MY THREE SONS

Act One Studio

2012-02-11T22:12:00.002-06:00

TJ started his acting class "Teen Film and Television" downtown today at Act One Studio which was suggested by his agent. She thinks TJ just needs a little polishing. It is 3 hours every Saturday for 9 weeks. I have 3 hours to kill every Sat, today I walked around in the 15 degree weather and shot some pictures. (bird above)

My biggest concern was TJ not liking the class, it's a long session and there are no refunds. When I went back to pick up TJ he came out beaming, just beaming!! All the classes are taught by industry professionals with impressive resumes.

Connie is TJ's teacher...needless to say TJ was impressed. She told my TJ that he has Perfect teeth, perfect skin and will look great on film . TJ's fear walking in was that he would be lagging behind the other teens because he lacks professional training. These comments at the beginning of class were all TJ needed to relax and enjoy the class. He even volunteered to be filmed 1st. Turns out he is the only one that has Representation out of the 9 kids in class today

Maybe not being able to play sports isn't such a bad thing. TJ was trying to do both last year and couldn't give either one 100%. He has a better chance of being a professional actor then a pro baseball player...

Now I have to figure out how to entertain myself every Saturday for 3 hrs. Too bad it's not June, I could spend it at the Beach

It was a gift to see a sparkle in TJ's eyes again

Bad mom award

2012-02-10T08:16:00.000-06:00

This is what I found in karrick's backpack this morning. One would think that maybe karrick would have mentioned

"hey mom my shoes are smashing my toes which make me cry in PE"

" Um, Mom, I can't run in PE because my toes are curled under my foot like an ancient Chinese woman"

" I have to wear my street gym shoes in PE because my toes go numb with my PE shoes"

scratch that last one because

IF HE WORE HIS STREET SHOES HE WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN CRYING IN CLASS!

finally, if he is crying in class I probably don't need to check the size...right?

Karrick's a Beau

2012-02-08T19:20:00.001-06:00

Hinsdale's Got Talent? Babes 'N Beaus Will Let You Know

The article link above was repeated in today's paper

Above is my little Karrick after his interview with the owner of Babes 'N Beaus
.
He is officially a Beau

my little golden boy

2012-02-05T21:16:00.001-06:00

Hard to believe we spent the day at the park without coats in February.

Karrick bought himself a beanbag chair with his saved Christmas money.

kick in the pants

2012-02-04T10:32:00.003-06:00

I found this on a photographers Facebook page, I'm hoping it gives me the boost of confidence I need to start my photography business

Little Einstein

2012-02-03T16:18:00.000-06:00

Karrick is one of 5 kids pulled out of class for advanced math. He was awarded the Einstein award from the advanced math class. The kid has a mind for numbers and problem solving. Karrick can rip through physics games like no other on the computer.

The icing on the cake was today his standardized test scores came home and my little Karrick scored in the 99th % in Math

A far cry from the little boy that struggled in Kindergarten

Cutie got a haircut

2012-02-02T07:46:00.002-06:00

For the love of God...

2012-01-31T20:55:00.002-06:00

Monday nights I teach 1st grade religion class at our Parish's Catholic School. I'm not naming the school out of fear....not because I want to protect anyone, except myself I guess.

I teach in a 1st grade classroom and the standard rule for the kids is "don't touch anything" perfectly OK. I bring in all my own extra's in addition to what the Religious Ed office provides me with. These kids are 6 years old and have had a full day of class' so I try to make my class fun and easy. They have a limited attention span at 6:30-8pm. I don't give homework, we color, craft and play fun games like Bible Bingo, Noah's Ark matching, Bible Baseball etc. I give them candy. They are learning everything they need to in a fun environment. I started with 7 kids...now I have 12...12, 6 year olds...tired 6 year olds . I also have an assistant. Some kids asked to be transferred to my class cause I am the fun teacher..yes, yes I am

My dilemma:

This crazy ass day teacher keeps leaving these notes in my mailbox..OMG!!

after the 1st week I got a note saying her red and black dry erase markers were missing. I look in my tote and I see 2 markers (school provided all that stuff so Im not sure what is what) With a note I leave them on her desk...that I steer clear off...in fact I sit on a teeny tiny little 6 year old chair and my knees are higher then my teeny tiny table

The nest week I get another note in my box with the 2 markers that simply said "these are not dry erase"

well ok...whatever...then I don't have them

The 3rd week I get a note that says:

When you leave make sure at the 2 yellow tables there are 3 blue chairs, at the remaining tables leave 4 red and/or blue chairs

"Oh for Christ's sake!"

Whatever, I put the little stick'em in my binder.

We decide to make Advent wreaths for Advent....the paper candles are not standing upright and the glue is a drippy gooey mess. Me and My Assistant start stapling...

YES WITH SATAN'S STAPLER...SEND ME TO HELL ALREADY.

We use all of Satan's staples. I ask C my asst to go to the office and find replacement staples.

C fills the staplers and they are put back in the exact spot

Needless to say we go around and pick up every scrap of paper, wipe down all the desks. Put correct colored chairs on correct effing tables (every week)

The Catholic guilt brings me back to my childhood Catholic School experience. Old school...our nuns wore habits and as God is my witness, Sister Juanita had a limp from Polio...she was as mean as a snake. This lay teacher doesn't scare me

3 days later I get a call from the religious ed director

"Ms so and so just called me and she was quite upset because there was glue stuck in both of her staplers and she had to wash them"

I apologize and tell her about all my notes and what great lengths we go to not to put Ms so and so over the edge

F the director tells me "she doesn't seem to share very well and these classrooms belong to the parish not her"

BOOYAH!! take that Satan!!!

We still go to great lengths to leave that classroom spotless and fear there maybe a hidden camera (joke). I get hives if I take a tissue for fear they may be counted.

Last night I had a surprise for my kids. I popped 3 bags of popcorn brought in Veggie Tales and The Story of Noah's Ark VHS tapes for them to watch in the dark. They were so cute and just loved it. Veggie tales is really funny...just saying. It is also great because my Asst was a no show.

With 15 min left of class I turn on lights and almost threw up!

Popcorn and seeds all over the "reading rug"

GASP!

I have all the kids pick up what they can and what is left?

1000's of little clear seed covers all over...those little bastards that get stuck in your teeth

Well they're stuck in the rug

I frantically search for a broom...Nothing!

There is a little closet behind the teachers desk with the door slightly ajar, with a pounding heart I open it...Damn just wipes and extra supplies. I close the door and immediately think Mother F#%&@r!! The door was ajar because it automatically locks..I'm screw'd

The 1920 creepy dark Catholic schools...hopefully she has a key

Score!! I find a child size hand broom and dust pan in the "play area"

So while the kids are watching the end of the movie. I am down on all 4's sweeping little clear seed things into the dustpan all the while kinda moving kids as I go along.

With a pounding heart I try to get every last one. Then it hits me

"FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, am I insane? This crazy teacher has me acting like a fool. A couple boys try to kick some seed covers off the rug (hide them, go for it) and leave mud on the rug.

JESUS!

I'M DONE, DONE DONE!

As we leave the classroom to head outside to meet the parents for pickup I notice the entire room smells little microwave popcorn. I calmly shut the door to trap in the aroma

I anticipate and look forward to a nasty note in my box

Where is the Christian Love I ask? Can't we all just get along?

this is my 3rd year teaching and never have I had a teacher as neurotic and this one

I will admit that next week my heart will pound walking into the office to retrieve my mail. Sister Juanita all over again. Catholic schools scare me...crosses all over, multiple Jesus pictures and statues with the red flaming heart...scary stuff!

and Satan sitting at her desk

spur of the moment

2012-01-29T19:44:00.000-06:00

A last minute invitation found us meeting Karricks friend at Xtreme Trampoline in Carol stream. Karrick and Nico jumped for an hour and a half while us 2 moms got to sit down and just chat. I supplied the Starbucks....just what I needed. Marlene has a crazy life too. single mom, 1 child, owns a hair salon, finishing up getting her Masters degree while interning everyday at a not so local high school as a guidance counselor

Karrick and I went straight to Callahan's basketball game where they suffered their first loss :(

Callahan #34 below is standing with his 12/13 year old classmates/teammates. Kevin his coach is like 6'3. My darling (going through puberty) growing son is just shooting up... holy crap! I don't write about him much because my mere existence mortifies him. Maybe a bag over my head and some duck tape on my mouth will smooth things over...I don't know

How sweet is my boy?

2012-01-28T14:54:00.001-06:00

Today TJ and Alexis are celebrating 1 year together!

All the house computers are hooked up to my printer, so I was woken up last night by non-stop papers printing. When TJ came up to retrieve them I asked what gives. He said "When Alexis comes to wake me up tomorrow morning my entire room will be covered in anniversary signs" Isn't he just darling ???

Yes, she comes by every weekend morning and wakes him up

On another note, can you see all the prescription bottles (above) on my poor baby's desk? That's what my child has to take daily after that damn high school broke him!!

This week was given an anti-seizure medication...No, he doesn't have seizure's . It's used not as a pain med, but to try and knock the headaches out completely by relaxing the brain. He can only take it at night...it knocks him out!

TJ was still asleep when I took this, the papers are blowing from the fan being on. We all sleep with fans on year round. I think it started in Oak Park, we lived on a busy corner and the fans would drown out the thumping of bass from all the cars that drove by. Very annoying. While we certainly don't have that problem in Lombard, it is almost too quiet that we need the fans...an occasional flock of geese honking is the only noise we get.

When we 1st moved here we were all sitting at the table and Callahan being 6 at the time, puts his little arms up and says

"I can't stand it, it's too quiet!"

Yes, TJ's mattress is on the floor, he bounced a little to hard and cracked the wooden frame in half.

I honestly have been too preoccupied to think about it...it's on my list :)

I can't believe how grown up my little boy is, it's all just flying by too fast.

Happy 1 year to the worlds cutest couple !

multi listed

2012-01-25T18:19:00.001-06:00

On Monday I received a phone call from BNB Chicago Model/Talent Agency expressing interest in signing TJ. We met with the agent/owner today and they signed TJ on the spot. We are not exclusive with Lily's Talent so TJ is officially multi-listed.

I have heard of BNB as I see their model/actors sign in at auditions. BNB is a non-union agency so they get a lot more non-union commercial bookings. BNB also books union projects. We do get some non-union auditions through Lily's but not a lot as they are SAG. Non-union commercials are on TV and are paid, but usually not as much. TJ is willing to do the work and build a solid resume. The more experience he gets will only benefit both agencies.

All this makes the pain of not being able to participate in sports a lot more bearable. No sports also has freed up time to take some acting classes downtown.

TJ is pretty excited!!

the boy is back...part-time

2012-01-24T09:45:00.001-06:00

After almost 17 weeks, TJ is back at school...part time. He goes half days alternating between morning and afternoon classes. He had to drop H Chem, German 2 and drivers Ed. He lost all his German which is not uncommon with a TBI (traumatic brain injury), so next year he decided to go with Spanish 1. In place of Drivers Ed we put him in a PE class with the Athletic trainer that has been a Godsend throughout this ordeal. Mr M has been in constant contact with me so knows all of TJ abilities and disabilities. I'd rather TJ get this credit instead of a class where he would have to concentrate and get homework. If TJ didn't take PE that would disqualify him from playing baseball or volleyball in the Spring...if he recovers 100% that is. TJ has an investing class instead of Chem, which as fate would have it, is taught by his football coach. Now Coach L can see the devestation TJ has suffered from being left in practice after not 1, but 2 blows to the brain. I will go on record as saying "my boy better get an A in that class". Lastly we gave TJ a study hall for last period.

Lunch and PE are back to back, smack dab in the middle of the day...long break when full days start

TJ has done well so far...gets headaches, but a 15-20 trip to the nurses office to lay down usually cures that. Just this morning (1/2 day # 5) TJ said "I feel like i'm waking up a little" music to my ears. He is also getting some of his humor back. Last week TJ and I had a 1hour meeting with his counselor and school nurse to put this plan in place. When I picked TJ up the after the 1st day on class I asked how it went and did the teachers get all the instructions

TJ: "yeah, they got em, the nurse sent out a group email"

"Great what did it say?"

TJ: "basically it said, 'TJ is pretty much retarded, so if he starts acting retarded please send him to the nurse" here's a copy"

I had to laugh...

TJ has been a trooper throughout this whole thing, much thanks goes to his girlfriend Alexis that has been here for him (all non-school and non-sleeping hrs). She has understood and dealt with his memory issues, mood swings and just TJ not being TJ.

I don't know how many girls at this age would have done that. This shows her maturity and all around great character. There were many times that they just had to sit in a dark room because that was all TJ's brain could handle.

TJ's modifications are

half days
elevator pass
leave class 5 min early (avoid movement and chaos in hallway)
can leave class at any time to go to nurse to lay down
laminated (usually paper) SRC (student resource center) pass to get help in Math, science, or English during any of his 3 study periods ie PE , lunch and study hall
reduced homework
longer time for tests
all instructions need to be written down by teachers (still has short term memory loss)
notes from missed classes need to be given to TJ (every other day he misses am or pm classes)
teachers need to remind TJ daily to show them assignment notebook at end of each class

if TJ shows any signs/symptoms of brain fatigue they need to document it and send him to nurse ASAP (a lists of signs/symptoms were given to each teacher)

that's all I can remember at this point

TJ did say that "I LOVE BEING BACK AT SCHOOL!"

He still has a long road ahead of him and is behind almost a full semester (has 9 wks to make up Incomplete's and SRC is helping him)

snow

2012-01-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

Service

2012-01-18T09:46:00.002-06:00

cellphone pictures...Aarrgh

Callahan is making his Confirmation next year at sacred Heart, so he needs 2 years of service hours. Last night we headed over to our local PADS shelter. I brought Karrick along to help as I believe he is old enough to learn to give back. I refer to Lombard as my "bubble". It appears that 99% of the population are white middle-upper class, so Karrick has no real idea of poverty. He wasn't thrilled about going, but once we got there he jumped right into worker mode. Cal and Karrick set up tables and chairs, then set the tables. The PADS lady with her arms crossed behind Karrick (below) asked if she could borrow Karrick "because he looked like an excellent worker". With a giant smile he helped her set orange cones, move beds and even plug in a fan.

I had to explain in the car on the way there that the bags the people walk in with are all they have. I said some may dirty or even a little smelly, because homeless means no washing machines or showers. I also had to tell him to watch his words (he has no filter and speaks very honestly)

He did want to stay long enough so he could watch over them while they slept. With pride beaming from my heart I had to tell him that wasn't possible, that they needed their privacy.

On the way home Karrick said

"that was nothing like I pictured, I thought they'd all be sitting in church on the benches (pews) and would walk up to get their food"

I think he pictured a bunch of homeless people going up for Communion and receiving a hot dog or sandwich

School bound

2012-01-15T21:58:00.004-06:00

Well, after 16 weeks at home TJ is going back to school....1/2 days to start out.

Friday night TJ and I went to Glenbard East's Varsity Basketball game to watch Alexis perform during half time. We ended up staying for the 1st 3 quarters which is a huge accomplishment for TJ. That's up from 15-20 min previously.

I must admit I was a little sad seeing a lot of TJ's fellow football and baseball team mates, knowing he won't be competing with them. Baseball isn't 100% out this year, but close.

TJ seems okay with it so far.

They say "when one door closes another one opens". TJ is going to pursue his acting career. Last year we had some conflicts with baseball and auditions...cancelled 2 callbacks because he couldn't commit to the projects if he got the role. Neither were paid or through his agency (which you don't cancel and stay represented) They were Depaul and Columbia College short movies which is a great way to get experience and have fun. Friday he is auditioning at DePaul film School for their quarterly films.. He will be put on file if they like him and wait for a role that fits his description. His agent has suggested more than once that he take an acting class offered by one of the casting houses. She says he is great, but a class will polish him up a little. He now has the time.

Since he got injured TJ, has grown 3/4 of an inch and put on 22 lbs. I think his body was so worn out that he stopped growing. He overlapped sports and teams and became anemic. He was 5' 10 1/2 for the last year and measured that at his 1st concussion doc appt.

One of the greatest gifts since his injury is he has reconnected with Callahan. They were so close as little guys and then led different lives. Friday night they were sledding on our deck...it was really cute

How cute is Callahan's coat? Tim and I got it when we stayed downtown on Michigan Ave. Tommy Hilfinger wool coat. Totally got it for a steal

In 24 hours...

2012-01-12T22:10:00.001-06:00

Wednesday December 11 at 3:20 pm it was close to 50 degrees and sunny. Karrick and his buddies played after school on the playground. The bright sun is reflected in my photography

Above Karrick is playing by the swings...that is the shiny chain glowing in the sunlight

24 hours later

December 12th 3:20 pm it was close to 25 degrees, snowing and windy . Karrick and his buddies played after school on the playground.

Photography by Mary Mcginty

2012-01-12T21:40:00.003-06:00

the things we learn on facebook

2012-01-11T21:29:00.002-06:00

Callahan Mcginty is in a relationship.

Brain injury update

2012-01-10T17:14:00.000-06:00

Pardon the grainy cell phone picture...cell phone pictures make my skin crawl

Even though TJ is showing improvement, it's been a hard week for both of us. TJ was told to aggravate his brain....which he did and it recovered as expected.

We went to the health club a few times where tj was able to do some strength training, a little racket ball followed by swimming. At the end he did have a horrible headache...brutal, so much as he had to medicate himself.

Monday we had PT and Ann just did a neck massage because she found little knots in his neck and shoulders (muscle spams) which could account for some of the bad headaches. He is going to have trigger point injections to relieve the spasms. The kabasch was put on racket ball....too much hand eye coordination for his brain (I wasn't surprised)

From the moment I dropped TJ at PT I had tears streaming out of my eyes....I just felt so bad for him. Here I thought he was getting so much better, (sitting in his quiet room) just to realize the outside world still isn't his friend. Tomorrow he takes the repeat IMPACT test... I'm not real confident he will pass... an hour, 20 min is a lot for his brain to focus on memory and speed type questions. (I'm guessing here on types of questions)

I spoke with his counselor yesterday and we hope to have him start half days next week alternating morning and afternoon classes. He had to drop honors Chem, German 2 and now drivers Ed for 2nd semester. He'll have to take a private drivers ed course when he's ready. The free periods were filled in with bullshit classes, so he can get credits....such as "Independent living" I busted out crying when I heard that. He couldn't even take an acting class because attendance is mandatory WTF...! How life can quickly change

TJ is holding up well, taking most of it in stride, which has always been his personality. He is super bored and really wants to get back to school.

Tomorrow will tell what the immediate future will bring

No more freebies

2012-01-09T21:01:00.003-06:00

Well my darling Karrick told me he would no longer model for me unless I paid him.

I said "name your price"

he said "5 bucks"

I said "deal"

I think this shot is well worth the price...I actually got 227 shots for $5

Chocolate chip pancakes

2012-01-08T13:11:00.001-06:00

TJ making chocolate chip pancakes. It's no secret that I don't cook that much, so as a growing teenage boy that eats 24/7 learning to cook is a necessity . He often cooks for Callahan and Karrick too. I suggested keeping cooking school as an option for the future

As sweet as he looks

2012-01-06T19:55:00.000-06:00

I just can't get enough of my Karrick these days

TJ and SIS..14 weeks in

2012-01-05T20:07:00.001-06:00

FYI Update

2-10-202 TJ has "Post concussive syndrome" not SIS, Im not changing the post

Yesterday marked 14 weeks since TJ suffered 2 helmet to helmet hits in football. He has been suffering from SIS or Second Impact Syndrome

Often SIS is fatal, 50% mortality rate...I've since found out. I guess we should consider TJ extremely lucky. I am also so thankful for all the top notch medical professionals that treated and continue to treat TJ. Marionjoy Rehab Hospital has been a Godsend , they see and treat the worst of the worst.

Monday at physical therapy TJ took the gaze stabilization test and scored above average..YAY! The PT has tried to give this test to TJ a few times in the last 2 months, each time he couldn't even see anything on the screen and the test had to be stopped. The PT said TJ did so well (avg is 70, TJ scored 120) that he saw things flashing by that she couldn't even see. Ann (PT) had TJ run the hallways to purposely aggravate his brain...which it did. His headache went from a 2 on the 1-10 scale to a 7 which is horrible...the positive is that TJ didn't get dizzy! Another good sign was that Ann immediately put TJ in a dark quiet room and his headache went straight to a 4.

Yesterday (wed) TJ woke up on his own at 7am (he'll sleep til noon, 1 or 2 pm if left alone)

He was different Wednesday, he seemed better than he has been. Dr Walsh the Brain Injury Coordinator at Marionjoy said "one day he'll wake up and it will be like someone flipped a switch"

This is where we are:

TJ is to aggravate his brain daily and then let it recover in a dark room otherwise he will not tolerate school at all. He has therapy Mon and Wed, then hopefully he will be discharged. On Wed. Dr Walsh will administer the repeat

IMPACT Test. Original test was given to all football players at the beginning of the season to establish a baseline of brain function. The HS sent over the code so when TJ takes the repeat on Wed at Marionjoy it will compare to the one taken at the high school...online test. If TJ passes he will be cleared to "TRY" school on January 16, if he fails the test, more involved brain testing will be given. If TJ finds he can't tolerate school he will be evaluated at Marionjoy and have the other brain tests...I have no idea what they are.

Yesterday I took the 3 boys to our health club Glass Courts which is an amazing family friendly club. We all ran the indoor track..I did a slow jog as not to aggravate my neck that has been feeling pretty good. TJ felt great, so we put Karrick in the nursery and then hit the weight room (machines, not free weights) again TJ felt great. TJ and Cal went to play racketball and Karrick and I went swimming. TJ lasted 20 min on the loud, bright and echoing court. POW a mean mean headache hit, so bad that TJ got pretty angry. It did calm down some once we left. In the past 3 months when that level of headache hit, TJ would be crippled with pain for 3 days and almost seemed drugged.

All in all, it would appear that TJ is finally in the recovery stage.

No one can tell us how long some of the symptoms will last. I image that the headaches will linger for a long time.

TJ still seems to get confused and can be a little slow to comprehend things. He sometimes forgets things, but not like the short term memory loss the 1st 2 months where entire conversations were lost

Maybe once he's back at school his brain will liven up some, he's had virtuously no brain stimulation in 14 weeks so maybe it's hibernating a little.

Zero cooperation

2012-01-02T14:56:00.005-06:00

My kids have long ago become tired of me taking their pictures and rarely cooperate .

The hat and scarf I originality put on Patrick the dog only to have him go immediately to Tim and try to hide under Tim's arm. Then he proceeded to shake violently...does the camera shoot nails? I don't know...

Tim told me I had better find a new subject, so off to Karrick's room. He was immersed in his Nintendo 64 racing Mario. I just put on the hat and scarf...he didn't flinch. I went and sat on the floor next to the TV and took some shots. I'm pretty sure he was ignoring me, but that's ok because I got what I needed

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-30T19:45:00.002-06:00

Christmas day we headed to my dad's house. Tim spent the day with his mom, so it was just me and the boys.

I just love shooting my niece Lindsey, besides being absolutely gorgeous she takes an honest picture. She is very comfortable in front of the camera...no fake smiles or awkward poses. She just looks at the camera and pow!

Hard to believe that they are only 1 year apart.

My Karrick is a peanut and Lindsey is tall

Another holiday has come and gone.

This year was mellow all around, which is what I needed. Sometimes it's okay to be all about me.

For New Years Eve we are hanging at home and playing board games... just the 5 of us. Alexis is on vacation for the next week, so it's time for TJ to get as much homework completed as possible as the semester is coming to an end. At the semester TJ will have missed 14 weeks of school and I'm not confident he will be able to return yet

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

FROM THE MCGINTY'S

Christmas Eve

2011-12-28T16:21:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve is always spent at the McGinty Farm...wasn't the same without grandpa, but he was there in spirit. Christmas eve was the 51 year anniversary of Dad McGinty asking Ma McGinty to marry him at midnight mass. Karrick has a way of lightening everyone's mood. Above he gave grandma a photo of himself "I'm giving this picture of me to you because your grandpa (meaning husband) died and this way you'll never forget me"

Callahan is growing up so fast I can't even believe it

This is what my TJ looks like when his brain shuts down...I color corrected the face, but you still get the idea by his eyes. After this shot he fell asleep on the floor. This entire holiday week his headache has increased which doesn't fill me with hope that he will be cleared to go back to school in January

Skyped with the Colorado cousins

After almost a year of dating it was time to step up the gift giving. Very tricky with 15/16 year olds. A fine line between what is appropriate and too much. I took TJ to Macy's at Oak Brook mall and he chose this beautiful Austrian Crystal heart pendant

our week leading into Christmas

2011-12-26T14:15:00.000-06:00

last week Tim and I had a 1 bedroom suite on Michigan Ave and Huron. It was incredible, we had a corner room that look out onto Michigan and Superior. Of course we had to take our fun cheesy self-timer shots

We hit the mother load with the weather..warm(for Dec) and clear blue skies made for wonderful shopping and site seeing

Never heard of the store "All Saints" but boy oh boy is it cool. The clothes are great but way out of my price range. Jeans for $500, dresses $1200, shirts for newborns $48....amazing stuff though

A wall of old Singer sewing machines greet you as you enter the store

With my telephoto lens I was able to capture the engraved statues on top of the sky scrapers

Dumb, Dumb, dumb!

What is this all about..Seriously?! A tacky Marilyn among the 100 year plus buildings?

Aarrgh!

A night downtown

2011-12-19T05:56:00.000-06:00

Tim and I spent a much needed night downtown thanks to the almighty Groupon.

I am just lovin the shots I took while enjoying our city

Cutie Karrick and the Holiday sing

2011-12-15T22:28:00.001-06:00

Karrick before going to evening show

just a little part of Karrick's holiday sing....so cute

Last night we had the honor of taking in Karrick's Holiday Sing. As always it was a delight. This years show was a little extra special because instead of avoiding the different beliefs, they were embraced. See the Merry Christmas on the backdrop?
Public school....
Hanukkah and Kwanzaa were also displayed on the board. Below J in the red dress told the story of Mary and Joseph giving birth to Jesus in the manger. The 8 days of Hanukkah were portrayed with children as candles representing the Menorah. Kwanzaa was explained and portrayed by another group of children. It was one of the more delightful holiday shows

The children were all lined up by height, but it was fitting that my Karrick was front and center...FATE!
He was so expressive and just adorable. He wished the show was longer and wants to do it again

A little more Christmas cheer...tree

2011-12-11T14:20:00.001-06:00

We headed to our local nursery to pick out our tree and Christmas plants.

Later that evening we headed to downtown Wheaton...one of my favorite places, for dinner and strolling.

Karrick just about died when we brought him to the hallway candy store. It is a hallway between 2 buildings that was turned into a candy store. It's a long hallway with candy and ice cream all the way down....nothing else.

must stop in the chocolate shop

keeping the magic

2011-12-10T12:43:00.001-06:00

I was going to write about trying to keep the belief and magic as long as possible as Karrick still believes. As soon as I type the post title, I realize I didn't move "Alfie" our Elf on the Shelf, Elf" last night. I was out late and just forgot. I sneak downstairs while Karrick is with one of the brothers, get Alfie sitting in position, covered in Nerds. I turn around and get a

"BUSTED...OH YEAH!"

Karrick is spying from the stairs.....SHIT!

I was under suspicion anyway as I was caught off guard last week by Karrick. As we were leaving to attend the lightening ceremony, Karrick made a comment about

"what a dumb place for Alfie to hide...on my sock drawer knob" "I couldn't even get my socks"

Before I could sensor myself I let out a giant

"I wasn't even thinking about you getting your socks..."

"OMG! I HEARD YOU!!!"

came bellowing out of his mouth with a 7 year old index finger pointed my way, before I finished my sentence. We all scrambled to cover my "oops". I thought all was forgotten as Karrick was delighted each morning when finding Alfie or when he was found on the couch in the middle of a frosted Mini wheat mess.

Karrick even exclaimed "What a naughty little Elf"

So freaking proud of himself. I know we are safe with Santa....for now

Complete change of story from beginning to end in blog post

shots in the sun

2011-12-07T19:07:00.001-06:00

Finally some sunshine.

When I picked Karrick up from school I took some candid shots of him playing. He looks like such a little boy with his matching hat and coat...I try to squish him down every night so he'll stay little forever

Christmas spirit

2011-12-03T19:57:00.001-06:00

picture of Maple St Chapel from Lilacia park...no photshop used

Saturday was all about getting into the Christmas spirit...little rough this year. We started out atSanta's North pole shop at Karrick's school. To which I had to force Karrick to go to

as he has never been. This year I had to go (yearbook photgrapher duties)

Karrick: "I don't see why I should have to go just cause you do" "I can just color something for everyone that they can keep forever and besides it will save us money!"

Need I mention coloring is not his forte?

The little stinker stomped into the big gym and his eyes got real big

"Wow, this looks kinda cool!"

After 1 1/2 hrs of shopping for everyone on a $20 budget (he spent $26), eating free treats and running around with all his pals we headed out.

Then Karrick had a birthday party to go to. We topped off the evening by attending the lighting of the lights at Lilacia Park which were just stunning. They added millions of lights this year (our tax dollars at work).

still daddy's little boy

Callahan is into having a stone face in shots or turning completely around so his back is facing camera

(check out Karricks hand)

karrick running in hallway at community center for birthday party

just a cool shot

below birthday girl wearing tiara and karrick with arm around the ladies

Santa's workshop below

The gift karrick is hold is for TJ...9 freaking dollars I might add 1/2 of the total price, but whatever.

The boy wrapping it had to be 9 or 10 used at least 10 cuts of wrapping paper. He would cut one then crumple it up as it was too small and so one until finally he just taped the paper on to the box and kept adding little scraps. It was really cute because he donated his time and tried so hard, I couldn't say anything. I did however pass the second bag of presents to the older girl wrapper. I think the boy deserves his picture in the yearbook sans the wrapping story

We never did get our Christmas tree, maybe next weekend. I haven't bought 1 Christmas present yet...not 1. Somehow I feel this will come back to bite me

Gap Model... finally

2011-12-02T09:06:00.001-06:00

So TJ's hair finally grew long enough for us to try the Gap model hair cut

again. I had no idea where to go. so I asked my old neighbor Sam if she could cut it. We were all set for her to drive out Friday afternoon to give it a go. As my luck would have it, TJ got called Thursday to work on Friday afternoon. OMG, his hair had to be cut...BUT WHERE? I called Sam in a panic to come Thursday night...no go she was out of town.

Everything is laced with drama...all the damn time

Sam told me to call her friend Danielle...I did and she was available Thursday night.

We walked in armed with 4 pictures, one view of each side. 45 minutes later TJ looked adorable! Danielle (with a little help here and there from a more experienced hairstylist) did a fantastic job!!! Everyone just gushed over TJ and we now have a new hairstylist !!!!

His poor head and eyes were killing him by the end, but he was a trooper.

Not sure if we are expecting a callback as TJ still has signs and symptoms from his brain injury. He feels he did pretty good , not great. It was for a National AT &T commercial
Either way TJ looks so freakin cute

family and Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T18:41:00.001-06:00

Tim's brother Mike and family came in from Colorado for the week. My niece Kristin and her fiance Jack came in from Boston. Jack is from England and they met at college in Boston. It was a great week and loads of fun. My sister in law Chris is the blond version of me. After the few months I've had it was great to just laugh. I set my timer on the camera to capture all of us...clearly I belong behind the camera. My right arm was injured (unable to move or use.. ridiculous pain) so I couldn't even do my hair or readjust my scrunchie. Below I prematurely started cheering at the success of the timed pictures (there are at least 4 more like it)

The rope swing on the hill was a huge hit

Karrick and Fergie snuggling

I tried super hard to get my other 2 nieces over for a total grandchildren picture but was not successful

A boy and his dog

2011-11-25T09:53:00.001-06:00

I must admit The lack of sun made for some unique coloring in my photos

the football player and the Pom

2011-11-23T08:11:00.001-06:00

TJ and I attended Glenbard East's pom competition in Blue Island to watch his girlfriend Alexis perform. They took 1st in their division in kick.
Yay Glenbard East! Alexis was just adorable as always

I still have to chaperone TJ to any function as he has a 30min window before the eyes glaze over and the blue circles set in. We had to leave for an hour between her performance and the awards ceremony to rest his brain

A mother nightmare part 2

2011-11-19T16:23:00.001-06:00

A sad mom is getting angry...a sad mom with a loud voice that will be heard!

TJ "getting his bell rung 2010"

FYI Update

2-10-202 TJ has "Post concussive syndrome" not SIS, Im not changing the post

I've learned a new term "Second Impact Syndrome" or SIS

SIS occurs when an athlete suffers a mild head injury, returns to play too soon, and suffers what may be a relatively minor second hit before the brain has fully healed. If the second injury occurs while the individual still has symptoms from the first impact, the result can be a rapid, catastrophic increase in pressure within the brain. Effects of SIS include physical paralysis, mental disabilities, and epilepsy. Death can occur approximately 50% of the time.

"SIS can affect anyone exposed to a mild or moderate concussion; there's no age discrimination" notes Kelly. "But it seems to affect teenagers more often because they are the least likely to report their injuries or take the time to recover from a concussion when they do get hurt. They head back into the game too soon, not fully aware of the risks they are taking.

According to James P Kelly, director of the brain injury program at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

By Jeffrey H Tyler, Michael E Nelson, USA Today

What I originally thought was a routine hazard of football is turning into a nightmare affecting parents and kids across the country. A nightmare that could of been prevented in our case. Had TJ been pulled out of his practice after his 1st crushing blow to the back of his head, he most likely would have been back to normal within a few days. Instead he was left out on the field, impaired...a 15 year old boy. My 15 year old boy suffered a catastrophic 2nd blow to an already compromised brain...a mere 10 minutes after the 1 st one. The coach didn't pull him after the second blow either. TJ dazed and confused hid in the background and stood there. Asking if someone is okay doesn't cut it in my book....99% of football players would say they were fine (in my opinion) when in fact they were impaired.

6 1/2 weeks later this second blow has him out of school indefinitely. A blow that has left him with crippling headaches, short term memory loss, confusion, vision impairment, inability to concentrate and irritability. Not to mention TJ is basically a prisoner in his shade drawn room. He doesn't go out much because light and movement over-stimulate his brain. TJ has had to drop honors chemistry and German 2. Too much time has gone by that it is impossible to catch up. He is weeks behind in all his other classes, but can't do anything about it. Even if he could read (words and lines jump around) he couldn't remember anything he reads .
In the back of my mind is "will he graduate on time, will he be cleared to play Sophomore baseball? Will he one day be my outgoing , funny, quick teenager again?

At the football meeting there was talk of all the new guidelines for concussion safety. Never once did I hear anything about SIS...I did leave for 3 minutes to use the washroom. Even if it was mentioned this happened at practice with no parents present. Where were all these safety measures? I never even received a phone call saying "hey, your son got his bell rung"
NOTHING! no heads up at all

Let me tell you about another 15 year old boy I'll cal "Ed". Ed is a freshman football player at a Catholic high school in the western Suburbs. 2 days after TJ's injury Ed, a fullback was playing in his Friday night game and took a mean blow to the side of the head . A clang of helmets so hard that "the loudest helmet hit I've ever heard" was repeated in the stands. Ed hit the ground, a few seconds later he jumped up and joined the huddle. "my head hurts" Ed told his team mates. Another player told him he didn't look right and to go sit down. Too late, the play was starting. That very next play Ed took another helmet hit front to front...this time he didn't get up and was taken by ambulance to the hospital.
Ed's CT and MRI were normal just like TJ's
Ed was told he'd be fine in a few days just like TJ.
Ed went back to school 1/2 days just like TJ
Ed suffered a seizure on the 3rd day of school

Damage doesn't always set right in, TJ went back to school the next day and I pulled him out...I knew something was wrong. Parents need to take control of the situation

ED and TJ are at Marionjoy together...two 15 year old boys that otherwise never would have met had they not fallen through the cracks. Who let these boy down? Both boys are on the same 3 prescription drugs just to get through the day. These 15 year old boys are identical in every sign and symptom except that Ed has long term memory loss and TJ has short term memory loss. Maybe the difference between getting hit in the side of the head vs the back...I don't know. What I do know is that both these boys were not removed from the game/practice after the 1st hit. Both of these boys lives are on hold because they "were not removed after the 1st hit"

Ed doesn't remember playing basketball...he was a phenomenal player according to his dad. At the HS on scholarship...he won't be joining his teammates out on the court. His dad says he doesn't know store names, what a clock is, even what a NIKE swoosh is

We sit together and share our memory loss stories and sometime laugh, but not that "haha funny laugh" more like the "if we don't laugh we will cry laugh" We try to decide which is worse..long or short term memory loss

To talk to ED or TJ one wouldn't suspect anything wrong...they look normal ,they speak normally...maybe a little slower than usual because the thought have to be processed.
If TJ or ED were in a wheelchair or drooling people may take more notice and start demanding change. Maybe holding coaches to a higher standard of care with our kids.
As this drags on week after week I find myself getting really angry. This didn't have to happen, had someone....anyone pulled TJ out after the first hit, he most likely would have been "A" okay by now.
Kids are afraid to speak up for fear of being labeled a "sissy" Football players are suppose to be tough and they are...the only high school sport that allows 200lb + , conditioned boys/men to intentionally slam each other to the ground. The harder the hit or fall...the better. The more stunned...the better

more info about this topic

Injury prevention...traumatic Brain Injuty

SIS, Second Impact Syndrome

TJ's concussion

2011-11-14T16:01:00.001-06:00

TJ has been in the day program at Marionjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton. He was evaluated by a team of doctors and therapists (speech, occupational and physical) We met with the Director of Psychology Brain Injury coordinator today and he decided to pull TJ out of school as he failed the eye convergence test, memory test and concentration test. The best way to recover from a brain injury is to rest the brain...sleep. Going back to school would aggravate and over stimulate TJ's brain. There is a zero benefit for him to go to school. He will continue to work with the home tutor.

TJ is currently on 2 migraine medications and 1 medication to help him concentrate

I hate camera phones...but I couldn't traipse in there with my big Canon now could I?
Look how much taller TJ is than his PT...she was tough as nails

TJ with the physical therapist that helps him with balance. He always is on a 1/2 ball or cushion. By the time he was done (had OT and speech prior) his eyes were glossed over, he was dizzy with a wicked headache

he was good at this...football drills

butchers block

2011-11-13T18:47:00.001-06:00

A year or so ago Tim bought wood to build himself a new desk...today on a whim He decided to build me a much needed butchers block from scratch. I love the below picture of Tim running to save the block from the chair being blown by the wind

See the pillow blowing?

It still needs to be sanded and stained . Tim is also going to add 2 shelves and some hooks. Our kitchen has almost no counter space so this is a big improvement

Concussion's are a big deal...one mothers journey

2011-11-13T11:06:00.001-06:00

FYI Update

2-10-202 TJ has "Post concussive syndrome" not SIS, Im not changing the post

On Oct 5th TJ suffered a double concussion during football practice. Below is my account of the 1st three weeks

http://mcgintyfive.blogspot.com/2011/10/football-season-cut-short-for-tj.html

He suffered from horrible headaches, dizziness, confusion, fuzzy peripheral and short term memory loss. He was unable to attend school, so he was provided a home tutor by the school paid for by the state
I'm going to try to summarize the last the last 21 days out of 39 and counting and then keep a current journal here.
I am not a medical professional, this is only my story of my sons injury. Every concussion is different, no 2 are the same. Please check with your own doctor as I am not giving medical advice.
The Neurologist says TJ suffered a double concussion in a 10 min span. What makes concussions so dangerous is when you suffer a 2nd blow before the 1st one has healed 100%. There has been so much news about the damage football players have due to getting hit and jumping back into action before they are healed
(all sports are included, Im just going with my personal experience-football)

NFL coming to grips with concussions

Similar to professional boxers, long-time NFL players are at risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, due to continually sustaining brain trauma. The NFL began issuing guidelines concerning concussions in 2007, according to Bloomberg, but many former players protest that the league doesn’t do enough to assist those with the most debilitating injuries.

In 2010, the NFL admitted that concussions put former players at risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, memory loss, dementia and other neurological symptoms. Former professional football players are especially at risk for developing mild cognitive impairment, commonly referred to as MCI. MCI is a common precursor to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. A 2008 survey by the NFL of former players over the age of 50 included surveys for their spouses to complete. Of those who responded, it was noted that 35 percent had some form of cognitive impairment.

'Sam Hoober August 19, 2011 Newsytype.com'

It was most likely TJ's second blow that put him over.

A recap:
Wed,10-5-2011 TJ plays wide receiver for his sophomore high school football team. During a routine after school practice, TJ was slammed from behind, a helmet to helmet hit. TJ slammed to the ground and remembers everything going to a dream like state. He remembers people asking if he was okay. Although shaky and confused TJ got up and continued to play. About 10 minutes later TJ was running with the ball and hit full force helmet to helmet (front to front) tripped and slammed his head to the ground again. All in all it was 2 brutal helmet hits and 2 head hits to the ground. TJ again remembers getting up all confused and kinda hiding in the back of the pack dazed. It is believed he did not lose consciousness.

Why didn't the coaches pull him out, I don't know. TJ was clearly too impaired to make any judgments after the initial blow

My girlfriend drove TJ home and commented to me that 'he just didn't looked right'. I was getting take out with Tim when TJ called me, I immediately knew something was wrong. His speech was off almost like he was stoned
"mom, I think I have a concussion"
TJ's eyes were red and glossy, he had funny colored circles under each eye and he was dazed. We watched him closely and he went to bed as usual.

The next morning
10-6-2011 TJ woke up, took some Advil and got dressed for school. After school he went to football practice. I had text the coach about what was going on and said I wanted TJ to see the trainer and have the IMPACT test. TJ saw the trainer, was not given the test, but was told to sit out and watch the practice (which means stand and watch). I don't know if the head coach relayed my message or if they wait to do the impact test when all signs and symptoms are gone. TJ was an absolute wreck when he came home from practice and I had to make a "mom" decision to pull him from "standing on the sidelines to watch a 2 1/2 hr practice which is strongly encouraged" TJ kept telling me "Mom, make sure you tell all the coaches that this is your decision, not mine" I'm sure the coaches were pissed, as to this day (day 39) not one has called or reached out to us. The trainer and Athletic coordinator have called

TJ's reaction shows me kids are still considered "a sissy" or not a true football player if they don't jump back into battle. TFB (too fucking bad) is my thought...parents are the only true advocate for their children. Coaches do not always have the best interests of the child in mind

Fri, 10-7-2100- I got an emergency appointment with the pediatrician who ordered a STAT CT with STAT results. CT was normal
That day I realized that TJ had short term memory loss when he called me and asked me a question that we had gone over 2 hrs prior ( did I tell his coach and how were we getting to the game that evening)
TJ wanted to watch that night game in West Chicago. The last thing I wanted was TJ on the bus being banged around so I drove him and stayed with him, as I had already lost faith in the coaches to take care of my son. ( I get that they would be busy with the game) The trainer did come talk to me and TJ didn't tell him how bad it was when he saw him. He til this day is on my good list. He has called the home to check on TJ and quickly returns my calls. I was afraid for TJ standing on the sidelines...I had him stand further back. I don't believe he had the reflex ability to move if someone was tackled on the sidelines.We had to leave the game early as TJ got a severe headache and extremely dizzy.
The next 2 weeks TJ did not attend school. His signs and symptoms just got worse.

severe headaches
dizziness
nausea
blurred peripheral vision
short term memory
confusion
extreme light sensitivity
extreme sensitivity to movement around him

In the mean time TJ's school counselor set up a home tutor and put a plan of action in place. She has been incredible! Keeping all teachers in the loop and providing everything possible to accommodate TJ. TJ's tutor came every morning at 9am...the 1st session was only 20 min as TJ's brain couldn't handle it. Headaches set in and words jumped around. Hank, the tutor has a lot of experience with kids and concussions. He recommended Marionjoy for rehab.

Tue, 10-25-2011-The Neurologist came in a hour early to see TJ (he was booked a month out) due to the severity of the injury. I really liked the doctor he put TJ on Amitriptyline now used to treat migraines and concussions. I was told to schedule an MRI with contrast. The doc agreed with sending TJ to Marionjoy for a Neuro-psych evaluation. The MRI was negative

Don't get me wrong..I love football and I know it comes with a list of potential injuries. I can't say 100% that I wouldn't let TJ play football again

next up: TJ has become a prisoner of his room
Marionjoy Rehab

My week minus anything concussion related

2011-11-12T22:53:00.001-06:00

Today Callahan competed in his 1st mathlete at Montini high School. There were 24 schools and 300 kids in grades 6-8. Cal is back row second from left...yes the tallest kid on the team

Just my sweet baby

View from my porch...very pretty block

Karrick has been working on his book for 8 months now. It's a pencil drawn continuous story. Since before Halloween he won't write without his cape...sometimes he'll say "where is my pimp hat" which is wrong on every level

Karrick brought his book to school to read to the class (after days of asking his teacher)

I asked what she thought of it and he replied with a big smile

"She said I sure do think outside the box!!"

He is definitely his own person

2011-11-12T12:55:00.001-06:00

All I can do is add pretty pictures. I am 100 % worn out....TJ's concussion has turned into a nightmare, the damage is pretty extensive where the rehab center wants me to pull him out of school completely for another few months. He just started half days 3 times a week 2 weeks ago. I'm just too spent to even write anything

Mr Turtle

2011-11-06T00:22:00.000-05:00

artwork by karrick

2011-11-04T23:20:00.002-05:00

I never really posted any artwork of karrick's because he hated art. This year Karrick loves art, reading and writing....who is this kid? Check out his penmanship...huh huh ? Not only does he write neatly...he spells almost all his words correctly. He went from zero - 2 words written in his journal to full stories. From incomplete assignments to almost all 100%

The kid has done a complete 180....from the struggling kid that hated school to the happy go lucky kid that is pulled out for math (SMART KID MATH) He is in the top 1 percent nationally in math and in the top 10% in reading.

A combination of getting his tonsils and adenoids removed plus extra help from his school and an intense reading camp over the summer at Concordia University in River Forest

a bug

2011-11-02T19:14:00.003-05:00

Halloween in pictures

2011-11-01T07:47:00.000-05:00

Sweet 16

2011-10-27T20:25:00.001-05:00

Alexis is celebrating her sweet 16th Birthday today. TJ is still out of school due to his concussion, so he was able to join Alexis and her family for lunch (shhhh, I think Alexis played hooky) then shopping at the mall.

He really needed this time away from the house, but it's hard because light and movement (other people moving) over stimulates his brain and he becomes nauseated, dizzy and gets a headache.

Alexis came back to our house for presents and to just hang with the TJ. Now they are out to dinner with Alexis' family

Happy Sweet 16 th Birthday to one of the sweetest teenage girls I know

a sweet girlfriend

2011-10-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

This is what TJ woke up to this ~~morning~~ afternoon. Alexis snuck into his room and decorated it with cute signs, snacks and candy. How sweet is that!

TJ is still sidelined, pretty much from life. He has a tutor that comes to the house (through the high school, pretty sweet) for 30 min a day. That is all TJ's brain can handle now. TJ is slowly getting better (AND I MEAN SLOWLY) He will be out at least another week. We see the neurologist on Tue which will be the 3 week mark

My Callahan is studying abroad

2011-10-20T20:37:00.000-05:00

Callahan is officially going to Italy for 10 days with his teacher and 9 other students from his middle school. It is a 10 day educational tour...pretty intense from what I've been told. They will visit Rome, Florence and Venice. They are up and out by 8am and go until late evening..sometimes until midnight. It is a chance of a lifetime!

This is the 11th trip his teacher has lead...always to a different country. I am so proud that Callahan was invited to be part of this life changing experience

family

2011-10-16T16:12:00.000-05:00

last Saturday Tim and I brought Karrick and Callahan to Sunny Acres Farm in West Chicago. The weather was perfect high 70's low 80's and sunny. TJ didn't join us do to his concussion.

How sweet of Callahan to ride the elephant with Karrick who is hidden

Karrick loves his childrens Bible, anything to keep him reading !

Tim and I attended my cousins wedding last night in Indiana. It was great seeing my dad, siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles. I just don't get to see them as much as I would like. Plus I got to go out and buy a darling new dress

Photograph by TJ

gets me every morning

2011-10-13T11:16:00.002-05:00

football season cut short for TJ

2011-10-10T19:45:00.002-05:00

TJ took 3 hard hits to the head at Wednesday's practice...yes, at practice!

The first hit was a helmet to helmet to the back of TJ's skull which stunned him. The second hit was helmet to helmet to the front of TJ's skull which in turn made him trip over a player and slam to the ground head first for a 3rd brutal blow to the skull

Tim and I were at Callahan's school for a meeting with his Reading teacher who is taking 10 academically aggressive students to Italy for 10 days..Cal being one

That's another blog

TJ called me and he sounded stoned. Friday I took him in to the doc who sent us for a STAT CAT scan with STAT results. The CAT scan was negative (looking for brain bleeds etc) He does have a bad concussion

TJ is not able to go to school or do anything.

Friday night's game was at West Chicago and was the Rams only chance left to put a 1 in the win column. TJ really wanted to be there, so I drove him and stayed. He hung out on the sidelines by the trainers. GE got their win WooHoo

*TJ has an excruciating headache (no relief from meds)

* has short term memory loss (very scary when he asks a question that was thoroughly discussed an hour earlier)

*his peripheral vision is all blurry

* can't tolerate loud noise or light

He is most likely done for the season, but still is required to go to all practices and games to see trainers and watch practice. Football is a very fickle sport and all about being tough. No wonder the world is full of brain damaged ex-players

We go back to doc on Thursday morning for a follow up...may end up at the Neurologist before this is over. Lombard schools were closed today and tomorrow (tue) Wed is PSAT for Sophomores and a 1/2 day. Needless to say TJ is not going on Wed.

All concussions are different, but the main things is to let the brain rest to heal 100%

Callahan had light and noise sensitivity for 6 months after his concussion. Another friends daughter had headaches for a year after

To think players used to go right back onto the field is horrifying. TJ thumped down a flight of stairs today to quickly and started to fall and pass out.

Thank God there is a new awareness of the danger of concussions.

Mama McGinty has her eye on everyone involved just incase

baaaa

2011-10-09T11:33:00.004-05:00

macro

2011-10-02T18:45:00.000-05:00

Poms security for homecoming

2011-10-01T11:22:00.001-05:00

When TJ told me last week he wanted to do Poms Security, I assumed it meant he would escort the Varsity Pom squad on and off the field during half-time. Sounded great as Alexis is on Varsity pom. TJ got picked up every morning this week at 6:10 am to practice.

I finally asked "why does security need to practice so much?"

TJ "it's a joke mom, we are dancing during the pep rally with the poms"

OMG! after the poms performed the "security" came out and danced IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE SCHOOL, PARENTS AND ALUMNI

Not sure if I felt like I was sitting a a Chippendale show or a bachelorette party.

Whatever it was, it was freakin hysterical and the crowd went wild...no fear of any of these boys becoming dancers, but God bless them for trying

After their dance, the poms came out and did a dance to a nice "G" rated song from "Grease" with the security boys (I have it on video, no pics)

(TJ and Alexis were partners)

TJ looks very large to me (above)

The worm move below was awesome, they were totally in sync

I wonder if the reaction would have been the same, had the girls danced lake that?
I don't think so

Before the pep rally us football booster moms decorated the Soph and Varsity lockers.

OMG!! the smell of a boys football locker room is not pleasant!

They each have a poster with picture, name and # on it and candy all over the locker

Ace is the place...

2011-09-30T09:23:00.000-05:00

Callahan thought it was a good idea to put a padlock on Buttercups neck....last week!

Had he thought it through, he may have asked himself

"I wonder if anyone knows the combination to this random lock I found"

The answer of course would have been...NO!

To send it into the company would of taken 4-6 weeks. I know Buttercup is a stuffed animal, but every time I saw him my throat closed up just a little.

Tuesday was 'Roundheads" appreciation day. Where all football families were to go eat at Roundheads (the restaurant that donates pasta, salad and bread for all the Soph, junior and Senior football player home games). When we picked TJ up from pracitce I walked in...through the muddy smelly players and the lovely Coach E (freshman football/baseball coach) saw me with karrick and Buttercup and tried to help. He went looking for the maintenance worker with 'the lock cutter"

No luck, so buttercup and his compromised neck joined us at Roundheads.

Yesterday I went to our neighborhood Ace hardware store Schroeder's Ace

where they quickly put there best guy on it and Wahlah!

Freedom!!!

Older brothers...

sometimes the timing just sucks!

2011-09-29T14:27:00.000-05:00

I was approached by someone to possibly shoot a wedding...YES, a wedding. A nice small second wedding for a couple at the Morton Arboretum. What a great way to start my business!!!! I was so excited until we got to the date, I have another wedding that exact night...Arrggh!

Tim and I will be in New Orleans at a black tie wedding for a dear friend held at the New Orleans Board of Trade

I am honored to be considered and maybe my business will just start itself

Keep them coming people!!!!!

rain

2011-09-28T17:28:00.000-05:00

Homecoming proposal from the worlds best boyfriend

2011-09-25T19:50:00.000-05:00

I had no idea that one needed to be creative when asking someone to the Homecoming dance . TJ mentioned it to me on Thursday and I asked one of my bosses Friday if she heard of this custom. Yes, they do it at Deerfield HS too. I thought it was reserved just for Prom, but I guess times have changed

There were many proposals during the varsity football game Friday night.

I talked to my girlfriend for some ideas at baseball today as Willowbrook's homecoming was last night.

After TJ's double header we headed out to shop

TJ picked out the flowers, card and balloons, it was just the sweetest thing ever!

While he jumped in the shower I made the sign and got Karrick dressed in his

"stud suit"

We drove over to Alexis' house and parked around the corner. TJ with his card and vase of flowers hid on one side of her house. I was on the other side camera ready. Karrick was at the bottom of the front porch steps holding the sign. Tj texted Alexis and told her to come outside. All she saw was Karrick holding the sign and a balloon bouquet . TJ would appear when she screamed (all HS girls scream) and she didn't fail us.

Karrick was just thrilled to be "in" on the proposal and I'm seriously thinking of renting him out for next year

Karrick getting a hug was like winning the lottery

Look at the card in TJ's hand. TJ sent Alexis' mom a message on facebook letting her in on the surprise as we didn't have her cell #. She was armed with her camera from inside.

As I was snapping pictures the tears were flowing. To see my boy doing something so romantic filled my heart with joy. TJ is so comfortable and open with his emotions that it created such "a moment" that neither of them will ever forget

they are seriously the cutest couple ever, 9 months strong. I get choked up looking at the pictures. I am proud that my son is a hopeless romantic and loves doing sweet things for his girlfriend

My new toy

2011-09-24T16:25:00.004-05:00

I got the most amazing camera equipment for my birthday, my favorite being the new

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens that just came out

Holy cow it is freakin amazing! I haven't had time to watch the CD to figure out all the features and settings, but I'm sure these pictures will be the worst I ever take which is pretty good. It is hard to keep my hands steady that close up, but I also got a new tri-pod which is just a pole so a "uni-pod?" It's hard on the the side lines to use the tri-pod...the shot is gone by the time you get the legs set

Some other camera add-ons made for one spectacular present

Thank you so much honey!!!!!

a great day off

2011-09-24T09:27:00.003-05:00

Wednesday I had the day off, so I picked Karrick up for lunch.... McDonald's in the park!

The weather was perfect and I got to spend some 1 on 1 time with my little boy

After I dropped Karrick back at school I decided to hit another park right by our house to snap some nature shots. Lombard is known for it's amazing parks filled with vegetation and wildlife

That red bug is super creepy...have no idea what it is, but just check out those dangling legs...Yikes!

Just a couple hours in the park can change a stressed out mom...what a gift

A lesson learned (unpublished from August)

2011-09-21T07:42:00.000-05:00

Every morning before school, TJ fills a giant cup with chocolate milk and take a few sips before dashing out the door to catch the bus. Today I had enough, I stopped him and made him chug the remaining 10 oz before he left. How many times does a mother have to say "only pour what you can finish?" Portion control right? Tj chugged it and ran only to return 3 minutes later with that look that says "I missed the bus"

I jump in the van with him and head down Main st, about 6 blocks into our drive TJ announces "I feel like I'm gonna puke" and proceeds to dry heave. Somehow that stuck me as really funny and I start yelling/laughing "stck your head out the window"

We were stopped at St Charles and Main St where the early morning commuters are walking to the train...right next to us!

TJ starts barfing out of the passenger door window, now I'm almost hysterical ...laughing as I watch the looks of horror on peoples faces as they pass. I'm sure they thought I was a horrible mother as I am still shrieking with laughter....almost peed in my pants. YEP!

When TJ was done he felt better, plopped some gum in his mouth and off we went to school

1 more

2011-09-19T20:32:00.001-05:00

a sneak peak

2011-09-18T11:27:00.003-05:00

Frank, the stylist for the shoot made TJ's hair debacle a success

TJ had his photo shoot for new comp cards this past Wednesday. These are just 2 of the proofs we were sent. I think they are freakin incredible and somewhat hard to look at. My baby is no longer the cutesy kid model. Old rules are gone and a whole new set are in place

Socko was amazing!

While he was super harsh (in a polite honest way) about my wardrobe selection. I was suppose to email him my wardrobe selection (completely missed that). Had I done as I was suppose to, TJ would be looking much more like a Ralph Lauren model (clothes wise). I probably should have tried on this coat...way too big...ah a lesson learned. No matter how he is dressed one cannot deny that face and bone structure.

Socko gave TJ such an education in regards to the adult modeling world, which is priceless!

I have a phone conference tomorrow with Socko's office to get our final product rolling.

As I was going through the film, all I could think of was the Brooke shields ad

"Nothing comes between me and my Calvin's"

ok, she was 14 and partially exposed, TJ is fully clothed and 1 month into age 15.

I guess what I'm trying to say is , my boy looks so grown up

I am super excited to see the final card.

TJ is just thrilled and wants to pursue his modeling career full force

"Mom, i'm not going anywhere in football, but i think I can go far modeling"

Where there's a will, there's a way

We went on location on some random street downtown, TJ changed clothes right on the sidewalk without blinking, pants, shirt and all

Skating

2011-09-15T21:51:00.001-05:00

Tonight was Pleasant Lane's annual roller skating party. As the official yearbook photographer I was on duty. I got some incredible shots and think this years book will be spiced up a little. I also love that we put out a full yearbook for grades K-5...great for all my boys to be able to look back at every year.

Lombard roller rink is surrounded by large windows which make for wonderful reflections. Of course I didn't post my actual shots that will be featured in the yearbook

and he runs and he runs and he runs

2011-09-13T17:28:00.001-05:00

Karrick's favorite pastime is running, always running. Maybe that will be his sport. Lord knows he has those long legs

Below is Karrick running down our fog filled block. Actually smoke from the fire in Minnesota made for a cool shot