How wonderful to hear the Wisdom of Tristan! And of his parents- I think you have my parenting philosphy of "benign neglect" honed to the highest art form. Tris is blessed to have you.

Wesley, I've been thinking of you, and hoping you are all growing and finding the places where there is joy in this new "country" you've found yourself in. As a fellow denizen, you know there's lots of love and support and joy here.

'Spaw, in a kitchen drawer of my house are two Christmas ornaments. They have been there for 3 years. Somehow I've hit upon the best place to hide the d@# things that my ex-mother-in-law gave the kids years ago. Little teddy bears; you squeeze them, and out comes a tinny, whining little melody that travels up and down my spine, irritating my primal lobes and making me crazy! Dylan delighted in squeezing both at the same time- it's one of the only teases he ever took great pleasure in, watching my reaction. So, into the drawer (could I throw them out? Not I)!
He actually found them once, gave them a squeeze, gave me a knowing look and a chuckle, put them back in the drawer and shut it. I guess at 19 he's maturing....

lots of love,

Allison