together doing these same things, or working on a floor puzzle, or more recently, playing games like memory match. One of us has a very good memory and can find the match easier than the other- do you know which one? Before bed you like to play Beyblades and see which blade will spin the longest. You love to play with "my guys," whether it be hide n seek, more gun games (😳) or the push game on the beds. Sometimes you'll sit and watch them play X-BOX. They'll give you the extra remote and you'll think you're playing along too. I just love it when you're all together.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lego Tower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just the guys hanging out</td></tr>
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And, of course, there's Netflix. YouTube. And, OnDemand. Each available on the TV, the iPad, and the phone. Each of which you can navigate to and through on any device to find any of your favorite shows. On Netflix you usually opt for a movie: <u>The Secret Life of Pets</u> was the top choice for quite some time until we watched <u>Sing</u> as a family movie and you decided you liked the singing animals. It took some convincing to get you to try something new but when we finally did you spent a few months watching the original <u>Toy Story</u> which had every one of us stopping to watch a few scenes each time it was on. What a great movie!!! Your most recent choice is the <u>Emoji Movie-</u> originally watched as a choice for all but rose to the top of your watch list due to the poop emoji. Nothing could be more amusing to a 3-year-old than a sarcastic poop emoji. At least not to this particular 3-year-old who finds it absolutely hilarious to use the word doody in just about every sentence. Calling everyone a "doody butt" gets a laughing reaction from your brothers who encourage your behavior in the house. Somehow you seem to understand that you can't use that language (or build or play with fake guns) outside of the house or at school. You tell me "I know, never play guns or use potty talk at school." And somehow, I am ok with this fine line.<br />
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Your language goes well beyond doody butt, however, with an extensive and developed vocabulary and a diction that is so pronounced that conversation with you is easy. You even like to talk on the phone and can ask and answer questions with ease and clarity. You know the alphabet song and sing it correctly most of the time, but are still learning your letters. You have a particular fondness for "H" pointing out each Capital H that you see. You also point out each "D for Decker," "T for Turner," "R for Ryder," "C for Chase," and "E for Ethan," with enthusiasm. It is funny, though, because so often you will point at a letter and proclaim it is a D but then when you say what it is for, (Turner, Ryder, Chase, etc.) you will associate the correct name to the letter, which is never a D. You like to sing and be sung to though I think you are learning that I am as bad of a singer as they come.<br />
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Your favorite food is cream cheese and jelly sandwiches which verifies you are my son. You also enjoy cereal, soup, and Go-Go Squeeze. You still love drinking milk, though prefer chocolate milk to "reg milk" whenever we let you have it. Drinking milk is an activity for you. You take your cup and your "banks" and go sit and cuddle the corner of the blanket while drinking the full cup without taking a breather. You will negotiate for more milk, "just a little bit" you'll say as you squint your eyes and pinch your thumb and forefinger together. Then, without hesitation, you will go into the fridge and grab the chocolate syrup and the milk, and then a spoon to stir it. You make it difficult to say no.<br />
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You are funny. Funny because you are a little boy and little boys say funny things. And, you're funny because you're you and you happen to be funny. And, silly. And, exposed to sarcasm and comedy regularly. You understand the concept of jokes even if you don't always get the punchline and you know when we are being silly with you,sarcastic with you, or simply teasing you. Nobody laughs harder at one of your brother's jokes than you and nobody makes any of us laugh nearly as hard as you do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfTS6CIIktXWXjnAg_i1H8ZOc8Wvjtjxq7CZMIvqyKXBt2NXPLNdMN6QmLWYLp4A0XF0ZfklEJOYZF3fdyD6OyYXPTWTuR5ZCsvHtTLnAyki_FtkP6t7ASjzPWZ48LCiziGtzptHvoZQ/s1600/IMG_1868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwfTS6CIIktXWXjnAg_i1H8ZOc8Wvjtjxq7CZMIvqyKXBt2NXPLNdMN6QmLWYLp4A0XF0ZfklEJOYZF3fdyD6OyYXPTWTuR5ZCsvHtTLnAyki_FtkP6t7ASjzPWZ48LCiziGtzptHvoZQ/s320/IMG_1868.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silly boy</td></tr>
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In school you have Ms. Fern and Ms. Nicole and enjoy going three days a week. You mention the kids in your class quite often and will hopefully continue to grow up with these kids- Phoebe, Grace, Val, Jonathon, Casy, DJ, and Jaxon. You still spend Fridays with Uncle Mat and most other days dull in comparison. And, most Tuesdays, are still mommy day, which is by far my favorite day of the week. We spend a lot of time at the hockey rink and you seem to enjoy the game. In addition to playing mini-hockey with your brothers, you never seem to mind sitting through a game, nor the cold. Though it's true, your favorite part is the Zamboni.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_Q5_uCV3VjMYbXfqqu3HuNDPgsPXeRWhELLTa0bOTvdDbDmCs0K4GRqD_rStbRRQx5lcufC8pOrAor_goT5T8A6jFI4_QC4Ugz-2YruKVe_8YMDQGcRXkBLGZCo0G2koDf9W93EUhps/s1600/IMG_0681.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_Q5_uCV3VjMYbXfqqu3HuNDPgsPXeRWhELLTa0bOTvdDbDmCs0K4GRqD_rStbRRQx5lcufC8pOrAor_goT5T8A6jFI4_QC4Ugz-2YruKVe_8YMDQGcRXkBLGZCo0G2koDf9W93EUhps/s320/IMG_0681.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Day of School in the 2's</td></tr>
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Over the course of the year you enjoyed the rides at Great Adventure; spent a weekend in Wildwood and loved being on the boardwalk; took an 8 hour car-ride to Buffalo for a hockey tournament (what else!!) You were great in the car-ride (though I admit I was worried), fantastic at the hockey games, loved running through the hotel well past your bedtime, and though you couldn't appreciate the beauty of Niagara Falls in the winter, you were a good boy, repeatedly said how beautiful it was, and just went along for the ride. We were all happy you were there.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDqxC3e_rbyvr4vc9wBP1RTJjobEg-bAwChBJY7Rn40_AWbmPuN2JYgQhH_u6Hjt8HWCvLGu4q7XBbXb7KF6q6EOlMdBgmRuSWoByFF6meDMgzWBajDoFQU93N8ZEE2vUL6t3yvb_K2E/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDqxC3e_rbyvr4vc9wBP1RTJjobEg-bAwChBJY7Rn40_AWbmPuN2JYgQhH_u6Hjt8HWCvLGu4q7XBbXb7KF6q6EOlMdBgmRuSWoByFF6meDMgzWBajDoFQU93N8ZEE2vUL6t3yvb_K2E/s320/IMG_1783.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Wildwood</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHbeMyxOJ0Fz3qDV5i2erZRxfm-XlnuP7-UazFWtG3ooOqAQisOcFHXdpDrKY66TERpLb2rSNGgy2RWSvkj8hpQqsXtEck3t33KBdXpzprMHoX-HCH22zAMzvrhPgaOmru2pe5E8ZRoc/s1600/IMG_1653.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHbeMyxOJ0Fz3qDV5i2erZRxfm-XlnuP7-UazFWtG3ooOqAQisOcFHXdpDrKY66TERpLb2rSNGgy2RWSvkj8hpQqsXtEck3t33KBdXpzprMHoX-HCH22zAMzvrhPgaOmru2pe5E8ZRoc/s320/IMG_1653.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niagara Falls</td></tr>
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The most remarkable thing that happened this year is that the <b>Eagles won the Superbowl</b>. We watched the game at our house with the Benjamin's, the Klaus' and the Van Aken's. We celebrated during the entire game, cheering on our favorite birds. Then, a few days later, we took you (and the whole family) down to the art museum to enjoy the world champion's parade. You may not remember any of it but this was Philadelphia's first superbowl championship and, someday when you're older, you'll be happy to know you were in some way a part of the special first one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxcUlnnvjH6t5OjOo63HEnHo93r3EK0FUrIYg40Bm3nSWPRwEPd_1nRqkVN0aYmwAdzaHIyS8qYBGVZYG_x-PffCy9c14d5Aqjyq2GBnNgXbB9KsYd5aalVjpnDrZHBpko90W31_s7VE/s1600/IMG_2283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxcUlnnvjH6t5OjOo63HEnHo93r3EK0FUrIYg40Bm3nSWPRwEPd_1nRqkVN0aYmwAdzaHIyS8qYBGVZYG_x-PffCy9c14d5Aqjyq2GBnNgXbB9KsYd5aalVjpnDrZHBpko90W31_s7VE/s320/IMG_2283.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Eagles Superbowl viewing party</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">An important lesson learned during Superbowl LVII</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBriTuLuJoq8bZ12_mb4RxecpTu3dgdhlJwNiEH_Cx-N3f-NfVI4QwmK27KoW646XFXPFOhprKuZZIi6CIwOZjGKM7kRqs_c9wBoIeJIAr8Mppxwf2USts8OhSnpqLA9GGiEECsfQ6-w/s1600/IMG_2429.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBriTuLuJoq8bZ12_mb4RxecpTu3dgdhlJwNiEH_Cx-N3f-NfVI4QwmK27KoW646XFXPFOhprKuZZIi6CIwOZjGKM7kRqs_c9wBoIeJIAr8Mppxwf2USts8OhSnpqLA9GGiEECsfQ6-w/s320/IMG_2429.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eagles Parade</td></tr>
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You love to hear what I call your song, <u>Can't Stop the Feeling,</u> and will ask for it by requesting "my song." When you hear music you love to "wiggle wiggle" and will often tell us to clap our hands.<br />
You are fun, you are funny, you are sweet, and you are oh so smart.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wiggle Wiggle</span></div>
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We celebrated you turning 3 multiple times. First it was the Sunday prior with your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousin. By request we had ice cream cake that had cars on it and you ran around playing hide n seek and other games and toys with Max and Leo. Then you celebrated on Thursday with your school friends. Finally, today, on your birthday, we celebrated together. You woke up to balloons tied to your door. We spent the morning watching your brother's play some basketball then we did our traditional hibachi meal (lunch this time) before going over to the Little Pod. There you had the devoted attention of your brothers for 2 straight hours of play time. You and they had the best time and I loved watching them be with you so attentively. It was a really fun day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR1beErgDrRIq4GZp8PP-P2BFU1LSCM6OhJcOO9SAJAwb4Y7jtkOezWyZZwRl9OIYpsbL-8OKI4jlXDQUYfPuWj4cpQNSDeIVixr-ju5AqPJmdRrX7iLyM9ZTj6BvFMpJ5wSHpvzaCjo/s1600/IMG_2617.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR1beErgDrRIq4GZp8PP-P2BFU1LSCM6OhJcOO9SAJAwb4Y7jtkOezWyZZwRl9OIYpsbL-8OKI4jlXDQUYfPuWj4cpQNSDeIVixr-ju5AqPJmdRrX7iLyM9ZTj6BvFMpJ5wSHpvzaCjo/s320/IMG_2617.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 3rd birthday</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6uiccp-asuOvJ5fwyIDnDCAouA0hzGVxikHT3iZBdIceVja6hJxI4uk-2AhYf09G543WT7PhngO2naw1cIcZjdFjImiTp1zKqBKtICz4OaaK06rxG39ZzFJLZ5JIF4An6BGkZ7hIxRA/s1600/IMG_2677.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6uiccp-asuOvJ5fwyIDnDCAouA0hzGVxikHT3iZBdIceVja6hJxI4uk-2AhYf09G543WT7PhngO2naw1cIcZjdFjImiTp1zKqBKtICz4OaaK06rxG39ZzFJLZ5JIF4An6BGkZ7hIxRA/s320/IMG_2677.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balloons at your door</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMy0H3si52RXuwSAT4-O-lguZzusMOzSAedjtnIlXhQEoFTpz9Z2k2EGb3MPYA_uHOmwikSyErtT9SLBrmJ6mZIrPwpk66n-ae_4sK9Y1QAdoUluja0khUo_fiU9pemeeNyrTM6Qf24M/s1600/IMG_2682.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMy0H3si52RXuwSAT4-O-lguZzusMOzSAedjtnIlXhQEoFTpz9Z2k2EGb3MPYA_uHOmwikSyErtT9SLBrmJ6mZIrPwpk66n-ae_4sK9Y1QAdoUluja0khUo_fiU9pemeeNyrTM6Qf24M/s320/IMG_2682.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KVxJD7iukdwMWUG_g7MOcrgBvXLXJCLqWGfgis-DQ8XjlZqkU5aq_IugJ4rylAmchQzTqJHGze_6XLM1vmr3YJh8-ZIR8hyi_6xCzyxzHl4y7wGugQqv06D-RpSl0nBuTGj1rzdRaSo/s1600/IMG_2702.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KVxJD7iukdwMWUG_g7MOcrgBvXLXJCLqWGfgis-DQ8XjlZqkU5aq_IugJ4rylAmchQzTqJHGze_6XLM1vmr3YJh8-ZIR8hyi_6xCzyxzHl4y7wGugQqv06D-RpSl0nBuTGj1rzdRaSo/s320/IMG_2702.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hibachi lunch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-v63AtyN-ZCK2YHAVXpTJiWg-g4Wes1Bxzy8vBNMEQKVOXAsH_0HKoPLa94WtYHxzTHxU2fktdM_xJhwyaIZUxe1QHlEk4S_QGK8-_g-diqb1doSzqrNFY3gz8-NpUjn-Ut6d8buDzb8/s1600/IMG_2699.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-v63AtyN-ZCK2YHAVXpTJiWg-g4Wes1Bxzy8vBNMEQKVOXAsH_0HKoPLa94WtYHxzTHxU2fktdM_xJhwyaIZUxe1QHlEk4S_QGK8-_g-diqb1doSzqrNFY3gz8-NpUjn-Ut6d8buDzb8/s320/IMG_2699.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making a wish</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yFx6fVJXH2WqNVT79-lHiBoiot8qKfwvCDIWeP4XJufGBPI_jQb2mKJMlxNNsDgdDLSWJyGukiY8oWQuTDYh7gcS_SjmI_jBtFDX5JeevQqNz9JeXZtbYWBaaHr8QwINsGsCCqDNlH8/s1600/IMG_2721.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yFx6fVJXH2WqNVT79-lHiBoiot8qKfwvCDIWeP4XJufGBPI_jQb2mKJMlxNNsDgdDLSWJyGukiY8oWQuTDYh7gcS_SjmI_jBtFDX5JeevQqNz9JeXZtbYWBaaHr8QwINsGsCCqDNlH8/s320/IMG_2721.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers who whack moles together, stay together</td></tr>
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You are 37 inches and 29.8 pounds. This is over 3 inches of growth and 2.5 pounds of weight gain since last year. You are slight in your build and your little 3 year old body reminds us all of Chase at the same age. Although you pee on the potty on demand and have control over your poops you are not expressing an interest in wearing underwear just yet. We've promised you a big boy bed when you are out of diapers and this is not a bribe that is speeding along any desire for you potty train. You won't let us help you when you eat and though you can use a "boy boy" cup (big boy cup) you still prefer your milk sippy cup and your blue sippy cup for your juice or water. You are a good boy at bed time in spite of the phase of not sleeping we all endured last fall, and you have a fondness for the bath that makes bath night pretty easy.<br />
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It is mind-blowing how big you are getting, how fast it is happening, and how you are skipping steps just to catch up to the "guys." But, one thing that hasn't changed since the day you were born is that you are truly a light in all of our lives. You bring joy and smiles to all of our faces. In the hectic of our days, as we run from place to place, and bicker over homework and chores and activities, each one of us is calmed when we see you; each one of us wants to greet you with a hug and a kiss and a smile; each one of us wants our chance to play with you, hang out with you, be with you. Because, you are a gift, a joy, a true ray of sunshine. Turning 3 on 3/3 may be a lucky day but, as I said, it really is all of us that are the lucky ones.<br />
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Happy 3rd birthday, Decker. I love you so......<br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/03/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-2nd-birthday.html">Decker's 2nd birthday letter</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UD5P373DexeiRGKeWiHnRJbapCvmIjXid-Sf96bKLAJtL1YC1kwKjQGz_XOyN74WHvJ3jcC0JI7h1HHh2_2EzkimXgVR26FGHJQa8LSzNda7HEt7LdewzVyU9-in2OAtS4nKBwkB1WA/s1600/IMG_7602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="774" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UD5P373DexeiRGKeWiHnRJbapCvmIjXid-Sf96bKLAJtL1YC1kwKjQGz_XOyN74WHvJ3jcC0JI7h1HHh2_2EzkimXgVR26FGHJQa8LSzNda7HEt7LdewzVyU9-in2OAtS4nKBwkB1WA/s320/IMG_7602.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughing with your brother</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">School picture- 2's class</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the guys</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing in to the birthday shirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing with your favorite guys</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Altitude Trampoline Park- our last mommy day as a 2 year old</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your new favorite camera face</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The taste of your first cheesesteak in honor of Ethan's Birthday</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of your illustrated day with Uncle Mat</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go EAGLES!!</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-32799429250807356102018-01-06T14:06:00.000-05:002018-01-10T15:34:12.085-05:00A Letter to my Son on his 9th BirthdayDear Turner-<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9 year old Flyers Fan</td></tr>
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Happy 9th birthday! Your final year in single digits, your approach to tweendom. I am constantly saying (usually with teary eyes as my children laugh) how quickly time flies and before I even realize you'll all be grown. And, it's true. But, somehow, with you, your actual age confuses me and the whole concept of time. Because Turner, you have always been beyond your years in so many ways that, sometimes, it came as a nice reminder that you were only 8 when we so often thought of you as older.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDzPbJFK_iHB06WNe-tYy-NJbtnBvTISEoMUg3DaMjBH-0Yf1Qa8e_n22lBoGtWKgJawAOEiAslux2-nenapW_6jKPRz92MSkLkJk8odD7K5dPkX4D_pOnvb1A51GSHUugMXol7jjA1M/s1600/IMG_1535.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDzPbJFK_iHB06WNe-tYy-NJbtnBvTISEoMUg3DaMjBH-0Yf1Qa8e_n22lBoGtWKgJawAOEiAslux2-nenapW_6jKPRz92MSkLkJk8odD7K5dPkX4D_pOnvb1A51GSHUugMXol7jjA1M/s320/IMG_1535.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
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Turner, this birthday comes as all the others, too quickly, almost without warning. But, unlike each one before it, this birthday marks a significant milestone in your life's timeline. Today is the halfway point of your childhood, the median between infancy and adulthood. Prior to this day, the moments whizzed passed us, creating memories of coos turning to giggles and then to fully belly laughs; crawls becoming awkward steps before becoming long-stride gallops; emerging sounds that eventually formed into words before developing into sentences then ideas. It all went so quickly. Ahead of us lies your journey to adulthood; your body will grow, your mind will expand; I hope your hugs stay the same. Your legs and arms will lengthen, but time won't. Soon enough you 'll be taller than me, wiser than me, the one in charge. The second half always seems to go faster than the first. I just want to reach out, grab you, and hold you back- just a little. Maybe just slow you down. But I wouldn't. I couldn't . Not you. You have too much to offer and so much to share. You thought outside of the box before you even knew what a box was and you'll continue to offer the world, particularly those of us that think the world of you, so much joy that slowing it down is both impossible and unfair. This moment in time, this halfway mark, all I can do is pause, stare at your round and gorgeous face, see the baby boy that once was, tattoo it again on my mind, kiss those full cheeks, and hug your still small(ish) body. Then, life will continue at what will seem like double time, and I will marvel as you morph into the man you'll become, a gentleman I know I will be so very proud of.<br />
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8 was great in so many ways, even if you often acted as an 11 year old. You had an amazing year of growth. You cultivated a fantastic group of friends - the crew, the squad, the meatheads- and when you're all together we are amazed at how great your group is. You were disappointed going in to the school year that none of your boys were in your class, yet your friendship with each of them has stayed intact while you've had an opportunity to foster new friendships with other boys as well. Making friends has never been hard for you. After spending the summer at camp with Jagger, you and he are still good buddies, and your squad of boys is Alex, Greyson, Chase, and Michael. And, there's Jake and Gavin and James and James. And, of course, there's Ethan, he's your friend, your brother.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtrfIzILO8qpzVoGkgBtUabCMNKQDwwtK3GPt0Q49OtWjRjSEQ52GtEOHQHHwuVESR7q_wERJKtC71HkcZwhYEnQx-Tj2_kE3IA6yoGhYBK0_zc6XJruicAF8xV-ZhoXhqdhzr6pusbk/s1600/IMG_1466.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtrfIzILO8qpzVoGkgBtUabCMNKQDwwtK3GPt0Q49OtWjRjSEQ52GtEOHQHHwuVESR7q_wERJKtC71HkcZwhYEnQx-Tj2_kE3IA6yoGhYBK0_zc6XJruicAF8xV-ZhoXhqdhzr6pusbk/s320/IMG_1466.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Squad</td></tr>
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You've found passion in both playing and watching sports, and have risen to the status of biggest sports fan in the house. You love to watch all of the Philly teams, and all of your brothers' teams as well. You'll watch with an analytical eye and discuss the plays, the errors, everything afterwards. You know stats and figures and who is in contention for MVP. You know team records and which team is playing who, when. Sometimes you use words that I don't understand. But I'm trying to learn too. We find that you will know a random sport fact and when we confirm it with Google you are always right. It's amazing to see the depths of your passion. You love the Eagles and Carson Wentz. You love the Sixers and Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. You love the Flyers, in spite of them sucking, and Wayne Simmonds is your favorite player. Whenever you watch Chase or Ryder's teams play you watch with the same discerning eye and have the same discussion of errors and nice plays. You like to get opinions on who is the best player on any particular team and have your own opinions ready to share. Your favorite birthday gift from your friend was your 200 football cards! Yes, indeed, Turner you are an avid sports fan.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQDY0G4OPiUVuZ2GjFML56MmZKgqCoONfaVwSiXXZoKkGY7J2srhNa6gcV53lFDswgNITdVJ41aiGDIyRIGpYSaIGZJmEj1LPDojSURn0toJ56V0eyMItlVumxGi3QHe1gzPvF0BDJnY/s1600/IMG_1534.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQDY0G4OPiUVuZ2GjFML56MmZKgqCoONfaVwSiXXZoKkGY7J2srhNa6gcV53lFDswgNITdVJ41aiGDIyRIGpYSaIGZJmEj1LPDojSURn0toJ56V0eyMItlVumxGi3QHe1gzPvF0BDJnY/s320/IMG_1534.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy with your football cards</td></tr>
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As for playing sports, this year you were a 3 sport athlete. After participating in Beach Blast last summer with Gavin B you loved soccer and wanted to play again this year. Although you were on a team that didn't win one game I was extremely proud of your season. You hustled, you were aggressive, and you played some nice soccer. You also chose to play goal tender. You did very well and if you could get some real training you will do just fine. You are also playing basketball again this year, and are, once again, on the team with your squad. You guys are so good and so much fun to watch. It's amazing that there can be so much talent within one grade at one small school. Yet there is. And, this year, you learned to play lacrosse and will begin you first season in just a few weeks. I am excited to see where you go with this sport. The sky is the limit with you for sure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your first soccer game</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVRAw730TrOFFXANhP87HbvwTdPi8Wi07lTtD8oVA_URxvdRBRwSmPTBwQfwqvWIUWTKqdFrzdlffbFO3k0SilC6-ExU6DqU9txsCFYupQKqUjo_5zR5H9vnpQsVvCsAKeUt8S1ys8mk/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVRAw730TrOFFXANhP87HbvwTdPi8Wi07lTtD8oVA_URxvdRBRwSmPTBwQfwqvWIUWTKqdFrzdlffbFO3k0SilC6-ExU6DqU9txsCFYupQKqUjo_5zR5H9vnpQsVvCsAKeUt8S1ys8mk/s320/IMG_1764.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Receiving your medal at Beach Blast</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
And, as deep as your passion may be for sports, you're not a "jock." You're an athlete, sure, but your personality, at its core, is not jock. You're kind and sensitive and thoughtful in the most endearing of ways. You have a creative side, and have also learned to play guitar this year. Although you're doing well with it you could certainly afford to practice more. ;). You still love to break out in song or dance and I still love to see it happen. You went to your first concert this year, Green Day, then a few weeks later followed it up with your second concert, Imagine Dragons. Both were awesome and you loved it. You like to play games, play cards, or cuddle up and watch a movie. You still like to give and receive hugs and I hope this is something that never changes. You like to climb trees, ride bikes, go fishing, and play outside. You like to just play. I love that about you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxUVY-QOr5JaWJO7-zkd1B-b7IORlvTEhjyfxNcV42RsLQ3N5umXK6He97W7h_x3-Z_pC86eA870Vi5d_ydUozoTOfRgkDwJxXzPKdRpihFWUyu7VAKePv5k2022zechQAbYyaoCYk-A/s1600/IMG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxUVY-QOr5JaWJO7-zkd1B-b7IORlvTEhjyfxNcV42RsLQ3N5umXK6He97W7h_x3-Z_pC86eA870Vi5d_ydUozoTOfRgkDwJxXzPKdRpihFWUyu7VAKePv5k2022zechQAbYyaoCYk-A/s320/IMG_0463.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Concert- Green Day Revolution Radio Tour</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9lAdZxMG5_5wH5XoFBW17SbrNSON6QsqgPvO_BuP0hp2fK9eeivqysKgb6xNjKdf7c_yV6UcP976zV3zYsD87RyF-mkVDe3lCl2tHOREJzdnY6M5ra-cRtPeRHX5JLb9Ahc_QuQE45I/s1600/IMG_1113.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9lAdZxMG5_5wH5XoFBW17SbrNSON6QsqgPvO_BuP0hp2fK9eeivqysKgb6xNjKdf7c_yV6UcP976zV3zYsD87RyF-mkVDe3lCl2tHOREJzdnY6M5ra-cRtPeRHX5JLb9Ahc_QuQE45I/s320/IMG_1113.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imagine Dragons concert- Evolve Tour</td></tr>
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<br />
This year, on one of your many fishing excursions with your brothers and the Van Aken's, you had an accident that, now that you're ok, is sort of funny. When Ryder went to cast his final line of the day you walked in the path of his cast and he hooked the biggest fish he ever caught....YOU. He hooked you right in the shoulder blade. You handled the whole incident amazingly and even when we tried to take the hook out, and dug into your skin, you were brave and you were strong and you never once blamed anyone. You had to go to urgent care to get it removed, you endured one stitch, and we were grateful it hooked your back and not your precious fae. You still love to fish and this story is one we will tell forever.<br />
<br />
At school, in 3rd grade, you have Mrs. Cerra. She is so nice and you absolutely love her. At school you are a true gem. The first thing Mrs. Cerra said about you at conference was "KIND, KIND, KIND" and I could not have asked for anything more. She said you are so nice and so helpful to everyone and show true signs of leadership. This makes me so proud. Not just a leader, but a kind one. You bring home "caught being kind" notes often and people are starting to learn they can really count on you. You like math and are learning multiplication. You like learning science this year. You are working hard to improve your reading and I am optimistic you will get where you need to be. You spent the first 4 weeks of school at the top of the Dojo classroom leader-board and though you continue to get points regularly Mrs. Cerra has decided to award other kids too. You're a pleaser and a doer, making school a place where you find great success. Keep it up, my boy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_3epQfHYxGyARzrpDwmDKfMfEopcSj0PXr_4eAxl2DltKL34DIZEn17_8xPz1VNIncHniRU73cIL7M7255APVf87F1FcZQwHQJ1TnVeLkzgzOXerEI1krZMAswr_bfq2OrFSG3Rq1hM/s1600/IMG_0621.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_3epQfHYxGyARzrpDwmDKfMfEopcSj0PXr_4eAxl2DltKL34DIZEn17_8xPz1VNIncHniRU73cIL7M7255APVf87F1FcZQwHQJ1TnVeLkzgzOXerEI1krZMAswr_bfq2OrFSG3Rq1hM/s320/IMG_0621.PNG" width="179" /></a></div>
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<br />
Your birthday party this year was once again celebrated during Winter break. In typical Turner fashion you announced last April, after spending a half day of school's afternoon escaping a room, "this is where I want my next birthday party!". And, so we did. You and your boys all successfully escaped before the squad came back to the house for a sleepover. We served your favorite- tacos (your crew calls you Taco Turner), ice cream sundaes, and sweet and spicy chili Doritos. The night was spent playing Madden and NBA Live on X-Box, playing mini-hockey, and talking football and doing football trivia. It was so much fun. Unfortunately, we had to move your family party back a week as we all are recovering from illness, but we spent your birthday at a hibachi lunch and watching Chase play hockey.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippxPOGO2VrpfQ2bJ8DGsHJawymkF5qD-s69Dr32kv-b1WNg7WJURLgq-MbRvds7rnT6jgrWymtZKY3D04HcYi7tp1rUJF4pzl1sYjTMWGcJONMWaeem8a3-DsABYpsHC51ak8iHyVIqI/s1600/IMG_1446.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippxPOGO2VrpfQ2bJ8DGsHJawymkF5qD-s69Dr32kv-b1WNg7WJURLgq-MbRvds7rnT6jgrWymtZKY3D04HcYi7tp1rUJF4pzl1sYjTMWGcJONMWaeem8a3-DsABYpsHC51ak8iHyVIqI/s320/IMG_1446.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You escaped the room with 3 minutes remaining</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVxT9Z2KPIQsziUUL6MM6ftde9HzZLxd1QeYSjcwu9ltuGCs7lpV-PR8zHmjfPzAWoOCGH62HuozALbcONrhjRjci6sXC1Rig7Arg7L656ysN9rIIpKfknFXuL1mQBomch97OkZOFP9o/s1600/IMG_1449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVxT9Z2KPIQsziUUL6MM6ftde9HzZLxd1QeYSjcwu9ltuGCs7lpV-PR8zHmjfPzAWoOCGH62HuozALbcONrhjRjci6sXC1Rig7Arg7L656ysN9rIIpKfknFXuL1mQBomch97OkZOFP9o/s320/IMG_1449.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A room full of escapees</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoKKOqm0mofOAnNl6aY4ecYqfr0ioJRc84jJDhIqMGbAAcHXuXkVDZ4GhsAardF5AAlOku2gO7MICEjvXcvku36zLSKaHBBVhkoCcOs-yW-5LLkMhLjGt9JU8NPvJ8H13HFJzy5ODVYs/s1600/IMG_1456.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoKKOqm0mofOAnNl6aY4ecYqfr0ioJRc84jJDhIqMGbAAcHXuXkVDZ4GhsAardF5AAlOku2gO7MICEjvXcvku36zLSKaHBBVhkoCcOs-yW-5LLkMhLjGt9JU8NPvJ8H13HFJzy5ODVYs/s320/IMG_1456.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 9th birthday </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyBVI15m79N3J6d8nc6LdDDwAJBgIYYqnT9IXihXVxvmmBzC9BnvvflvNh-dozQCq0969WEiGDcP3djhnWPMtCMlYAClYXsl4fFqx8lhyphenhyphenQw5FYQPnVoXfP3WTxt8AG09ihZdahY2KQWw/s1600/IMG_1548.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZyBVI15m79N3J6d8nc6LdDDwAJBgIYYqnT9IXihXVxvmmBzC9BnvvflvNh-dozQCq0969WEiGDcP3djhnWPMtCMlYAClYXsl4fFqx8lhyphenhyphenQw5FYQPnVoXfP3WTxt8AG09ihZdahY2KQWw/s320/IMG_1548.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tradition continues with Hibachi lunch</td></tr>
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By the numbers, you are now 53.5 inches, over 2 inches of growth since last year. You weigh 90 lbs. You wear a size 3.5 shoe. Your growth is not slowing down.<br />
<br />
Turner, you have always been your own person, and you should be proud of that. You are the reason we all know the rules; you're the reason we know where things are; you're the reason why things get accomplished, as you always are the first to offer a helping hand. This bothers you sometimes, that not only are you the first to help but sometimes the only one to help, but try not to let it, because being your helpful, kind self is who you are and you should be proud! You are fun, and funny, and love to party. You are well aware of your surroundings, pay attention to details, know the answers to anything that you've been taught, told, or overheard. You are empathetic and thoughtful and easy most of the time. Although you LOVE to instigate your brothers, and often to tattle on them, there is no doubt in my mind that you love all 3 of them with every bit of the deep heart you have. They love you right back. The bond the 4 of you share is amazing and can't be shattered by constant bickering even if it makes dad and I a little nuts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3y5cJyXc8MCC_RdmTJYIio7IijyO90t5aucZN63dJwMLlHH_-1t00G62mD5wKxHQOGzeH10QC8KAu2pCrme_DY53FsluPfP5jP_TxYobz_3xZtPj5ZPKjG1JQ_tJEpjRKtHRvsRAxB1U/s1600/IMG_0474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3y5cJyXc8MCC_RdmTJYIio7IijyO90t5aucZN63dJwMLlHH_-1t00G62mD5wKxHQOGzeH10QC8KAu2pCrme_DY53FsluPfP5jP_TxYobz_3xZtPj5ZPKjG1JQ_tJEpjRKtHRvsRAxB1U/s320/IMG_0474.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf0Nnc9ZJLhzAQms6riwZe75PvIypSXttg18gNu2b6NNPmryHfgAMgsn36-Je3wV-VEZKEHQtCKM7ULjBNB44px1GLVWyxU5YBRfEGSYE5X119pPjge09hTKtQEl9FhszgqHhEvWrnrk/s1600/LND_99D690FC-B1FA-4340-8E34-F73CADA38B14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1553" data-original-width="1600" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf0Nnc9ZJLhzAQms6riwZe75PvIypSXttg18gNu2b6NNPmryHfgAMgsn36-Je3wV-VEZKEHQtCKM7ULjBNB44px1GLVWyxU5YBRfEGSYE5X119pPjge09hTKtQEl9FhszgqHhEvWrnrk/s320/LND_99D690FC-B1FA-4340-8E34-F73CADA38B14.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Band of Brothers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brotherhood</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaC2adLkdH7LG7qlNQLNAD7_CT8XL3SUxGCjB0bquNZxSe57pwV7FLhxBfKszVYFcEG_biPrAWHDDXRnF7JFkxl9s0g9Ot8JUW8cmg0fzbEuhvgEQLDyVR98El8uX_NsJeAfvGqPnloM/s1600/IMG_1690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaC2adLkdH7LG7qlNQLNAD7_CT8XL3SUxGCjB0bquNZxSe57pwV7FLhxBfKszVYFcEG_biPrAWHDDXRnF7JFkxl9s0g9Ot8JUW8cmg0fzbEuhvgEQLDyVR98El8uX_NsJeAfvGqPnloM/s320/IMG_1690.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like your big bro</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9kH_ajabU-lfXZ0ir487fkJEju4UljXYsjX1T4BNeVtQGGzQI1idEY2ZxngCv9cWGvkt4b8tvG2ZEGX8_b68oRX0yWc0QjZC4NsOEKNQxcWyvd-lAgDgnwGrAzdOWSo1WOXoexP9Xfk/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9kH_ajabU-lfXZ0ir487fkJEju4UljXYsjX1T4BNeVtQGGzQI1idEY2ZxngCv9cWGvkt4b8tvG2ZEGX8_b68oRX0yWc0QjZC4NsOEKNQxcWyvd-lAgDgnwGrAzdOWSo1WOXoexP9Xfk/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always making your baby brother laugh</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL77b_UDkQV1K1fm0Z4qZED-LcyP0noJKRAYbfAFGza4zmhS1GI7nzc0qC2QPZkw5h8dI3v9-o0db62cNjAucCm9VpPYaY4oR784rDQhOoBV_Bh0bXimAHo9iJjkV6YAfz5m8Y_7h0Hs0/s1600/IMG_1454.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL77b_UDkQV1K1fm0Z4qZED-LcyP0noJKRAYbfAFGza4zmhS1GI7nzc0qC2QPZkw5h8dI3v9-o0db62cNjAucCm9VpPYaY4oR784rDQhOoBV_Bh0bXimAHo9iJjkV6YAfz5m8Y_7h0Hs0/s320/IMG_1454.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brother to brother</td></tr>
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As you turn 9 and begin this second half of childhood I wish for you so many things. I hope you continue to try and learn new things. I hope you continue to dream big. I hope you continue to put music to your thoughts. I hope you retain the piece of magic within you that makes you the special kid that you are, one that everyone loves to be around, the life of the party. I hope you continue to be thoughtful and make good choices. I hope your sense of humor continues to mature and develop. And, mostly, Turner, I hope you stay true to yourself in all that you are and all that you want. I hope you know I support you and trust you and am so very proud to be your mom.<br />
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Happy birthday, buddy. I love you so....<br />
<br />
Mommy<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/m7NJFp0Mp6M/default.jpg?sqp=CLDF2dIF&rs=AOn4CLCARqwYw9LeLN-lENxryLhWdQ4nKg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m7NJFp0Mp6M?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9 year old interview</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your first Flyers game and meeting the amazing Brian Propp</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing into the birthday shirt- not so big anymore</td></tr>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/01/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-8th-birthday.html">Turner's 8th birthday letter</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-4294034382447847512017-11-28T17:00:00.000-05:002019-07-07T08:06:35.353-04:00No More Broken WristsIt has been 4.5 weeks. It has a been a combined 17 games and practices between two teams. Though, in the grand scheme of things, that is not that long, it sure felt like forever as he counted down each practice until he can hit the ice again. The casts are off, the mobility in the wrists are there, the doctor says he is a go to play, and he is (hopefully) ready to get back on the ice. At least to practice. I am pretty sure someone will be a bit more careful, during season, with what it is he is capable of doing.<br />
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Look how happy this boy is!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-79662573473491451552017-10-29T15:24:00.000-04:002019-07-03T15:32:08.728-04:00A Load of Pumpkins and 2 Broken Wrists<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was a typical fall Saturday. The weather was nice. Turner had a morning soccer game and Chase had an early evening game. In between the two we thought we would run to the pumpkin patch. Get the pumpkins we would carve, take the obligatory pictures, and allow Decker to enjoy in the fall tradition. We walked around, we chose our gords, and we even did get some photos. But, while Decker and I were enjoying the chickens running around the coop, you and Ryder and Turner and Quinn were having your own fun. Accidents happen, we all know this is true. And, so one did. From atop of the hay bale flat bed you fell. You broke your fall with your wrists and broke both wrists as a result. I did not see you fall. You did run over and tell me but did not seem to be in much pain. But, then you were gone. We couldn't find you for a final group picture and we learned you had left for the car because the pain was intense. When we met you at the car, we could see the pain all over your face and off to urgent care we went. The diagnosis was not surprising, but it was a disappointment. One wrist casted, one in a removable brace so that you could shower, with a timeline of 6-8 weeks. You always strive to be the best, so if you're going to break a wrist and miss part of hockey season it seems very Chase like to just break both!<br />
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The countdown begins. Though it is estimated to be 7-8 weeks, it is not days in the cast being counted, but the number of practices and games being missed. You are a trooper and a sport. Although this is crushing to your spirit, adversity builds character and there is no doubt, like most things, you will rise far above this in no time. Feel better quickly, Chase. We love you.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-34788943182068655852017-07-07T23:54:00.001-04:002018-03-23T12:50:49.956-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 11th Birthday! (Chase)Dear Chase,<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Happy 11th!</span></td></tr>
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11. I don't know. It doesn't seem possible, yet it is. You've always carried yourself with a certain maturity- an old soul you've been called time and again- and, recently the extra inch of growth and meat on your bones :) (55 inches and 73.6 pounds,) means you now look and act very much like tween that you are. Whether I want to believe it or not.<br />
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We celebrated your birthday in many fun ways. You went to camp and then after we went to see the opening day premiere of <a href="https://youtu.be/U0D3AOldjMU">Spiderman Homecoming</a> in the highest audio and video quality possible, thanks to Uncle Rob. (Sidenote: Uncle Rob has a similar passion for both superheroes and technology as Ryder does.) Quinn joined us for this movie as well as dinner. We all loved it. The next day, after sleeping in (it's hard to be 11) and some swimming, we took a small handful of yours and Ryder's friends to <a href="http://www.treehouseworld.com/">Treehouse World</a>, where you played Archery Tag (awesome!); Rock Climbed up very tall trees, and ran through a park filled with tree houses, swinging bridges, and rope swings. It was a fun day. Then, we had the usual suspects spend the night. On Sunday, we celebrated your birthday and Pop-Pop's with the whole family. It was wonderful.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spiderman: Homecoming</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Archery Tag</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Since you were an infant, back when your large dimples were bigger than your preemie face, you've had a way of demanding our attention- without ever demanding. An infectious smile, a contagious laugh, and a magnetic charm have always drawn people to you, and still do. You are funny and clever and can be silly when you want to be but you also have a natural ability to carry on intelligent and meaningful conversations with anyone. You can teach and explain to those you know more than and can contribute while learning when talking to adults.You present yourself as well-mannered, beguiling, and sagacious. And, yes it is true, you are all of these things, so it makes us laugh (and sometimes pull our hair out) that you can be rather dense at times. Completely unaware of what is going on around you, or not completely sure where you put your jacket or your shoes. We joke you live in a Chase bubble, and in many ways it is true. But it is not a selfishness that keeps you there, rather it is a sincere hyper-focus on the things that are important to you. Whether it is your school work, your sports, your magic tricks, whatever it is, you want to be the very best at it and will work hard until you find a success with which you are satisfied.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">At the very top of this list is hockey. Your love for the sport goes beyond the game itself. You want to play all of the time. If you're not playing on the ice then it is on the street. Or on the X-Box. Or, watching others play it. You want to get better. You want to do great. You want to win. And, though you don't always get the W, you have been doing well and getting better each year with the sport. This year, your second year playing on a club team, you <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/03/in-spring-of-2015-chase-had-his-first.html">were awarded with MVP of the team</a>. This made you so proud, as it did us. But, even more than earning the MVP, your season was a highlight of the year, if not your hockey life, because you had great coaches who taught you the game, and a great team, where you made real friends and formed friendships that will last a lifetime, even if you are not teammates. In addition to hockey, you still play baseball and guest play for your old soccer team any opportunity you have. You love to compete and we love to watch you play.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">You have a dynamic personality and are well-liked by your peers. You tend to hold tight to your best friends and keep them close. Ethan tops the list and falls in to the brother category. Connor remains as your best friend since 2nd grade and the friendship you two have fostered is really wonderful. Quinn may have started as a hockey friend but he has also become one of your very best friends and you work to maintain your friendship in spite of not going to school together. As well as Luke, who your bond with hasn't dulled even though you are no longer teammates and go to different schools. I am very proud of the friend that you are. You are smart, and you are funny. You can be silly or clever or witty and are always up for telling or hearing a good joke. You are a good kid who likes to follow the rules (though not always at home) and though you're still learning the ropes of the world it is evident you want to be the best you can be while remaining humble and respectful to all.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ethan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Connor</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Connor and Ethan</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In school, as in most places, you have found so much success. Your 5th grade year with Mr. Benson was one of your favorites and Mr. Benson ranks as your favorite teacher. You maintain very good grades and want to do well and most of it seems to come easy for you. I hope you continue to thrive, continue to learn, and continue to succeed. At school, you were chosen by the teachers as part of the Conflict Mediator group (though I have yet to learn what you really do for this) and you were a part of Student Council on the Service team. You were in the 5th grade chorus and in the school play and stay involved with Richboro Elementary. You find many ways to succeed within the school walls.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Beyond sports your interests vary. You like magic, and biking, and fishing. You like to climb trees and play tag and shoot hoops. You like to learn about crimes and solving them and you have a fascination for storms. You scour YouTube for pranks, and for jokes, and for puzzles and riddles and enjoy trying to solve them. Your favorite TV shows are Survivor and America's Got Talent and you are always up for a good comedy like the Goldbergs. You like 21 Pilots and a lot of the pop songs on the radio but music is not your real passion. Instead, you focus on the Flyers! The Eagles, Phillies, and Sixers can hold your interest as well. You like to be connected to things that are going on amongst your peers and you always seem to have one ear listening to the adult conversations around you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This year we celebrated Delaney's bat mitzvah. This year you had your first camping trips, <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/08/camping-biking-and-poison-ivy.html">the first being with Ethan and Ryder and GP</a>, the second two being with our family and some friends. You went on journeys on your bike, through Tyler and the neighborhood, and fishing trips that lasted all day long.</span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delaney's Bat Mitzvah</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the tent on the first camping trip</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Your tenth year was an overall great year, you've grown and matured and are really becoming quite the gentleman. Our life gets a bit hectic, and we are all trying to manage an abundance of different personalities. Sometimes we disagree and that is ok and,since you are a master negotiator, your point of view often carries a lot of weight. I know we often expect a lot from you but, Chase, we do not expect more than you can handle. In fact, we could probably demand more and get it. Because your capabilities are beyond even what you realize. Your talents are still being uncovered. Chase, I am your biggest supporter. If I am pushing you it is because I know you can do it and I believe in everything you can be. You are kind, you are smart, you are funny, and you're talented. Use your strengths to do good in the world, lead by example, and set forth towards positive things. I am always proud of everything that you are and my belief in you is limitless for everything and anything that you want to do or be. I hope you know that in my moments with you, the conversations that we have, the laughs that we share, the games that we play, along with these same moments with your brothers and daddy, are the most cherished moments in my life. I am so very proud that you're my son.</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy 11th birthday, Chase! I love you so.</span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/07/a-letter-to-my-sons-on-their-10th_8.html">10th birthday letter</a></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the tent on our first camping trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfHE3BUjHS7akmyoybUc0MZIyYohPN80CXpQ9GAD-FzNfF4NdQ_oB-qfPyWAVW0rHwK87A3CMF9JtBWw9gzHd3zhAa8Fpmi_5YE9djTyfgW2TvZe2IG9ZUlBi0E7Pcb7D9rhCjFbd_1M/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfHE3BUjHS7akmyoybUc0MZIyYohPN80CXpQ9GAD-FzNfF4NdQ_oB-qfPyWAVW0rHwK87A3CMF9JtBWw9gzHd3zhAa8Fpmi_5YE9djTyfgW2TvZe2IG9ZUlBi0E7Pcb7D9rhCjFbd_1M/s320/IMG_1783.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildwood</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmskUY1uOehxD1EqTCKUiwfod6PJFE4WwnCIyZ5SDkLIf8spbOls3RlIje5sCXf3wtbvbuf65wCU87gjlmdoubKgClMCfdWpFX6fxOjuckuufvtaTSxN19WqsJ_Ft04i6AHFGIBTSqUc/s1600/IMG_1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmskUY1uOehxD1EqTCKUiwfod6PJFE4WwnCIyZ5SDkLIf8spbOls3RlIje5sCXf3wtbvbuf65wCU87gjlmdoubKgClMCfdWpFX6fxOjuckuufvtaTSxN19WqsJ_Ft04i6AHFGIBTSqUc/s320/IMG_1778.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach Blast medal winners</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18BvCWJiyo3rqWjRZCDMPI61TntcQ8-qbxf6iTvn-kNHhnQSh7WPN4561LQg2-_p0_rSg9y9IPZYbEAzipTuzRM1MgALEGXfiRx1N3PYbLBbxFV6fL9yhl2UAAK1IQNBhNZ_KZDk6umA/s1600/IMG_1761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18BvCWJiyo3rqWjRZCDMPI61TntcQ8-qbxf6iTvn-kNHhnQSh7WPN4561LQg2-_p0_rSg9y9IPZYbEAzipTuzRM1MgALEGXfiRx1N3PYbLBbxFV6fL9yhl2UAAK1IQNBhNZ_KZDk6umA/s320/IMG_1761.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUp9oGwSejyAUI7JZqrBxGuOGX89aICK_q1GMIvXVGxV1wFZy2cJs9bdNXUNbe3rLytGKAxHuIJqa1zMexYLqCVs1MSzpBjofpRNpvBT9I177uoiUgEPTCtDe7mzIiYp3B3Frw4M-IOXk/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUp9oGwSejyAUI7JZqrBxGuOGX89aICK_q1GMIvXVGxV1wFZy2cJs9bdNXUNbe3rLytGKAxHuIJqa1zMexYLqCVs1MSzpBjofpRNpvBT9I177uoiUgEPTCtDe7mzIiYp3B3Frw4M-IOXk/s320/IMG_1563.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boulder Field</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIsixdl3qV6D6I44zyqn2L0_9nNqWy-u5JbvZp9VfMBDhJUIa41BzHXsB3WVCAW5TYnsf_-FKrp-rj9Nvet_tK5j5_gXn4fOeQOGogcQWIPnkVJQCIxkI9DT1iwjtBAIq4kPzom8Qikk/s1600/IMG_8225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIsixdl3qV6D6I44zyqn2L0_9nNqWy-u5JbvZp9VfMBDhJUIa41BzHXsB3WVCAW5TYnsf_-FKrp-rj9Nvet_tK5j5_gXn4fOeQOGogcQWIPnkVJQCIxkI9DT1iwjtBAIq4kPzom8Qikk/s320/IMG_8225.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday to my favorite twins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpEjEA9GIsRU-dy4M5aVy51QR3jItg5GQ8SpjUEkS4G8sRmmDnYWd9NuS6u0SOy7ZRI_M5_KskJoHq62scs6xTdSZblzYGUHa_QEuMJS4Oeaj02Bgeod5tCDq6BVtvJQXq_Hxuygihtw/s1600/IMG_8227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpEjEA9GIsRU-dy4M5aVy51QR3jItg5GQ8SpjUEkS4G8sRmmDnYWd9NuS6u0SOy7ZRI_M5_KskJoHq62scs6xTdSZblzYGUHa_QEuMJS4Oeaj02Bgeod5tCDq6BVtvJQXq_Hxuygihtw/s320/IMG_8227.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing in to the birthday shirt</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-19807634881762843702017-07-07T23:54:00.000-04:002018-03-23T12:22:29.528-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 11th Birthday! (Ryder)Dear Ryder,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7kmtRqpO8MI-Dn9dP4TDaXhXjA5DmrG32rokMZ6D7z1Pn_6_iaipneo70RaAhWHtni-VhyU6S8OoApKQqDcyMb2ilWe8DqvMALKSngq5uXWfQaFLFG3gpelq0t6te4TC_s0KXiUNLzQ/s1600/IMG_8217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7kmtRqpO8MI-Dn9dP4TDaXhXjA5DmrG32rokMZ6D7z1Pn_6_iaipneo70RaAhWHtni-VhyU6S8OoApKQqDcyMb2ilWe8DqvMALKSngq5uXWfQaFLFG3gpelq0t6te4TC_s0KXiUNLzQ/s320/IMG_8217.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 11th Birthday</td></tr>
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I admit it. I was not still not used to the idea of you being double digits and, yet, you are now 11. Full-fledged in the middle of the tweendom, actually closer to heading on out of that phase.<br />
<br />
We celebrated your birthday in many fun ways. It began with a pancake breakfast before camp and then going to see the opening day premiere of <a href="https://youtu.be/U0D3AOldjMU">Spiderman Homecoming</a> in the highest audio and video quality possible, thanks to Uncle Rob. (Sidenote: Uncle Rob has a similar passion for both superheroes and technology as you do.) Quinn joined us for this movie as well as dinner. The next day, after sleeping in (it's hard to be 11) and some swimming, we took a small handful of yours and Chase's friends to <a href="http://www.treehouseworld.com/">Treehouse World</a>, where you played Archery Tag (awesome!); Rock Climbed up very tall trees, and ran through a park filled with tree houses, swinging bridges, and rope swings. It was a fun day. Then, we had the usual suspects spend the night. On Sunday, we celebrated your birthday and Pop-Pop's with the whole family. It was wonderful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhBi0Kf1tUdWwWCjamgmK44k_RhuWLv109_hUo-zP6AHAIh0_TCuUZYTlBZsARXvxIxjlD-ccFDLZ0Bg8S7qMy8dNik59pJJXxm6wnlLvfkx4M8Dia_NQQ3yHghVtLjwL30-38PhCBkk/s1600/IMG_8225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhBi0Kf1tUdWwWCjamgmK44k_RhuWLv109_hUo-zP6AHAIh0_TCuUZYTlBZsARXvxIxjlD-ccFDLZ0Bg8S7qMy8dNik59pJJXxm6wnlLvfkx4M8Dia_NQQ3yHghVtLjwL30-38PhCBkk/s320/IMG_8225.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 11th to my favorite twins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-vDJjdfzqiHyvmW328Aguoq8m21KUrYzQf8AtzLDU4pn4xMWI4iSoVb0T-n1jO3QZ4CqZSfQA_MexIdE268JABGH3ExE6N8az0LIgpKq8Vby0XYT16Z2SVrtR-5Eww7U2jeBPw-lqAM/s1600/IMG_8233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-vDJjdfzqiHyvmW328Aguoq8m21KUrYzQf8AtzLDU4pn4xMWI4iSoVb0T-n1jO3QZ4CqZSfQA_MexIdE268JABGH3ExE6N8az0LIgpKq8Vby0XYT16Z2SVrtR-5Eww7U2jeBPw-lqAM/s320/IMG_8233.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancake breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDG9K7THJqbBiV0FPbL6kkjmba5twk5gOHwakqLUXJCnVR_k-qj32gV2bmN2XTmOprBw0iYvCyhxoOZk4Ieu5gSBc1ffQG-XkcpshUnY8iCkBMDW2cPHsiNQjrdLAlv8WsYfnw3VQcj2E/s1600/IMG_1865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDG9K7THJqbBiV0FPbL6kkjmba5twk5gOHwakqLUXJCnVR_k-qj32gV2bmN2XTmOprBw0iYvCyhxoOZk4Ieu5gSBc1ffQG-XkcpshUnY8iCkBMDW2cPHsiNQjrdLAlv8WsYfnw3VQcj2E/s320/IMG_1865.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spiderman: Homecoming</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLldC64v_z33Ydfcks4eB0QI_COBw3xqquOR-vXfyvSqq38mIppULitLb-lvibxZqM68MKyZpf1CnmH2ypPtmhJ_jMdVkAnFpIqa6e-UHr3ijDA055f1SJW47ksQBO4hnC3GzrSgMup8/s1600/IMG_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLldC64v_z33Ydfcks4eB0QI_COBw3xqquOR-vXfyvSqq38mIppULitLb-lvibxZqM68MKyZpf1CnmH2ypPtmhJ_jMdVkAnFpIqa6e-UHr3ijDA055f1SJW47ksQBO4hnC3GzrSgMup8/s320/IMG_0096.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cargo climb at Treehouse World</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF5yCgtQf35B2gBdm3Jczh2GI5U_ExBJlu7yMyLDTTCjqxQOnALBHFyNtQuVb3MVvu7hxNmECVhZctfnvGamtfb6GkvDxbzwzVEIJCX1vlCpMDtpt8VgrAMZ8aNCIGFme5Z6mhTRwD24/s1600/IMG_4562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF5yCgtQf35B2gBdm3Jczh2GI5U_ExBJlu7yMyLDTTCjqxQOnALBHFyNtQuVb3MVvu7hxNmECVhZctfnvGamtfb6GkvDxbzwzVEIJCX1vlCpMDtpt8VgrAMZ8aNCIGFme5Z6mhTRwD24/s320/IMG_4562.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Archery Tag</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8n40PzakNipjqkYzcj6ZbEkD0L-T89KlZlMc0AJA6S7IlPCvaFcs4aS_Vfsp_yVdMv8HdwHY2BhFDJUOYLfBo5kaaKquyKb5qq02H9JGQm_mphOgBR_wb1DSZqesBH0FfVFKY6HFyRmE/s1600/IMG_0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8n40PzakNipjqkYzcj6ZbEkD0L-T89KlZlMc0AJA6S7IlPCvaFcs4aS_Vfsp_yVdMv8HdwHY2BhFDJUOYLfBo5kaaKquyKb5qq02H9JGQm_mphOgBR_wb1DSZqesBH0FfVFKY6HFyRmE/s320/IMG_0146.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree "rock" climbing</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhknknFE0IcPygvJ5SBFYQG2zVRA9N1-etLdnadyhLVAzsfdTFuJTrvK0DxfZPg2YUg_jrrrKu8MJV3vHblf4DCdiMHW7ue1_SWxsfllGHp9b2fNRrvS4EqqgxV8NB9yvC94foz9Q85Q/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhknknFE0IcPygvJ5SBFYQG2zVRA9N1-etLdnadyhLVAzsfdTFuJTrvK0DxfZPg2YUg_jrrrKu8MJV3vHblf4DCdiMHW7ue1_SWxsfllGHp9b2fNRrvS4EqqgxV8NB9yvC94foz9Q85Q/s320/IMG_0168.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcqtXDnorCWc_4AAYAAgDJlA7gZ2LnLlvYddurf6-Ij_30MQA2ZzMNc2vIy07M_NSsVGCYYIjR5Kypi_o3gN1Je5Dh0PJRM5Iou8D_9XihxvVnksMiEgw780eG3yc0G3O4pZzUnAcX5E/s1600/IMG_4640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcqtXDnorCWc_4AAYAAgDJlA7gZ2LnLlvYddurf6-Ij_30MQA2ZzMNc2vIy07M_NSsVGCYYIjR5Kypi_o3gN1Je5Dh0PJRM5Iou8D_9XihxvVnksMiEgw780eG3yc0G3O4pZzUnAcX5E/s320/IMG_4640.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys</td></tr>
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I am not sure that on the day you were born I could have imagined what 11 would actually be. There's no way that I would have guessed that one year into your second decade you would be almost as tall as me (59.5 inches), weigh nearly as much me, and have a foot that is larger than mine (size 7.5). I did not imagine that we would be sharing hoodies, flip-flops, and iPhones (this is a point of contention and a big part of your negotiation as to why you should have your own.) It's true that by the time you were a toddler it was obvious you were full of imagination, abound with creativity, intensely passionate, and loaded with an energy that was hard to keep up with. We learned then that if we allowed you space to run you would never go further than the eye could see, but if we tried to hold you close you would fight us until you could run off. But, we could not have guessed how all of that would translate into an 11-year-old version of yourself. Because, even though you're still very much the same kid you always were- creative, smart, sensitive, kind, energetic, stubborn, and still in need of a reasonable amount of freedom- you are not a simple description. You were never typically molded and are not easily classified. You are not black and white, but instead, a million different shades of every color. You've always been and continue to be interesting and dynamic and varied, layered with many different interests and passions, and you often leave all of us who adore you having to guess what's next.<br />
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Ryder, my superhero, you are the kid who sits in his room (which has walls painted in a true red), on the bed that is surrounded by skateboard images and a display of your own artwork, wearing your lacrosse jersey while comfortable beneath a Phillies blanket, <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/05/stand-by-me.html">playing your electric bass</a>. You don't fall into one category like most kids your age; not a jock, nor a skater, nor an artist, nor a musician, nor a rebel- yet, almost like patchwork, you are all of these things; a composition of so many unique and interesting talents. You are a sensitive poet and a physically strong athlete. You are wired with kinetic energy yet love to sit and read. You are a deep thinker, an out of the box thinker, and have a great sense of humor. You can be quietly drawing or challenging gravity at a skate park, both with equal determination. You are tough, and brave, yet endearing and sensitive. You are, literally, a kid who can find love anywhere, spotting heart shaped rocks, leaves, and erosion carvings everywhere we go. I call you my Superhero because you truly are. You have been a hero more than once, running to the rescue of Decker, or a friend, or an animal on any occasion that presents itself. And, like many of your favorite heroes, what you present on the surface is just the very beginning of who you are. To know you is to explore the depths of you, and Ryder, you are fascinating.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just finding a little love in the grass</td></tr>
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You are a loyal friend, a trait that does not go unnoticed by those that are lucky enough to have you as one. And, there are many. Your friends are widespread and of all different types. Your fun and energetic ways make you a friend amongst friends, just as your caring and sensitive ways make you a friend to those who could use an extra one.<br />
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This past year we celebrated Delaney's bat mitzvah which was a wonderful time for us all. Also, you played basketball, <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2017/05/stand-by-me.html">began bass guitar lessons</a>, learned to Olly on your skateboard, and started playing lacrosse. Lacrosse is a different and fun sport and you enjoyed playing it. You read many books, drew many pictures, and have started writing songs. 5th grade was a successful year. Mrs. Cicchiello was an awesome teacher for you and, as many before her have, embraced your talents and explored your depth. As with most things, you didn't always make it easy to understand your academic ways. You are not a typical student (of course) and find standard learning from worksheets boring. You will master a topic but not show it in your test scores. You claim to hate math, yet ended the school year with an E in said topic. Or, you will skip answers on a test but can explain the material to your classmate with perfection (as told to me by Mr. Benson.) You love to keep us all guessing, and it takes a team of us (teachers, support teachers, dad and I) to develop plans that allow your intelligence and your creativity to flourish and prosper within the standard public classroom. This past year, in an effort to build your own confidence in your academic competency, and because of your ability to help a person in need, especially younger children, the idea to assist a first grader with math became a part of your customized academic program. This was something that you absolutely loved. Helping Jackson every Friday was a highlight of your school week. All of your teachers have said how you would make an amazing teacher one day. You were chosen by the teachers as part of the Conflict Mediator group (though I have yet to learn what you really do for this) and you are a part of Student Council on the Art team, you were in the chorus and in the school play. You also did the Science Fair with Jake and were in the district Art Show. You always stay involved with Richboro Elementary. You find many ways to succeed within the school walls.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">science fair</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">art show</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delaney's Bat Mitzvah</td></tr>
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Although you haven't worn a Superhero costume in many years, nor have you played with an action figure pretending to save the world from villains, you remain to be a self-proclaimed "superhero geek" and are extremely knowledgeable on all the facets of the heroes, their worlds, their powers, their villains, and their back stories. You'll even chuckle at me when, thinking I have learned something new, I inquire "Ry, did you know...." and then you'll remind that you read up on everything there is to know. Because of this diligent research, when we went to see the very gory, very violent, yet emotionally touching R-Rated<u> <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3315342/videoplayer/vi1946727961?ref_=tt_ov_vi">Logan,</a></u> and I asked you if you were scared at all when Logan was decapitating the bad guys with his Wolverine claws you said, "Mom, I know everything about this story and what is happening, it isn't real, there is nothing to be scared of." I mean, I know you're right, mostly, but c'mon, Logan literally took off a head in the very first scene of the movie. Lol. However, it was a great movie,(in fact, it is your favorite movie that you have seen yet, with Spiderman: Homecoming in second) that got us both a little teary by the end.<br />
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I don't know when and how you do all the "research" that you do (it is clearly internet based) but you have a similar knowledge about Green Day, your all-time favorite band, and each of its bandmates. As well as Skate Boarding, and many other of your interests. You do not take an interest of yours lightly. No, you fall in love with it completely and put forth a passionate devotion to learning about it. I hope this continues to be the way you do things and that you find a career to be passionate about with similar fiery. (And, it wouldn't hurt to be this passionate about school work:)<br />
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Your favorite TV show is The Flash; (though we love to watch both Survivor and America's Got Talent together as a family.) And, you laugh almost as hard as I do when we get to watch an episode of The Goldberg's. Your favorite books series is The Magisterial Trials (though you also really liked the I Funny series by James Patterson; your favorite movie (as previously mentioned) is Logan; your favorite band is Green Day. Your favorite sport is a toss-up between basketball and lacrosse, both of which you play in an organized league, but it is skateboarding that you like to fill your free time with.You love to take a bike ride, scour You-Tube, climb trees, go fishing, and play tag. Your best friends are Ethan (who is like a brother) and Aidan and Jake, and your favorite color still remains to be red. You love to write books and songs and comics.<br />
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This year you had your first camping trips, <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/08/camping-biking-and-poison-ivy.html">the first being with Ethan and Chase and GP</a>, the second two being with our family and some friends. You went on journeys on your bike, through Tyler and the neighborhood, and fishing trips that lasted all day long. You went to Cape May for a week with a friend. You have certainly had a year full of memorable moments.<br />
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Your tenth year was an overall great year, you've grown and matured and are really finding yourself. I know that things get hectic, and I know that we don't always agree. I know that, sometimes, we will yell, and other times you will think that we are really tough on you. But, agree or not, yelling or not talking, I am always beyond proud of everything that you are. I hope you know that it is the moments that we share, the conversations that we have, the laughs that are echoed, the games that we play that are the most cherished moments in my life. Ryder, I have so much faith in everything you could become and hope you understand that your abilities are limitless, your heart is huge, and in addition to being brave, you are kind and sensitive and real. These are your super powers, Ryder, use them and use them well.<br />
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Happy 11th birthday, Ryder! I love you so.<br />
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Mom<br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/07/a-letter-to-my-sons-on-their-10th_8.html">The 10th birthday Letter</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the tent on our first camping trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers in Wildwood</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The birthday shirt is just about the right size</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Birthday interview</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-65503226605050043082017-05-31T23:22:00.000-04:002017-07-07T23:23:03.712-04:00Stand By Me!Ryder and Turner received a few bass guitar and guitar lessons for hanukkah. They each started playing and have continued for the better half of a year so far, though there are some missed weeks. Ryder, who has been down this road before, has really started to learn to play. Chris Shepherd, the teacher, has done a great job teaching them with songs they want to learn. Here is Ryder "performing" his rendition of Stand by Me!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-46108566396247818352017-05-01T00:41:00.000-04:002017-05-11T14:33:09.839-04:00I'm 42 and This is My Birthday LetterSomehow it is time for another birthday. It doesn't come with too much emotion as 42 in and of itself offers about as much excitement as 41 did. It does, however, come with a slight tinge of stress in knowing I have to carve out time to write another birthday letter:) Another to-do, sigh!<br />
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I would say that, overall, life is on an incline. It may be slight, and it may be gradual, but I probably couldn't handle it any faster or steeper anyway.<br />
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This past year I devoted a lot of time, A LOT OF TIME, to studying for the Series 6 exam. It was a lesson in time management as well as in Securities. I<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/08/test-me-i-passed.html"> passed on my first try.</a> I never imagined this is where I would find myself in terms of a career but an opportunity presented itself and I decided to act on it. I am happy I did. I like my job and welcome the idea of doing more, being more, having more. As a result, I have been working a lot more this past year and I have been enjoying carving out this little piece of the world just for me. Although the longer days make for more complicated early evenings, I do enjoy working and building towards something that I am earning, however small it may be.<br />
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We are kept ever so busy by the boys' lives. Between the sports, and the activities, and the parties, and the sleepovers, there is very little downtime. There is very little quiet. Although I do get a bit frustrated by the volume at which everyone seems to exist, I do enjoy the noise- the signs of life and happiness- that fill my house and my ears. And, though the schedule is not one for the faint at heart, I absolutely love watching the boys play their sports, play with their friends, and develop their personalities.<br />
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Todd and I have been going out socially much more often and it has been good for us. We are social beings and it is helping us to find a balance by having some time that belongs to us and some more time together.<br />
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As my early 40's settle in to itself, I have acclimated to this stage of my life with acceptance (even if I am in a bit of denial about the number!) Each stage of life has its own unique qualities that define it. This stage, being Mom first, and everything else second, is as fleeting as all of the other stages that are already passed and are missed. I know this, and so I embrace it, endearingly, each for what they are, and for the mark they are making on my life, on my memory. Moments in life are defined by the factors that surround it and, more importantly, the people that surround you. Every birthday letter I write indicates how similar things are and,yet, how different. Changes are fluid, albeit slow. Times are high, times are low, and strength seems to come disguised as pain. I have learned that when you look back, the tough times were not so bad, and even if they were, you usually can't remember. And, you survived. And, here you are. And, the high times were there too, all along. If you don't stop, take a breath, and look around yourself every now and again, you could miss it. All of it. You could miss that ephemeral moment of magic that didn't seem to be quite what it was until it was in the rear-view mirror. The magic of your toddler's laughter that is sandwiched between too many dirty diapers and crib jumpings. The magic of your tween's smile and his confession of needing you wedged tightly between his stubbornness and his attitude. The magic of your sons thoughtfulness hidden amongst his persistent whine. The magic of your husband's touch as you pass each other, hectically, in opposite directions. The magic of love that bounces off the deafening sounds and fills the room. I don't want to miss the magic, so I follow the flow of the moments I am presented with and do my best to be the best I can be on any given day.<br />
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Over the years it seems that the core of who I am has gotten a little blurred by the clouds of stress and life. Either that or age has changed me. Perhaps it is both. But, when I close my eyes and not try to see it but, instead,to feel it, it can all become quite clear. And, I should enjoy it while it is clear, because it may not always be.<br />
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The weekend was a fun start to what I hope is a great year. Friday night, though not birthday related, we had a great night out enjoying a cooking demonstration with great friends. I love cooking demonstrations, and the company, and unlimited wine. It was a blast.<br />
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Saturday, my actual birthday, began with my FREE birthday reward at Starbucks (yay!) followed by an afternoon in New Hope with Stacie and Joe.<br />
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We went to a charming place called <a href="http://www.nektarnewhope.com/">Nektar</a> which managed to have all of my requirements: outdoor seating (in this case, overlooking the river), small plates menu, and good drinks. A flight of wine and a few small plates and I was a happy girl; not to mention the incalculable laughs that we've grown accustomed to having when we are with the Morena's. After, we walked to Havana. There we soaked in the sun while sipping on a cocktail and sharing wings. Then, we strolled some more, hit some of the New Hope stores and the chocolate shop before heading home to watch Ryder play lacrosse followed by Chase playing baseball. It was a fun day. Very fun.<br />
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On Sunday, after an enjoyable morning at Annette's bridal shower, we watched more baseball and more lacrosse before enjoying our annual birthday hibachi and cake with the boys.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leyela, Sophia, and Lily in awe of the beaming bride to be</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousins, and sisters, at Annette's shower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cake after hibachi with my favorite boys</td></tr>
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Unfortunately, we did not get to celebrate with the families, as our weekend was jam packed but, hopefully, we will celebrate all of the good things these last few weeks have brought us on Mother's Day.<br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/05/happy-41st-birthday-to-me.html">Read my 41st birthday letter</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-49325335366097906132017-03-28T13:23:00.000-04:002017-04-06T13:28:58.574-04:00The Most Valuable Lesson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the spring of 2015 Chase had his first evaluation to play to ice hockey. Later that year, as summer ended, Chase began playing in his first season of ice hockey. <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/10/you-say-ya-want-revolution.html">Here is that post</a>.</div>
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He just finished his second season. This year he changed teams and joined the Wildcat Warwicks. At first, he was nervous. He was unsure of who the other players (aside from the two Rev buddies he joined the team with) and wasn't sure what to expect nor how he would fit in. But, every moment of this season was beyond anything he could have expected.</div>
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Thanks to awesome coaches and teammates, Chase had an amazing year of hockey where he was able to learn, grow, and enjoy his favorite sport. The Wildcats really focus on skating much more than his previous team had and he showed great improvement in that area. This year, he played Center, a position I had to google to understand his role. Last year he spent a lot of time scoring. This year he spent a lot of time passing. When I asked him why, he said "that's my job and I have awesome wingers I can trust to score!" He loved every second of it, made some great new friends, and fell even deeper in love with this passion sport.</div>
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And, all of that would have been enough. He never asked for more. But, as it turned out, at the end of the year awards banquet Chase was awarded the MVP of the team. Coach Vince presented the award by saying "It isn't always about the guy who scores the goals, but about the guy that sets them up.This guy had the most points on the team, combining goals and assists, and for that he gets MVP." Additionally, he also earned a hattrick patch (any player with one or hattrick in a game) and a playmaker patch (any player who had 3 or more assists in a game).</div>
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Chase was beyond happy, and proud, and knows that he couldn't have gotten there without his teammates who skillfully completed the plays he created, which is the most valuable lesson he could have learned. We are so very proud of Chase.</div>
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And, thank you, to Coach Vince, Coach Jesse, and Coach Emmy for helping Chase improve as a hockey player.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The presentation of the award</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2016-2017 Wildcats Squirt Maroon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chase, Jagger, and Quinn. MVP, Best Defensemen, and Coaches Award. Most Improved, Nate, was not present that night.</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-67078766783334755342017-03-23T15:18:00.000-04:002017-03-23T15:20:04.777-04:00A look at Age 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is each of the boys at age 2. Not necessarily in life, but in these 4 photos I see Chase and Decker looking similar and Ryder and Turner. What do you see?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-61698249806928609252017-03-05T14:10:00.000-05:002017-03-23T12:01:02.864-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 2nd Birthday!<div arial="" class="m_-6880435160207082339gmail_msg" font-family:="" font-size:="" sans-serif="" small="">
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Dear Decker,<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The happy 2 year old</td></tr>
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Happy 2nd birthday!! 2 years happy. To say how hard it is to believe, though true, seems unnecessary because the passage of time continues to blow me away. As does watching you grow and become your own person. Yesterday, when I asked you if I could take a picture of you on your last day of being one, you stopped mid-step, said Yes, then gave me a great smile. Perhaps you knew what I was talking about because, typically, I can't take pictures of you because the minute you see my phone you want it. You must have it. You will whine and cry until you get the "phoney." You can use it like a pro, finding your favorite apps, your favorite YouTube videos, and swiping any texts that come in right off the screen.<br />
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Today you woke up to balloons (one of your favorite things) and hugs and kisses and the surprise of Mom-Mom Jill, who had spent the night. Then you spent the day with Uncle Mat (another of your favorite things) before coming back home for a quick dinner and cake before heading out to synagogue for Chase and Ryder's gimel shabbat. You had cake. We sang to you. You were happy. You also celebrated with cupcakes and your friends in school yesterday. And, next weekend we will celebrate with your grandparents, your aunts, uncles, and cousins.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last day of 1</td></tr>
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The last few weeks you have been every bit the two year old you now officially are. Adding new words to your vocabulary on a daily basis; crying if we tell you no; throwing books and other things across the room; touching everything; climbing most things; finding fascination in the smallest things; repeating the same things, daily, whether it be a routine or an episode of your favorite show; and laughing and making us laugh with ease.</div>
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Aunt Amy reminded me this morning that the day you were born it was a cold and dreary day. There was an ice storm outside (that caused her and the girls to have a 2 hour ride to meet you) and a blizzard was en route. I wasn't fully aware (or at all aware) of what was doing outside. But, as Aunt Amy said, you were the only ray of sunshine that day and, Decker, at 2, you continue to be just that- A constant light in the room! As the world perpetually changes- in our family we have had job changes, divorce, more babies born, bat mitzvahs, and more- in the world, we have had war, and economic volatility, Trump has, somehow, become our President and more- and yet, Decker, no matter what is going on around us you remain to be this little pocket of joy that can be taken with me where ever I go and, ultimately, joy gets spread. It is quite a gift you have and I am beyond honored to be the person you call mommy. Justin Timberlake wrote a a song called Can't Stop This Feeling, which I love. In the song he refers to the Sunshine in his pocket. That is you, Decker, everyday. I love this <a href="https://youtu.be/ru0K8uYEZWw">song</a>.</div>
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You are becoming quite the talker and are always saying new words and sometimes stringing two or three together. You are constantly choosing a new word you hear from any of us to mimic, and add it to your vocabulary. You say many words perfectly, and have come a long way from "ball" and "bubble", but you also have your own word for many things and if someone doesn't know your language they will have no idea what you are referring to. For example, you know a dog when you see one. You can point to one, chase after one, find one on a page in a book, or choose the dog puzzle but you always call a dog a "far far." It is hilarious and I sometimes find myself calling dogs farfars, as well. Two weeks ago we were in the Poconos with Uncle Rob, Aunt Jamie, Max, Leo and Sulky. We had a great time and you spent a good amount of time chasing Sulky around the house calling "far far, far far." You also know the shape star but consistently call it "high" while putting your hand up to the sky. I assume you got this from Twinkle Twinkle Little Star because I always point up to the sky at the line "up above the world so high." There is also Bah-bah-bah, which is banana, and should not be confused with Babba, which is Yo Gabba Gabba and "bebe" is actually what you say for a go-go squeeze, which you love. Although you used to call milk,"Achun" you have recently learned to say it properly and can ask it for endearingly by saying "milky." If you want to watch Imagination Movers, one of your favorite shows, you say "Tat-a-Tat" and refer to the book "Blue Hat, Green Hat" only by its hilarious point of "oops!" Balloons are "La-loons" and though you can say "Cake" perfectly clear we should not confuse it with how you ask for ice cream, which is "cuuk." You can say "Chase" and "Ry-yer" but Turner you called "Cock-er" until just the other day. When you want to draw or color you will say "d" but when you ask for the markers it is "these."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And by far far I mean dog</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He finally get's it right! "Turner"</td></tr>
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But, communicating with you is easy, even before you had so many words you had a way of letting us all know what you wanted or needed. Whether it was a pull to the finger or the look in your eye or the motion of your hands, we always knew. And, now, as you string the words together to form near sentences it is such joy when you sit on the floor, look me right in the eye, tap your open hand on the ground next to you, smile, and say "sit. come play." And, when I do it is always great fun that eventually leads to us laughing and you lifting your arm in the air and hitting the ground as you bend over, your way of saying "that is hilarious!"</div>
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You are a master at puzzles and have learned to match your colors and shapes flawlessly. Although you typically answer blue first for most colors you know blue, red, black, purple and yellow by name. You can only say the shapes "heart" and "high" (star) but can place all of the shapes into the proper sorting holes or puzzle spaces without fail. You love books and enjoy the Barnyard Dance and "swinging your partner," "sliding with sheep," "Bowing to the horse," and "Leaping with the frog." You also love Barney and watch the show and read our Barney book every day. You like "choo-choo's" and kicking and throwing balls. You like jumping on the small trampoline"boline" and playing basketball. You love the marble run (and so do I) and playing with the toy kitchen.<br />
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Three days a week you go to school with Ms. Donna and enjoy being with Grace, Casey, and Phoebe- whose name you say constantly. On Friday's you still go to the best school around, Uncle Mat school, and are not easily dragged away on Friday afternoon. And, Tuesday is my day with you. My favorite day of the week. The one day I know I get to spend some one on one time with you and I love it more each week even if it is sometimes overtaken by errands.</div>
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You have your little "tricks" that you like to do, probably because it makes us laugh. When you want to watch Teletubbies you stomp your feet on the ground; if we tell you to be a gorilla you pound on your chest; or an elephant, you do a raspberry noise while moving your arm like a trunk. You can be a monkey with an "ooh ooh aah" and a giraffe by blowing up your cheeks and sticking out your tongue, a face you learned from the Charlie Monkey book. You know what a rooster says, and will imitate the "cock a doodle doo," always with a pointed finger in the air, and your "meow" sounds very much like a real cat. But not all of your tricks are animal related. You can hang from the pull-up bar, and ask to do so regularly. You like to play "whoa" which is jumping on and being pushed down on Turner's bed. You like to hide in the cabinet of your dresser, ask me to close the door, then crack up laughing when we knock on the door and open it up. Often when we open it you are using the cabinet bar as another pull-up bar. You can dab, but you think to dab is to wave, and explode fist bumps and give high fives. You love to watch your favorite shows in the same spot in the living room. You take the black chair and knock it over and sit in between the leg bars. Every time. It is rather adorable. You love to watch and to feed the Froggy and the Fishies and have made it a part of your bedtime routine. You love the "Barney, Follow Me" book and will follow me as I follow Barney's moves. Your favorite part is when we do "scared as can be" which we imitate by putting the tips of our fingers in our mouth as if we are shaking. When you go to sleep, usually without much hassle, you insist on your blanket having the design side up, and I have to blow lots of kisses under the blanket and trap them so that they can tickle your cheeks all night while you sleep. And, every single car-ride includes you taking off your shoes and your socks and, many times, chucking them across the car!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your television viewing spot</td></tr>
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You often make us repeat our words by saying "Heh?" and then, when we do, and you finally get it, you smile and say, "oh!" You love to say "BYE" very loud and wave your little hand. You say "Daddy, Bye" in the morning as we head out to school and then give an elaborate and adorable "BYE" to all of the teachers at Bright Eyes when I pick you up. You delight in your brothers, who always make you laugh, and they are enjoying this new stage you are in as you are responsive to their little tricks. They recently told you to "go tell mom you pooped your pants" and in to the kitchen you came running "mommy, pooped pants." These 3 words had your brothers in stitches, which made you not only crack up but repeat the sentence again and again. You have learned the word "fart" and laugh when you hear one, or even just the word. You are quick to entertain and once you get a response of laughter from any of us you will continue your little act. You do silly dances and make daring moves (like jumping from the glass table to the couch) and your brothers and their friends get an absolute kick out of you. They've taught you to play knee hockey, only you don't have to get on your knees, and to try to play Xbox. You've also learned golf from Uncle Mat and, you love trying to talk to Alexa. She doesn't respond to you yet but you crack up when we tell her "Simon says Decker you are cute" and she says "Decker you are cute". We repeat this game with many adjectives. When Alexa plays the Barney song or the Mickey Mouse song your eyes widen as if it is a gift just for you.</div>
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You skip when you walk, which makes me skip also. Your voice rises on the end of every word just making whatever you are saying sound so very happy (like the pocket of joy that you are!) Your smile is refreshing and your eyes are bright but there is nothing better than your laugh. You laugh with your whole body and crack up into hysterics and it is impossible not to crack up also. You weigh in at 27.2 pounds and stand at 33 3/4 inches. It isn't always easy being the 4th son in our house. We are very busy, often on the go, and our days are filled with a certain level of chaos even when things are calm. You are sometimes forced to fend for yourself, and we will find you playing nicely, doing puzzles, coloring, or looking through books. I'll see you, and wish that I could join you for longer than a moment, and feel a little sad when I walk away to do laundry, start dinner, help with homework, run a carpool, clean up the kitchen, or anything else that someone needs, but I am happy that you are independent and content and happy. And, Decker, you should know that no matter what we are doing, how busy we may be, how loud things can get, how many errands we must run, that you are loved beyond measure every single moment of every single day. You bring all of us joy and laughter and a sense of peace. You are the embodiment of good things, of true things, of real happiness and love, and I am thankful every single day for what you add to our family, to our lives. I do not take credit for the joy that you are but I am certainly proud to be your mommy. I love you Decker and I can't wait to see what this year brings.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing into the birthday shirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decker with his brothers and his "other brother, DT" on the frozen lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typically it is steps, beds, chairs he jumps off of- this is nothing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He didn't make the shot but he is working on that form</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sound of laughter. "GO!"</td></tr>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/03/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-first-birthday_4.html">Decker's 1st birthday letter</a></div>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2011/01/letter-to-my-son-on-his-two-year.html">Turner's 2 year letter</a><br />
<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2008/07/dear-chase-and-ryder-happy-birthday-2.html">Chase and Ryder's 2 year letter</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-57591775082053503262017-01-07T00:35:00.000-05:002017-01-18T00:48:24.821-05:00A Letter to my Son on his 8th Birthday!<div arial="" class="m_-6880435160207082339gmail_msg" font-family:="" font-size:="" sans-serif="" small="">
Dear Turner,<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool as can be</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wishing for the stars</td></tr>
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This morning, while I was still lying in bed, I was presented with the Facebook memory of your 5th birthday video. This very day, just 3 years earlier. You were magnificent. Magnificently beautiful. Magnificently adorable. Magnificently hilarious. You spoke, while grinning with delight, with confidence and humor and a sense of wisdom beyond your years. You were still 4 at that moment with just hours remaining until you were the "whole hand." Your eyes were filled with warmth and sunshine and happiness. Your voice was raspy with imperfect words. Your thoughts were pure and real and amusing and, somehow, even profound...for a pre-schooler. Watching it brought me right back to that moment and I was delighted by the memory.<br />
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Then, when I thought about it, I was delighted all over again. Because, Turner, you are still very much that same boy. This is proven not only by your same selection of favorite colors (that includes nearly the whole rainbow) but is proven everyday in the person you are. You are that same sweet, smart, funny kid. Your face looks exactly the same, your mannerisms are still as precise, and you're just as thoughtful and calculated in your words as you were then.</div>
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8! 8 is my favorite number and, perhaps not by coincidence, my favorite age. Eight is the brink of big boy hood while hanging on to the end of the little boy life. 8 gets jokes told by his big brothers while still enjoying some of his baby brother's toys. 8 is independent and capable yet still needing cuddles and attention. 8 is full of conversation and opinions and also full of hugs and kisses. 8 has friends and social activities but doesn't need entertainment all of the time and isn't expecting a full social calendar. 8 has more confidence in his abilities and is more willing to try new things. 8, as they often say, is great.</div>
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You are now in 2nd grade. Your teacher, Mrs. Rowan, left on maternity leave in November and Mrs. Demusz has taken over. You seem to really love 2nd grade and have settled in nicely to your friends and school life. You like math and usually do pretty well with it but struggle a bit with your reading, something we are working on. We celebrated your 8th birthday, over Christmas Break, with your school friends at a really awesome virtual reality gaming center. Everyone had a great time. I love seeing you amongst your peers. Then, we will celebrate with the family on Sunday.</div>
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In so many ways you are still the same boy you always were. There is nobody I can count on more than you to lend a helping hand or to know which way is up or where something is or where it belongs. There is no one who knows the rules better or insists more that they be followed (even if you yourself don't want to always follow them!) You love to run errands with both daddy and I and just want to be involved and be included. You are curious and ask a lot of questions, and you often force those you are asking to think deeper and wider. You are wise and have an intrinsic understanding about the world. You love to sing and to dance and to listen to music and have been known to stop what you are doing just to bust out a few moves or a few lines Of song and then continue on with whatever it was you were doing before the music in your head started. You like to play games and you like to be with us. And, Turner, we all love to be with you, too.</div>
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In the recent past you have gotten more competitive and more aggressive and more physical, which is a change from the 5 year old who played soccer and would not dare try to take a ball away from the other team. You started playing basketball this year and are having so much fun. You love going to the practices and love to practice at home and tell us what you learned. Your first game is coming up this weekend and you are, we all are, very excited. Your team consists mostly of 2nd graders from Richboro Elementary school so it is even more fun for you to play with your friends. When we play basketball at home you have a good shot, aren't afraid to get in on the play, and have been known to win Knockout and Horse on many occasion.<br />
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You are also considering playing baseball this coming Spring. We will have to see what you decide....speaking of decisions, you are still not a very good decision maker. Your indecisiveness is based on your desire to never disappoint anybody and I think you are worried that you could choose "Wrong!" There is very rarely a wrong choice in the decisions you have to make and you will never disappoint by choosing what is best for you instead of deciding based on what is best for others. But, that is who you are, considerate, empathetic, concerned and thoughtful. These are not often traits found in children yet these are exactly the traits that make up a large part of who you are.</div>
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In the coming week you will begin guitar lessons, a hanukkah and birthday present given to you by so many. You have been asking to play guitar for some time and I am excited for you to begin. Not only do you have a love for music but you have a way of committing yourself to your passions and becoming determined to be great at whatever is. I hope you find a real connection to the music world and guitar becomes a thing you love.</div>
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You seem to make friends easily and get along well with most people (except for Ryder, at times!) and though you have a long list of 2nd grade friends (Chase, Grayson, Michael, Gavin, Alex, Billy, Zachary, Jake, Jagger, and Bram to name a few,) you are most often found hanging out with and interacting with the 5th graders. Many of Chase and Ryder's closest friends consider you a friend, too, and it is pretty amazing to witness the bonds that you are able to form.</div>
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You are a little brother that loves to instigate and show your muscle when necessary, perhaps reminding your big brothers that you are not so little anymore. But, you are also a little brother who looks up adoringly at his big brothers and knows just how lucky he is to have them. And, don't worry, buddy, they don't always say it, but it is clear that they know they have a very cool and awesome little brother in you.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrA7j7_Uwe0/V4ZPOUe8CYI/AAAAAAAAUPE/sowvFdXS6RwAGRSIqgqzjXdWieGA3jWOgCPcB/s1600/IMG_1943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XrA7j7_Uwe0/V4ZPOUe8CYI/AAAAAAAAUPE/sowvFdXS6RwAGRSIqgqzjXdWieGA3jWOgCPcB/s320/IMG_1943.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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As a big brother you make every effort possible to take care of Decker. Toddlers can be difficult, particular in ways, and yet unable to communicate their needs. But, even if Decker makes it tough, you continue to show him that you love him, are there for him, want to help him and teach him and just want to be with him. It won't be long before the two of you are outside playing together and the bond you two will have will be like no other.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PB8wOZ3_j8/V8RsXJYTJgI/AAAAAAAAgXk/P6QFs5w9kTEs-Ls1YOhtvHbylF-Y3JbWwCPcB/s1600/Family-20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PB8wOZ3_j8/V8RsXJYTJgI/AAAAAAAAgXk/P6QFs5w9kTEs-Ls1YOhtvHbylF-Y3JbWwCPcB/s320/Family-20.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZrkiH_eWDs/V8RsXFc7nCI/AAAAAAAAgX0/9SotwW5dEroBVK6djr5p6Ocgripmgz4GgCPcB/s1600/Family-22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZrkiH_eWDs/V8RsXFc7nCI/AAAAAAAAgX0/9SotwW5dEroBVK6djr5p6Ocgripmgz4GgCPcB/s320/Family-22.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I haven't had you to the doctor yet for your well check up but you still seem to be on the taller side for your age (and a little on the heavier side, too!) </div>
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Turner, you have always been a special little guy and no matter how old you get and how big you are I am confident that you will continue to hold on to that little piece of magic that makes you the special person that you are. I hope that your kindness continues to grow, your sense of humor continues to flow, your eyes continue to shine, and your mind continues to expand. There isn't one day that goes by that I am not so very proud of everything that you are and I will always support you being whoever it is you are going to be.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 year old video</td></tr>
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Happy birthday, Turner. </div>
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I love you so....</div>
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Mommy</div>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-7th-birthday.html">Turner at 7</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing in to the birthday shirt a bit more every year</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flaming basketball cake</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-51579715376259620992017-01-01T23:52:00.000-05:002017-01-15T23:53:22.297-05:00Happy 20172016 was a historical year. It was flooded with celebrity deaths that were heartbreaking and littered with political craziness in the ridiculous election of Hillary Clinton v. Donald Trump that, somehow, has Donald Trump as our President-Elect. It was a year of a lot of hard work, a lot (A LOT) of activity, so much hockey, a good amount of baseball, tons of family and tons of friends. And, though I can't say it was a bad year by any standards, as all years do, it had to end. We celebrated the welcoming of 2017 at the Metzger's and had a nice time, though it felt weird to be without the Klaus's, the Levin's, and the Cohen's.
And, Decker was still awake when the ball touched ground at exactly midnight. Welcome to 2017, baby boy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We missed you too!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first minutes of 2017 and this guy is bright eyed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excited to party</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-52379209477476187762016-09-08T23:26:00.000-04:002016-09-23T13:26:21.792-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 18 Month Birthday!Dear Decker,<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CZiUupqeHk4/V8RoWxa9hlI/AAAAAAAAYsA/5fI_cCL9rTcqwLuATehFX73LXU38sbcfgCPcB/s1600/Family-32.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CZiUupqeHk4/V8RoWxa9hlI/AAAAAAAAYsA/5fI_cCL9rTcqwLuATehFX73LXU38sbcfgCPcB/s320/Family-32.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuD-zn2EX6I/V8RoW2_IBzI/AAAAAAAAYsA/4I9Lm7klx6w566U8ofvBXTudVzpAMBnRgCPcB/s320/Family-31.JPG" width="213" /><br />
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18 months, happy. Although it is true I don't get to write these letters monthly, or even quarterly, it is also true that every month that passes, passes by happy.<br />
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The thing about you being a year and a half is that it is one of the most difficult phases we must deal with as parents. I say this even amidst the mouthiness of tween-agers and the social issues that come along with being in 5th grade. It is possible that I am forgetting, for the moment, about three year old tantrums, but we will go with this phase being the most difficult, being that we are in it, for purposes of this letter. You are everything I expected from a toddler, everything I remember your brothers being...only more. You are a climber, a mover, a shaker, a toucher, a feeler, a jumper, a runner, and a literal button pusher. You have a physical capability that is amazing, and though I have grasped your capability and have almost embraced it most people are scared to death when they see how you climb to the top of the jungle gym and stand on the end, or walk parking curbs like a balance beam. You can unscrew lids, do zippers, open doors, and are working on the buckles of your car seat. You are unbelievably strong and can hold your own in a tug of war with daddy or I or any of your brothers. You mimic their every move and have shadow practiced your baseball swing and throw, your hockey swing, even a frisbee toss. You try to dribble a basketball and do so pretty well considering, well, that you are one. You can throw anything with straight projection and good velocity and can do so with both hands. And, you are one hell of a little soccer player; capable of dribbling with both feet, kicking mid-stride, and striking a ball directly into a goal which is always a followed with both hands in the air and a "yyyaaaayyy!"<br />
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To the masses it's your eyes, your curls, your face that gets noticed and, literally, stops admirers in their step. And, there is no doubt, that your blue eyes are bright and shine from your happy soul; your curls are long, and flowing, and enviable; your face is soft and pretty and dimpled, but to all of us who know you we understand that those physical attributes are not what make you WHO you are. You are a light in a room, a bounce in a step, a rare blooming flower on a warm winter's day. You are made up of a blend of unique and wonderful joys, like the look of delight that settles on your face and your smile with each small accomplishment. You are the way you excitedly nod your head for even the most simple of Yes's. And, it is the way you throw your head back, with your mouth open, and give a full belly laugh that causes laughing fits to anyone around you. It is your persistent need to do and to learn and your impeccable understanding of words you can not say. It is the way you grab a hold of my hand and take me to where ever it is you want to be and the way you smile when you see someone you love and give "huggies" upon request. It is the way that you applaud small joys. And how, at a call for kisses, you pucker up your lips and will grace whatever lips come your way or how you suck in your cheeks to pucker up for fishy kisses. It is your "heh?" that is repeated after everything that is said to you, that should be annoying yet, coming from you, is somehow cute even if it does make me question your hearing. It is the way you lay your head on my shoulder when you're ready for bed and will tap your hand on my back as we sing through the "D-E-C-K-E-R" song. It is your love for books and the way you grab a few and crawl onto my lap to read them. And, it is your love for puzzles and your need to keep trying until you solve them. It is how you follow your brothers around and watch everything they do, and even more, it is the way they are with you- how you can get them to stop, to quiet, and to embrace you even when they are mid-moment of boy hyper. It's all of this that makes you Decker and, though I take no credit for these attributes (they were truly gifted to you,) I feel privileged every day to have an opportunity to watch you grow and help cultivate the personality that is brewing and the person you are becoming.<br />
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Decker, at one and a half, you love books, and balls, and bubbles, and iphones. You can navigate my phone swiftly and easily finding your apps within your folder and swiping right through each game. Unforyunately, however, you will throw an absolute tantrum if we take it away from you. You love the playground. The swings always get you laughing and you can never get enough of the sliding board. You like yogurt, love your milk, and love applesauce. You prefer to feed yourself with both spoon and fork (in spite of the mess that causes) and are improving with that skill each day. You sleep well, and often times will point right to your crib when it is time to go to bed. We will lay you down on your soft, blue blanket and you will outstretch your arms and grab the ends and pull them in to your chest to cuddle. It is just the cutest thing I have ever seen, and quite funny, since you are not a cuddler...not at all. No, you do not like to cuddle (though you are happy to give hugs) and don't really like to be held, as you want to be able to be moving and doing at all times.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We took away the iphone!</td></tr>
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You have a few words you use regularly; more and milk (both said while also using the sign); ball, and book and dad. You say "Ry-yer" which is what you call all 3 of your brothers (though you used to call all 3 "Seis".) Most of the other words that you have said; yes, fish, banana, bubble, lawn mower, Turner, Mama, you use sparingly. Much like I remember Ryder being at a similar age, you seem to learn a word and then store it in your mind. You will start to use them all, possibly at once, at a later date. For now, you communicate quite well with a string of grunts and noises and points and always seem to get what you need.<br />
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At 18 months you weigh 24.4 pounds and are 32.5 inches long, though that length is inaccurate considering you wouldn't sit still long enough to measure. You are light but solid and strong. Your muscles have a definition that many of us could only wish for and you are coordinated and graceful in your movements.<br />
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We are busy and often on the go. Between work and school and activities I often feel I don't get enough time to just be with you and that is why I cherish the Tuesdays that we have together. And, though Tuesday is my favorite day, as I get to be with you, I am pretty sure your favorite day is the time you spend with Uncle Mat! No matter how busy or how hectic our life can be,you are the calm in our storm, the light in our day. You keep me on my toes and are always in to something and I can't wait to see what is to come as we go through the days together.<br />
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I love you so......<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First day of school</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By the lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your Friday's with Uncle Mat!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One day, you pointed and grunted at this picture of daddy and Cousin Jaime until I handed it to you. Once I did, you looked at it, pointed at daddy and said "Da" then you pointed at Jaime, looked at me, and gave Jaime a kiss. You know who he is without ever meeting him!!!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2010/07/today-i-am-18-months.html">Turner at 18 months</a><br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2008/01/it-has-been-week-and-half-since-boys.html">So, this is twin toddlerhood</a><br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2008/01/letter-to-my-sons-on-their-18th-month.html">Chase and Ryder at 18 months</a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-21594339045363268622016-08-16T13:00:00.000-04:002017-04-27T10:37:26.731-04:00Test Me?! I Passed!I studied. I learned. I passed. No, it didn't happen quite this quickly but it did happen. Managing to get study time into an already very busy schedule proved to be more difficult than the test itself, but a little focus and time management (Neither of my forte's) and success was had. I am officially now licensed to sell mutual funds and securities. I never in a million dreams would have imagined this path for myself but sometimes life presents opportunities in funny ways. Who knew the Universe had such a sense of humor. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-75132622971123295602016-08-15T12:52:00.000-04:002016-08-16T13:04:48.256-04:00Camping, Biking, and Poison IvyChase and Ryder had the very fortunate opportunity to go camping with Ethan and his grandfather, lovingly known as G.P. The Van Aken's are a very outdoorsy family; biking, hiking, kayaking, camping, it is all a part of their normal, everyday lives. I love all of those things and wish they were a part of my everyday life but that is certainly now how neither Todd nor I were brought up. But, we are more than thrilled to get to experience these things, and more so, allow the boys to do them, with our very dear friends. So, when this opportunity came about, for Chase and Ryder to camp- for the first time- with Ethan and G.P., everyone was very excited.<br />
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I do not consider myself nor Todd to be helicopter parents by any means and I believe we give them a decent amount of rope. I feel strongly that kids need real life experiences in order to learn. With that being said, however, it took a big gulp of "holy shit" for me to be at ease with the fact that they were going away for 4 days, camping for the first time, with a grandfather who doesn't know them too well, to "about 50 miles North of Harrisburg" without a cell phone to check in with. Even with the big gulp I was never fully at ease but since I trust Jenn fully with our kids and she trusts G.P. I relaxed and was just simply excited for them. And, off they went. With a long list of medicine dosings (for Ryder, mostly) in hand and cooler full of easy to prepare food they set off on August 8th for what would become the second of their 10th year of life memories (the first being the birthday bash) and their first parentless journey.<br />
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We got lucky because Bryce's phone was left home since he was at overnight camp so the boys took his phone with the strict instructions of using it to text us and call us each night and to send us the occasional selfie.<br />
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We did hear from them each night and all 3 boys sounded great each time. Though the phone calls were brief and not very detailed (We went fishing. We took a bike ride!) they all sounded happy, healthy, and like they were having the best of times, the way best friends should. They even told Turner they missed him and he should come next time, which made him so very happy (and, me too!) Jenn and I were thrilled. We also received what Jenn and I consider to be the best selfie ever of the 3 smiling boys.<br />
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Wednesday night, their last night away, we got a call as always, an "I love you," and a "we will see you tomorrow" before hanging up. But, after the call I received a text of a photo of Chase's bare tush, with the words, Chase has poison ivy on his butt. After they sent it,the phone died, so they never answered my question of "Is this real or are you boys just sending me a full moon?"<br />
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Turns out, it was real. When Chase got home I learned he took nature by storm and used leaves for all sorts of things; including a poison ivy leaf to wipe with. The poor kid had a poison ivy outbreak in hard to reach places that caused him some good discomfort but was also quite funny. I mean, how could you not laugh at that? Even Dr. Abir found it amusing. Chase was a sport about it. He knew it was funny even though he couldn't stop itching. And, now that it is healing nicely, we are all having a pretty good laugh.<br />
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Their stories of their time away were about biking, including some reckless downhill off-roading that had Chase falling off his bike and faceplanting (luckily not into a patch of poison ivy) and Ryder nearly falling off a cliff, both of which were the highlight of Ethan's trip. There were stories about catching lots fish, including Ryder's 16inch fish which was the highlight of his trip (and the new fishing rod that G.P. bought him.) And, the cats that nearly lost one of their nine lives by crossing through the boys' reckless bike path. And,of course, stories about taking dumps outside. They made fire and roasted food; they made their own lunches (it's a miracle) and they stayed up late in their very own tent (G.P. had his own tent next to theirs) telling stories and laughing uncontrollably. I would say that is one successful camping trip.<br />
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Thank you so much to G.P. and all of the Van Aken's for their kindness.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-14574082407639708932016-07-08T14:08:00.004-04:002019-07-10T11:14:15.817-04:00A letter to my sons on their 10th Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Chase and Ryder,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcO5PIpygmb4sUyO0-6gqkPeBWmGq5pv2PoQzKTizYKZ8hK3MRRgytASuO1-nT61koPfa4RHektpSMp2pgEpobTvzL3L-HLZzSGslSeSAcl7rf4xSj1gfm5UluB0KHNZ8zviCCcbkjImw/s320/blogger-image-463310459.jpg" width="240" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Double digits. A decade. Two whole hands. The start of tween-age-dom. There are many names for this milestone but they all mean the same thing; TEN.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ten. It makes me shiver. An eye-popping, head-scratching, let me re-check my math type of shiver. I can double and triple check but, the fact remains, my double first born are ten. And, by looking at you, talking to you, knowing you, there is just no denying it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">As I write this letter, 5 of you (Turner and Ryder fell asleep before the fort transfer) are cuddled up in a fort for a sleepover party; the aftermath of a 17 boy birthday celebration with swimming, gaga, trampolines, and man hunt. The party was great, albeit loud, and a true indicator of the great kids that you have both chosen for friends. Although, I admit, I like hearing the laughter and the chatter and the discussion of girls, it truly is time for bed!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0emLNfO4_pRjQqj0z9ap_rsgQCgjE0FFbPdMThRM5G7-6pPecXpft-5YQDsq22RU4CMJX4zxFSbBbT2nrydJLVPHRBhvjl0GTL8n3i8Daa3gERDNMPYj_hl3SyJiVtZbMB5EKgyNZN4/s1600/blogger-image--1845278283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0emLNfO4_pRjQqj0z9ap_rsgQCgjE0FFbPdMThRM5G7-6pPecXpft-5YQDsq22RU4CMJX4zxFSbBbT2nrydJLVPHRBhvjl0GTL8n3i8Daa3gERDNMPYj_hl3SyJiVtZbMB5EKgyNZN4/s320/blogger-image--1845278283.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/07/a-letter-to-my-sons-on-their-9th.html" style="font-family: inherit;">Last year, I commented on how 9 brought so many things but, most substantially, it marked the halfway point of your childhood.</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Which means that this one, and every one from here on out, takes us, takes you, further from your childhood. As your parent, that reality is baffling and also makes me a bit weepy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1ycuHaq52AK7JjTSYx7GX32C9BsuWxq7-IEf0ghyHO3ca9xNsMeFTYw6BGKg-SePsRPRszDTQ1kqDITzzVeJiq61bcUgskv6k-vGWz9tUOvQHaI7Pz7tts9TQ9B7yjgNVPNM07l5gws/s320/blogger-image--1415451148.jpg" width="240" /> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcXaW4EcLZR1IIT6Z8b61RSFlyJhEG86Y5tzEdqzYnGuKWQ_SlRg1bhs0c_njQ5s_nvHGRNeIppkz7W2jfGBfVg2Y685XyxrnOTdlnrESKM9bbDWiCtk3wuCVBgT9ok4umlJysw03fk4/s320/blogger-image--300740301.jpg" width="240" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ryder, my sensitive superhero, every day you grow bigger, stronger, taller. Your shoulders are broad and your back is vast. Your feet are bigger than mine though I do still have you by just a few inches in height...for now. I can't lift you, not even close, but you can and do lift me. At 97 pounds and 56 inches you are solid as a rock and you're my go to for help carrying heavy things or moving furniture. You love that you have the strength required to help. For all of your brawn, however, you're this deeply sensitive guy with an imagination and a creativity that can only be described as kinetic. Your body, your mind, your thoughts, your imagination are always, always in motion. You've developed into an extremely self-aware and confident kid and you are comfortable with the person you are and are becoming. You're not afraid to be your own person and you recognize the wonderful in your very unique talents. You are thoughtful and passionate and, really, you are who you have always been, just more mature and more secure in your being. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fourth grade was a year of growth. You had an amazing teacher in Mrs. Carey and an awesome class. You embraced new friendships and cultivated deeper relationships with existing friendships. You've learned that you can be different than someone and still have a lot in common with them and you learned that true friendship can be found where you least expect it. You've come to realize that you are one of the boys despite being your artsy self. And, the boys are lucky to have you, because when it comes down to the nitty gritty of what being a real friend is there are not a lot out there that are better than you. I hope you see the value in being a "true friend." It makes me very proud.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Of all the things that you are at the top of the list is big brother. You are absolutely amazing with Decker and he responds to you in kind. You just seem to "get it" when it comes to a baby, or maybe you just get him. Either way, he adores you and you him and I know I can always count on you to care for him. You love him like you love most things, with passion and devotion and loyalty; that's just who you are.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3eE5Er1dK2wQ4pxRKf1cr2HEt4rjfm-LvCFjNTYB36O2OPFBG7CDN-rVllQPj6dmHGJUyAksrCDhrTkMwNSxbNBbh15XsQRcuFQLJsv5CDsNQihQce36tVlFQmlhtCekYHf1z_aUP-o/s640/blogger-image-474754354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3eE5Er1dK2wQ4pxRKf1cr2HEt4rjfm-LvCFjNTYB36O2OPFBG7CDN-rVllQPj6dmHGJUyAksrCDhrTkMwNSxbNBbh15XsQRcuFQLJsv5CDsNQihQce36tVlFQmlhtCekYHf1z_aUP-o/s320/blogger-image-474754354.jpg" width="240" /></a> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qJp5MxJ77MzV8G2_gwNGVfs-5x_ZrVm8-bc11iS7oQCZtYjUr-roQbdqOQk66nwTz2x-KOV7NxdBJkVkYd-9lTNzEU4M7w_06MPY7jbZVqFnknd0ruAdn94_xaaJAxiLZxSin22Ao5U/s320/blogger-image-1258737528.jpg" width="240" /> <img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfq7jEVhd5qQ9wXAcr_8LIXxRP2ZGoR75QzNgVtPEUWzMe2q3mVo48iNnQws4mVLslCyFGgMqVJdXdsrVH1nTX0-48J5x2dTU06MT0lsfHp-Zcs-y1yJtxBZ-glRmypF-htxfURWszwSw/s320/blogger-image-1288624559.jpg" width="320" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">As we begin this new decade I am hopeful to see you become more responsible, more thoughtful before acting, a little less impulsive. I would like to see you dedicate yourself, through your talents and passions, to trying and being the best you can be at whatever it is you're doing. Whether it is school work, art work, friendship, or daily chores- put your super large heart into it and just try and be the best you can be. My faith in you is unwavering and my support is unconditional. Your possibilities are limitless, like your creativity, and I hope your desire catches up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You played basketball again this year, for Coach Bill again, and really enjoyed it. You improved a lot and did a great job on defense. You enjoy playing and you practice often and I know you will continue to get better and better. You also took Bass lessons at school and did great performing at the Spring Concert. Your favorite color is still red. You've fallen in love with skateboarding and have embraced it and practice as often as you can. You are trying to understand the sport from the bottom up. Boards, building them and taking part, all the way up to the tricks of the trade. You love to read, are a YouTube phanatic, and love the band Green Day. You love television. You could watch all day if we would let you. And, though you are far less of a gamer than you used to be, you're still an electronics junkie whose face is often in my iPhone. Snapchat. Instagram. Musical.ly. FaceTime. Group chat. I could go on. You've become very social and outgoing and tell stories with detail and excitement. You took a drawing class and did well and your talent is just blossoming. Your closest friends are Ethan and Connor and Jake and Aidan. And, of course, you're still close to Joey and Ryan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNYhuhC0_KC0zpTxJBCQu6oTfHizOjxdVeD_DXTN0_T7CdzR1Ze7qsJGeouBNb_rKFYmz61gPkg6TddRrWprgT6rgF86NExujToLDCbQ92RtWa_Z-aJR-BQmtMi07Q6x_Xifsl4w7DCU/s320/blogger-image--363937190.jpg" width="320" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can't wait to see what this year brings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDanxsUtf1BTagK9mlDZgOwOuh47dwsAVFIjcvHx2lRZYtzZIk4KfyZrge-z5OIstnYvXlAh_4UzX1km-2kkLdZboc-IwPDYheh5UenEVo8TKJ609amNoZwnYSp5XDrfgql8Z-p5MBArs/s320/blogger-image-1341260808.jpg" width="240" /> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0K_7o6Nrj_cL34KlN0a3bIfIFAZyzJTW2EFIO3CYcNSqF4iIFgx8T3FS1ulZOs-zIIt0Vt9BX3eJEcMYwrk-Qn7RWTmOgVw7JfATg-NjDHwQGMcEBI2bt0SIyR24g5bbyEW-xqPiCtw/s320/blogger-image--727755505.jpg" width="240" /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Chase- my determined and disciplined superstar- you have grown taller and stronger (64 pounds and 54 inches), though you are still quite lean, and your back has broadened indicating a slow to come growth spurt that certainly has taken you out of the "smaller" category. Your lean body is pure muscle and your hands and feet move quickly and gracefully. You are agile and fast both physically and mentally and have a heart that fuels itself on desire and competition. Although you have recently lowered your own bar (just a bit) you still want to be the very best you can be at almost everything. You are willing to work and to practice and to keep on trying until you master whatever it is you have set your mind on. That discipline has served you well, most recently it was with the Rubik's cube that you vowed to solve. And solve you did. I still don't understand how you can use ten different fingers to rotate each of the layers in many different directions at once, nor do I get how to solve it, but none of that matters. You can and do solve it swiftly and easily and continue to practice to do it better, faster. I hope this inner desire to win and the discipline to work continues to grow within you and keeps you striving for success.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnntHYI4R-zwbxItz-T9McWTJQLp3nfZ7ThtGxroJ4UqLNOI1evxENCBCkmnPT1VtbH6UXQhDlAA2SLOPsvevpydhaSG_mjGTITknOwFaNywly36iz5iuGvzL_yrIC0RqG390APcGBZ8/s320/blogger-image-2119920994.jpg" width="240" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4th grade was a good year for you in many ways. Originally disappointed that most of your buddies were not with you in class, you were able to accept new friendships and came to realize that different people have different and wonderful things to offer. You were impressed by your classmates smarts, or different hobbies, or silly personalities and accepted with your typical charm that not everyone loves sports. Mrs. Jaggers seemed to be a good match for you in the classroom (not to mention that she is Meg's best friend, a little fact that makes me happy!) and you excelled in almost all subjects. You were excited to learn, took it seriously, and as you do, tried to be the very best student you could be. You love math, your skills in the subject have really taken off, and it won't be long before I will be completely unable to help you. Luckily, you won't need much help in that area.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/10/you-say-ya-want-revolution.html">This year you traded your soccer cleats for ice skates and spent your first full season on a travel ice hockey tea</a>m. You missed soccer a bit, and were fortunate enough to play as a sub on many occasions, but overall hockey was a wonderful experience. In addition to playing great hockey and improving your game, you made terrific memories and even better friends. You are a very good hockey player and you love the sport and it shows in every way every time you are on the ice. I am confident that you will continue to improve and develop as you play more and more. You also had another enjoyable season of baseball. For in-house you played for Coach Steve on the Falcons in the American League, which had you playing up with kids up to 12 years old. For travel you played for Coach Steve as well. This year's Bombers team had a lot of new (to you) kids on it and gave you an opportunity to play with some new boys and make some friends. You played 1st base for the Bombers, which was a new experience. Although you missed playing shortstop a bit more regularly, you embraced first base and played it very well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PnckwcEqhqXCGiZ6l2Eo86gysAkZtKHsE584JJY__aKurD6Y345oArNRPqiaMNQgm0FV7wUZFX4l50R6EHyXNn8nEw41DJFhdgVGk61TJ5txn2ABLizruX4NHy0IOCwh9QxCQW1rsHM/s320/blogger-image-1838081369.jpg" width="320" /> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSXtF7YsvNwK9yMOXuUrIyTKIPSdyXJQs2VrIjrHhnHKOuEz2Ntea7uV1lAsk1oNxoVxL8eb5C-S-HOumCQDzCY99DbJAz6BNUzkWAXisIbx2nI9DyKr0LdRFjcBfWLRKKzReszNii3k/s320/blogger-image--1344700757.jpg" width="240" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Your favorite color is currently orange, which is no coincidence that it is the Flyers color. You love all Philly teams especially the Phillies and the Flyers. You like movies and magic and telling jokes. You're quieter than you were when you were younger, you keep more things close to your chest. You are still social, though less so, and continue to have a charming way about you. Your closest friends are Ethan and Connor. In this new decade I hope that you can be a little neater and a little more thoughtful when it comes to the people and things around you. You have a tendency to get caught up in "Chase's bubble" and forget there's a big world out there. You are a very smart kid who doesn't always think things through and I am hoping your tenth year can bring you a bit more of that and a bit more responsibility. Childhood is for fun and memories and for learning so that you can be a responsible and respectable adult. I want you to enjoy your childhood, as you are, and I want you to embrace the opportunity to learn. I have no doubts about what you are capable of and I have a faith in you that can't be questioned. I will always support you and I have no doubt of the success that will follow you. I am so excited to see what this year brings you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6icU36EBWRPRyAItvYmhbyO3rTToJQFl7k2toKSEFS3ExnoYVB_leVdXysbEWEOrt9ywo6tgWuc6dshoSjd-FC4mRlb9c9JIaTouD4Zicf52Mz5jzt9-_kI-SV-Gp8csVscDsquMexXk/s320/blogger-image--1484808480.jpg" width="320" /> <img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQzmgT5mLdrFhSovqFBADfkpp7wh7nbK-v4dxfWzpZucGa_nLtU3ZgePkDfbf6sz1zk55jPjBykg6NgIkHAQ-5YOgRn7Qun9XkgPm90SfxjOLA8OnBf1GAr9xcjPobrn_m1nVjJZAhfoY/s320/blogger-image-1166647019.jpg" width="320" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Everyday is an adventure with the two of you, the four of you, really; loud, hectic, often smelly and usually silly. I love every minute of our life and I am beyond proud of both you, each of you, all of you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">You make me proud every day and I hope to continue to guide you so that you can make yourselves proud as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">I love you so....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">mom</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynqNrakhCnf-wTd24bfjP-nUvnmuQJ1yJQsucJ-dDEX1O4_xjUdv9XSzET8F9WDbhhEzMGU3JrN_kcK2VNHxZ8uKSJnMccxYLq_LbBh4TFPHxXUJvl9GgHAYRKawqZ4CgC8eKD4cZt2s/s320/blogger-image-214198648.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Growing into the birthday shirt</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedR7iohyphenhyphen_8SR11N65BTD4F4GbMghIEgjbGxUWC6IsZrVLeMKCwbgKjQA-rZYYPq9VtA3tGc51PjHeJPsSeQah_oMymuIJRS6bWzcwGTBf8Fx5nEi-UtK2cLA0TqTyJDxbYVnFIJvrjNo/s320/blogger-image-1397684856.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Almost bigger than the birthday shirt</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/07/a-letter-to-my-sons-on-their-9th.html"><br />The 9 year old letter</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-9846648686630322042016-06-10T09:00:00.002-04:002016-07-08T15:45:11.768-04:00Last Day of School 2016<div>
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I was fine. The boys were happy, laughing. Another last day school come and gone and I was doing ok. Easy come, easy go. Then, stupid Facebook, gave me a 5 year old memory and that was the end of my holding it together. I love Facebook memories. It is one of my favorite things about the social network. But, really, on a day with suppressed emotions and overwhelming feelings of the passage of time did it have to go and do that? Did it have to show me a picture they claim was 5 years ago when I am pretty confident it was just 5, maybe 6, posts ago.<br />
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It snowballed from there. Turner said he was becoming a 2nd grader. Chase and Ryder said they were 5th graders. 5th graders are big kids, by the way. Then they reminded me this was the last time they would ride the bus with Joey, who is off to middle school in the fall, and that was it, I became a quick puddle and decided that Decker can't grow up. Not ever. Sorry buddy. </div>
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Turner began first grade with a crew cut so I hardly recognize him in the day one pictures. He entered the grade struggling with reading and has ended the year with a marked improvement. He seems to have an understanding of math concepts that he must have inherited from Delaney and Chase. He went to his birthday parties, made some friends, and seemed to have a good time. He remains to be an indecisive boy who hasn't found his "thing" yet. And, since he is 7, I try not to worry too much about it. Mrs. Delfini was fantastic, yet again. Ryder had her for kindergarten and I liked her all over again. And, she liked Turner. She described him as helpful to both her and his classmates, happy and positive, with a desire to learn and to satisfy. I would say she knows him well. I am excited for him to go to 2nd grade even if that means I'm accepting his growing up. </div>
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4th grade was also a great year for Chase and Ryder. The youngest of the upper classmen, 4th grade comes with much more academic independence, which is good because the math is getting near impossible, and much more social involvement. Texting. FaceTiming. Hanging out. There was more language, more sarcasm, more thought provoking conversations. Ryder blossomed as a reader finding a real love for books. He enjoyed his class, and loved learning what science had to offer. Mrs. Carey proved to be the perfect teacher for him as she got to know him and understand him and adore him as I had hoped. Chase continued to excel in math and achieve high marks all around, and had an enjoyable year finding common interests with new kids as many of his friends were not in his class. Both boys saw how peer pressure can effect their classmates and how "being cool" often sends people off track. Luckily, my kids stayed in line pretty well but we're disappointed that not everyone did. I am proud of them for continuing to be nice kids, to look out for others, and for them realizing that good friends come in different packages and they aren't always the kids that have all of the same interests. I am also proud of them for forging their own paths, albeit different from each other, and being secure enough with who they are to continue on those paths. </div>
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Overall it was a great school year, <a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/08/today-is-first-day-of-school.html">one which passed just as fast as each one before it (but probably not as fast as the years to come.) Another school year passes by and I'll pretend it was easy come and easy go. </a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-31613182039484266632016-05-01T23:21:00.000-04:002016-07-08T11:02:16.744-04:00Happy 41st Birthday to me!!It is after midnight, which means it is officially my birthday. Although I do not know the exact time of my birth, I do know we are nearing the time (approximately 2am), 41 years ago, when after being 5 days later than due, I rushed into the world and took my first breath in the back of the very police car that was hightailing it to the nearest hospital so that a baby wouldn't be born his car. This remains to be my most interesting fun fact in spite of any experiences life has given me.<br />
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I don't know how I am 41. I understand chronology and numbers and have a mathematical understanding of time yet I can't grasp the passing of it. I can not comprehend how decades literally span 20 or 30 years yet pass fugaciously by like a dream. You look back and it seems it all happened when you blinked.<br />
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It is an interesting thing- having a baby just 7 weeks prior to a milestone birthday. Not so much because it marked the said milestone but because his aging is an increasing tally of the time past since that particular day. When it seems impossible that a year could have gone by I have this remarkable little human clock that tells me it is isn't only possible, but real. All of the amazing things that Decker has learned and has become serve as my evidence that time is passing, in the very best of ways, and I do not need to feel one day older for me to know that another candle is added to my cake this year. The truth is, it seemed impossible that I turned 40, so 41 is like some sort of science fiction fantasy that only could be made for television, yet I did, I am...well, I was. Impossible things happen all of the time, or so it seems.<br />
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41 is that age where you just kind of hang out, uneventfully, in your early 40's. Enough days have passed to get over the shock of the 4th decades arrival and yet another milestone is still far enough away that there's no real excitement in the new age.<br />
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This past year has been an unexpected dream come true as we watched our baby's first year. It has also been a year of personal high's and lows. I have worked more, and enjoyed it, and have found some ways to let my creativity flow. I am studying to get my securities license, and though I do find it difficult to get the time in to study, I find I am making it happen (though slower than anticipated) and it proves if you make time things can get done. I am trying to make time for the friends I don't see, something I found more difficult than desired during baby's first year. I lost a good amount of weight and am thinner than I may have been at 31 and in exchange I have gained a few gray hairs and more than a handful of "laugh lines." I have said on more than one occasion, to any of my younger friends who have recently joined this club, "don't fret, 40 is the best yet," and I actually have meant it each and every time. I mean, true, I am not having nearly as much fun as I did in my 20's, my patience is less, my memory has dwindled, and my pockets are far more shallow. But my fun is different, my confidence is more, my memories have grown, and my heart is deeper. Mathematically it seems to balance out. Life is a series of moments. Hopefully, more positive ones than negative, and it is about embracing and handling each of those moments and occasionally looking around at those who surround you and just being grateful. <br />
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I know in what will seem like a rather short time I'll be 51 and wondering where my 40's went, looking for that decade as if it were Waldo hidden in the crowd. So I'll just embrace these days, the chaos, the busy schedules, the into everything toddler and the mouthy almost ten year olds who are confusing the onset of double-digits with teenhood. I'll embrace the weekends of kid activities and sports and birthday parties and accept that paychecks are for bills and groceries and kid activities and sports. Because I know it is just a passing phase of life that, even if hard at times, will be missed when it is gone. </div>
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Life is a series of phases that cascade upon you often with out warning. In my 40's I've become aware of this and settle into my wisdom with calm and collection. In each phase there are highs and lows, of course. I find it is best to handle the problems one at a time while clinging to the highlights all at once grasping them by the handful and stamping them on my memory. <br />
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Each year will be met with the same disbelief as the one before it, perhaps even more. I just hope each year is met with a similar positive attitude and overall happiness.<br />
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(Continued on 5/1/16)<br />
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My day was spent on a lunch date with Todd to our most favorite of places, Kisso. We have had so many special occasions spent within those bright orange walls and this one was no different and sure did not disappoint. The rain outside dampened our shoes but not our spirits as we indulged in Alex's food and savored each and every delicious bite. We enjoyed catching up with Alex, as we like to do, and didn't hesitate to sip on the sake.<br />
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After lunch we had to head back home so that we could spend the early evening at synagogue where Chase and Ryder were called to the bimah to accept their B'nai Mitzvah date. Yup, that really happened. If that isn't evidence of how fast time passes then I do not know what is. After synagogue we had some pizza and some cocktails with good friends before heading over to watch what remained of Chase's baseball game. Another birthday on a ball field....I love that!!<br />
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(And, of course, we had our traditional hibachi dinner the night prior.)<br />
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Another birthday, another wish made, another year gone by. Happy birthday to me!!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's not a birthday picture without Alex</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We've been coming to Kisso for almost 20 years and this is our first picture under the name!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/05/this-is-my-40.html">This was MY 40!</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-86757443897128706262016-03-04T23:24:00.003-05:002016-08-12T15:47:16.722-04:00A Letter to my Son on his First Birthday!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dear Decker,</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing in to the birthday shirt</td></tr>
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</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Happy First Birthday. You are One Year Happy!! </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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First Birthday. It makes me happy. And, sad. I wonder where time
has gone, even knowing there were long sleepless nights (though not very many.)
I wonder how it has only been a year? Haven't you always been with
us? And, mostly, I am simply in awe of you. <br style="color: #222222;" />
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I remember this time last year; the unexpected delivery due to another
failed non-stress test. The pending snow storm. The minor scare prior to
delivery. I remember the doctors placing you in my arms, my son, still
nameless, and I was instantly in love. And, how could I not be? Everyone
who meets you falls in love. This has been the case since your infancy
when you were a tiny, little peanut who brought calm and joy to your holder.
This was the case during your early smiles, and your tiny giggles.
It is the case now, with your silliness, your curls, your wonderful way,
and, of course, your blue eyes- finding something, everything, to fall in love
with is simple.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It's not just me, though I am quite possibly your biggest admirer, but
it seems that anyone who knows you sees how special you are...instantly. I am
pretty sure you inherited this trait from your namesake.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span>You are a busy boy, always doing, touching, feeling, learning. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You have these skills that are so precise and capable that it blows us all away. It shouldn't be that way at One. But, this is YOU we are talking about.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You are studying the world around you and taking it all in. We can see it in your eyes as you focus on whatever it is that is in front of you. You watch our lips as we talk and you watch our hands as we use them. You use your pointer finger to touch things, feel them. I have no doubt you understand how everything works even if you are not able to do these things just yet. And, though this "studious" side makes you come off as serious, which you tend to be, you have a silly side that is revealed through your adorable giggles and your "hoorays."</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You are a master climber, which began at a young age with the stairs, and has progressed to, well, everything. You climb chairs, tables, furniture, book cases, me. You are good at climbing, and seem to do it properly and safely. You are taking steps, and are mighty proud each time you do, as are we, but are not yet walking, though you are a super fast crawler.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You love to play ball. You will sit and we can roll it to you, but you will pick it up and chuck it right back. If it is possible to have a good arm and an accurate throw at age one then you do. Maybe it is luck. I doubt it. And, "ball" is your favorite word to say. If you see a ball, any ball, any round object really, your eyes open wider, your mouth turns up just a bit, your finger points forward and "ball" comes out of your mouth. Repeatedly and happily.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You love to "play" <u>Patty Cake</u> and <u>Row, Row, Row your Boat</u> and if I simply just say "Row, Row" to you you will start rocking back and forth. You love when I sing the song D-E-C-K-E-R (sung to the tune of Bingo) and you love to eat wipes. It's true. It is disgusting (I have tasted one) and we always tell you so, but pulling wipes from the dispenser to put in your mouth happens a lot. Too much. Actually, most things end up in your mouth. Sometimes I think you are just testing us, to see if we are paying attention, because you'll give us a look as you put your hand (filled with something that doesn't belong in your mouth) to your lips waiting for our "No, no, Decker, that isn't food." You like to bang on the piano and to strum a guitar and seem to dance a bit when music is played. There's a special place in your heart for the men in our lives...which begins with your brothers, who are your favorite people, and includes your uncles. When any of them are around there is not much time for anyone else.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Changing your diaper is impossible, because there is no way you are willing to sit still for the amount of time it takes to wipe a dirty toosh. As is, wiping your nose, which is met with a scream of horror. Wearing socks is not an option, in spite of many people's opinion on this, because you pull them off just as quickly as we put them on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You are a good eater, only want table food, and prefer it be full of flavor- even spice. Plain noodles are met with disgust, while noodles in a spicy red sauce are eaten at an adult portion. You have a very clear way of letting us know that you are no longer interested in eating, and that is by chucking food clear across the room. That's always our sign. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You transitioned easily from a bottle to a cup and love your milk! And, you've been enjoying Miss Cheryl's class where, finally at full capacity, you are surrounded by your harem of ladies. Lucky little girls:) You seem very happy at Bright Eyes and all of the teachers adore you. How could they not?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At one year old you weigh 21 pounds, 8 ounces are 30.5 inches tall have an 18 inch head and a 19 inch chest and, although it is not something the doctor measures, you are very, very strong. True story. You have muscle definition on your baby body. I am pretty sure that is not typical.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Your birthday will be celebrated on Sunday with a pajama breakfast party. Our family and closest friends will celebrate you, your first year of life and the wonder and joy you've brought all of us. It is a well-deserved party.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Decker, In June of 2014 I was going along with life, as I had been for the years prior, assuming my family was complete. A month later I learned otherwise. <b>You are my every day reminder that things always happen exactly as they are supposed to even if it is not expected.</b> From the very first second that you were born it was clear that our family was never complete without you. You bring such joy to each and every one of us and are loved, adoringly, by all . <b>I will continue to ride the waves as they come knowing that what is meant to be will happen. You are my proof.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All 366 days (thank you leap year) since your birth have been filled with a happiness and an admiration and an awe that only you, Decker Jaime Tovsky, could provide. There is not a moment that passes that I am not grateful and that I am not proud. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love you so, every day.....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mommy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Read the amazing similarities...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2007/07/letter-to-my-sons-on-their-1st-birthday.html">Chase and Ryder at 1</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2010/01/letter-to-my-son-on-his-first-birthday.html">Turner at 1 year old </a>- </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5705180371410923945.post-73510156254196720782016-01-07T23:05:00.000-05:002016-03-24T23:08:14.409-04:00A Letter to my Son on his 7th BirthdayDear Turner-<br />
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Another year has passed us by and now my baby boy is 7. A 7 year old, who is in first grade, is almost as tall as his 9 year old brother, and has shoulders that are broadening and a chest that is thickening. I was only half kidding when I put you to bed tonight and told you that you may wake up taller than me.<br />
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You are a special boy, Turner. There is really nothing else to say. You have this way of making those around you feel special and lucky and engaged. You make eye contact and appreciate each moment that anyone spends with you, and it shows.<br />
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You make friends, easily. You are social, and fun, and bring an element to the party that is missed when you are not around. And, yet, you are independent and mature and O.K. all on your own. You know everything, but don't ever act like a know it all. But, if I am looking for something or need to know some information about our household, I can always ask you and be sure to get the right answer. You are structured, yet not too much, and like order, but are not obsessed by it. You are silly, and smart, and always have a dance move in your step and a song in your voice.<br />
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At school you have Mrs. Delfini. Some of your school friends are Gavin, Chase, Jake, Alex, and Greyson. Although you fight incessantly with Ryder it is because you are very much like him and share similar interests. You have a bond with Chase that doesn't need to be discussed, it just is, and although you love to tattle tale, it is clear you adore them both. You don't let them get away with giving the younger brother a hard time and definitely dish it right back at them.<br />
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You are an amazing big brother to Decker. Your care and concern is evident each time you look at him. You take him in your arms and never hesitate to tell him you love him or tell him how cute he is. So often you greet him with "Hi, gorgeous face!" Your empathetic and thoughtful way makes you a natural big brother and you never think twice about making sure he is happy first. I admire that about you. It is just who you are. You care about other people and other things and make the effort to satisfy those around you. You are a terrific chore doer and are my number one man when it comes to offering me help. You're not scared of hard work, nor a little elbow grease, and are always willing to lend a helping hand.<br />
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Your party will be on Sunday, celebrated with The Great Holtzie. This is a party you've been waiting to have since you were 4, when Chase and Ryder had him at their party. I told you then, "when you are in first grade" and don't you know that as soon as your party was brought up this year you said "I am in first grade, I get Great Holtzie." That is how you are. You don't forget things that are said and expect follow through. We need someone like you living in this house, for sure.<br />
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You will dabble in sports when all of the boys play but you have not, yet, shown too much of an interest in playing organized sports. Maybe that is not for you. You do take piano lessons, though they are bi-weekly so progression is slow, but you seem to enjoy them and are diligent about what you learn. Earlier in October you had a little recital. You did a great job, as we would expect, and you looked so handsome.<br />
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Although you don't talk about it, and it is hard because Ryder gets so much attention for his skills, you are a pretty good drawer. I hope you will continue to practice the art form so that you can become a talented artist, as well.</div>
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You're a unique and wonderful kid. At 7 years old you are 62 pounds and 48.5 inches. You are getting bigger and thicker and your back is spreading every day. You have a loud speaking voice and often need to be shushed but also have an endearing smile and contagious laugh. You are quick witted and clever and don't miss too much of what's around you. You're street smart and showing signs of being a good student. </div>
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You're my baby, now and forever, as I like to tell you often, but there's very little baby left in you. </div>
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I love you, Turner. You make me proud every day. </div>
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Mommy </div>
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2014/01/a-letter-to-my-son-on-his-5th-birthday.html">Turner at 5</a><br />
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<a href="http://tovskytwins.blogspot.com/2015/01/dear-turner-1515-i-just-spent-last-few.html">Turner at 6</a><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0