October 8-1 0900

Tyler at Grammy's

Grammy and Marty

Josh, home from RPI, with one of his biggest fans (Capone).

The family (Tyler as photographer).

It is wonderful having both boys around, Josh is integrating into college life tremendously well. All things with a beginning, by definition, must have an end. As this blog must as well. As informative, and expository as this endeavor was, it was, for me at least, cathartic and therapeutic. Without this literary exercise, I'm not sure I would have been able to maintain any semblance of sanity throughout the most difficult times of this ordeal. The constant love , prayer and support from everyone has given my usually cynical nature a fresh blast of nourishment regarding the nature of mankind. During this ordeal (yet, not complete) We have been bolstered by the constant love and prayers of all our extended family. This all still seems like I'm watching through someone else's eyes, I can't imagine a more surreal or emotionally draining event, nor do I wish to. There are so many gifts, cards and prayers that should have been thanked individually, yet weren't, I hope you will forgive us. Tyler is on the road to recovery, that is certain. The time required and the extent of that recovery is still the question. Yet with continued faith and work, we are confident of a great outcome.

Thank You very much for all the prayers and support!

Tyler: If there are any thoughts that I will be continuing this journey without all of you, this is false. I feel all the children of the earth take this journey together and especially all who have been such a big part of my recovery with your many prayers and wishes, will continue this journey with me. A simple, yet heartfelt thanks to everyone. We'll see you on the path.

October 7-1 0750

Tomorrow will be the last formal/daily entry for the Blog. I will from time to time relay significant news, or important updates. Tyler feels he is doing well enough not to be such a center of attention. He is a bright, caring, and modest young man whom I am overwhelmingly proud to call my son. Even though, through sheer will and determination, his progress has been nothing short of miraculous, he still has a long journey ahead. We are both excited about Josh's return for the weekend in a mere 7 hours and 56 minutes. We are planning a nice weekend with much laughing and fun. I can't wait to have my 2 boys under the same roof again, the house will feel complete.

October 6-1 0645

Tyler had a busy day yesterday at therapy, then an evening Youth Action Committee (YAC) meeting. When he got home I was already in bed. He is one tough, motivated kid. School is going well for Ty, and he is looking at taking Physics next semester. We are working with the school to arrange a tutor to assist him with this and other challenging courses.
It has come to my attention that Tyler, in his humble way would like to see the Blog come to an end. Being at least integrated into his previous life, he has a desire for privacy, and some closure. I think the Blog hearkens back to more difficult and scary times Tyler would prefer putting behind him. I will finish out this week, and then close down the operation out of deference and respect for Ty's wishes.

Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.
-Winston Churchill

October 5-1 0800

Off to school then therapy. I can tell Tyler is getting impatient, wondering when the therapy will no longer be needed. All I can do is encourage patience and perseverance. He is still focused and doing well socially, and in school. He has been adopted by the X-Country team and was once again invited to their pre-meet dinner last night. It's heartening to see how many wonderful friends are behind him.

October 4-1 0725

Diva pining away for Josh's return.

Tyler performing the doggy mind meld on Capone.

The day begins with a champions breakfast of chili over pasta. I'm glad I wont be sitting next to Tyler in class. So far Ty is keeping up with his class work with the assistance of the various modifications in place to aid in his success. After school there's a short break , then I'm taking the lad to aqua and speech therapy and Grammy's bringing him back.

3 days, 8 hours, 30 minutes until Josh come home.

October 3-2 1330

Tyler and Nic approaching Nirvana (GameStop computer game store).
Saturday when Tyler, Nic and I went for a ride, we stopped here, and it deserved to be immortalized. Rarely do you see teenage boys happier than when they're entering GameStop.
Tyler has Drama Club after school, then Robotics Team at 1900. Our only concern is he doesn't push himself too hard.

October 3-1 0800

Yesterday was a hoot. A restful, fun day. I feel bad, Jamie came by to play Risk, but missed the photo op. The week begins anew. Therapy Tues and Wed, with the highlight of the week being the prodigal son returning on Fri. I will be picking up Josh and his girlfriend Jessie Friday afternoon, and Josh will be home until the 10th. We all miss him... He misses the dogs.

October 2-3 1320

The gang, focused on world domination.

Tyler has Nic, Tom, and Andrew over to play Risk. The non-electric, non-computer, and completely un-digital game board version. Ty and I went to the "Y" for a workout, then Stop and Shop for snacks and drinks for the gang. My heart soars at seeing Tyler and some of his buddies laughing, kidding, and having a great time with the simpler things in life. I can't help but think how different things could have been but for the grace of G-d. I feel an immense joy and contentment seeing the simple things we as parents often take for granted.

Random thoughts

After spending a great day with Tyler, I was inspired to put down these thoughts:
There still is beauty and wonder in the world, more likely, it never left, it was just overwhelmed by other horrors and frustrations. Watching the fireworks for our town’s 225th birthday was inspiring. There is a moment of anticipation between the launch of the rocket, and its ultimate Technicolor explosion which is palpable. That is the heart tingling joy of the young and innocent which the rest of us are privy to for a short moment in time. These are the little things in life which remind us of the times of youthful joy and exuberance which, in times gone by, were numerous, and almost taken for granted. It is these moments which help renew our confidence in good, our determination to persevere, and restore our waning faith. It is a moment of happy reflection and uplifting whimsy. A time, however short, we all are kids again, and all seems right with the world.

October 2-1 0800

Tyler and Bob at Salmon Brook Park

The Ancient Mariners in the parade with cool firing cannon.

The sign outside Salmon Brook Park in gratitude to this wonderful town.

Tyler went shopping with friends, then we went back to Salmon Brook Park for the fireworks display. Everyone was mesmerized and amazed at the scope and quality of the fireworks. The organizers of the 225th Birthday event deserve tremendous praise for their magnificent efforts.

I have been a bit shy on pictures lately, but that's about to change (minor technical difficulties and a non technical operator).