GRADUATION!!!
last update: 06/18 @ 16:59

We’re back from celebrating Robert’s UW GRADUATION in Seattle. It was a fun trip, great to meet more of his friends and to see him conclude this phase of his educational journey.

There are many more photos in the travel section. But I’m not sure any others turned out this well.

Quick Seattle Trip
last update: 04/28 @ 18:57

I took a quick trip out to Seattle to be the “responsible adult” to get Robert to and from the oral surgeon who was extracting his wisdom teeth.

We knew this was coming, both his Alexandria and Seattle dentists had said they would need to come out sooner rather than later.

Fortunately, he is class-free on Fridays this quarter and so scheduled the extraction then (otherwise, he is a classy guy).

While Friday afternoon was really rough on him, by Friday evening, he was able to get back into his whimsy with the propeller hat.

Brooklyn has a propeller hat too, but was not wearing in when they took this photo to share with Robert’s Seattle support group showing he was doing better.

(As we waited for the Lyft to the appointment Friday morning, he got a great compliment on the whimsy of his hat from a passerby. I think the dental folks at least smiled if not laughed when he showed up wearing that.)

And I had to get out and enjoy the fantastic weather when he was clearly on the mend. I did help to make sure he kept up with pain meds the first 24 hours or so before he headed back from the hotel to his apartment and I stepped out to enjoy the U District in perfect weather.

Robert’s influence
last update: 10/05 @ 11:27

Robert got so into UW football that it rubbed off on us. And since they joined the Big 10, the Huskies play on the east coast a few games a year.

Sarah and I metroed up to College Park to see them take on the University of Maryland Terrapins. The first half was pretty ugly for the Huskies but they settled in to win 27 to 24.

It turned into a fun game (but we were having second thoughts at the half).

First day of senior year!
last update: 09/24 @ 12:10

I love that Robert has kept this tradition going after heading out to Seattle. Here he is on day one of his senior!!! year at UW.

And prior years…

• 2024
• 2023
• 2022
• 2021
• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

The tradition continues…
last update: 09/25 @ 17:15

Robert posted this first day of his junior year photo :)

It’s always fun to look back over the years…

• 2023
• 2022
• 2021
• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Robert keeping up the tradition…
last update: 09/27 @ 20:53

Robert had an early first class for his second year at UW. I’m not sure who else was stirring to take this picture for him.

He stayed in Seattle over the summer; spent some time working for the Cascades and Tempest Ultimate teams. And he’s now moved into his new dorm for the year and settling into his new class schedule.

Here’s the traditional look back:

• 2022
• 2021
• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

More Seattle Sports
last update: 09/02 @ 20:19

Continuing the sports theme…

We watched a UW football game with Robert and DZ in the students “Dawg Pack” seats.

Crazy warm, sunny weather — we all came away with at least fresh tans if not some sunburn.

And Michael Penix Jr. delivered a 56 to 19 win.

Lots of fun and a great way to spend the afternoon.

Robert has been a huge fan since he got here last year.

And Sarah and I have been following along with the Pac12 TV coverage. We’ve been wanting to see a game in person and it lived up to our expectations.

Of course, it was extra fun to be able to share the game with DZ, who was also new to the Dawg Pack, but not the Huskies.

Staff Infection!!!
last update: 12/13 @ 18:48

One of the many cool things Robert has done at UW is sign up as an intramural referee.

That got him trained up on the rules and reffing duties for volleyball and flag football.

It also got him paid (thank you Seattle for a more realistic minimum wage).

And it got him on the referee’s team: Staff Infection.

And they got to play in the intramural final in Husky Stadium (AKA Alaska Air Arena).

And They Won!!!

Photos by Katie Carroll.

Tradition!
last update: 09/28 @ 17:54

Robert is keeping alive the first day of school photo tradition!

While he’s been at UW for a bit over a month now, most of that was the early fall start program designed to help ease freshman into campus life (especially though moving to Seattle for school).

That program is over and today was the first day of regular classes!

We’re holding our breath to hear how it went. And curious to see if Robert will stop by in the comments to tell us who’s who in this photo (roommate Ben is taller than anyone in this photo).

Here’s the traditional look back:

• 2021
• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Fame continues
last update: 09/18 @ 10:54

Robert and crew made it to the UW Facebook page celebrating the unexpected UW win over Michigan State last night.

We’ll see if that photo stays around as long as one of Robert running across a bridge at his elementary school — that was in their ads for years.

(If you need help, he’s front role, second from left.)

Move in Complete!
last update: 08/30 @ 22:28

We met Robert in Seattle, helped him get settled in to his dorm and then did a lap around the Olympic Peninsula before heading back (just the two of us) to Alexandria. Many more photos in the vacations section.

Flown the coop!!!
last update: 08/13 @ 18:35

Sarah and Robert drove down to Huntsville yesterday. Unfortunately they missed seeing Jess and Brown because Brown has Covid.

(I would be remiss to not point out that Robert found Audible has The Incredible Adventures of Jack Flanders available; now he and Sarah have heard more about Jack Flanders than I have. Something I will clearly have to correct!)

But they did get to meet up with Aaron in Huntsville for what looks like a cool cave hike.

And they are getting to have dinner with him tonight.

Robert checks into Space Camp Elite tomorrow and then Sarah will wind her relaxed way back to Alexandria.

As Space Camp ends, we’re flying out to Seattle to meet Robert.

We’ll be bringing his college stuff; he’ll be bringing dirty clothes :)

He’s starting his early fall start program at UW!

He is incredibly psyched to have gotten into the Engineering program there and is really looking forward to it.

It should be an excellent fit for his interests both academic and environmental: no more swampy, humid summer weather. Having family in Seattle makes the move less scary and more fun, I’m sure.

Before all the traveling, Sarah arranged for another round of “Porch Portraits” from Joseph. Not our porch this time, Jones Point and the old light house there.

Joseph does a Great job!

Sarah has been getting ready for this for some time. I think all the help she has offered getting Robert thinking about and actually packing has helped set her mind on the fact that we are launching him on his next great adventure.

I just came back from the grocery store and realized I was very blue: for the last 18 years there has always been something to get at the store for Robert, but not today.

For me, his next great move is just now becoming real. And I’m looking forward to hearing about all his new adventures!

College Bound!!!
last update: 06/04 @ 18:21

Robert is on his way now!

The graduation was an excellent conclusion to a difficult high school tenure. The graduates really deserved this chance to celebrate.

More photos in the vacation section.

Robert continues to do well…
last update: 04/28 @ 21:38

He was recognized today for standing up for himself and his peers as part of the Titan P.R.I.D.E (preparation, respect, integrity, determination, and excellence) awards.

Latest NHS member…
last update: 03/31 @ 22:23

…Well, not quite.

There were two people behind Robert at the induction ceremony for the National Honor Society tonight. (Pesky alphabetical by last name)

We’re very proud of Robert for this recognition.

And it looks like he’s in good company.

Maybe the planet will be OK after all.

(Gotta love the stylin’ MacNaughton wear!)

We have a Winner!!!
last update: 03/14 @ 23:08

Robert accepted the admission offer for University of Washington!!!

Now we have a Huskey in the family!

CONGRATULATIONS ROBERT!

Go fly a kite!!!
last update: 02/27 @ 15:12

This was last year’s aerospace kite project.

It’s been gracing our dining room for most of a year.

But, finally, today proved it’s airworthiness.

Even though Robert had to use twine instead of kite string (pesky roomba eating up the kite string), it did really well.

Robert thinks there will be another one to make this year; we’ll be sure to go fly it sooner.

Last regular volleyball games
last update: 10/23 @ 14:27

The volleyball season is a pretty quick one.

The Titans held their own against two tough teams last night.

While they lost both matches, they put up a hard fight and there were some amazing volleys.

The tournament is in a week or so to cap the season.

Robert is going miss playing on this team. It’s been an amazing, interrupted four years.

Seattle and UW!
last update: 10/15 @ 16:06

Robert is interested in UW and we always enjoy the chance to visit with David Z. and Lynn. So when there was long weekend on the school calendar, Sarah arranged for tickets and a tour. David and Lynn arranged a great visit after the tour. More photos in the vacations section.

Packed schedule
last update: 10/03 @ 11:20

The Titans Volleyball team fought hard yesterday, but they weren’t able to add more to the win column. Robert and the team are playing in the top division this year.

Vollyball, hard games
last update: 10/01 @ 18:54

There is a new archrival in town… While the Titans beat McLean on Tuesday, Thursday was very hard fought loss to Lake Braddock.

They just need to settle down and play their game on Saturday to get back into the goove.

Volleyball is back!
last update: 09/29 @ 21:34

And the ACHS Titans are looking great. They beat archrival McLean!

Fun, busy weekend
last update: 09/06 @ 21:12

We started the long weekend by smoking some ribs, chicken and salmon. It was Robert’s idea and he was in charge of the sauce and keeping the temperature right in the smoker (when he wasn’t napping).

It was a perfect way to bookend the summer as we had the smoker out as 11th grade was winding down at the start of the summer.

This time we had two of the four Gaughs over (rather than the MRC crowd) so there have been more leftovers.

And today, I enjoyed the perfect weather and higher water to get back out in the canoe.

The river was high enough to make the ferry to the Virginia chute a bit of challenge.

(I didn’t give any thought to trying to get up the center channel.)

All-in-all, a great, long weekend!

First Day of School!!!
last update: 08/24 @ 21:58

Robert started his senior year today!!!

Crazy how time flies (and how kids grow).

We’re really looking forward to in-person, full-time school for his senior year. Last year was just too crazy…

You can tell by the smile that Robert was ready to get back in school and see his friends in-person; it’s been too long.

I expect we’ll all be holding our breath as the Delta variant of Covid-19 is slamming the city, country and world. At least for Alexandria, the 7 day rolling average of new cases does not seem to be going up as fast as it was last fall and winter.

Here’s the traditional look back:

• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Quick trip to Pittsburgh
last update: 08/24 @ 21:45

A few more photos in the vacation section.

Back home after a brief trip to space
last update: 07/11 @ 13:48

Well, Space Camp, actually. And a great visit with family in Atlanta — even a bit of college touring.

Many more photos in the vacations section.

Continuing Crazy Times
last update: 09/25 @ 10:56

We’re a couple weeks into the new school year. Robert has opted for a green screen background so he can take classes from a variety of locations: star destroyers, McLaren F1 cars and Minecraft villages.

School is clearly less fun at home. But they are buckling down, getting new material covered and the kids are learning.

Truly crazy times!

Of course this graph remains interesting and important. Clearly much better than the spike early on, but it seems very stubborn about dropping much below about 20 news cases a day. I’m sorry that June / July dip didn’t continue down.

Some of the current thinking is that if the positive test rate gets below 5%, it may be time to think about school in person again. We’re not there yet in Alexandria. The city provides that data monthly by zip code: 5.6% to 20.3% in August. (We’re fortunate to be in the 5.6% zip code.)

And democracy can’t stop. This is a presidential election year — fortunately, Virginia has lost its swing state status so we’ve been spared much of the advertising.

With questions about how well the Post Office can deliver ballots (and a personal concern over my illegible signature) along with no question in who I’m voting for, I followed Sarah’s lead and voted early, in person and in mask today.

Alexandria has the best “I Voted” stickers!

First Day!!!
last update: 09/10 @ 17:24

A start of school unlike any other.

No backpack, no notebooks.

But a mask (with a smile behind it).

This year, school is starting virtually with the strong hope that by next semester, the kids will be back in the classroom. For now, Robert’s classroom is back at his desk where last year ended up.

But the school system has had more time to plan out virtual learning and we’re expecting things to be more challenging this year than the end of last year.

And we’re really hoping that by next semester Robert is in school so he can experience culinary arts in the TC kitchen with the instructor and classmates rather than in our kitchen. (While we might get to sample more if they are virtual next semester, it would self-serving to hope for that.)

Here’s the traditional look back:

• 2019
• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Speaking of NASA
last update: 07/29 @ 18:52

I managed to get a short video of Robert practicing his presentation for the Virginia Space Coast Program (on his birthday).

The week was long, with 12 hours days — with meal breaks.

And not at all what we expected since it was all virtual.

Summer School
last update: 07/18 @ 18:56

TC requires all graduates to have taken Economics and Personal Finance. That’s a good thing for folks joining adulthood and having to manage their own finances, bills and savings.

But it’s not a super hard class.

And it does take some time.

So Robert, and many of this friends, have decided to take it on-line during the summer school session. That will free up a slot for a more interesting and fun elective (Robert — and his parents — is hoping for culinary arts).

And he’s working through the class extra fast in order to have next week free for the NASA / Wallops internship.

But, as Sarah was out running an errand, he decided to get fully geared up while taking the class to check out her reaction to his new look. No, this is not really a reaction to coronavirus; just a way to make a less interesting class a little more interesting.

Porch Portraits
last update: 07/05 @ 11:14

Sarah saw that Joseph Edwards, Single Eye, was doing Porch Portraits as a way to document these crazy, coronavirus times.

He came by Friday evening and we had fun posing for the camera.

But we really enjoyed visiting after the pictures were in can.

Joseph was Robert’s sixth grade teacher so there was a lot of catching up to do.

We got the scoop on how Burgundy is doing with remote education and what their plans are for the coming school year.

And, as Joseph has kids younger and older than Robert, his parental percpective was also fun to plug into.

In these socially distant times it really was a treat to sit and talk with someone outside our “pod” about how the world looks from a different perspective.

I don’t think we realized (I know I didn’t realize) how visitor starved we were. It was great fun to have Joseph stop by. I know we will enjoy the photos for years (expect to see some of his work in next year’s tax day letter), but the immediate time spent chatting was an excellent break from our lock-in norm.

Not total lock-in…

Robert enjoyed a birthday party yesterday (Khaleel has the best birthday for a party). And then he joined his friend Will on their family’s boat to watch the fireworks last night.

He said it was a great day!

Sarah and I enjoyed a dinner outside of Theisman’s, which seems to be getting better after the change in ownership a year or so ago.

Crazy Times
last update: 05/28 @ 11:18

In these crazy, stay at home times, we’re very fortunate. We’ve each set up a work space of our own.

Sarah has the most experience having been teleworking at HUB for years before this latest, full-time, all-the-time telework order.

She has her spot in the living room (currently also the train room as Robert has rediscovered the joys of complex train layouts). He never saw the N-gauge track I had in Richmond or the plans his paternal grandfather had for the basement of their garage in Seven Devils.

And you can see one of the birthday balloons — they are hanging in well — and Robert’s head way back in addition completed just about two years ago. (Excellent timing for the extra and lovely space).

Robert has more physical paperwork than Sarah and I and some has taken up some space next to his desk. (The drawers are full of other important things.)

And his allegiance to home town teams is clear.

Often he’ll work on school work to a soundtrack from his phone. This photo is from one of the times with only one set of headphones on. You’ll have to ask him to explain why he often needs two.

And I have the office that came with the house, in the basement. I don’t always have these two companions, but Sarah got this great picture when they were both camped out with me.

I’ve adapted to the full-time TW by following as much of my old routine as possible. I’m on the clock when dressed for work (but my work shoes are still in the office), and off the clock when I change back to my more casual clothes.

In addition to the good timing on the addition, I finally decided to drop the theoretical benefits of DSL for the bigger pipe possible with cable Internet access. Our commercial cable connection is serving us well and easily supports the three video calls often going on simultaneously.

As I said, we are very fortunate.

Speaking of cars…
last update: 02/03 @ 22:57

It looks really cool to me!

This is actually a bit small for the track so he has scaled up the CAD file and will get a new print out. (For comparison, the axles — not printed — are paper clips.)

It’s a crazy world when you can print a model car…

Momentous Day
last update: 01/30 @ 20:31

Sarah got this great picture of Robert and his temporary learner’s permit!

Look out; he’s on the road, behind the wheel now.

And pretty excited about it.

We just have at least 45 hours of driving time with an adult and 9 months before he can be driving on his own (and we can stay home and worry about him).

It’s possible there may be a road trip coming up for spring break…

English Class
last update: 01/25 @ 10:42

Robert’s group is doing a short scene from Othello in English class next week. He found (in our basement) a suitable sized box to turn into a wall for their set. And after the rain quit this morning, he was giving it a couple coats of gray. It get’s handed off later in day for Kenna to add some detailing to it.

I’m sorry we’ll miss the production.

It was great fun to see him on stage at the Folger as the Moon back in middle school.

Outside of he’s enjoying being an assistant stage manager for a local theater production of Frozen Jr. Another show we’ve enjoying seeing.

Doing well in school
last update: 11/21 @ 23:12

Robert continues to do well in school.

He made all A honor roll this semester at TC!

It’s Science …
last update: 11/17 @ 13:26

This year Robert is tracking what’s the most efficient angle for your windmill blade.

The anemometer is new for this test, but the VOM is one I built probably 40 years ago. So, on average, we’re just using things we’ve had around for awhile. (The motor / generator was from last year’s fan powered car classroom experiment.)

It’s a lot faster to get data from this experiment compared to last year’s argon soaked wetsuit.

Beautiful Weather in West VA
last update: 11/03 @ 14:06

And extra bonus, after hours of raking and some digging, Sarah and I played hooky to head to the bald on a spectacular day.

Now we just need to help Robert settle into homework since the trip was distracting.

Volleyball Season Finale
last update: 10/22 @ 19:05

There were three rounds of Volleyball over the last few days: Friday, Saturday and Monday. But Monday’s matches finished out the season.

Both matches last night were tough as both opposing teams were full of travel volleyball players. But the Titans held their own.

There are championship games scheduled Saturday; I’m sure the Titans will do well. Saturday’s matches will be fun to watch

Busy Day: Volleyball Victories
last update: 10/19 @ 19:31

The Titans won both matches today. We think one more game day Monday for the season.

Busy Day: Burgundy Fall Fair
last update: 10/19 @ 19:28

Robert gathered with the rest of the alums for the annual photo. He ended up in the front, with many of his classmates by the time all the organizing and shuffling was done (after my phone battery died).

Volleyball continues
last update: 10/12 @ 18:36

Robert and his team had games Thursday night and Saturday this week. The Titans are still looking good; some of the volleys and saves today were amazing.

Titans Volleyball
last update: 10/05 @ 11:51

Five and three so far for the season!

More game time…
last update: 10/02 @ 18:41

Sarah got this great shot at the game last night.

The Titans are doing well this year: 4 and 2 so far.

The team is really coming together and the games have been a blast to watch.

Some of the volleys and saves are getting really impressive.

And even with a bigger team (the interest in boys volleyball is growing), Robert is getting more game time.

Having such a nice court at his school is great for home games; we’re still lined up to go back to the volleyball center for a couple more Saturday matches. That’s a haul for us.

It’s great to see the team gel and the level of play grow.

New this year: Robert got another friend in the neighborhood — they shared some classes last year and still share a bus this year — to join up. Will seems to be enjoying it too.

Official school photo
last update: 09/28 @ 18:03

Looking very sporty and studious — but I think those are fake books used as props…

… They are even in the same casual order as last year.

Volleyball Industrial Complex
last update: 09/21 @ 21:09

While they won a game, and were close in all of them, both matches were losses.

Volleyball is back
last update: 09/18 @ 23:16

Robert and team had three practices before tonight’s games. The Titans won both matches against Falls Church and Justice High Schools.

That makes the team undefeated for the (1 day old) season.

They looked really good on the court.

10th Grader
last update: 09/03 @ 17:41

Robert started 10th grade today.

As always, he’s looking forward to the school year (and Volleyball is starting up again too, that’s the string bag).

Same backpack because the first day of school is a red day and the new backpack is for blue days. If you need to know more, you need to ask Robert.

• 2018
• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Honor Roll again
last update: 05/24 @ 21:54

Robert has been keeping his grades up and made all A honor roll again for the quarter. He’s starting to look forward to school winding down and summer travel (and work at the Smithsonian) picking up.

Proud of Scotch Heritage
last update: 04/28 @ 19:47

Second Place!!!
last update: 03/17 @ 20:36

It was a very nice awards ceremony and TC was well represented.

Robert’s second was the best of his group.

We’ll see if science fair is on tap for next year, and if so, do we get to use more of the argon we still have under to porch?

The next step
last update: 03/16 @ 18:55

Robert took his science fair project to the Northern Virginia regional competition today.

He’s been through the TC Williams science fair and moved on the all Alexandria science fair. We’ll find out tomorrow if he moves beyond the regional (I think state is next).

All based on the idea that argon will help a wetsuit insulate longer than room air. (Spoiler alert: it will.)

I posted a picture of the setup in December.

Thank you MIT and scuba diving for the idea. (I guess the navy gets some credit too: they are hoping to keep divers comfortable longer in the water.)

Still doing very well…
last update: 03/05 @ 19:30

… Check this out: two awards this time around: Top Achiever and All A Honor Roll.

His parents could not be more proud of how seriously he’s taking his high school studies and how well that shows.

Family traits…
last update: 02/24 @ 15:11

I ran across this one and showed it to Robert.

He noted that I’ve not posted much here and that this would go well with the picture Sarah took of him working the sound board at a community theater show of Guys and Dolls.

They do go well together: me in video control room at Evergreen with my sound board, and Robert with his sound board.

No reel-to-reel tape for him; he’s even got a computer monitor. Technology has clearly changed, but it’s still cool to play with. And proof that even with all the computerization and miniaturization, physical controls are often much better when there is a lot going on.

Bridge
last update: 01/06 @ 16:55

And no River Kwai.

School project looking pretty good.

Watching glue dry though; not the most exciting, fortunately, there is a cell phone screen to watch…

You have to ask Robert…
last update: 12/22 @ 15:31

Really!

A small cooler

A wetsuit bootie

Some thermometers

(There’s a scale involved as well)

And speaking of science and school and Robert.

He’s doing very well!

So far, the transition to high school has been fine. The TC Stem program seems like a good one. The school bus is generally working well. And the homework load is managable.

And check this out:

End of the Season
last update: 10/28 @ 22:46

They may be really hard to beat next year!

Robert, and his teammates, seemed to have a lot of fun and make huge strides in their playing.

School Photo
last update: 10/21 @ 21:36

The fake text books are a classic touch for our first High School photo :)

Save!
last update: 10/20 @ 20:28

The Titans only had 5 players for the games this afternoon but they split the matches. With only 5 players, not substitutes; everyone played the whole time. Robert’s serves are greatly improved from the start of the season and here he’s doing a great job here keeping the ball alive for a Titan score.

Sarah is looking for rec leagues to pick up when the school season ends next week.

The volleyball season continues
last update: 10/12 @ 17:59

Robert had games Wednesday and Thursday this week and we’re back out at VVC on Saturday for more.

They learned to move the seats to the side of the court for the second round that TC hosted.

Volleyball Schedule is tough
last update: 10/02 @ 23:32

Of course, waiting for the firemen to clear the building after the fire alarm was less fun…

Volleyball!!!
last update: 09/20 @ 23:10

High Schooler!!!
last update: 09/04 @ 18:20

Robert is a high schooler now. He reports that day one was not the best — I think that’s not uncommon. TC is much bigger than his prior school. And this is the first new school since junior kindergarten — that’s impressive to me.

Here’s the traditional look back:

• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Stalingrad
last update: 08/11 @ 10:14

Robert has been in a Soldiers and Dioramas camp about Stalingrad at the Smithsonian the past week. He’s been doing these for a couple years now and really enjoying them. Next year maybe as a CIT.

The Smithsonian had a lecture on the battle of Stalingrad yesterday evening.

After the lecture, guests were invited to swing by the diorama room to check out the diorama Al (the head counselor for S&D) had set up, with help from his students.

It turned out that a couple of the guests wanted to game out the battle and so Al and co-counselor Taliesin (in the blue shirt) let Robert be game master for a few turns (before the guards started to kick us out).

One more time…
last update: 06/14 @ 22:49

Bookends to Robert’s time at Burgundy Farm.

The morning of the first day, walking across the blacktop (now the Campus Commons) on the way to Junior Kindergarten.

And sitting on the outdoor stage (part of the new Campus Commons and not from that first day photo) after graduation (and before the Caps won the Stanley cup).

The Future is so Bright…
last update: 06/08 @ 09:15

It’s been quite a journey; thank you Sally for the Burgundy recommendation. It was a good fit for Robert.

Here’s a look back:

• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

I’ll gather those all together over the weekend to make it easier to see.

An End to an Era
last update: 06/07 @ 23:44

And they happened to have graduation on a Stanley Cup game day with the Washington Capitals in the game.

Better still, as a graduation gift to the class of 2018: The Caps won the Stanley Cup!

More Fame
last update: 05/27 @ 11:37

Robert was interviewed for this NYT Kids article on cool summer camps. As far as I can tell, it’s print only so I can’t find a link to it.

They quoted Robert and Dottie Metcalf-Lindenberger, the first Space Camp grad to fly in space.

That’s a Wrap
last update: 05/20 @ 00:07

The wind down of middle school is finally starting to sink in.

… And on stage
last update: 05/17 @ 22:07

Three more shows to go before they can all breathe a huge sigh of relief.

What is that crazy thing flying around up there?

Getting Ready …
last update: 05/12 @ 17:55

Opening up the West Virginia Campus
last update: 04/22 @ 17:34

We were out there over the weekend helping get it ready for the first round of kids coming in the next couple weeks.

Always a good time. And good, non-computer, non-federal procurement work.

This morning, Sarah and I cleared the stream by the ford to keep the water flowing (and discovered that wet leaves are heavier than dry).

Robert helped with dinner last night — no he was not driven to drink by the pressure.

Maybe most unexpected: Sarah found out that one of the volunteers was at NASA New York not too long after her folks met there.

Gallo Pinto
last update: 04/14 @ 12:24

A father son cooking experience (Robert’s assignment for Spanish class this week): Gallo Pinto video

And while we were there, a quick tribute to Salsa Lizano: Lizano commercial

Art Festival
last update: 04/10 @ 22:19

This was the first time the festival has been in the new building; it’s a lovely space.

Another round of fame?
last update: 04/08 @ 17:56

Shakespeare Elective
last update: 02/16 @ 13:17

Admittedly I’m biased; I thought it was great. I’m really glad to have been able to attend.

Because… Science…
last update: 02/04 @ 14:12

Just who was Rube Goldberg anyway?

Robert’s science class is studying simple machines by building Rube Goldberg-esq contraptions. This one is getting close to working well.

We did need a bit more traction and mechanical advantage for the RC car to be able to lift the weight, sending the wedge car down the ramp to wedge up/knock over the book onto the catapult, launching the fish.

All-in-all, a sucess. Fine tuning to follow…

Hmmmm
last update: 11/11 @ 19:21

(Note the fire extinguisher in the background.)

School Photo
last update: 10/23 @ 21:09

Gotta love the red fedora :)

Newly Minted…
last update: 10/08 @ 18:27

This time, no trouble clearing his ears and he’s now certified!!!

We plan one more day of diving here before we head back to DC.

It’s been a fun trip and I expect there may be more photos later.

And if you see Robert, ask about the sharks…

End of an Era
last update: 09/20 @ 22:32

Robert and I came back from the last class trip to the West Virginia campus. The weather was spectacular and we saw the milky way on top of the bald.

The class of 2018 has a Wilderness Adventure in the spring rather than returning to the West Virginia site. It’s been a whole lot of fun and I’m sure we’ll be back for opening and closing weekends. But it’s sad to think there will be no more class trips there.

Check out big dipper over the campfire…

Speaking of first day of school…
last update: 09/06 @ 21:24

Photo by Sarah of Robert, Andy and Ruby, 2017; first day of last year of middle school.

She was able to go in with Robert today and continue her tradition of the trio photo (and some photos of some more of the class).

See her Facebook page for more.

First Day (and last year of Middle School)
last update: 09/06 @ 21:24

The tradition continues… First day of school photo op on the steps.

ere’s a look back:

• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

For those keeping count, this is the third clearly rainy first day of school. I will concede that 2010 may have been rainy and that’s why no steps photo.

There are some in the family who thought it was more common than not that the first day of school was rainy.

Note the steady progression of backpack sizes. I expect in high school, Robert will need a frame for his pack.

Summer Coming to a Close
last update: 09/01 @ 22:27

Robert played Delphinius Crux, professor of divination. Again, it is impressive what they can do with two weeks. And clearly the kids had a lot of fun.

West Virginia Field Trip
last update: 05/26 @ 17:21

Robert (and I) are back from the Seventh Grade’s last visit to the West Virginia campus of his school.

The kids hiked up to the bald and camped there the first night (in the rain). We came down with sleeping bags the next morning for a hot breakfast back the lodge.

Wednesday was a full day of activities:

• a really cool group survey, mapping exercise of the creek,
• a climb up into the tree canopy
• and then a mock town hall meeting to discuss the pros and cons of building a dam on the property.

Robert did a good job pointing the strong risk of the dam being undermined due to the soft rock that would form the foundation.

With thunderstorms predicted, they decided to stay in the dorms the second night.

The next morning, everyone got up early, hiked back up to the bald and recovered the damp tents before breakfast. Then, a bit of clean up, making lunch (for the trip back), and a closing activity in the barn to finish out a great trip.

While the weather could have been better, the kids, faculty and staff had a great time.

Waking up on the bald meant getting to experience this incredible fog shrouding the mountaintop. It was astoundingly pretty. I loved getting the chance to get up and wander a bit before the day really started.

TYSODTWD
last update: 04/27 @ 18:04

It looked like fun to me (and I enjoyed having Robert there).

Math Festival
last update: 04/22 @ 15:43

We met up with Travis and his mom and headed into to DC to the Math Festival. It’s not as crazy big as the Science and Engieering Festival.

That meant almost no line for the Oobleck Olympics, which included a huge air cannon as the final challenge — knock over the cups with a puff of fog.

Robert was on the Eagles team. They did really well. Travis was ensconced at the origami table.

Step one was pouring 2.5 gallons of water from one bottle to the next, step two was making a huge bubble, step three was a run across Oobleck (from which comes the name).

There was plenty of other fun to be had:

Tangrams, puzzles, games, right turn only maps,

And several speakers and presentations that we skipped.

It was more manageable than the bigger science festival.

And we ran into one of the math teachers from Robert’s school.

The only downside was after running around there, the rain was more of a setback for our plans to join the science march. We were there in spirit and cheered on friends who marched.

Rite of Spring: Recital
last update: 04/12 @ 21:43

Robert is keeping up with the sax — maybe not practicing as much as we’d like. But Cathy and Michael, the music teachers, are fine with his growth.

Tonight was the 7th grade recital; they were performing as ensembles: woodwinds (Robert and crew), strings (violins) and chorus (with some guitar and piano help).

It was a fun evening. I can’t stop myself from looking back. We’re thinking chorus next year, so this may be the end of the saxophone road.

Final space camp photos
last update: 03/28 @ 11:15

Robert as GNC for Space Shuttle mission.

And in his suit, ready for EVA and visit to moon base.

Back from space …
last update: 03/27 @ 19:48

Space Camp!
last update: 03/20 @ 19:17

Sarah arranged for Robert to get into Space Camp. I thought it might be a nice drive.

It was not a bad drive, and I’ve done my part to warp Robert’s mind: we listened to all of Moon Over Morocco on the way down.

With a few stops, it turned into just about exactly 12 hours.

As we were there Saturday night, we got to check out the museum Sunday morning before registration and orientation.

That gave Robert a chance to try our several command modules. Mercury was kind of cool, but clearly a mock-up. The control panel was wooden.

Apollo was cooler: space for three and real switches to switch (some even activated lights — I warned him about the switch that turned on the red light).

There were rockets outside to look at; the first full scale space shuttle mockup (used to figure out how to move it around).

And a really impressive Saturn V inside, suspended sideways overhead. It takes a while to walk from one end to the other.

After a surprisingly good lunch in the Mars Cafe, we joined the rest of the trainees: found the assigned dorm room and scored an excellent bed, picked up the cool flight suit, found his book, took one more look at the museum displays.

Then joined in the orientation. The first part of the orientation was leading the parents away (many of the kids had flown in and so parents were were the minority). The parents were told it would all be fine, see you in a week.

What the trainees were told… we’ll have to wait and find out.

Snow and Ice
last update: 03/15 @ 21:38

We have been watching Earth 2 and Spy Animals over the last week or so. Both had sections on penguins and their fun mode of transportation (at least downhill).

Shakespeare
last update: 03/09 @ 21:33

(That’s Robert is his current fav red fedora.)

Robert ready for model UN
last update: 02/25 @ 22:00

(Note the unseasonable February weather: Williamsburg is a little south, but 80 in late February is just wrong. Nice, but wrong.)

Interesting Juxtaposition…
last update: 02/03 @ 19:57

Sarah and Robert had a blast and now it may be hard to keep him off the slopes.

Last Cayman photo
last update: 01/24 @ 20:14

(Having lights clearly helps, but that’s a lot of stuff to keep track of if you’re really there for the fun of diving.)

Back in the pool
last update: 01/08 @ 09:56

After the great time in Cayman, Robert is back in the local pool to finish up his confined water work. Then we’ll get to think about another fun place for his open water certification dives… (PADI is very specific about the order of doing things.)

Cayman Trip!!!
last update: 12/28 @ 22:07

The SCUBA Dab
last update: 12/23 @ 21:32

I’m sure Wikipedia has lots to say, I’ll leave the explanation and background to them.

Robert’s SCUBA dab was so spot on and fantastic, it blew Amy away — see her falling over there in the background?

Sarah knew what was coming and got into the scene while she and I waited for Robert and Amy to drop down to our level.

Will there be (or is there already) a Wikipedia article on underwater dabs? Our collection is now complete with both snorkel and SCUBA dabs.

Friday wound down with this…
last update: 12/23 @ 21:23

And Amy, our dive instructor, was happy to take Robert along even though he’s not (yet) certified.

That’s Amy leading Robert with Sarah trailing along behind.

It was great fun. Again, Robert had a great time (and had no issues with equalizing the pressure in his ears).

Amy later apologized about the visibility — which seemed great to us but was apparently more limited than is often the case around here.

Seeing a turtle and a friend working on finding something to munch on was way cool!!!

I was having too much fun taking pictures and was going through my air faster than Robert and Sarah so I missed the nurse shark they saw just after I started back up.

But I still enjoyed myself a lot and I’m very happy we got to enjoy the dive.

Amy even indulged us with this shot of the three of us (it may make a reprise appearence in the Tax Day Letter).

We started Friday with this…
last update: 12/23 @ 21:10

…a trip across Grand Cayman to Rum Point.

Rum Point is a sheltered spot on the north east side of the bay. The water was calm at the beach (and there were lots of beach chairs). Getting a little bit out from the shore, and out of the shelter of the point, and the wind driven current picked up.

Robert had noted in the Explore Cayman magazine that the fish liked to congregate under the dock. So we got our snorkels out to go look for ourselves.

There were serveral schools of fish (and they didn’t seem to mind us swimming by at all).

There were even a couple small (we learned yesterday, male, stingrays).

And even a trumpet fish under the dock.

Stingray Sandbar
last update: 12/22 @ 20:04

Stingray sandbar is very popular.

Almost, maybe too popular.

Given a choice, we’d rather have had it just for our our boat of 50 folks (or all to ourselves).

But if we had to choose between sharing it with a lot of folks or not going, we are happy to share.

All that sun and excitement can wear you out…

Stingrays!!!
last update: 12/22 @ 20:00

Today we took a short boat trip to Stingray Sandbar. This is not the same spot Sarah and I visited 15 years ago — that was Stingray City, 12 feet deep, a really shallow dive. This was the sandbar, about 2 feet deep.

Too shallow really to snorkel, but we tried; actually it was possible but it was easier to spot the rays standing and looking into the water, then ducking down to see them swimming around.

It was pretty popular, even on a day with a good breeze and more waves and current than normal for this spot.

It lived up to the reputation:

We saw stingrays.

We swam with stingrays (they can swim really fast).

Robert got to hold a stingray.

And Robert got seven years of good luck by kissing a stingray.

It is really cool to be underwater with stingrays (or similarly sized fishes). Robert and I both tried to get pictures of the rays as they swam by us.

His pictures are a bit harder to get so those will come after we get back home (too soon, I’m afraid).

(Yes, we did buy the photo of the stingray kiss.)

Today, snorkling
last update: 12/21 @ 17:04

We had a mellow start to the day and then headed to Smith Cove — down on the southern end of the west coast.

That was a very cool beach: sand, rocks, coral, ironshore. It had it all. We got out the masks, fins and snorkles to check out the coral.

The visibility was not good right at the beach, but after a short swim, we were past the sand churn and the visibility got a lot better.

This is Robert doing his underwater Dab.

And this is me doing my underwater shrug.

After a lot of swimming around, some laying in the sun to warm up and dry off, we headed to Sunset House for lunch.

While we munched, we watched the cruise ships load and unload. I guess the docks in George Town are not big enough: the ships anchored and ferried folks back and forth to shore.

There was some coral for snorkling, but it was depressing to see folks coming out of the water with fan coral in their hands.

Diving!!!
last update: 12/20 @ 18:28

Robert’s online classes and first round of pool work showed off and he was ready for the ocean after just a few minutes in the pool. Sarah and I recalled enough of what we used to know to convince Glen, our guide to let us out in the ocean as well.

Robert, clearly, had a blast!

And Sarah had to rescue my tank which wanted to stay on the surface.

Once we got underway — which really was not that hard — we saw reefs, cool tropical fish, and even a couple snorkelers who were swimming out from the beach.

The Big Play
last update: 11/19 @ 18:50

The Seventh Grade did 1000 Cranes this year with performances last Thursday and Friday. The bigger theater, closer to home is great. But it is a lot more work to rent lights and set everything up for a two day production then take it all down again.

Here is Robert leading the closing of the play, “This is our cry. This is our prayer. Peace on Earth.”

School Photo
last update: 10/08 @ 13:23

He’s already settled into Seventh Grade life and contemplating this year’s Model UN trip. Interestingly, this year the Model UN is in Williamsburg.

Seventh Grade
last update: 09/07 @ 22:55

First day of school photo! Robert is starting 7th grade in fine form this morning. Last year, starting Middle School, he seemed a bit nervous. He seems really ready to go for 7th grade.

Clearly he’s ready for the what did you do on summer break with his Scotland shirt :)

Here’s a look back:

• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Two Ghostbusters
last update: 09/02 @ 23:23

Synetic Theater’s A Tale of Two Ghostbusters, was a great show put on by the summer theater folks at Synetic. Robert had a staring role as Chuck Dickens, Ghostbuster.

A musical cross between Dickens and Ghostbusters; it was great fun. And made more so as Steve, Helen and Aaron were in town and we even arranged for Sally to join us.

Once again, the way the kids came together to put on a show in two weeks, with lots of dialog, dance, singing and coming and going was amazing. And, while I may be biased, I was really impressed with Robert’s abilities on stage.

This marks our traditional end of summer; School starts next week.

Breakfast conversation
last update: 07/18 @ 16:44

Buttons
last update: 06/07 @ 21:30

We first got out the VOM from a way long time back (like high school for David) to see basically how they worked, then methodically checked the button, the leads coming out of breadboard and the lead as connected to the Pi. When that all checked out (really just after straightening the leads and being careful to insert well into the breadboard), they worked as expected!

So that’s the first of three buttons and just two more to go. But the kit also comes with some LEDs and smaller switches — I have no clue what’s next.

Robert still pronounces it “cool!” so I’m good.

Oh, and in the background? Pokemon battle helmet — of course.

Five Easy Steps…
last update: 06/06 @ 23:30

Again I ask, “What’s wrong with words?”

We were a bit thrown off at first, but then the blueprint made sense and now Robert has a Raspberry Pi Minecraft machine of his very own.

It was late when it was finally together (we started after dinner and I had a family hangout to attend to) so reviews will have to come later (and hopefully) from Robert.

I pronounce the construction a success; especially after understanding that wiring up the buttons and breadboard is covered onscreen, after booting up.

Back from West Virginia
last update: 05/11 @ 16:07

6th Grade Recital
last update: 05/05 @ 22:58

He and his fellow woodwinds did a fine job. As did the rest of the 6th graders.

Science and Engineering Festival
last update: 04/17 @ 21:15

Spring Break Break
last update: 03/22 @ 11:05

We had a chance to visit with Harry and Elle in NJ, enjoying some meals (Robert designated March 21st National Jelly Doughnut Day) and movies.

And enjoy a cool thing Harry clued us into: Kidtooning with New Yorker cartoonists. We ended up on the 34th floor of One World Financial Center — the Condé Nast headquarters — with just a few other families, the kids gave the cartoonists ideas and each kid got their own to take home.

More later on that.

Yes, that’s Robert driving a backhoe; with minimal instruction, they put him in the drivers seat. He gave his mom a ride. I got a ride too. It seems little early for him to driving us around…

We were able to drive all sorts of construction vehicles. It was an entertaining (in a good way) afternoon.

They even have some non-construction things, like this ropes course (similar style to Stone Mountain, where we were last Spring Break).

Performance
last update: 02/27 @ 11:57

The cast party was fun but it was a little bittersweet to strip down the stage after last night’s show.

Dress Rehearsal
last update: 02/21 @ 22:56

Rocket
last update: 11/27 @ 19:55

The kit came with baking powder and citric acid; mix them, pour into the rocket preloaded with water, and pop it quickly onto the base. Sarah was the fastest assembler of the family. This was our highest shot. that’s the rocket in the top of the picture (with some fuel droplets below it)

Aquarium Sleepover
last update: 11/22 @ 14:36

Back from West Virginia
last update: 11/08 @ 22:58

As we helped close down the WV campus, the younger kids put on a Haunted House in one of the bunk houses. Robert thought he should join in wearing this PJs (which was his dragon costume from Halloween).

Then he was invited to play the part of Kurt in the Mad Libs presentation of Challenge of the Yukon.

As for why the after dinner entertainment was an old time radio show, I’m less clear. But it was fun, the kids and adults enjoyed it — the kids a bit too much as they supplied many of the Mad Lib moments and Robert was not the only 4th - 6th grade boy…

Cross Country Championship
last update: 11/04 @ 18:56

Robert’s school team came in first for girls and second for Boys. I know there is no way I could run as far as fast as he did.

Good Works on the Water
last update: 10/12 @ 19:02

Clearly, the weather was spectacular!

And it looks like they have quite a haul of trash.

I’m out of town for the week so they get some mother, son, kitty, kitty, kitty bonding time.

Rafting
last update: 10/11 @ 17:49

School Photo
last update: 10/04 @ 11:01

Robert and I went to the Grand Opening of our new local Giant grocery store and outside the store the Eckrich team set up a tent giving away hot dogs and sausages. And, if you bought 5 dollars worth of their meats at the new store, they would give you a hat or bag, your choice.

Or, if you just looked cute and clearly enjoyed the hot dog and politely asked for a second, they might just give you a hat.

Clearly, Robert thought that was cool and it’s his current favorite hat.

When the school portraits came back, he had two: hat on and hat off. He chose hat on.

Geek
last update: 09/18 @ 15:25

Of course now, Robert has joined the first worlders with the problem of multiple email accounts… He’s adapting well to both Gmail and Thunderbird as clients for his different accounts.

First day of Middle School
last update: 09/09 @ 23:34

His style compares well to previous years (though maybe a little more nervous than most):

• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008

Financial Education
last update: 07/15 @ 16:39

Back in the Present
last update: 05/29 @ 21:04

Thanks, Balca, for the great photo!

Preparing to go Back in Time
last update: 05/29 @ 21:02

Recital
last update: 05/11 @ 20:58

Robert and the rest of his class had their music recital tonight. He’s still hanging in there on the saxophone; doing a great job and mostly enjoying it (practice can be hard sometimes).

Science Fair
last update: 04/02 @ 22:23
All of Robert’s efforts on his science fair project were on display at the fair today. They got to present during the school day to the other students and tonight it was the parents turn to learn all about plant growth, buoyancy, crystals, water as a conductor, and how footballs kick at different inflation pressures.

Science!!!
last update: 03/08 @ 18:30
It’s like this…

…Robert has a science fair experiment to see if inflate-gate (the NFL final game had questions about the inflation of the footballs) has any basis in fact.

The experiment involved controlled punts: Does the inflation of the ball affect the distance of the punt?

We cheated a little bit on the rig, Robert’s original plan called for building the full rig — I thought we could reuse our step ladder.

The step ladder formed the framework for a weighted arm that did the actual kicking. And the little metal strap that keeps the step ladder from extending too far also served as a gauge so all the kicks were from the same height.

We did as series of 5 punts at different inflations: 12.5 PSI (standard), 15.5 PSI (overinflated) and 9.5 PSI (underinflated). And then Sarah thought we should do one more set (the first five had a much wider pattern than the others).

And she and I thought we should test extra overinflated and extra underinflated (Robert was starting to get annoyed with us). It was the prettiest day we’ve had in what seems like weeks, so the extra tests seemed like a really good idea — or good reason to enjoy the weather more.

Frist Snow, second sledding
last update: 01/07 @ 16:38
Sarah got to take the day off yesterday while Robert’s school was closed due to snow. She and he went sledding at Castle Roberto (the Masonic Temple). Today, I had the day off to shuttle us to and from Dr. Hank’s office and so I got to do some sledding at school when I picked him up!

The only reason I can think that we were the only ones out: it was 23 degrees and blustery…

First Day of Kindergarten!
last update: 09/08 @ 10:26

After quite a summer, Robert was duly delivered to his first day of Kindergarten. Was a little nervous maybe, but opened a book to a picture of the Golden Gate bridge and started constructing model of same using wooden blocks. A new friend or two came by to help. He doesn’t know he has cookies in his lunch. I predict it will be a good day.

Add new entry (owner only)