Jeff and Sons

Wham Bam See Ya Later, Man!!!!!

2009-11-30T13:57:00.003-05:00

The boys wrestled at the Coral Springs Seahorse Invitational last weekend. Maxwell was 2-1 and got second place in his weight class. I got Maxwell's 2nd match on video and boy was it great. Maxwell was on fire and whooped this kid good. Normally, Maxwell is very stoic but you can tell by the way he pushes himself to his feet afterward that he's excited. Well, as his father, I can tell so take my word for it.

Smackdown!

2009-11-25T16:16:00.001-05:00

Maxwell is starting to show real improvement this year. He and Trevor participated in a tournament at Coral Glades High School. Maxwell went 2-2 with all four matches ending in pins.Trevor got 2nd place in the 171 pound class but there was only oneother opponent in that class. We all thought that was kind of funny andTrevor was happy to claim his silver medal.

I like to video all of the matches but usually get so excited I forget that I'm recording, hence that bad video at times. I did catch what I consider to Maxwell's best round which ended in his opponent getting pinned. Winning isn't everything but it sure is fun.

Brotherhood Defined

2009-11-08T00:15:00.001-05:00

The boys had a wrestling tournament today called the Calvary Call Out. It is basically a practice tournament where the wrestlers wrestle as many matches as they can with other boys in their same weight class. Maxwell (16) sat out because he's recovering from a minor concussion incurred in practice this week. Trevor participated and went 0-5. That's what happens when your a 6'2" lanky 14 year old who has to wrestle more physically mature 17-18 year old young men.

Just before Trevor's last match, I heard big brother Maxwell offering Trevor some pre-match advice and quickly snapped a photo of the two brothers practicing together. This is what sports, teamwork and brotherhood is all about. The older boys helping the younger boys. I'll stop there because I can't articulate it any where near as well as this picture does.

These are my boys, Trevor and Maxwell. Boy, do they make me proud.

Alpha Male No More

2009-10-24T23:39:00.007-04:00

If there was one thing I could always count on with my children, it was my physical superiority. Whenever my boys tried to take on the old man, I could easily prove that I was alpha male of our little pack by crushing either child in an arm wrestling match.

Alas, things have changed. Maxwell challenged me to an arm wrestling match tonight while we were waiting for our pizza. I've been working out like a demon so I gladly accepted the challenge. I was confident I would crush the foolish child and show him who was king. Well, I don't know what hurt worse. Was it the fact that Maxwell beat me so easily or that he laughed all the way through the ordeal. Thank God I can still beat Trevor...I think.

Lovey & Sweetie

2009-10-24T11:56:00.005-04:00

I picked up Trevor and Maxwell this morning for the weekend. Their mother has two of the sweetest dogs I've ever met. Trevor (left) is holding the Shiatsu, Lovey Dovey. and Maxwell (right) is holding the Chihuahua, Sweetie Petey.

Lovey was delighted when Sweetie was recently introduced into the family and more than happy to let Sweetie assume the alpha role. They've already worn an oval track in the back yard where they play lion chasing gazelle for hours. I always have to stop for a quick pick-me-up when I get the boys. If you're feeling down, these guys will always lift your spirits. My handsome sons aren't too bad either.

Note: Trevor (14), aka Young Frankenstein, was pleased to inform me that he recently surpassed Maxwell in stature when he reached the 6'2" mark. Maxwell quickly countered that he is much stronger, has a 6-pack, and can do one armed push ups. Trevor is the same size I was at that age but about 30 pounds heavier. Food donations are appreciated.

Guns, Guns, and More Guns

2009-10-19T21:55:00.011-04:00

Big brother, Ryan, moved back from Chi Town and is staying with us for a while. This gives Ryan some quality time with his little...er...I mean younger brothers, Maxwell and Trevor while he looks for work. Naturally, the economy took a dive just as he began his job hunt. However, after pounding the pavement for a few months, Ryan landed his dream job selling firearms for Tropical Firearms in Davie, Florida.

Ryan's always had a keen interest in firearms and has become an expert through self-study and his training in the Marine Corp. This knowledge has helped him become the top salesman at Tropical within two weeks of working there. If you're looking to buy a firearm and need some expert advice, look up Ryan and let him help you make a smart purchase.

Back Flip

2009-08-02T22:44:00.003-04:00

This is just a short video of Max doing the perfect back flip. We hung out for the afternoon with our friend's, Adrian and Teresa, and played in their pool. Max is ripped and in perfect shape (I'm jealous).

Scar

2009-04-26T09:12:00.007-04:00

This is my scar 9 days after the triple bypass. Although it was physically and emotionally traumatizing, I can't believe I feel so good so quickly. I had what they call a left-sided failure because one of my ventricles was completely clogged. Most people with this condition die from a heart attack before they even discover they have a problem and according to the doctors, the Grim Reaper has been holding my hand for a few months now. Fortunately, I was in the best shape of my life and recognized something was wrong when I started having shortness of breath. My cardiologist got me into surgery before I had a stroke or heart attack or worse and added 25 years to my life with my remodeled healthy heart. He also tells me that I will be better, faster and stronger than before once I fully recover. The way I look at it, this scar is more a symbol of my good fortune than anything. Many thanks to my family, friends and wonderful girlfriend for their love and support.

Max & Cats

2009-04-15T12:57:00.001-04:00

Our cats, Mr. Liger and Baby Bell, love to chill with Maxwell. Of course, Maxwell is wearing my clothes because it is easier than doing his laundry.

Oh Shit!

2009-04-02T16:43:00.000-04:00

So when I drive up behind Leroy, I have to slow to an immediate crawl because he is driving the company van at 20 mph. Meanwhile, little Bobby, in the car behind me, decides to toss his Power Ranger out the window. Mommy turns around and starts chastising little Bobby. Unfortunately, Mommy forgets that she is driving a car going 65 mph. I hear tires squealing and look in my rear view mirror. Mommy's and my eyes lock. We both mouth, "Oh Shit!" in perfect unison.

Never let the 10 year old drive

2009-03-24T00:31:00.002-04:00

My son, Maxwell (10), and I took an ATV ride in December 2004 during a trip to South Carolina. I made the mistake of letting Maxwell drive.

Memories

2009-03-23T13:26:00.000-04:00

I found a bunch of digital photos on an old computer and I've been rummaging through them finding treasure after treasure.

Maxwell & Freddy

2009-03-17T00:58:00.000-04:00

Maxwell (15) gives Freddy Marfort, our Muay Thai instructor, a front kick and right jab. Trevor (14) looks on from the background in hope that Freddy will give big brother Maxwell some much deserved payback.

Muay Thai (Revised)

2009-03-17T00:15:00.000-04:00

This is a repost of the picture I posted a few days ago. Scroll down if you want to see the original. I used some photo retouching to turn a blurry picture taken with my iPhone into a cool artsy picture of my sons going at it. I like the picture because it shows their personalities. You've got athletic big brother Maxwell (15) preparing to attack with a sidekick (always the alpha male) while little Trevor (14) stands his ground in a proper fighting stance he learned in class. Trevor may lack some natural skill but he makes up for it with attitude and effort.

Trevor

2009-03-15T21:46:00.000-04:00

Here's Trevor (14) striking a fighting pose and trying to look bad. Don't be fooled though. This kid is full of sugar and quick to apologize if he catches you with a right cross.

Friday Night Fights

2009-03-14T21:00:00.001-04:00

Posed for a picture with my boys after we finished Muay Thai practice tonight. I get the boys every other Friday and since it's not a school night we start the weekend doing what we love.

Muay Thai

2009-02-28T14:26:00.002-05:00

The latest passion at the Stroup household is Muay Thai kickboxing. Trevor 14 (blue shirt) is in his fighting stance as Maxwell 15 (white shirt) prepares a loving round-house kick. We train at the World Championship Martian Arts Center in Coral Springs, Florida with instructors Jeff Liotta and Freddie Marfort. This place is totally kick ass.

An Officer and a Gentleman

2008-10-16T00:18:00.003-04:00

Maxwell got to wear his new JROTC uniform to school for the first time today. Although Maxwell is smiling in this picture, I have 47 photos I took at home where he is scowling and frowning. As Maxwell marched off to school this morning he was grousing that he felt like a total dork and that his gay-looking patent leather shoes were too tight (he was wearing size 10½ which his instructor immediately exchanged for a size 14 - OUCH!!!!). When Max returned home after school, I asked him if the other kids gave him a lot of flack about the uniform and he immediately gave me a coy grin. Evidently, the girls were whistling at him and telling him that he was looking spiffy and that they just loved a man in uniform. Earlier this evening, I caught Maxwell in his bedroom ironing his shirt and polishing those patent leathers and boy-oh-boy did he have a big smile on his face.

(Editors Note: JROTC is fine for now but there ain't a chance in hell I will I let my son enlist in the military)

The Cardio Kids

2008-09-14T21:03:00.002-04:00

Cardio isn't much fun but I love it when the boys join me at LA Fitness. Max and Trev love to work out but I also reward their exercise with a little Xbox time. For example, on Saturday the boys took an hour long Pilates class and then knocked out 30 minutes of cardio and another 30 minutes of general exercises including weights, lunges, push-ups, etc. For their efforts, they earned 2 hours on the Xbox and I don't feel guilty when I see them sitting on the sofa killing their friends. I'm quite pleased to admit, they are looking very fit.

All Choked Up

2008-09-04T22:36:00.005-04:00

The boys try their handiwork at making short films using their camera phones. They made 6 films in all, pretty much in the same genre, that is Trevor getting smacked around by Big Brother Maxwell. At the end of each film, Trevor gives us the Thumbs-Up to assure us that he is alright.

The Freshman

2008-08-15T15:06:00.002-04:00

Maxwell attended Freshman Orientation at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas (MSD) today in preparation for classes which commence next week. When I look at this 6'1", 175 lbs, gauky teenager in his boat-like size 13 shoes, I can't believe that I used to hold him in my hands when he was an infant while he mewed like a kitten and tried to nurse on my fingers. Then I blinked and he turned into a man.

Pump It

2008-08-04T22:48:00.006-04:00

Since my boys are totally into physical fitness, I gave them each a session with my personal trainer so they could see how hard their old man works out. My trainer, Cesar Chilmaza, specializes in functional training and can make a 45 minute session seem like eternity. You really work your butt off but it is worth every agonizing second. Here, Cesar helps Trevor pump out an inhumane number of push ups right before he introduces him to the dreaded lunges.

Wiped Out

2008-07-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

Let me just say that snorkeling is one of the most exhausting sports there is. Maxwell crashed immediately when he got back on the boat. Trevor found a spot on the bow. Dad stayed awake to enjoy the scenery.

2 Coconuts

2008-07-27T09:55:00.001-04:00

Our dear friends the Flanigans invited us to their beach house in The Keys for the weekend. Barry Flanigan took us about 6 miles offshore to do some snorkeling in the lovely turquoise waters. The boys look like a couple of German Shepherd pups with their oversized fuzzy heads.

Guts

2008-07-14T22:23:00.008-04:00

When you wrestle, matches are determined by weight class. They don't pair you up by age or strength or physical maturity. For a 165 lbs, almost 6' boy going into the 8th grade, this can be a problem. In Trevor's case, he has to wrestle guys going into their junior or senior year of high school. He doesn't get to wrestle the human-sized boys his own age. However, Trevor keeps going out on the mat. He never complains or shows fear but always gives 100%. "I'm getting good experience Dad," he'll pant after the match. As far as I'm concerned, Trevor wins every match through his demonstration of guts. It makes a father proud. I have to admit though, when I caught up with this punk choking Trevor, I stuck his head in a toilet.

Table for Two

2008-07-09T16:41:00.006-04:00

I was digging around in the My Pictures folder when I stumbled across this gem. I think the photo was taken in 1998 which would put Maxwell at 5 and Trevor at 3. The boys didn't even take up the length of the table yet. I wonder why Maxwell found it necessary to wear a wristwatch.

Brotherly Love

2008-07-05T09:03:00.003-04:00

So we are at a wrestling tournament last weekend and Max, who is a pretty good wrestler, is down 0-3 and he doesn't like to lose. I'm running a scorer's table when Max gives me his match ticket that includes his name and little brother Trevor's. I look up at Max as he tries to explain with a sheepish grin that this will give Trevor good experience because they have wrestled each other before and blah, blah, blah. I reply, "I know what you're up to and you'd better not break his neck." Max promises and goes to collect Trevor. I smile and prepare my camera.

Upside Down

2008-06-28T23:21:00.004-04:00

As a parent you often get caught up in the dailyness of life and don't realize your children growing and maturing and changing. Then your child demonstrates some new ability or talent or quality that turns your perception of them upside down. The other day at wrestling practice Max gives me a hey-Dad-watch-this and demonstrates that he is no longer a little boy but a big strapping young man who is more athletic than his old man ever was or ever will be.

Trevor's Piano Recital

2007-04-29T11:54:00.000-04:00

Trevor played "From a Distance" by Bette Midler during his second piano recital and gave a flawless performance after some initial hesitation. Big Brother Maxwell was on hand but resisted the temptation to mock poor little Trevor. Probably because Camera Man Dad was giving him the Don't-you-say-one-word look.

Allergic to North Carolina

2006-04-12T10:29:00.000-04:00

Poor Trevor woke up with hives from head to toe. It seems he is allergic to North Carolina. After I brought him back from the doctor, he took a 4 hour nap. Hopefully the medicine helps and he'll be doing better tomorrow. We're just going to hang out at the house and take the day off.

Spelunkers

2006-04-11T23:55:00.000-04:00

Today, I'm taking the gang to Morril's Cave near Elizabethton, Tennessee for our very first caving expedition. Shellsea, Max and Trevor are all excited and ready to explore.

One size fits all (Not!)

2006-04-11T23:53:00.000-04:00

And I thought the whitewater rafting helmut was small.

Morril's Cave

2006-04-11T23:50:00.000-04:00

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Here we are just outside the entrance to Morril's Cave (aka Worley's Cave). High Mountain Expeditions provided two excellent cave guides pictured on the left. Our guides, Max and Jeff (yes, it did cause some confusion), were fanatastic. They made the expedition lots of fun and even kept me from cracking my head open during a very scary fall. Since we were their first expedition of the season, Max and Jeff took us on the special tour and led us through lots of chamber and passages that aren't included in the standard package. Please note, this is the last time you will see us clean.

Into the Abyss

2006-04-11T23:45:00.000-04:00

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Our naive little spelunkers are marching off into the abyss. They have a spring in their step and smiles on their face. This is going to be fun! This is going to easy!

Tight Squeeze

2006-04-11T23:40:00.000-04:00

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You can't really appreciate this picture without hearing the screams and giggles. The kids are taking a little detour to visit a small chamber called the Egg Room. I tried to follow, but you're required to slither on your belly over 25 feet through this very narrow crevice. Halfway through I felt the grip of claustrophobia for the first time in my life. I decided to back out and let the kids enjoy this on their own.

The Mud Room

2006-04-11T23:30:00.000-04:00

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Trevor demonstrates the log roll for everyone in a small cavern known as The Mud Room. There is nothing more enjoyable than rolling around in cold muddy water. I'm not going to try it though. I'll just take their word for it.

Girls are Icky

2006-04-11T23:25:00.000-04:00

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Gail and Shellsea are no wimps. They showed us guys a thing or two. In fact, I had trouble keeping up with them.

At the end of my rope

2006-04-11T23:20:00.000-04:00

This is where I really start to get tired (Notice the blank, vacant stare). My guide gently encourages me, "We're almost to the halfway point, Jeff. Hang in there."

Cavemen

2006-04-11T22:30:00.000-04:00

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I had no idea what I was getting us into. For the last 4½ hours, we have walked, crawled, slipped, climbed, slid, waded, tripped, pulled, and slithered our way through almost 5 miles of passages. At one point when we were wading down a waist-deep, icy-cold creek that runs through the lower level of the cave, I could hear my son Trevor's teeth chattering in the darkness. I asked our guide how far we were below the surface. When he replied somewhere over a mile, I cursed myself (can you say hypothermia?). However, we finally emerged safe and uninjured, although we are a little banged up, very cold, and extremely exhausted. I have to admit though, this expedition has been one of the most unique and profound experiences of my life. As my boys would say, "it was awesome!"

Today's Adventure

2006-04-10T23:59:00.000-04:00

We're loading up the horses and going to hit the trails at the DuPont State Park today.

Covered Bridge

2006-04-10T23:55:00.000-04:00

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I know I named this post "Covered Bridge," but a more appropriate name would be "Saddle Sore." My backside is singing Ava Maria. What reproductive ability wasn't destroyed by yesterday's too-tight wetsuit was taken care of by my first horseback ride in almost 40 years.

Lake Imaging Trail

2006-04-10T23:50:00.000-04:00

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Gail's leading Max off for a scenic ride on the Lake Imaging Trail. Trevor and I followed on foot not knowing what an arduous hike was in store for us.

The Lone Ranger

2006-04-10T23:45:00.000-04:00

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Maxwell did fantastic for his first ride. Cashmere obeyed his every command and gave him and excellent ride. I'm sure after carrying my 250lbs for 4 miles through the hills, Cashmere was grateful for the break.

A well-deserved rest

2006-04-10T23:43:00.000-04:00

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After a very long and difficult hike, Trevor and I stumbled across the Grassy Creek Falls. Trev immediately asked if he could soak his feet (the water was way too cold) and grab a bite. I almost fell in trying to get this picture but it was worth the risk.

Trevor's View

2006-04-10T23:36:00.000-04:00

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This was the view Trevor was enjoying as he munched on his ham sandwich.

Ready to ride...Well, almost

2006-04-10T23:35:00.000-04:00

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Trevor's geared up and ready to ride. I guess I should tell him his helmut's on backwards.

Trevor's Turn

2006-04-10T23:30:00.000-04:00

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Trevor finally gets his turn. However, Cashmere had had enough and headed back down the trail despite Trevor's best efforts to turn him around for a visit to the covered bridge. Maybe next time, Trevor.

First morning

2006-04-09T16:01:00.000-04:00

We're finally here. The boys are checking out my friend Gail's horses, Cashmere and Phoenix, on a crispy cool morning here in beautiful North Carolina. It's a little chilly but we hope to do some whitewater rafting today.

Men in tights

2006-04-09T13:33:00.000-04:00

The boys and I getting ready for our first whitewater rafting expedition on the frigid French Broad River (that's why we are wearing the sexy wetsuits). The Nantahala Outdoor Center provides expert guides and all of the gear necessary for a fun-filled adventure. Fortunately, the tourist season hasn't quite yet started so we're receiving extra attention and we have the river all to ourselves today.

The Calm Before the Storm

2006-04-09T13:15:00.000-04:00

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This place is heaven. The boys are so happy. They've been wearing constant grins since we got in the raft. We're surrounded by beautiful mountains and lovely forests. It's so quiet and peaceful as we slowly drift down the river...

...oh my God! Here come the rapids!

Whitewater!

2006-04-09T13:05:00.000-04:00

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Here we go! The adventure begins! Trevor's the one in front with the priceless expression on his face and his brother, Maxwell, is seated behind him. The two ladies paddling frantically are Gail and her daughter, Shellsea.

Meet the team

2006-04-09T13:01:00.000-04:00

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Introducing the team from left to right:

Jeff Stroup (Dad): I am the one with the pained expression on his face and the bubble on his head. I grabbed the largest available helmut and naturally it is still 3 sizes too small. I picked the biggest wetsuit and honestly believe I've destroyed my reproductive capability forever. At least I'm wet and cold.

Maxwell Stroup (12): When our raft guide asks Trevor to stop paddling five times in a row because Trevor's drifted off into Trevor-Trevor Land again, you can always count on good old Maxwell to get Trevor's attention with a quick strike from his trusty paddle. Now I know why Max wanted to sit behind Trevor.

Gail Frandsen (Friend & Shellsea's mom): This hyperactive lady (I'm sure you can sense her energy) is in charge of our travel itinerary. She started our week with icy cold rapids and has made plans to have us riding horses, climbing mountains, crawling through caves, and possibly panning for gold. I hope I survive to post more blogs.

Trevor Stroup (11): "Stop paddling. Please, stop paddling. Trevor. Trevor. Stop paddling, Trevor. Come on, Trevor. You need to pay attention. Can you hear me, Trevor?"

Shellsea Frandsen (15): Surprisingly normal for being raised by you-know-who. This girl has been groomed to face any challenge she will ever encounter in life. I'm voting for her in the 2030 Presidential Elections.

Dreaming

2006-04-08T18:53:00.000-04:00

Max may look like a beautiful little angel sleeping peacefully, but I am on guard. When he jerked out of his last nap he almost hit me in the face. Max said he'd tripped over a wire in his dream.

712 more miles to go

2006-04-08T10:25:00.000-04:00

We're on the road again. 712 miles from now we'll be in Hendersonville, NC to enjoy Spring Break with our friends, Gail and Shellsea,. I loaded my Ipod with videos to keep the boys entertained. So far it is working.

Happy Birthday Bill!

2006-04-07T19:48:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to a great guy and good friend, Bill Bentz (pictured here with the lovely Michelle). I hope you enjoy many more birthdays, Bill, and I hope I get to sit by Michelle again at your next birthday party.

Trevor takes it to the hoop

2006-04-05T19:56:00.000-04:00

My little Trevor charges to the basket and prepares for the slam while his brother, Maxwell, looks on.

Rearranging Priorities

2006-04-05T19:48:00.000-04:00

Enough excuses. I am going to stay on top of this blog and start posting more frequently.

I've been working like a dog and not giving these two handsome guys the attention they deserve, so I decided to rearrange my priorities. After I picked the boys up from their mom's tonight, we headed straight to the basketball courts near our house. Boy, did we have fun. They challenged yours truly to a game of hoops giving me the opportunity to crush and defeat them 10-3. It's reassuring to know that I am still the alpha-male in my house.

Swamped

2006-03-11T11:10:00.000-05:00

I've made no postings in over a month because I have been swamped. Tax season is upon us and I am spending most of my time sitting in front of a computer. I hope to start posting again soon but it probably won't be for a couple of weeks. I am off to Brazil for 9 days starting next Friday 3/17. See you soon.

São Paulo

2006-01-22T21:20:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of going to São Paulo on business for 5 days. This is the 3rd larget city in the world and goes on forever. It is a wonderful place with beautiful people (17 million of them). I hope to visit again soon.

My Little Shriner

2006-01-13T14:38:00.000-05:00

I told Trevor I'd buy him a souvenir. Unfortunately, I made this offer at the Morocco Pavilon. The hat is called a fez.

Lost in Translation

2006-01-13T13:28:00.000-05:00

Here's Trevor in front of one of the beautiful buildings at the Japan Pavilion of the World Showcase. We're having fun just relaxing and talking and laughing and checking stuff out.

Bus Ride to Epcot

2006-01-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

I am chaperoning Trevor's 5th grade class trip to Epcot today. Epcot is a little boring but it is nice to take a day off from work and spend some time with Trev. I haven't gone through all of the school's security checks so I am only allowed to chaperon Trevor. Translation: I get to spend some one-on-one time with my son.

Little Buddies

2005-12-30T15:30:00.000-05:00

Trevor is hanging with Raven and Ryo Reis on the back deck of the house. I snuck up on them and caught them pretending to be Elfs and Orks and other monstrosities.

Trevor & Jake

2005-12-30T14:31:00.000-05:00

Trevor's giving Jake a nice relaxing massage and cooing tenderly. "Nice boy, Jake. You're such a good dog." Jake seems to be enjoying it.

Max & Chief

2005-12-30T11:59:00.000-05:00

These puppies are just 12 and 2 years old. Pretty big, huh? The Reis's neighbors, the Bond Family, have a couple of big dogs, Chief and Jake, that the kids have decided to borrow for a few days.

Hunting Squirrels

2005-12-28T16:34:00.000-05:00

Max and Trevor are trying to russle up a little squirrel meat with their new BB guns. I told them they have to eat what they kill. Sure hope I don't have to enforce it.

Home on the Range

2005-12-28T16:31:00.000-05:00

This is Adrian and Teresa's beautiful country home near Spartansburg, SC. They are great friends and wonderful hosts. This is the 3rd New Year's we've stayed with them.

Terminator Jr.

2005-12-27T11:46:00.000-05:00

My Maxwell is having the time of his life. He got a BB gun for Christmas but naturally prefers shooting the shotgun.

Terminator

2005-12-27T11:33:00.000-05:00

I finally got the opportunity to test out my 12 gauge Remington shotgun (I've only had it a year). Maybe I should post this pic on Match.com. What do you think ladies? Kinda sexy, huh?

Guns & Fun

2005-12-27T11:14:00.000-05:00

Finally arrived at the Triple R Ranch to hang with our dear friends the Reis Family. We're out having some good ol' Redneck entertainment shooting guns. From the left it is Adrian Reis, Trevor Stroup (10), Maxwell Stroup (12), Ryan Boudreau, Ryo Reis (5), myself, and Raven Reis (6).

On the road again

2005-12-26T13:37:00.000-05:00

We're taking an 800 mile road trip to South Carolina for the New Year. Little Trevor is crashed out in the back seat as usual.

Brothers

2005-12-25T22:49:00.000-05:00

Christmas Day! I picked up the boys around 6 p.m. and we came home to open presents. The boys got BB guns and computer stuff, so they are naturally very happy. Later on, I caught them hanging out, talking and laughing and just being brothers.

We leave bright and early tomorrow morning for South Carolina. We are going to welcome in the new year with our dear friends Adrian, Teresa, Ryan, Raven and Ryo Reis.

Merry Chistmas everyone!

Max Solomon's Shortcut

2005-12-24T16:14:00.000-05:00

On the way to the game, my buddy Max talked about his secret parking place. "We park at this guys house for $10 and only have a 3 minute walk to the stadium. It's cheaper and we avoid all of the traffic." He neglected to tell me we'd have to use a home-made ladder to scale a 12' wall on our way to the game. It's always an adventure with Max.

Go Dolphins!

2005-12-24T14:18:00.000-05:00

Yeah, we got hurricanes beating us up in South Florida. But it's still great being 30 minutes away from a live game. Thanks for the invite, Max.

135 mph

2005-12-23T23:02:00.000-05:00

Thanks to my friend Max for letting me borrow his GTO. I didn't realize this car went so fast.

Family Reunion

2005-12-17T19:51:00.000-05:00

I came across this old picture taken in Indiana one week before 9/11. You can tell that Trevor is developing a sense of humor. I've got my hand on him trying to insure we get a nice picture. Grandpa Jon is just glad to see me getting a little payback.

Run Trevor Run

2005-12-05T19:35:00.000-05:00

Trevor is giving it a run for the money. We have a nice little gym at the Promenade and my sons and I workout frequently. They are always excited to hit the gym. I never have to push them to join me. I am glad I had sons.

Pumping Iron

2005-12-05T19:33:00.000-05:00

Look at this stud pumping iron. Dressed in black. The obligatory iPod hanging from his neck. No expression on his face. God, I wish I would have been this cool at 12.

Waiting Room

2005-11-23T16:17:00.000-05:00

Trevor (right) fidgets while he waits for his orthodontics' appointment . It's time to get those braces tightened. His brother, Maxwell, is chillin' with my new ipod, which he confiscates whenever we are together. I am just sitting here checking out the good looking moms.

Wrist Slitter

2005-11-12T09:44:00.000-05:00

Started out the weekend with an emergency trip to the doctor. Max decided to open a box and his wrist with one of my sharp kitchen knives. Lots of blood and panic, but Maxwell is going to live.

New Rule: Kitchen knives are to be used for food only.

Order

2005-11-09T22:21:00.000-05:00

I can relax. Wilma was a big change of plans but we got moved and are about 90% unpacked. Heck, the laundry is even done. The boys were excited to move into their new rooms and wanted to know if they could go to bed early tonight. I let them.

Chaos

2005-11-06T19:05:00.000-05:00

I am officially residing in my new digs. It is a very nice 3 Bedroom/2 Bath townhouse in Coral Springs, Florida. I am really looking forward to living here (after I unpack and organize this mess).

Moving Day

2005-11-05T13:06:00.000-05:00

Time to leave this sweet little house after only 4 months (thank you Wilma). Everything is packed and ready to go. I am just waiting on the muscle to arrive and load my stuff. Then, Yours Truly gets to drive this big rig to the new digs out in Coral Springs. Wish me luck.

We have PlayStation!

2005-10-29T20:45:00.000-04:00

I finally have a break from my children now that they are hypnotized. No more chanting:

Keep your hands off of your brother!
Quit lighting the lighter!
Be careful with that candle!
Don't light anymore candles!
Quit blowing out the candles!
Don't shine the flashlight in my face!
Don't shine the flashlight in your brother's face!
This is all we have to eat, so eat it!
Repeat 1-8.

I am parking my kids in front of the PlayStation for a few hours and enjoying some of those wonderful Buds my friend Shawn dropped off in the previous post. God, I am so happy right now!

Relief supplies have arrived!

2005-10-29T20:03:00.000-04:00

God bless my dear friend Shawn Salyers. He dropped off a 12-pack of Bud Light and a bag of ice. I love you Shawn!

Oh yeah, he brought a generator too.

Monotony and Monopoly

2005-10-29T12:24:00.000-04:00

Q: What's the only thing more boring than being stranded without electricity and gasoline?
A: Playing Monopoly.

My God this this game is painful. Fortunately, my children play Monopoly using their revised rule. This rule allows you to start building hotels on a property as soon as it is purchased. You don't wait until you have acquired the other properties in its set before you can start building. Thankfully, this brilliant wonderful little rule shortens your typical game of Monopy from 12 to 3 hours. It is almost tolerable.

Boys and Fire

2005-10-26T20:18:00.000-04:00

We're sitting out front and the boys are playing with a candle, burning pieces of grass and just doing boy-stuff. No homework. No school. No TV. No video games. No anything. Kind of peaceful for a change.

Blue Roof

2005-10-26T17:51:00.000-04:00

The roof is tarped so I don't have to worry about more damage from the rain. I don't have electric or water but no one else does either. The weather has been nice and cool making the days and evenings quite pleasant. However, when it starts to warm up this weekend, people will begin to complain.

Hair-Raising Experience

2005-10-25T21:24:00.000-04:00

I don't want to go through that again! But thankfully I survived. I had just walked out of my kitchen when the tree came crashing through through the roof, so I am alive and uninjured. My children are fine. They rode out the storm at their mother's house with their big brother, Ryan, keeping an eye on them. My cats Bell and Liger are safe, but they've been using the litterbox a lot. They don't know what in the heck happened. The tree destroyed my kitchen but if it would have hit another section of my house, it could have destroyed the electronics and new furniture I recently purchased. My dear friend Adrian has provided food and lodging for the last 2 evenings and helped me put a temporary cover on my roof. Tomorrow, my boys are coming over and we are going to campout at my house, probably for the last time. Things aren't too good, but they could have been a lot worse.

Thank God for good luck and good friends!

What did I say about shoveling snow?

2005-10-24T15:09:00.000-04:00

It looks like I will have to shovel some snow after all. See my Wilma!!! post. Now that the storm's over, I am surveying the damage and starting to realize the implications of this mess. The house isn't habitable and probably won't be for some time. The rest of the house is OK but it won't see electricity for 3-6 months. All my neighbors are safe but no one knows what's going on in South Florida yet. We don't know how bad or widespread the damage is.

Atleast I wasn't in this room when the tree fell. I had just left the kitchen and was peeking out the front door when it happened. I called Amy and the boys are safe. Life is good.

This is the culprit

2005-10-24T14:42:00.000-04:00

This is the culprit that smashed though the kitchen ceiling. It scared the you-know-what out of me.

Ouch!

2005-10-24T08:35:00.000-04:00

Just left the kitchen right before this smashed through the roof. I spent the rest of Wilma sitting on the floor in the bathroom.

Timber!

2005-10-24T08:14:00.000-04:00

Wilma's doing some landscaping in the back yard. I can see through Max's bedroom now that a shutter has been ripped off.

Wilma!!!!

2005-10-24T07:49:00.000-04:00

I just snapped a pic of the tree that fell down in my front yard. The kids will be glad because they hated picking up its constant barrage of leafs. Now, I'm crouched in the bathroom listening to things shake and things break and things explode outside. My hurricane shutters are up and it's still scary as Hell. What I wouldn't give to be back up in Indiana shoveling snow right now. If I don't make it, tell my children I love them.

Cell Phone Rules

2005-10-22T15:10:00.000-04:00

If you plan on getting your adolescent child a cell phone, may I suggest the following rules that I've enacted?

You can not call me if you are within 30 feet of me (e.g. the backseat of the car).
If you use your camera phone to take another picture of me or your brother in our underwear, you lose the phone.
Do not use your camera phone to send me pictures of your bowel movements or close-ups of the cat's butthole.

More rules will be coming soon. You can count on it.

Reasons not to buy your child a camera phone (Part 1)

2005-10-15T17:39:00.000-04:00

Maxwell started junior high this year, so I got him a cell phone for my convenience and his safety. Unfortunately, I chose a camera phone enabling Maxwell to send me wonderful pictures like this at 40¢ a pop. Thanks a lot Max. What did you learn in school today?

Reasons not to buy your child a camera phone (Part 2)

2005-10-15T17:32:00.000-04:00

As you can tell, Max's humor is becoming more and more sophisticated. Max claims this is an imitation of his brother, Trevor.

Breakfast Club

2005-10-14T20:30:00.000-04:00

Snapped this pic of the boys and their cousin feeding their tired faces at the family reunion. They are never too tired to eat.

Good Times

2005-10-10T00:45:00.000-04:00

This picture is from a 2003 trip to Sugar Key near Tampa, Florida. Every parent loves nothing more than hearing their children laugh and seeing them smile.

Let me out!

2005-10-10T00:40:00.000-04:00

I stumbled across this picture of Bell I snapped during her first visit to the vet. As you can see, she's not too fond of the kitty carrier. It only took me 20 minutes to catch Bell and put her inside.