Vacation Time

A lot of people say they like it when their mobile phones cease to work in remote areas on vacation.

I would like to be one of those people.

I am not.

I think I spend more time stopping by my phone to see if I might have an extra bar or two.

The Michigan Abode

Deep Woods In MI

El Lago

A run on the rolling hills

Regardless, I spent the last several days in Michigan at the Lake. Clear Lake, that is, in Buchanan where the compound is located. It was fabulous. Jameson, Five Guys–thanks to Justin and Uncle Larry (ridiculously awesome), Red Robin, cookies, Pat Stearns-made burgers and more Jameson. Ted and Emily time and White sister time. Naps, Liam hanging with Eva, some Molly-Shawn time and running around the surrounding nature. My pal Justin was there and we exchanged new parenting stories. I stayed away from work, but work returned in a big way today with a huge announcement at UIC. In addition, SulliMom got her first haircut since entering motherhood from an old Bulldog, Kron. She provided premium cookies, too.

Liam and Eva forming a bond. Check the album for a full photo cycle of these two super-cousins interacting.

Before we left, we had the chance to see the most famous soccer team in the world up close and personal–Man U. They were working out inside UIC’s weight room in preparation for several North American matches. Sir Alex nodded at me and winked at Molly. Or, it could have been the other way around. Either way, that was really cool.

But life has a way of leveling those great highs to remind you that it’s not all fun and games. My Dad passed away one year ago today. Simply, I can’t believe the one-year anniversary of that event is already here. I think about him a lot, but today a butterfly landed directly on my shirt. I never pictured my Dad as a butterfly, but perhaps it was fluttering like one of his old knuckleballs. It’s off to Kankakee tomorrow to see a bunch of family–and for some, meeting Liam for the first time. To those who sent thoughts and prayers today, thank you.

Here are a couple of anniversaries I’m looking forward to this week:

-The first anniversary for me and SulliMom
-The first anniversary of Mark Buehrle’s perfect game

Ferris Who?

I haven’t performed Twist and Shout during a parade, attended a Cubs game, dined at a fancy French bistro or impersonated Sgt. Peterson–Chicago PD, today like Ferris Bueller once did, but it has been a nice little day off.

I’ve celebrated another furlough day by running, watching some exciting NCAA Tourney hoops, visiting Home Depot (not enough time for Bed, Bath and Beyond), mailing in the tax return, purchasing some meat from Whole Foods, cleaning SulliHome and picking up some Irish alcohol during a pleasant pre-Spring day.

And that trip for brew is what brought a hint of sourness.

As I prowled the aisles of Binny’s Beverage Depot I was baffled by the lack of Beamish. I asked the beer expert on staff and she informed me that Heineken, who now owns Beamish, ceased exporting the thick, creamy, Irish draught. This saddened me. Sympathy e-mails/posts are now being accepted.

So, Murphy’s and Jameson will have to do. But please keep your eyes peeled for Beamish at your local liquor dealer.

In conclusion, I could get used to this not working deal. I may have to be a stay-at-home dad. I’m not surmising that staying at home with SulliChild would be simple. I’m just saying I’ve enjoyed the freedom of doing what I want today. It provides more motivation to create a business that allows that freedom.

Happy Bracketing!