November 12, 2015

These last few days have been particularly busy at the Ross household. First there was the visit from Team Depot, and they built a new play area and garden area, and it literally took 12 hours to accomplish. They all stayed and got it all done, including the leveling of the play area with rubber material, so that if the kids were to fall, it wouldn't feel too bad. They brought new patio furniture and even an nice gas grill, that I might start using before this year is out.

Yesterday was Veteran's Day, and it was an amazingly relaxed day for us. We all (Jason, too) went downtown Fallbrook, and watched their Veteran's Day Parade, and it reminded us of some of the parades we used to see in Livermore. Very simple and a lot of support from the city residence. Linda and I were able to just totally relax and enjoy each other's company, and Jason was able to enjoy his new video game. I also planted my winter garden, though "winter" may be a bit misleading. I understand that there are some days here, where it does get down in the 40's, and that is getting cool. It just doesn't seem to ever get really cold around here.

Today the guys were back at the house to finish the watering system on the garden, and it looked pretty good when they were done. There was also the two teams of vendors working on the communication/intercom system for the house. With the new gate, that Jason recently had installed, we can now see who wants access through the gate. There are a few other minor steps to be set, and they should have that completed tomorrow. Then there was the challenge of the network and security that had to be "fixed." I work from the house, and depend greatly on the network being as stable as it can be. Today it was bouncing all over the place, and I was dropped from calls a couple of times. I was just happy these were team calls, and not customer calls. It looks like they got to be about 98% finished with that, and will also be coming back to finish that.

Tomorrow, Linda and I will be taking off for Julian, to spend a few days together to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. The Gary Sinise Foundation has made it possible for us to take a few days off, and just plain relax. Linda has been working pretty hard around here, and can use the rest, just as I can too. I have to admit I haven't been working physically as hard as she has, but I need to rest time as well.

I helped Jason with his shower today, and then did a dressing change. Happy to report that his right side is looking much better, and that he continues to make progress. I know it is getting tougher on him, having to stay down and in bed, most of the day. The good part is that because he is doing so much better, he can stay up a little longer each day, and by the time we take our "family" vacation in December, he should be able to stay up in his chair for 2 or more hours, each day. I've included some pictures, as I haven't posted any in a while. Thank you, for all the continued support and prayers. Take care and stay positive.

Mike Schlitz, Stephanie Lanier, Jason and that other guy 

Team Depot taking a lunch break

Team Depot and Mike Amos with Jason Ross getting a group picture

Jackie was very happy and excited about everything

Jackie and Stacy couldn't wait to try out the swings 

Grandpa still has to help Jackie on the swings

Team Depot working to get it all done while there is still day light

Stacy trying out the "trapeze" 

Stacy seeing the world from a different perspective

Everything just about ready for testing

Some of the Team Depot are still kids at heart

Stacy testing out the slide

The girls really getting into the play area

Stacy on the other slide

Jackie sliding down for more fun

A couple of group shots of Team Depot, at it is finally done!

Another group shot of Team Depot