Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Christmas and Root Canals

I'm not sure which was more painful; the root canal I had done this month, or getting through the Christmas holiday.

Once Thanksgiving was over, I started thinking about the next holiday...Christmas. It was Jenny's all-time favorite holiday (Super Bowl Sunday and Halloween coming in a close 2nd and 3rd). She, Susan and Elizabeth go to all ends to make sure that everyone gets into the holiday spirit every year.

We have a dozen years worth of After-Christmas Sale decorations, lights and knick-knacks stored in the basement. Jenny had an extensive and complicated list of holiday card senders and receivers (that I hope I deciphered adequately, I sent 324 letters and know I missed some people, just not sure who they are yet). Mason and I have enough wrapping paper in the basement to wrap gifts until she's in high school (oops, just realized that's only 2 1/2 more years, maybe it'll last until she goes to college). Lucky for me, Jenny showed Mason where most of the stuff was and also luckily for me, Mason knew how and where to put it all. Oddly enough, we were unable to locate the brass reindeer stocking hangers AND Mason's embroidered stocking; we found mine, Jenny's and one for every pet we've ever had, but Mason's stocking is missing - it's a weird mystery.

I really appreciate Molly inviting us to her Hanukkah party last week. It was good for both Mason and me to get out of the house and see other people enjoying the holidays. I think it also helped us get ready for what was coming. It didn't hurt that the Matzo ball soup and latke were fantastic ;-)

The anticipation of Christmas Eve was filled with anxiety, sadness and emptiness. The actual event included all-of-the-above and we tossed in some laughter, excitement (the Denver Broncos won), cheer, some wild kids and an abundance of gifts.

As usual, Elizabeth threw a fantastic party. Both she and Bill were gracious hosts, serving a fantastic meal accompanied by delicious wine and desserts. Mason and I are fortunate that Jenny had longstanding friendships with Susan and Elizabeth and we're grateful that they continue to include us in many of their family affairs.

On Christmas Day, Jenny's parents came over and we opened presents, took pictures, cried silently, ate a nice meal together, talked about stuff and mostly watched Mason as she tested and tried-on all of her presents.

Back to the beginning...the holiday was much more painful, after the first needle in my mouth, the root canal was numb and painless...the Christmas holiday without Jenny has been excruciating and the pain won't seem to go away (no matter how many glasses of wine I drink).

Happy Holidays

Friday, December 22, 2006

Happy Holidays

Mason and I are busy getting ready for Christmas. I really don't know how Jenny did it! The cleaning lady came just last week, can't tell today. The dining room table is covered with cards, letters, presents yet to be wrapped and all kinds of wrapping supplies.

Mason has done a great job stepping up and handling the wrapping chores. I'm not very skilled, while she's nearly a "Wrap" Master ;-)

I finally got our Holiday letter sent out. Normally, Jenny would have that done within a week of Thanksgiving, true to form, I got it done just after the mailing deadline. If I forgot someone, I apologize. I either don't have your address, or don't have it in one of three places. Jenny actually kept a book back to 1996 that has notes about everyone we ever sent a card to and everyone we got a card from - that was my master list. Of course, she did it all manually and I had to put all of the information into a database. If I tried to write them all by hand, everyone after letter number six would be returned to sender because my handwriting would deteriorate so much. I really appreciate the fact that Mason stayed on top of me and "encouraged" me to get the letters done and mailed. I'm also grateful for Thomas, Julia, Martha, Lena and Vicky for helping me fold and stuff envelopes in order to get them all done.

We'll be spending Christmas Eve with our friends the McNeills and the Elseys - it's a tradition that started way before I came into the picture, Mason and I are truly lucky to be included in their festivities.

Mason and I wish you and your families a joyous holiday season and a prosperous 2007!

For all of you who are fans of Jack Bauer and 24 on FOX, click this link to see how Santa would handle a sticky situation the "24" way. http://www.fanpop.com/spots/christmas/links/13894

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Back to writing again

It's been a couple of months since I've written anything. It's not because nothing has happened, because a lot has. I've just been a little reclusive and have been focusing on spending time at work. It really doesn't take time to do this, but before today, every time I sat down to type, I just couldn't. I feel like Bill Murray's character in "Groundhog Day" - although it's taking me longer to figure out where the puddle is everyday.

But, after talking with many friends (both of mine and of Jenny's), I know that it's important for me to continue to write about what we're doing - if for nothing else, to "document" for Mason what we are doing and what we've done. So, I'm going to make a concerted effort to write weekly and let everyone know how we're doing and what our plans and accomplishments are. Over the next few weeks I'll be sure to post some pictures and tell everyone what Mason and I did over the summer - just bring everyone up-to-date.

I'm very grateful to everyone who continues to make an effort to stay in touch. I don't always reply to e-mails and I don't always return the phone calls, sometimes it's just too hard. I'll try to do better.

Thank you for your support, we couldn't be doing as well as we are without it.

Max

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Our plans for 8/11 - 8/18

Well, life finally caught up with us. For everyone who reads this regularly, you noticed that I didn't get our schedule of activities posted for this week. Work, sleep, hustle and bustle all got in the way.

We had a great time at Jimmy Buffett on Saturday. It wasn't his best show, but it was still a great time. Why doesn't he just play his own songs? Do we have to hear his version of CCR's Werewolves of London? Anyway...the kids all had fun experiencing their first exposure to Parrotheads (they call the kids Parakeets;) and all of the fun you can have at an outdoor concert.

On Sunday, Mason and I continued our new weekly "breakfast out" tradition at Cafe Deluca, good food and great quality time together. It's becoming my favorite day of the week.

Earlier in the week, we attended the benefit that was thrown in Mason's honor by Keller Williams Realty Professionals of Oak Park. It was great to get together with many old friends and meet some new ones. I'm very grateful to everyone's contributions to Mason's Education Fund and even more grateful that we have so much love and support - it really would be impossible without all of you. Thank you.

Next week will likely be challenging. Please let us know if you have time to have Mason over for some play time. You can call (708) 323-7673, or e-mail max_rose@sbcglobal.net to let us know.

Friday, 8/11 - Mason has no firm plans for the morning, but will be spending the afternoon with Anne P.

Saturday, 8/12 - We're going on an overnight camping trip to Starved Rock with Bill and Elizabeth, Isabel and Tommy. We'll need someone to take Daisy for a walk and feed the cats, fish and mice (I'm hoping Adrian can do it, he was so very helpful last week).

Sunday, 8/13 - We're returning late from Starved Rock, so our four-legged family members will need some care.

Monday, 8/14 - Mason has no plans yet. She's available the whole day.

Tuesday, 8/15 - Mason has no plans yet. She's available the whole day.

Wednesday, 8/16 - Mason has a dentist appointment in the morning, but will be free after 10:30.

Thursday, 8/17 - Mason has no plans yet. She's available the whole day.

Friday, 8/18 - Mason has no plans yet. She's available the whole day.

I can't say it enough. Thank you, thank you to everyone for your support, thoughts and prayers.

Max and Mason

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Mason's Plans for 7/30-8/05

I apologize to those of you who have checked in to see what we're up to this week, only to find nothing posted. It's been a very busy week for me at work and I've simply been too exhausted to write.

Today, Mason and I went out for breakfast at the Maple Tree in downtown Oak Park. Sandra from my office joined us and we had a nice, casual meal. The highlight for Mason was riding in Sandra's convertible Punch Buggy all around Oak Park (I'm now told that we need a convertible).

This is going to be a fun week for Mason, she had a lot of fun at golf camp last week, and is making good progress, especially in her short game. She has opted to sign up for another week. This week, camp lasts until 4:00. I'll be able to drop her off each day except for Wednesday, 08/02. If you can pick her up on any day (except Thursday as you'll read later), please either e-mail me at max_rose@sbcglobal.net or call me at (708) 323-7673 and let me know. Camp is held at the Fresh Meadows Practice Facility. It is located just west of Wolf Road on Cermak (Wolf and 22nd) in Hillside. The phone number there is (708) 449-6767.

Monday, 7/31 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 4:00. The kids practice in the morning, eat lunch in the clubhouse and then play a round on the course in the afternoon. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Susan E. will be picking Mason up from camp today - thanks Susan!

Tuesday, 8/01 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 4:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Susan E. will be picking Mason up from camp today - thanks Susan!

Wednesday, 8/02 - We have our weekly sales meeting this morning, so I'm hoping that someone can drop Mason off at the driving range at 8:45. Camp is over at 4:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Susan E. will be picking Mason up from camp today - thanks Susan!

Thursday, 8/03 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. I'll also be picking Mason up because this evening we'll be attending a benefit in Mason's honor. Molly, from Jenny's office, has coordinated an evening for friends, family and area Realtors to get together and attend the play Picnic, performed by the Oak Park Festival Theatre in Austin Gardens. Click on the photo below to see it full size and read the details - everyone is welcome! To RSVP please call Keller Williams Realty Professionals at (708) 383-8500.

Friday, 8/04 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 4:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Susan E. will be picking Mason up from camp today - thanks Susan!

Saturday, 8/05 - "The weather is here I wish you were beautiful. The skies are too clear life's easy today. The beer is too cold, the daiquiri's too fruitful. There's no place like home when it's this far away. I don't care what they say." Tonight we plan on spending time with Jimmy and our friends - I'm sure Jenny will be there with us. We don't have tickets yet, but we'll find a way! Thanks to my friend Sanjay, we have tickets and will be spending the evening with Jimmy.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Mason's plans for 7/24 - 7/28

I know, I know. We're actually getting organized more than one day ahead of time! This week, Mason will be in a 1/2 day golf camp at Fresh Meadows Practice Facility. It is located just west of Wolf Road on Cermak (Wolf and 22nd) in Hillside. The phone number there is (708) 449-6767.

Email me at max_rose@sbcglobal.net or call me at (708) 323-7673 if you would like to make plans with Mason.

Monday, 7/24 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 12:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Mason will be picked up by Susan and Zoe B. They will be spending the afternoon together. Thanks Susan!

Tuesday, 7/25 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 12:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Zenaida will be picking Mason up and spending the afternoon with her and her niece.

Wednesday, 7/26 - We have our weekly sales meeting this morning, so I'm hoping that someone can drop Mason off at the driving range at 8:45. Maureen H. will be taking Mason to camp in the morning. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Lauren R. will be taking Mason for the afternoon.

Thursday, 7/27 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 12:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Mason had a great time with Grandma and Grandpa.

Friday, 7/28 - I'll be dropping Mason off at the driving range in the morning. Camp is over at 12:00. Mason will need to be picked up after camp and would love to have a play date. Thanks to Ray, Lisa, Nikki and Sanjuana, Mason had a fun day - other than the fact she felt ill late in the afternoon and decided to spend some time on Grandma and Granpa's couch;-)

Mason's plans for 7/17 - 7/22

Summer School is over and we made it through unscathed with the help of our friends. Thank You!

Thank you Lauren, Thomas & Julia, Elly & Tim, Bill & Elizabeth, Jen & Ray, Susan & Chris, Matt & Sarah, Ray & Lisa, Martha, Chris & Eileen, Maureen & Jim, Charlie & Flo, Scott & Marybeth, Ray & Julie, Jim & AnnMarie, Raf & Rick, Molly, Meredith, Sarah & Fred, Kathy, Gini, Bob & Vi, everyone at Roosevelt, everyone at Providential and many thanks to all of Mason's friends for helping her through this difficult time, we couldn't have done it without your help (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone).

After a lot of searching, our detective work paid off. We found the camp that Jenny had registered Mason for this week, yeah!

Monday, 7/17 - Mason will be in Outdoor Adventure Camp until 1:00. Maureen has voluteered to take her there, pick her up AND have her over to play with Sarah until I get home from work.

Tuesday, 7/18 - Same as Monday. Thanks Maureen!

Wednesday, 7/19 - Mason will be leaving today with her camp-mates to Starved Rock State Park for an overnight camp-out. They will return tomorrow at 1:00 in the afternoon.

Thursday, 7/20 - Mason returns from her overnight camping trip at 1:00. She currently has no plans this afternoon. Email me at max_rose@sbcglobal.net or call me at (708) 323-7673 if you would like to make plans with Mason. Sarah, Anna, Katie and Benjamin have made plans with Mason to pick her up and go to the Forest Park Pool.

Friday, 7/21 - Mason is free the entire day. Email me at max_rose@sbcglobal.net or call me at (708) 323-7673 if you would like to make plans with Mason. Mason will be spending the afternoon with Francesca A. down the block.

Saturday, 7/22 - Mason and I will be looking for something fun to do today.

We still haven't scheduled next week's activities, but as soon as we do (hopefully before we go to bed tonight), I'll post them in order to give as much advance notice as we can.

Thank you,
Max and Mason

It's been a month now...


Today, July 16, would have been Jenny's 45th birthday. There are so many things that I miss.

I miss her laugh, her smile, her drive and her positive outlook on life. I miss the way she would look at me when I made a silly comment, or told a not-so-funny joke. I miss the way she would always encourage Mason to try new things and the way she would so delicately answer those "difficult" questions. I miss her attempts at recreating a recipe from epicurious.com, and the treasures she would bring home from a day of bargain hunting at the Sandwich or Kane County Flea markets. I miss her singing along to any and every Jimmy Buffett song and her youthful-girl infatuation with him. I miss the way she would take care of every little detail, from sending thank-notes to birthday cards and making sure that we always brought the right dish to a party or get-together. I miss holding her and I miss having her hold me.

I'm not the same person as I was when she found me. I'm a better man because of her.

If you would like to write about what you miss about Jenny, you can post a comment here (just click the comment link to the right), or you can put it at this post, or you can post to the online guestbook.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Mason's plans for 7/09 - 7/16

Well, the good news is I was wrong about Summer School ending last week, we have another full week, the last day is July 14 (phew). Mason (with the help of so many friends) has managed to stay busy and seems to be enjoying her summer. She is truly a remarkable girl who enjoys to spend time with just about anybody.

Sunday, 7/09 - We have a full day today, World Cup Finals at the Schaller's and then Mason and I have a 3:40 tee time at Oak Meadows. After golf, we'll be at the Forest Park pool to relax and wind down.

Monday, 7/10 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is going to spend the afternoon with the Cekanders and the evening with Grandma and Grandpa.

Tuesday, 7/11 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. After school, Mason is going on "Broker Tour" with Meredith, Molly and Joyce. Broker Tour is the weekly social event for Realtors to preview new listings in the neighborhood. After Tour, Mason will be spending the afternoon with Vicky R.

Wednesday, 7/12 - Summer School in the morning. Mason has a friend's birthday party in the afternoon.

Thursday, 7/13 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. Mason will be spending the afternoon with Isabel M.

Friday, 7/14 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. Mason will be spending the afternoon with AnnMarie S. and her kids at the pool.

Saturday, 7/15 - We don't have any plans yet.

Sunday, 7/16 - Today, Jenny would have been 45. Mason and I will be spending a part of our day with Bob and Viola, reading the many cards and letters that we've received. In the afternoon, Mason will be with Katie Rose and I'll be with a few of my friends on the golf course.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Mason's Plans for 7/01-7/08

We've almost made it through our first week - so far I would call it a success. I haven't "double-booked" anything, Mason hasn't gotten lost, nor has she had to call me and ask where she's supposed to go. Thank you to everyone for all of your help! Next week is the last week of Summer School, so things get a little "trickier" starting July 10th - I'll be sure to post those dates a little earlier.

Saturday, 7/01 - So far we have nothing on our schedule. Mason is spending the day with Lena S. This will give me an opportunity to do some house work and run some errands.

Sunday, 7/02 - Nothing planned here yet either. I'll be at Wrigley Field (hoping the Cubs can pull out a victory over the Sox) with my old friend Bob Atkins and Mason will be spending the day with Lauren H. Lauren and Mason met at the local driving range, Bushwood, so I'm sure there will be some golf involved.

Monday, 7/03 - I'm assuming (but I'm not sure yet) that there is no Summer School today or tomorrow. I'll have to go into the office for a couple of hours, Mason will be coming with me and then we'll head over to the Taste of Chicago. If we plan everything right, we'll stay for the fireworks display. We went to the office and actually managed to get some work done, the weather was quite "iffy" so we opted to not go to the Taste. We did make it downtown to see the fireworks, we had a terrific time with Ray, Lisa and Nikki. I'll be posting some pictures soon.

Tuesday, 7/04 - Happy Independence Day! I need to get these four days planned or else it will be "major boredom" around here ;-) Thanks to Bill, Elizabeth, Isabel and Tommy we had a full day. We were their guests at the River Forest Tennis Club. No tennis, just a day of lounging around the pool and playing some games in the courtyard. Overall a very nice day.

Wednesday, 7/05 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. Mason is going to spend the afternoon with the Currans at the Forest Park Pool.

Thursday, 7/06 - Flute lesson at Roosevelt at 10:00, then she'll be in Summer School till 12:00. Mason will be spending the afternoon with Elly and Shannon - not sure of the agenda, but knowing Elly, they'll have a funfilled day.

Friday, 7/07 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. Mason will be spending the day with Elizabeth and Isabel.

Saturday, 7/08 - We are going to the Taste of Chicago. We'll be taking the early train to the Loop and enjoying the festival - the weather looks like it's going to be great.

If anyone would like to volunteer to help with Mason on her free days, please e-mail max_rose@sbcglobal.net, stop by or call us and I'll update the calendar for everyone to see.


Thank you,
Max and Mason

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

The Cards and Letters...

Just keep coming. We're actually getting real mail - everyday there are at least four or five letters or cards from friends and family offering their condolences. Mason and I have opened and read each and every one of them. We read, we cry, we laugh and we enjoy the the written thoughts about Jenny and her memories. We find comfort in the fact that Jenny had so many friends - her circle is large and diverse. Responding to each one will be a daunting task, but Mason and I are going to start tackling that project very soon (just as soon as I can get to the store to buy a large quantity of thank you notes).

Some people have chosen to send e-mails - we love that! Some of the notes and e-mails contain some great stories about Jenny and the memories others have of her. Here are a couple of them, I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did:

Laura S. wrote, "Your e-mail was the first I'd heard of Jenny's death. My husband and I were fortunate to have Jenny's kind and very competent services as our realtor a little over a year ago when we purchased our first home, a condo in East Ukranian Village. We were impressed by how quickly she knew just what we wanted - she "got it." She was natural and easy to be around, one of those sincere 'what you see is what you get' kind of people. Very trustworthy. And she earnestly laughed at all of my husband's jokes along the way, which I know he appreciated. Two friends of mine, Mila and Litha, were also in the email list, as they too know Jenny and we were all very saddened and stunned to receive this news. We are sincerely sorry for your loss. My husband John and I met your beautiful daughter on two occasions when she was along with Jenny. My heart goes out to you and Mason."

Len C. (grade school and high school friend) wrote, "I am moved to write because I went to the Madison School with Jenny, and I have some of my happiest school memories of playing tag and crack the whip with her on the playground during recess during what must have been the years 1967 to 1971 or so. It's the sort of stuff her parents must have presumed were a part of Jenny's daily school life, free-spirited running and playing in the warm Illinois sun with other little kids. There remains a person, me, now far removed in years from those days, and now far away in western Wyoming, who remembers with great affection her childhood beauty and athletic grace. She was the loveliest girl. Through my tender-aged eyes I adored her. I now have young children, a daughter Madeline who turns 9 in a few days, and a son, Reed, who yesterday determined with keen interest that he is now five and three-quarters. They run, they play tag, they do all the glorious exuberences of children. One of the next times I see them in full living stride playing with their mates it will occur to me to remember Jenny, and the moment will deepen my gratitude for the lives of my children, and give me one of those grown-up moments of quiet reflection that I would rather not have."

Merideth C. wrote, "Hi guys...we missed Jenny tons on tour Tuesday. So many realtors who barely say hello approached me to give their condolences....it's like out little comedy central caravan lost a wheel. I valued Jenny's advice, friendship and will miss her dry humor always. We will look forward to Mason joining us when she's ready."

Christy T. wrote, "Dear Max and Mason, I am so sorry to hear about Jenny, thank you for sending me the email. My daughter and I were in Chicago to look for new homes a few weeks ago. Jenny was so nice and gracious to take her time to show us around. I only knew her for a few days, but she was the kind of person you felt you knew your whole life. She was so easy to talk to and I could tell she was a person who was kind and caring. I know this must be an extremely hard time for you and your daughter, my thoughts and prayers are with you."

Margie and Dan C. wrote, "Please know how very sad we are for your loss and how very much we will miss Jenny. It is very hard to believe I won't see her each morning walking Daisy home from Roosevelt. I often stopped to chat with her and catch up on what you both were doing. She was a dear, sweet, thoughtful person and we will miss her very much. "

Mary Ann H. wrote, " Dear Mason, You don't know me, but your wonderful mother was my very dear friend. I loved her so much. I know you loved her and miss her more than anyone. When you see beauty in the world - baby kittens, lovely flowers, sunrises & sunsets - be reminded of all the beauty your mother possessed."

Kathy W. wrote, "We were so sorry and shocked to hear of Jenny's sudden passing away. Our thoughts, prayers and hugs are with you. We so vividly remember seeing her in the driveway, getting into her car, so proud that Mason is riding her new bike. We remember seeing her walking Daisy. We still hear her bubbly up-beat voice chatting normal neighborly things. We will miss her vibrant, positive energy and her loving, caring humanitarian heart. She leaves behind many good memories and a great example to live by. She loved her family. You were #1 in her life. She was a care-taker of animals which was her gentle way..."

We will be posting more stories of Jenny - our memories and yours - very soon. If you have pictures or a story to tell, please send them to me at max_rose@sbcglobal.net. You can also read more about Jenny and the thoughts of friends and family at the online Guest Book.

Love,
Max and Mason

Sunday, June 25, 2006

Beautiful Day in Chicago

It is going to be hard to beat the day we had today. First, Mason and I both got a pretty good night's sleep (first for us in over a week). We awoke with great anticipation to the day - one look at the clear blue sky and gentle breeze and we knew at least the weather was going to be cooperative.


We arrived at Elly and Tim's house in Oak Lawn and were greeted with fresh berries, pancakes, sausage, eggs and juice. We also got a chance to see firsthand what a delightful little girl Shannon is becoming - she's a very smart and happy child. After breakfast we drove over to one of Oak Lawn's three swimming pools and practically had the place to ourselves. We soaked up the sun, played some exciting games of "Marco Polo" and even managed a few Can Openers and Belly Flops off the diving board.


In the afternoon we made the trek to Holy Name Cathedral, the architectual landmark located at Chicago and State, for Mason's 5th grade Science teacher's wedding. The service was warm, funny at times and fascinating for Mason and four of her middle school friends (shocking that none of the boys made it to the ceremony, huh?). The bride was beautiful and so were the bridesmaids (no fuchsia dresses for these ladies). At one point in the ceremony the priest read aloud love letters that the bride and groom had written to each other - it was very nice to witness the start of their new life together.


Mason and I finished the day with a visit to the Disney store on Michigan Avenue and Pizzeria Due - a fantastic finish to a beautiful day together.

Friday, June 23, 2006

Golf is Great, Golf is Good


Mason and I had a good day together today. While Mason went to Summer School (thank your Julia B. and Lena S. for getting her there safely), I popped into the office to make sure I'm still needed. It was great to see everyone working so diligently at the office - keeping focused on our goals as individuals and as a company. I'll be back in the office next week (almost as many hours as they're used to) thanks to the outpouring of support we're receiving from our friends.

After school, Mason walked home with her friend Vicky and called to see if Vicky could join us for a round of golf - she's never played before, doesn't own any clubs - of course I said "yes".

We played at a great little 9-hole venue that we've heard so much about, Legends of Bensenville. Each hole is a reconstructed version of a famous golf hole found around the world. Eight par 3's and 1 par 4 - very accomodating staff (they didn't even mind that the girls would be sharing a set of golf clubs, kudos).

We walked, we laughed, we had fun. It was an all-around great afternoon. We topped it off with a trip to The Brown Cow for ice cream (you need that after walking up and down those hills and swinging that heavy stick). The single scoop of Coconut Brownie Fudge sure hit the spot.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Mason's Plans for 6/23-6/30

Well, I've finally been able to sit down with Jenny's calendar and see more than a few hours ahead (I should have done this last night - Mason and I missed her flute lesson today at 10:00). I think we have the next few days figured out, but we'll probably need some help next week (as I need to get back into the office).

Friday, 6/23 - Mason will be going to Summer School with Lena S., Vicky R. and some of her other friends. The school has been gracious to allow Mason to attend, even though we didn't register her this year. You see, this was supposed to be a "free-for-all" summer. Mason and Jenny had planned short, intermittent camps all summer and the rest of the time they had just planned to be together doing mother/daughter things. After Summer School lets out I plan to pick Mason up and take her golfing in the afternoon - we have no plans for the evening.

Saturday, 6/24 - We'll be going to Oak Lawn in the morning to see "Aunt" Elly, "Uncle" Tim and Shannon. If it's nice, we'll go to the pool and just hang out. At 4:00 Mason's 5th grade Science teacher, Ms. Mirabile is getting married at Holy Name Cathedral on State Street - so we'll be attending her wedding and then we'll spend the evening in the city doing fun stuff.

Sunday, 6/25 - We have no plans during the day, so let us know if you would like to have Mason for a few hours. I was thinking I needed to get some shopping in, laundry done, house cleaned and if there is some time left over, a round of golf ;-). At 5:30 we have a party to attend. Our neighbors are throwing a graduation party for their daughter Becca. I can't believe she's finished with high school! Mason will be spending time at Matt and Sarah's till about 11:30 and then we're invited over to Thomas and Julias for some burgers, hot dogs and Football, the other kind. After that we'll be at Becca's graduation party.

Monday, 6/26 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon. At 6:15, Mason has a doctor's appointment - so I'll need her back by 6:00. Mason is going to spend the afternoon with her friend Isabel - then it's off to the doctor.

Tuesday, 6/27 - Flute lesson at Roosevelt at 10:00, then she can attend Summer School (or even go over to Grandma and Grandpa's). Mason is free in the afternoon and evening. Mason has a couple of options for today, she'll be making a decision before we leave for school on Monday and I'll update this post then.

Wednesday, 6/28 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon and evening. Mason now has plans for this afternoon (see comments).

Thursday, 6/29 - Flute lesson at Roosevelt at 10:00, then she can attend Summer School (or even go over to Grandma and Grandpa's). Mason is free in the afternoon and evening. Mason will be spending the afternoon with her friend Nikki. If I can make it home at a decent hour, we'll be going to the Forest Park Pool for the River Forest Swim Night.

Friday, 6/30 - Summer School in the morning. Mason is free in the afternoon and evening. Mason has been invited to a friends house from 3:00 on - if someone wants to have her over following school (12-3), please let us know. Mason will be at Nikki's from 12-3 and then she'll be going over to Matt and Sarah's for a little neighborhood party (hopefully I'll be joining them shortly thereafter).

In a future post I'll list the major things happening in July and August. If anyone would like to volunteer to help with Mason on her free days, please e-mail or call and I'll update this calendar for everyone to see. Sometime before Friday night I'll be posting Mason's calendar for next week - it should be a fairly light week since the 4th of July weekend is four days!

Thank you,
Max and Mason

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

How to help

Thank you to everyone who has contacted us. Mason and I are lucky to know so many caring and wonderful people. Jenny would be thrilled to know that we have so much support.

So many friends have asked, "What can we do to help?". Many have offered to shuttle Mason to and fro, prepare meals, walk Daisy and run errands. Some have offered to help with things that frankly; I didn't even realize needed to be done (Jenny did everything!).

So, in order to let everyone who is interested know our needs - I'll be posting to this blog regularly. If you see something that you would like to do, send me an e-mail, post a comment or simply pick up the phone and give us a call. If this isn't your style, but you would still like to help, we've set up an account called, "Mason Rose Education Fund" at Community Bank, Oak Park River Forest, 7777 W. Lake Street, (708) 366-4700.

We look forward to this next stage in our lives, living among so many cherished friends - thank you so very much.

Max and Mason Rose

Jenny, we miss you




There is no possible way to describe the emptiness we feel.

You were a wonderful wife, mother and animal lover. Mason and I are who we are because of you and the way you lived your life - full of passion, honesty, vigor, happiness and love. You were cherished by many, nearly 500 friends attended your service and I'm sure I still have others to tell of your passing. Everyone who knew you is saddened, some of us are angry and confused - we all lost a terrific friend, much, much, much too soon.

You will always be in our thoughts and our hearts.

We love you.
Max and Mason