Shameless Plug

I was clicking around on the links over on the right and noticed that over 300 people have viewed our profile. I'm not sure if that means 300 unique people have read it, or if one person has viewed it 300 times. I'm guessing that it's probably some combination of the two (although, I can't imagine why anyone would need a second or third look, not much there).

So, just thought I'd take a minute to say (here it comes, but hey, I'm not calling you - you can call me if you want my help) I just funded my 700th mortgage loan, so even though the mortgage business is constantly changing, I think I kinda, sorta know what I'm doing. If you would like someone to take a look at your current debt situation and give you an honest evaluation of your options, I'd be honored.

You can reach me at the office (708) 406-6265 or on my cell (708) 323-7673. You can also email me at mrose@ptffinancial.com or max_rose@sbcglobal.net.

If I don't hear from anyone, I can guess that the "Grandmas", "Grandpas" and "Aunts" have been doing all the "clicking".

Max and Mason

PTF Financial Mortgage advice mortgages homes real estate chicago oakpark riverforest IL

Jenny's Mom

*UPDATE JULY 13, 9:00 PM*
Viola has gone for another epidural injection today. She is moving around with minimal help and has hardly any pain. We are optomistic about her recovery and it appears that she will be back to normal soon.

*UPDATE July 2, 5:00 pm*

Well, Grandma is home. Not quite ready for the high-hurdles, but seems to be ambling along nicely. I was out all afternoon, but Mason (being the very good grand daughter that she is) went over to stay with Grandma while Grandpa went to the Osco to fill some prescriptions. Seems we're back to normal, whatever that is.

*UPDATE July 1, 9:00 pm*

Viola is making great progress. The epidural injections appear to be working and she managed to walk without pain today. If everything looks good, she'll be coming home tomorrow. I'm sure that Bob is happy about this.

*UPDATE June 27, 9:00 pm*

Mason and I just returned from a nice visit with Grandma. She was in good spirits (which is an accomplishment in itself considering all the poking and prodding) and appears to have the pain under control. She is scheduled for more tests tomorrow. The path that the doctors appear to be taking is to administer epidural steroid injections to cure the pain - the success rate for this procedure is about 75%, but Viola will probably have an asterisk next to her name in the record books now ;-)

Viola was admitted to the LaGrange Memorial Hospital yesterday for severe pain in her back and legs. The pain started on Friday and after a couple of visits with the orthopedist, without a solid diagnosis, she was admitted for further tests and appropriate pain management.

I'm sure that she and Bob would appreciate your thoughts and well-wishes. Email me if you want more information. We'll keep you posted.

Max and Mason

We love you grandma!

Quality Time

Mason and I FINALLY had our first round of golf together this year. Previously, she's been "too busy" to join me for a walk while we chase the little white (in her case purple) ball around. She managed to squeeze me into her schedule and we had a very nice time at Legends in Bensenville.

Even though Mason hasn't practiced much, she put together a nice round. She drove the green on the first hole and made one par. Like most golfers, she needs to practice her short game. She did however, make a putt that was over 20 feet. Pictures of our round are here.

I really cherish these moments together. We talked a lot, but not about anything serious (other than that Mason thinks I'm way overdue for a haircut). Just walking and talking about nothing in particular - it was a great way to spend the afternoon. Afterwards, we went to Johnnie's Beef for a hot dog and Italian Ice, yum!

Max and Mason

Thyme & Honey Review

For about the past year, my Papa and I have been going out for breakfast on Sundays. Today, we tried the newly reopened Thyme & Honey on Madison in Forest Park.

This restaurant used to be in Oak Park, but closed a few months ago - they just reopened on Wednesday of last week. It's obvious that they still don't quite have their system figured out. The service was slow. We were seated right away, but it took ten minutes for the waiter to come take our order. I ordered a Belgium Waffle and Papa ordered two eggs, bacon, potatoes and an english muffin. It took another 12 minutes for our food to arrive. My waffle was good, but I've had better. They overcooked the bacon (even though my dad ordered it to be soft) and they forgot his english muffin.

We noticed a long wait after we were seated, even though there were at least seven tables open.

Rating on a scale of 1-5 (5 being the best)

Service - 1
Food - 2
Value - 3, but if you order OJ, it's $4 for a large glass!

We'll wait awhile before going back. Maybe they just need some time to get their act together.

-Mason

Summer School

During summer school I'm taking Ping-Pong first, then Movies, Music and More, next Girls Rule. During Ping-Pong we have singles and doubles tournaments all summer. In Movies, Music and More we are making a movie about a family member(I chose my Grandma and Grandpa on my mom's side.) and we interveiw them. In Girls Rule we do arts and crafts; so far we have done Father's Day presents, and "Barbie Makeover". Next we are decorating t-shirts.

Every Tuesday morning I have a flute lesson where I practice my songs at 8:30 A.M. with my flute teacher Mrs. Halter.

You can find more Summer School pics here.

-Mason

Remembering Jenny

Jenny would have celebrated her 46th birthday on July 16 of this year. I will miss spending that day with her and sharing her favorite "Crunch Cake", that her mom makes, with her. Jenny always ate the "ends" and left the middle for the rest of us;)

I put the journal entries from her Tribune Guest Book into a pdf, if anyone would like a copy of that, please send me an email and I will send you a copy.

Please feel free to add a comment about a memory of Jenny by clicking the "comment" link at the bottom of this post. To get things started, I'm posting a few memories from some of Jenny's friends below:

I've never written to you about my relationship with Jenny, I guess for a lot of reasons, none of them being any good I suppose.
Jenny and I met when Prescriptives was launched at Marshall Fields SS.
She was my counter manager. I was there when she met you ( or saw you for the first time) and the great amazing crush she had on you..............and then , well............there WAS Jimmy Buffett
A vivid memory of Jenny was her LONG dark nails and fishnets and little black boots. {back in the day},Prescriptives tried to get her to change up a bit, but that gal stood her ground!!!

I think that Mason summed it up in her 3rd grade story when she said that Jenny was as kind as a kitten and the hardest worker anyone will ever meet.

Jenny made me feel like I was the most important person in the world to her and she always had time for me no matter when I called or wrote. She was obviously magical in that way. She and I both had cats {back in the day} as single gals and I was always amazed that all of hers would come running when she called them. Her magic was clear with furry friends too.
I would want Mason to know that, Jenny loved that child with a depth that goes deep and never goes away.

I can tell you that every day that I use line preventor I think of Jenny.

Your wife was a gifted and magical person. She would not want you to suffer Max and I hope that you are taking care of yourself.

I married the man of my dreams, and the greatest gift I have gotten out of Jenny's passing is that I look at him every morning and thank g-d for one more day because the afternoon of Jenny's death could not have been a bigger shock no matter who you are or how you look at it.
I have gone to the stock room a thousand times myself, there is no way anyone could have thought of something so dramatic...happening.........to anyone,
There will never be another Jenny and we all know it.
Her greatest gift to all of us was the way she lived life, treated her friends, family and animals. We were all really lucky to have known her .
many blessings to you and Mason
Trish Freeman Gerencser
Ohio
---------------------------------------------------
Dear Max and Mason,

I mostly wrote this last year-I don’t know why I didn’t pass it on-maybe I thought it wasn’t done, but this seems like an appropriate time.

Some thoughts on my friend Jenny Rose:

Jenny loved life and all living things, and most of her family.
She valued honesty, loyalty and integrity above all.
She would want you to remember to hug your animals every day.
She also loved Prescriptives makeup, Jimmy Buffet, flea markets, old houses, lunch with the girls, red wine, grocery store bargains and Super Bowl parties.

I am proud to have been her friend.

Love,
Tracey
----------------------------------------------------
Max and Mason,
Jenny was on my mind all day yesterday, as were you and Mason. I'm sure this was a long year for you both. You are always in my prayers. She was a great person.If there is anything I can help you with -feel free to let me know.
In Friendship,
AJ

Thank you to everyone for your kind thoughts and actions. Mason and I appreciate everything. Please post a comment about Jenny for us to read.

Max and Mason

Barenaked Ladies in Chicago

The Barenaked Ladies showed off on Chicago's lakefront last night. They weren't naked and they weren't ladies, but they put on an awesome show. Below is a clip of Ed and Steve, two of the five band members, singing one of Mason's favorite songs. Enjoy.



Mason, her friend Nikki, and I braved the thunderstorm and saw the show at Charter One Pavilion on Northerly Island. Last night was a great escape. You can see all of the photos here. I've also added other photos from the memory stick there too.

Northerly Island was designed by Daniel Burnham in 1909, it was originally intended to be a public park. In 1930, the Adler Planetarium was constructed on the island. In the 40's, publishing mogul, Merrill C. Meigs convinced local and state governement to put an airport on the island to cater to Chicago's executives and elite. In 2003, Mayor Daley closed the airport and converted the island back to a venue for public enjoyment - Mason, Nikki and I sure did enjoy ourselves.

Max and Mason

Tribune Guest Book Coming Down

I just sent out an e-mail to all of Jenny's address book to notify everyone that the online Guest Book is coming down on June 18. Like an idiot, I forgot to include the link in the e-mail. So, I've included it here. Jenny's Guest Book

While you're here, feel free to read what Mason and I have been up to lately.

With love
Max and Mason

I'll Never Forget

That Day, One Year Ago

On Wednesdays, Jenny would work the opening shift at Marshall Field & Co. at Water Tower Place. She would drive her car to the Green Line stop at Harlem Avenue and catch the El around 7:30 in the morning. Wednesday, June 14, 2006 started out like any other Wednesday.

I got out of bed around 7:00 to be greeted by an already showered and dressed, beautiful wife of 15 years. Mason got up a few minutes later and we said goodbye to Mama. Like many couples, we exchanged the "I'll see you tonight" and a peck, I had no idea that I'd never see her or hold her again. I hopped in the shower and got ready for work, it was summer vacation and my first job of the day was to drop Mason off at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Jenny would be there after work to pick her up.

I held a weekly sales meeting at my office on Wednesdays, we started at 9:00. I don't recall the meeting topic, but I'm sure it revolved around things like improving client retention, finding more clients or increasing productivity - pretty normal stuff in any business. I went about my day, talking to clients, reassuring loan officers, eating lunch at my desk, structuring loans, etc. Everything was normal until I got that call from Mason around 4:45 saying, "Mama's not here yet. I've called Marshall Field's, they said she left a couple of hours ago." I told her, "There's probably something wrong with the El, or she missed her bus. She'll be there soon."

I tried to reach Jenny on her cell, nothing, just got her voicemail. "Hi, this is Jenny. You've reached my cell phone, please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can."

About 30 minutes later, Mason called again. "Papa, Mama's still not here. She always calls if she's going to be late." I reassured my daughter and told her I would track her mother down and call her back in a couple of minutes. At this point, I wasn't worried - who would be? Jenny was only an hour and a half late, by Chicago's (and mine) standards, that's not too unusual - but, Mason was right, this was strange by Jenny's standards.

When I called Marshall Field's, I was told that someone would have to call me back. "Now that's odd," I thought. After about five minutes, no call, so I called back. This time I was transferred to someone in HR. I asked if he knew what time Jenny left work, he said that there had been an accident at work and that someone else would call me back. I explained that my office is only a few minutes away, and that I'd be right over. I gave him my cell number for this other person to call me back and promptly left the office.

I was at the intersection of Chicago and Wells when my phone rang. It was a detective with the Chicago Police Dept. He told me that Jenny had had a serious accident and asked if he could send a squad car to pick me up. When I told him I was only a few blocks away, he told me where to park and that officers would be waiting for me, and that they would watch my car while I went into the store.

I hung up the phone. Now I was worried. My heart started racing. What happened? How badly is she hurt? It must be bad, the cops are going to "watch" my car, during rush-hour in downtown Chicago! When I arrived at the spot where the detective told me to go, two officers greeted me. "Are you Mr. Rose?"

"Yes"

One of the officers said, "We'll watch your car, you should go in and ask for the HR Manager."

"OK"

"Mr. Rose, prepare yourself. It's pretty bad."

I literally felt my knees buckle and my heart drop into my stomach as I began to walk toward the entrance. I was met by a woman wearing a radio earpiece, she asked me to follow her. I did. (While I recall most of the details of this tragic day, I don't remember everyone's name. I could probably, if I thought hard enough, but for a few of the people involved, this was the first and last day I saw them - so it makes it hard to remember). We, along with several other security and management personnel, walked through some back rooms and hallways till we reached the loading dock of the store. There, just before we got on the elevator to go to the stock room, the woman pulled me aside and told me that Jenny had died.

I was in shock. I just stood there with a blank look on my face. I thought, "this woman is crazy", "what am I doing here?", "just shut-up and take me to her." We rode the freight elevator up to the 6th floor stock room where a couple of detectives asked me to "have a seat".

"No, I'll stand. Where's my wife?" I just stood there with a blank stare and tears rolling down my face. My mind was racing and standing still at the same time. After they asked me a few questions, I asked again. "Where's Jenny, can I see her?" The policeman advised against that. He said that the paramedics had done everything to revive her, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

At that point, I lost it. I cried, I screamed, I threw things - I just lost it. About the time I calmed down, Lisa showed up. Lisa is one of Jenny's long-time friends. A few minutes later, Tracey appeared, then Elly. Word had traveled quickly (much quicker to them than to me - throughout all of this, remember that Mason and I had been trying to find out where Jenny was for several hours. Nobody called us. The only reason we found out anything when we did, is because Jenny was late. What if she had an appointment after work? What if she planned on stopping by her real estate office? Who knows when we would have been told?) After a long time of crying and explaining to Lisa, Tracey and Elly, Elly offered to drive me home and a couple of Marshall Field's employees followed in my car. Now comes the hard part...

On the way home, I called Jenny's brother, Rob, in Florida. I also called Jenny's parents and explained that Jenny had an accident and I would be home in a few minutes to fill them in.

While the rest of the evening is quite vivid, I don't think I can write the details here. Not yet. Maybe someday.

Our lives are much different one year later. My goals have changed, my objectives are different. Somedays I don't know which end is up - and unfortunately, bad things continue to happen and we have to deal with them. It hasn't gotten easier yet. I hope it will, until then we'll just keep getting through each day as best we can. Jenny, we miss you!

Love,

Max and Mason

How an 8th Grade Science Teacher and His Bunny Really Messed Up My Day

Today is the last day of school for Mason and all her friends. We've started summer!

A lot of the normal things happened with the end of the school year; cleaning out the locker, rowdiness, saying goodbye to teachers and friends, signing yearbooks - oh, and giving away the classroom pets. This year, there were leeches (yuck), snails and a bunny.

For those of you who don't know, we have a houseful of pets. Daisy, Lily, Murphy, Stephanie and several aquatic creatures. The last thing we need is another furry friend in our home (at least that's my opinion, Mason thinks differently). Apparently, a science teacher at school has a bunny that he no longer wants, so he offered it up for grabs. At least he had the sense to require parental authorization. Maybe he just needs a home improvement loan? On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday - Mason attempted to get that authorization from me. It all started out nicely, "Papa, can we get a bunny?" to which I replied, "No, we're not getting a bunny." Variations of this exchange went on for three days!

Normally, Mason and I agree. I've found it's just easier this way and neither of us ever asks for things that the other finds too difficult to accommodate - but I feel very strongly about this, we aren't getting a bunny. This disagreement really took its toll on us. I think we both spent more tears on this subject than any other in the past few months combined. Mason, is, of course, upset because she feels very strongly about "getting this bunny" and I was upset for causing her to be upset. It's no secret that I dote on her. I love her and want her to have everything, but I just can't have the responsibility of another pet.

In the end, other than some hurt feelings, we're OK. Things seem to be back to normal, whatever that is? Jenny, I hope you would approve. I sure do miss you.

Mason's Hero

Yesterday, Mason gave me a folder that contained homework assignments from each year all the way back to kindergarten. Apparently, they compile this information each year and give it back to the students at the end of 6th grade. It was great reading through her "works of art". One in particular was extremely moving. I've transcribed it below, mispelling and grammar are all Mason's (I see worse from adults, everyday in business). This was written when she was in the 3rd grade, her teacher was Mrs. Miller at Lincoln School in River Forest.

My Hero

By: Mason Rose

2.20.04

Who is your hero? Mine is my mom. She takes care of me in a very kind way. She is a hard worker, she does work every day. Whether it is at home or at her job. She always loves me know matter what I do. My mom is a hero to me, and she is the most kind person I know.

In the morning my mom starts off with a kind start. Every morning she brushes my smooth shiny red hair. Sometimes my mom does it hard, but I forgive her. It's kind to me because even though I can do it myself it's nice of her to do it anyway. After she brushes my hair on weekends, she usally plays with me. Sometimes we play games like pick up stick or cur plunk. Sometimes we play board games like "What would Lizzie do?, chekers or mollopaly. My mom even plays hide and go seek with me or we play on the computer. My Mom is kind as a kitten, but also is works as hard as an elephant. My mom is a hard worker. She loves to work in the yard. Sometimes I work in the yard too. My mom makes the yard look beautifil. She plants flowers every spring, mows the lawn and plants new grass if we need it. When ever my mom plants flowers with me the squirrels always dig the flowers up again, but we keep trying. She offen goes to work insted of staying home. My mom is a realetor (she sells houses). She also works at Marshall Fields. Her name is Jennifer Rose. She mostly sells lipsticks, perfume, and lots of make-up. She offen goes on the computer to see what homes to sell or to see what homes are selling. My mom works very hard but loves me just as much.

My mom is a loving person. Whenever I'm hurt she takes care of me. For example when I fell off my bike my knee was gushing with red blood. My mom gave me some stingey medicine and a big bandaid. After that she always holds me. Every night she saids good-night, we read a story, she gives me a hug and a kiss, and don't forget she tucks me in.

Hero's come in all shaps and sizes. My mom is a blond headed hero. My mom treats me very kindly. She is a hard worker, whether it is at home or at work. She loves me know matter what. My mom is a hero to me, and know one can ever replace her.

Happy 12th Birthday Mason!

Well, I'm only about 3 weeks late posting this announcement. I really need to find the time (scheduling and self discipline were never my strongest subjects) to post to this regularly.

Mason turned 12 on May 8th. We had an eventful birthday week ;-0 Uncle Rob (or as Mason calls him, Ant Rob - long story) and his daughter Hannah came up from Florida for the event for a few days. It was good to see them again.

Mason invited a few friends to Margie's Candies for some ice cream sundaes and we all had a great time. It's one of those old fashioned ice cream parlors - same location for almost 90 years! We also had a nice dinner with Jenny's parents, Ant Rob and Hannah. Elly, Shannon and Tracey stopped by for some pizza and soda too. More photos here.

I can't believe that she is 12. She's quite a young lady, pierced ears and everything now - growing up too fast. 6th grade ends next Friday and then we start our big summer. Plans are coming together and I'm really going to try to post more often.

Happy New Year!

I'm still in awe of how much time these kids get for winter break. I'm absolutely, positive that we didn't get 2+ weeks when I was a kid (if we did, I'm not sure how my mom handled it!).

We kept up with the tradition that we started back in 1998 and Mason had some of her friends over for a New Year's Eve celebration. I'm not sure how this one will rank, but from the sleepy eyes on the morning of the new year, it should be somewhere in the top 3 so far. We had some fun with crafts, making some sort of basket/box with paint and decoupage - apparently girls like to do this sort of thing. Then we ate pizza from Bertolli's (definitely the best pizza around). I had planned to make brownies for dessert, but my plans were foiled when the brownie mix was infested with some kind of silk worm - gross. So, I had to run out to the White Hen and pick up some ice cream treats - not as good as brownies hot out of the oven, but I don't think the girls cared.

At 11:00, CST, we watched and counted down as the Ball dropped in Times Square (I took a break from the Bears post-game coverage to join the party girls). That's when it started to get a little crazy. Since they're 11 (or so), I excused myself to the upstairs and let them do their thing. I was awakened at 12:05 by the sound of party poppers and the smell of sulfur, not to mention Daisy the dog jumping on the bed, seeking some refuge. I used all of my strength not to go down and see what they were up to, I was strong and eventually found comfort in the pillow.

On New Year's Day 2007, Daisy woke me (at exactly 6:20) and we went about our daily routine, feeding the cats (Murphy almost 20 and Lily 3) and going for our w-a-l-k (you can't say the word, or else Daisy runs to the door and starts barking if you don't follow her with a leash - she hasn't learned how to spell...yet). When we returned at a few minutes to 7:00, the Little Party Girls were just starting to stir. All of them were sleeping on the mattress of the pull-out couch, poor Vicky was sleeping at the foot, with a lot of feet on top of her! They kept warm throughout the night with a layer of confetti and body heat. I'm told that the weakest links made it till 2:00 a.m. and that the rest stayed up till 3 watching movies. How fun is that?!?

We had breakfast (thanks to Lisa and Ray), scrambled eggs, blueberry waffles and blueberry muffins, everyone had an appetite ;-) Then the girls did another craft that involved some plastic beads and the iron.

Overall, it was a great party and Mason and I are so glad that everyone could come. I'm sure this tradition will go on for many more years.

Max and Mason

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

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

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

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

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.

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