Brant's Blog

Day 819 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It was a Sunday-off-to-church morning this beautiful day. While seemingly always a challenge to get to church on time, it is amazing how we always manage to make it with time to spare. Having a wife that is always a teammate in getting Grayson ready is the secret. We can do together in 1½ hours or less what it would take one of us 2 hours or more.

Grayson was particularly attentive during the sermon today. At one point he sat straight up, leaned forward and appeared to hang on Pr Kurt's words. It was a great service this morning as we also baptized the grandchild of one of our longtime members. I love it when we leave church uplifted and ready to charge into the new week with renewed vigor!

Our afternoon was occupied with lunch then preparing to meet the new week – chores and the like. I did manage to get the grocery shopping out of the way yesterday so my sole task this evening was to make the stew that I had planned and we now have food prepared for the next three nights!

Blessings as you all head out to do your work for the next week!

Pax!

Brant

Day 818 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-11T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a wonderful and relaxed day. We got Grayson up around his usual time – 9:30 AM – then had a relaxed breakfast and easy going morning. The day was primarily occupied with chores, activities and tasks of living that tend to get put on the back burner during the work week. Much was accomplished today and it will make for a much more enjoyable week!

Grayson was very alert for another day. Verbal skills notwithstanding, he was at the top of his game in some areas. Grayson and I went to the home store today to get materials for a project and he was my cart pusher – following me around as I looked for shiny objects to collect in my cart.

After we returned from the home we decided to grocery shop for the week. We laid in supplies for the week as our last errand of the day.

Pax!

Brant

Day 817 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a beautiful and warm day here in LA – sunny and mid-70s here. Anishka took Grayson on a long walk around noon. I opened all of the windows and let the cold air out of the house and allowed the warm fresh air to come in.

It looks as if Grayson is on an upward cycle. He was very alert today. At one point this evening he was singing a song without being led. He maintained pitch and, for the first time in a long time, maintained tempo. It looks like we may be in for a good week or so. I hope it continues through the time we go back to Mammoth later this month!

This evening we decided to go out to dinner and see the newly rereleased 3D version of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace. What fun to see the movie all over again! I can't say that the 3D did much for me, but it was fun to see the movie on the big screen again. It was also fun just to go out for something other than a meal!

Enjoy your weekend!

Pax!

Brant

Day 816 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-09T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Just a day after I wrote about the "freedom to be able to focus on our work", Anishka had to stay home with a sick daughter. Regina stayed home with Grayson while trying to keep ahead of her work responsibilities. We are way better off than we were in October, but sudden changes to the plan are not always easy to work with. Fortunately today we were able to make it work with minimum effort on my part. Thank you Regina for adjusting your plans!

Grayson had alert eyes and was very observant today, but he was as quiet as a church mouse. He is so non verbal that I am becoming increasingly worried that the speech "muscles" are starting to atrophy. He has an appointment in a few weeks with a specialist for an evaluation. Hopefully we can stem the decay and start rebuilding verbal skills.

Tomorrow Anishka will be back – a normal day for all of us!

Pax!

Brant

Day 815 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-08T23:53:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

After a rainy day yesterday, the sun was back out shining here in Southern California!

Grayson had a normal day with Anishka. One of the things that I notice now that we have help to care for Grayson is that there is a large chunk of the day where we know that he is safe and well cared for, but that we know little of the details of his day. It is sort of like a parent of a school-aged child where we only get glimpses of their day. In some ways we long for knowledge of the details of what filled his day. On the other hand we are enjoying the freedom to be able to focus on our work.

It is the dilemma of a parent of a young child – all over again.

Pax!

Brant

Day 814 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-07T23:44:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was a bit more alert than he has been for the past few days, but still on the down side of his current cycle. Due to the rain today, Anishka was unable to take him on his walks – too bad since that is good exercise and activity for him. They stayed indoors and read, played games and did puzzles as therapy today.

This evening Grayson and I watched Iron Man while Regina was out working with a new Cub Scout pack. We had a fun evening with a fun movie. Downtime is good!

Pax!

Brant

Day 813 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Monday, Monday!

Grayson was a bit slow today as he has been for the past few days. He has been particularly non-verbal as well as slow to do much. Clearly he is in the middle of one of his down cycles. The cycles are now part of our life and we have become used to them, though we are never fond of the down cycles. With God's help he will be back on the upswing soon.

Pax!

Brant

Day 812 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-05T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

While most of the United States was thinking that this was Super Bowl Sunday (which it was) it was also Scout Sunday, celebrating the start of Scouting Anniversary Week. Scouting Anniversary week runs through next Saturday which is Scout Sabbath and commemorates the founding of the Boy Scouts of America in the United States in February 1910. Our church was packed with Scouts of all shapes and sizes this morning and many of the worship assistants performed their duties in Scout uniform instead of traditional vestments. It was quite a sight! Even Grayson appeared in the Assistant Scoutmaster uniform that he wore prior to his injury.

We did watch the Super Bowl today and the most fun thing for us after the game was to watch Ramses Barden touch the Vince Lombardi trophy after the game as it was carried to the podium. Ramses was a classmate of Grayson and a teammate of Austin at Flintridge Prep. Probably the only Flintridge Prep student to go on to the NFL and now he has a Super Bowl ring to go along with his 2003 CIF Championship ring. How cool is that!

Austin and Xixi dropped by for a short time to see the end of the Super Bowl and so Grayson got a full dose of Scouts, sports and family today. Tomorrow we are back to the regular schedule!

Pax!

Brant

Day 811 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was my first full day back in the Pacific Time Zone since Sunday! Grayson and I both lounged a bit as Regina scurried off to a high school reunion. While it was an unusual reunion year – the 42^nd – it was actually a 60^th birthday party for the entire class – an awesome reason for celebration! Grayson and I tried not to get into too much mischief in the absence of adult supervision.

When Regina returned from her reunion and Grayson and I returned from our afternoon of errands, we went to an early dinner of sushi. We were home early and most were in bed early tonight.

Weekends are good!

Pax!

Brant

Day 810 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-03T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I arrived home from the airport about half past 10 this evening and Grayson was up in our room with Regina watching a movie. Now when Grayson watches a movie or TV he is frozen. It is extremely rare that you can get his attention to do anything. One of the problems with his injury is that he simply cannot focus on one thing if something else is going on around him. When I walked in the room after having been gone all week, Grayson pointed at me then he stood up and came over and gave me a hug – even as the movie was playing. That felt pretty good.

The gift of unconditional love is special.

Pax!

Brant

Day 809 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-02T23:26:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends,

After three days of encouraging signs of improvement, Grayson had difficulty following one step directions today. He barely spoke one word answers and struggled with the simplest tasks of clothing management.

The vagaries of anoxic brain injury are a roller coaster ride.

Life is a gift. Accept it.

Peace,

Regina

Day 808 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-02-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends,

Grayson's caregiver asked him around lunchtime if he was hungry. "Yes, I am", was the reply.

When she was leaving at the end of the day she gave him a hug and said goodbye. "What do you say?" I prompted him. "I'll miss you" he replied.

Wow! Two spontaneous, albeit mumbled, multi-word sentences in one day.

Enough said.

Thanks be to God.

Regina

Day 807 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-31T23:54:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends,

Twenty two years ago today our sweet Lauren was born and Brant and I began the wild and wonderful journey of raising a daughter. After two boys, she added a new smile and giggle to the family dynamic.

Looking back now, it is easy to see that each of our children was born with their own temperament, learning style, and unique set of gifts. As a family we have shared so much joy together as well as our fair share of tears along the path to adulthood (theirs and ours). It is quite humbling to realize that there was no way to anticipate just where our journey would take us or where it will take us in the future. It's a good thing that we trust that God has a plan for us.

We are so thankful to have been blessed with our three children - Grayson, Austin and Lauren. We confess that, as parents we have not always chosen the perfect path and are grateful for their forgiveness. We are proud of how they are maturing and treasure the little time we have together, though it can never be enough.

With a look to the future we pray that, with God's help, we will all "do our best". To love and support each other, to do God's will, and each day to wisely use the gifts and talents that have been given to us.

Grace and peace,

Regina

P.S. Happy Birthday, Lauren. May this be the start of your best year yet. We all miss you and love you.

Day 806 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-30T23:13:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends,

Brant and I have shared with you several times how we measure Grayson's progress along his journey in mere inches. We don't know when the inches will be gained, exactly where his journey is going to take him or how long it will take. We do know that our ultimate goal is to insure that he knows that we love him and through our love and support he knows that God loves him.

Our intermediate goal is to help him improve his skills of daily living (personal hygiene, dressing, eating, safety, and communication) to the point where he may be able to function at a level high enough to qualify him to live in a group home. Should he outlive our ability to care for him, the cost of one-on-one care for the remainder of his life is prohibitive.

Each one of his daily living skills I mentioned above is significantly compromised hence every waking hour provides an opportunity to practice and encourage progress.

One of the challenges we have mentioned from time to time is his incontinence. It is hard to know if he is unaware of the need to eliminate or simply does not have the ability to choose to disengage from whatever activity he is engaged in. We work consistently on this most basic skill by taking him to the restroom every hour he is awake. Every hour, every day, every week, every month. That's a lot of repetitions.

Twice yesterday and three times today, Grayson stood up from his activity (eating, reading, or watching TV) and pointed out of the room. When I asked where he was going, three of these times he responded "to restroom". What a dramatic and welcomed milestone! Because his short-term memory is so compromised there is no guarantee that this will be the same tomorrow. We can't trust that it is a sustainable pattern yet, but a pattern begins – and that's progress. That's hope.

Those of you who have had small children know how rewarding this hint of improvement is. Imagine a 6 foot 2 inch toddler; imagine two years (so far) of potty training. Imagine mom's delight at progress.

Celebrate the small steps in life, they are all important in the long journey – we can't get from here to there without them.

In thanksgiving and in hope, I wish you each peace this night.

Regina

Day 805 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Late night – early morning on its way. I'm traveling to St Louis tomorrow at the crack of dawn.

Off to bed for a short while!

Pax!

Brant

Day 804 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-28T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It was "sleep-in Saturday" – for me anyway! Regina woke up at 0-dark-thirty as usual and we got Grayson up at his normal 9:30. I got to sleep in gloriously until 9:00 today – what a pleasure!

We took it slow this morning then Grayson and I went shopping for some home electronic widgets that we needed to chase down some issues with our home entertainment system. Regina took the opportunity to do some shopping on her own! Grayson and I had a nice lunch while we were out (hot dogs!) then spent an hour or so at Best Buy grabbing the $20 item I needed and wandering around the store looking at all of the shiny new "stuff" that we could live without. There are so many video monitors running so many movies that I was afraid that I would never be able to pry Grayson out of the store! I think that he would be glad to accompany me there for several hours every day.

We returned home and were able to isolate the problem to my AV Receiver (the bad news). At least we now know where the problem is and can address it since the system stopped working last week.

We used a gift certificate to treat ourselves to a dinner out tonight – a lovely end to a beautiful and relaxing day!

Pax!

Brant

Day 803 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-27T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Long day – long week. Time for everyone to go to bed!

Pax!

Brant

Day 802 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-26T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Well medical week is over – for Grayson anyway. I have my annual physical tomorrow!

Grayson and Regina went to visit his cardiologist at the Doctors of USC today. Everything was fine. The oblation procedure that we performed last summer was effective, and we will probably discontinue several cardio meds that he has been on as a result. We will wait until the results of the blood tests and echocardiogram have been analyzed and reviewed before making the final decision but things look good to further reduce the med load that Grayson's kidneys and liver are taking. Good news indeed.

I am so pleased with the care that we are currently receiving from Grayson's cardiology team. It certainly makes me sad to think that perhaps his electro-cardiac issues could have discovered and resolved prior to that horrific incident in November of 2009. Now there is no going back – only forward. We can only muse about what might have been.

With that melancholy bit of prose, I will bid thee adieu for the night.

Pax!

Brant

Day 801 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-25T23:46:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was day 2 or Medical Week – today was the internist. There was nothing scary about this visit except for the flu shot if you are afraid of needles! This was an annual physical with Grayson's internist at the Doctors of USC and there is nothing unusual to report. Tomorrow he has an appointment with his cardiologist and that will wrap up the big medical visit week for Grayson.

Anishka was here this morning to watch Grayson. When I saw him at breakfast, Grayson looked like he was a quart low on coffee. (Of course Grayson never has coffee – just a figure of speech!) He woke up hard this morning and it took a while for her to get him going. By the time that Regina arrived home to take him to his doctor's appointment, he was showered, dressed, had a long walk, had lunch and was ready to go. What a difference a few hours make!

This evening Grayson was pretty alert and aware. He went to bed quickly and is not stirring – a sign that he was tired and needed the sleep. That is my excuse also this evening and so I too am off to bed!

Pax!

Brant

Day 800 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-24T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Another 100 days has passed. We have settled into a new normal as a family. Certainly not the normal that we had hoped for – for us or for Grayson – but it is the "normal" that we have. We are blessed as things could have turned out much worse, we are handling it well for now, and we have become adjusted to the additional things that we have to accommodate and deal with in our lives. 800 days – we have seen small change in the last few hundred, but we do notice. It would be difficult for most to detect the changes as they are so subtle, but we see them. However the rate of change is so slow that improvement positively impacting his care needs is unlikely this decade.

This is "medical week" with Grayson! Grayson has a dental appointment, a cardiologist appointment and a visit with his internist. I was concerned about the dentist, not sure how Grayson will react to teeth cleaning, but he did wonderfully today. Of course Regina was there to make sure that he was comfortable and calm – likely the real reason that things went so smoothly!

So we now head into day 801 and beyond. The coming days will probably not be much different than the last, but we are in good spirits, Grayson is happy and affectionate and Regina and I still have our health. We have much to be thankful for.

Pax!

Brant

Day 799 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-23T23:31:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was back-to-work day. Anishka was here working with Grayson while Regina and I worked. Anishka reported that Grayson was a lot more alert than he was last Friday. Unfortunately, today was a rare rainy day in Southern California so the daily walks were out.

This evening we relaxed a bit after dinner before turning in. Not a lot of excitement to report today!

Pax!

Brant

Day 798 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-22T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

This morning we were up and off to church. Both Regina and I noticed that Grayson paid particular attention to the sermon this morning. After church we had a quick lunch then we were off to a special treat – an open house at the home that the Shermer kids grew up!

In fact, all three of the Shermer kids were there – Howie, Regina and Rita – as they were not sure if we would ever be able to see the place again so this was a golden opportunity. The real estate agent showing the place was thrilled to hear the history of the home built in the mid 1920's. I only saw the home a few times before Regina's parents sold it and moved to Hawaii in 1984, but to the rest of the kids that grew up there it was like coming home again. A lot had changed – many improvements had been done to the place – but much of the original charm was still there. Things that struck me were the twin arched doors leading out of the dining room, the long curved steps up the front and the spectacular views out the many windows around the house. What a fun field trip!

We returned home to put the rest of Christmas away. All of the boxes found their way back on to the shelves in the garage for another 10 months of storage until they are once again called upon to brighten up our home.

Grayson was content to watch and observe as we saw the old homestead and then put Christmas away. Always a sweet kid, he was playful as we worked today.

Pax!

Brant

Day 797 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It's Sleep-in Saturday – the one day of the week where there are no regularly scheduled obligations! We enjoyed an easy morning together before spending the afternoon on the essentials of living – grocery shopping and other critical errands!

This evening, the Christmas decorations were packed away for another year. Boxes upon boxes of decorations were loaded up in preparation for Christmas 2012. The house always looks so dreary after we put Christmas away, but that also increases the anticipation for the next year. It's only 10 months away!

Grayson has been a charming young man, but a bit off his game the past few days. I suspect that we are heading into another one of his down cycles. I look forward to the other side of the cycle!

Pax!

Brant

Day 796 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-20T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I spent some time with Grayson late this afternoon and evening. He was quite slow and unfocused today compared to his "normal". I have no idea if there is a cause or this is just another cycle. Grayson's cycles have been rather subtle lately. We'll see in a few days if they are becoming more pronounced again.

We had a movie night at home tonight. Grayson picked the movie – Mama Mia. What a great movie! The song, Slipping Through My Fingers rips my heart out every time. All of the rest of the movie is a blast. Thanks for the good choice Grayson!

Pax!

Brant

Day 795 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-19T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson had a good day today. One of his Christmas presents was a large gingerbread man (about 18 inches long) with a decorating kit. Grayson spent time decorating his gingerbread man (after pausing to devour a leg) as an activity today. He consumed about half of his efforts over the course of the day. There is still more for him to enjoy tomorrow!

Regina and I talked about Grayson becoming more and more non-verbal. It is getting increasingly difficult for us to get him to use words to express himself. This video from January 30, 2010 was taken just a few days after his arrival at CNS in Bakersfield. He was reading a script that we gave him and he is difficult to understand, but he read it out loud. He is not able to do this today. While he has improved in many areas, speech is not one of those areas.

Another brain injury challenge.

Pax!

Brant

Day 794 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Anishka kept Grayson busy today. In addition to the normal routine, he went for two extended walks today – about an hour in length each – and when he went to bed tonight, he never budged! She also had him playing a game that required him to think – putting shaped pieces in a template correctly – squares, circles, triangles etc. When he is challenged like this, he scratches his head like crazy – it's almost like he needs to scratch his brain. Slowly he comes to the correct answer, if he gives himself enough time, and he can execute the solution. It is always something to watch – you can almost watch him think.

Grayson and I ran some errands after work tonight. He is always fun to have out in the community. We went to Sport Chalet and Office Depot. He loves to people watch, to touch merchandise and just to be there. At Sport Chalet, he climbed up on the Ski Boot try on area (about 4 ft off the ground) and walked around there exploring for a bit. At Office Depot he loves to look at the technology section – reminders from his past. He is interested, he is observant and he will do whatever I ask, especially if I need him to stop doing something!

It is always an adventure taking Grayson out on errands!

Pax!

Brant

Day 793 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Regina and I both had very busy days at work. Grayson spent his time with Anishka!

This evening we prepared and easy dinner, then we relaxed and enjoyed some TV. Downtime is good!

Pax!

Brant

Day 792 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-16T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

For much of the nation, today was a holiday. For Regina and I – not so much! We were both busy working early this morning. Regina worked from home as we had no caregiver today. Anishka has only been with us since Thanksgiving week, but she has become a valued member of our team. We missed her today!

Late today Regina took Grayson on some errands to get him out and moving. They were gone a few hours and returned with a treasure of domestic goods from Costco. When I heard them arrive home this evening, I opened the door and Grayson was carrying an enormous container of paper towels – Costco sized! He is always willing to help – we just need to keep the chores within his capability. In this case, the package was large but light so he could handle it safely.

Tasks accomplished – it was a good day!

Pax!

Brant

Day 791 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-15T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a busy day for us. We were back on our normal Sunday routine this morning for the first time in 4 weeks. Between Christmas (that fell on a Sunday this year) and two Sundays in Mammoth, it seems like a long time since a normal service. Of course we were there for Christmas Eve and a few meetings, but no regular services since December 18^th. It was good to be back!

A major focus at church this morning was the baptism of Pastor Sarah's new baby – Zoe. Baptisms always get to me and this one was no exception. I still remember when Grayson, Austin, Lauren and I were at the font being baptized together in 1994 – just 3 months before my mother passed. It was an emotional time then and every baptism I witness evokes those same emotions.

The afternoon quickly disappeared with some Scout business and suddenly the sun was setting. Was the weekend gone so quickly? (Especially for those of us that have no holidays between New Years Day and Memorial Day!) Grayson, Regina and I dusted off the Wii that has been lying dormant for the past few months and played some new games that we received for Christmas. We decided that we were going to play with our remaining hours of weekend!

Pax!

Brant

Day 790 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a sleep-in day after a late night last night. Rita and Richard were over and we talked and laughed until the wee hours of the morning!

Today was characterized by relaxed start, some errands late in the day and a kicked back evening. My kind of day!

Grayson was alert and affectionate all day. He ran errands with me today and was very helpful in carrying skis and a snowboard to Sports Chalet to erase the effects of Mammoth's rocks. Without Grayson I would have had to make two trips. Given a little bit of direction and a simple task he still does what he can – he wants to please and do his part. We just have to make sure that his part is within his capabilities and then celebrate success!

Grayson is not all that different from all of us – we want to do our part then celebrate success!

Pax!

Brant

Day 789 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-13T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It was a very late night, so we'll skip the post this evening!

Pax!

Brant

Day 788 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

The advantage of having a caregiver during fora caregiver for us is that our days are now worry-free as we go about our business of working for a living. The disadvantage is that we do not see what is happening with Grayson during the day. Tonight I was at a church planning meeting and I didn't get to hardly see Grayson all day so it is difficult to relay information about his day to you.

What I do know is that Anishka got his up this morning, fed him breakfast and meds, showered him and put him in clean clothes, took him for a morning walk, let him have reading time, fed him lunch, took him for an afternoon walk, let him have afternoon reading time and played a mind game from the pile of games that we have.

Grayson was almost ready for bed when I returned from my meeting at church tonight. I tucked him in and he said, "Good night Dad." When I told him that I loved him he responded, "I love you too."

Life is good.

Pax!

Brant

Day 787 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-11T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

We are now in full non-vacation form! Busy days – year end filings for Regina, establishing goals and objectives for Brant as we look forward into 2012. The busy beginning of the year – always a welcome time of start up and renewal and new opportunities!

Grayson has been more alert and active than ever since returning from Mammoth. Skiing is good for Grayson, and the extended opportunity afforded by our stay in Mammoth has done him some good I believe. The cognitive challenges presented while determining where to ski and avoiding obstacles, all the while dealing with uneven snow conditions is a good workout for Grayson's brain. All together he participated in 11 half-day sessions over the course of our trip and the repetition showed in his improved skill while on the trip and the effects seem to be crossing over into non-ski activity since we have returned. He is a bit more verbal, he is much more alert and he is more tuned for longer periods than we have seen in a very long while. In fact, tonight I said to Grayson that, "Ogres are like onions." He completed the line from Shrek – "They have layers!" The particularly funny part for me is that he said "layers" with a bit of a Scottish accent – something I have not heard since his incident. We witnessed a rare little window into the old Grayson.

Recovery from brain injury is a game of microns, but it still moves forward. We recognized a wee bit o movement tonight!

Pax!

Brant

Day 786 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Long day today – short night ahead. We'll catch up tomorrow!

Pax!

Brant

Day 785 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-09T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today it was back to the rush of normal life after 10 days of vacation, and a week of holiday before that! Anishka was here for the day while Regina and I worked.

A belated report on Sunday: We were in a mad rush to get out of the condo and off to Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra in time for Grayson's afternoon lesson. We made it, but after 9 nights, it is amazing how much effort it is to get moved out and pack the car. We refer to packing the car as "Tetris" if you are familiar with the computer game. If we would have had one extra bag of potato chips I don't know where we would have put it!

Grayson had a great lesson Sunday afternoon. Although a bit uneasy because of the flurry of activity surrounding moving out of the condo, Grayson seemed to perk up a bit in the afternoon. He skied well and kept his speed in control. Here is a short clip of him skiing on Sunday.

It was a great vacation!

Pax!

Brant

Day 784 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-08T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

We made it safely home late tonight. We are all off to bed and I will give you a full report tomorrow!

Pax!

Brant

Day 783 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I'm not really sure how to describe today as anything other than "WOW"!

I decided to let Grayson have two sessions (morning and afternoon) instead of just the afternoon. I rousted him early (7:30 AM) and got him to Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra in time for his 9:30 lesson. This morning he had one of the instructors that he enjoyed yesterday and another that he had not worked with before. Both ladies worked well with Grayson. He did much better than yesterday on the beginner hill – following instructions, turning to control speed on command and the like. The decision was made to grab a harness and take him to more challenging terrain. The harness was, like yesterday, to keep him from just flying out of control down the hill. On the last run of his session (down Mambo) they only had to slow him down once as he was doing well controlling his speed. Here is a photo of Grayson and his instructors at McCoy Station with a special guest – Woolly!

Grayson and I went to the Main Lodge for lunch and spent a nice hour alone together – Grayson had pizza and I had a salad.

This afternoon we had the privilege of having two of the professionals (not the usual volunteers) work with Grayson. I wasn't about to miss this! Grayson did three runs down the beginner slope then we were off to the gondola. We came down Mambo then rode chair 6 back up. Then we went down Mambo again but instead went to Mill Creek. We stopped there to get some water and use the rest room before getting on Chair 2. We went to the top of 2 and headed down Broadway – without any restraints. Zachary talked Grayson down the entire way – coaching him on making his turns, keeping him in control and encouraging him the entire way. Brian and I took up positions in the rear to keep people clear of Grayson and Zachary (they call us "blockers"). This was a red letter day since the last time Grayson was on Broadway was before his incident. All of us – instructors included – were so thrilled! Here is a picture of Grayson going down Broadway with Zachary leading the way.

Tomorrow morning we pack and check out. We'll ski in the afternoon before heading back to LA. Tonight Grayson, Austin, Xixi and I went out to dinner on our last night at Mammoth – this trip. The Reed Family Mammoth VII trip is almost over, however we'll be back for certain!

Pax!

Brant

Day 782 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-07T07:37:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson had a bit of a rough day today. I say a "bit" because on one hand he was very alert. On the other he was unable to focus or to do some the things he usually does.

He had one of his favorite instructors from Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra today. He just couldn't seem to follow instructions, especially when it came to keeping himself in control by turning to reduce speed. He did a few good parallel turns but he just wanted to point his skis forward and barrel down the hill. His lead instructor, one of his favorites, put a belt and straps on him so she could keep him from running away. Then to my surprise, she took him to more challenging terrain. The other instructor skied right next to him and held his hand to steer. With one instructor behind applying the brakes and one next to him steering, he did really well. He actually went down Broadway as the last run of the day.

On a day that was a bit rough we had a great finish!

Pax!

Brant

Day 781 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-05T22:40:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a great day for all of us! Grayson got up early and took a morning ski lesson from Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra. Xixi took a lesson from the Mammoth Ski School and Austin and I got to ski all over the mountain for a short time this morning. Grayson had an awesome session this morning from (no kidding) a high school sophomore who not only really knew her stuff, but was an absolute pro at keeping Grayson engaged by talking and encouraging him the entire time. At the end of his lesson, she and her adult assistant took Grayson over to more challenging terrain and he did quite well. Austin and I went along for the more challenging terrain and saw firsthand just how well Grayson did.

We had lunch at the Main Lodge then Grayson was back for an afternoon session. Grayson skied with two of his favorite instructors who kept him laughing and engaged the entire time. We returned to the condo tired but happy!

Pax!

Brant

Day 780 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

This morning we (sadly) put Regina on a plane back home. We will all miss her for the rest of our trip (especially me).

It was an amazing day here at Mammoth. In the Ski Capital of California, the temps at the main lodge were 58 degrees! Everyone is praying for colder temps and a bit so snow. The snowmaking equipment put in during the droughts of the 1990s are paying off for Mammoth as they are able to open more trails than anyone else! While I am having a ball, I realize that I am creating my new "rock skis" as I continue to ski the mountain!

Grayson had a great day today skiing with some new friends from Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra. He has had some amazing progress this week that we have noticed – most particularly in problem solving. Little things like responding to a request to put his hands in his pockets yesterday. While a seemingly innocuous request, he couldn't put his hands in because the pockets were zipped. He took the initiative to unzip the pockets and put his hands in. This is real problem solving at the practical execution level – something that Grayson will need in the future. Quite an inspiration!

Pax!

Brant

Day 779 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-03T22:51:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a busy day for us all. I was up and out early to take a ski lesson – something I do every year in order to improve my skills (from bad to less bad!) I met up with the rest of the gang at Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra in time for Grayson's lesson this afternoon.

Grayson did well today mostly just having fun on the slopes. Not every day is a breakthrough!

Tonight we went out to dinner at my favorite restaurant here in Mammoth since Regina will be flying home tomorrow. Here is a picture of us all on our last night together here in Mammoth!

Pax!

Brant

Day 778 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-02T22:31:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was an easy sleep-in-drink-coffee-and-relax-while-we-watch-the-Rose-Parade morning! Austin and I eventually skied across the mountain and met up with Regina, Xixi and Grayson who drove to the Main Lodge where Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra (DSES) is located. We managed to make it with some time to spare for his 1:00 lesson!

Yesterday I spoke about how well Grayson was skiing for someone in his condition. Here is the video I promised from January 1^st. It may take a little time to load, so I'll apologize in advance!

Today Grayson did extremely well. He was with some of his favorite instructors and they took him on an adventure! He was doing well enough that they decided it was time to move from the Discovery Chair to a bigger hill. Today he did an intermediate run – Mambo – and he did very well. He is skiing in control, knows how to stop, and knows how to avoid other skiers. His turns were looking very good and his skis were nice and parallel. One run was about enough for his legs and we decided not to push it, retiring back to the discovery chair for some fun.

After we departed DSES for the day, we walked to the car. Xixi asked Grayson to get in the car and he tried, but his gloves didn't allow him to properly engage the handle. On his own initiative he removed his gloves, opened the door and climbed in. Good problem solving Grayson!

Tonight we watched the tail end of the Rose Bowl (yea Ducks!) and the Fiesta Bowl (sorry Trees) as we prepared a simple dinner of Cajun Salmon on mixed greens. We made sure everyone had their 5 servings of fruits and vegetables today!

It's 10:30 and everyone is already in bed. Must be REAL vacation!

Pax!

Brant

Day 777 – Grayson’s Journey

2012-01-01T23:00:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

In Hawaii today we would say "Hau'oli Makahiki Hou", or Happy New Year!

Today was a great day for Grayson. He woke up refreshed, alert and ready to go! He had a great day on the slopes. He did so well skiing it was wonderful to see. I have a great video, but it will have to wait until tomorrow because the upload times on my cellular modem are way too long!

Tonight we stayed in and cooked and tomorrow will be another Great day at Mammoth!

Brant

Day 776 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-31T22:17:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was our first full day in Mammoth. I skied for a few hours this morning while Regina got Grayson up and ready for his day. This afternoon Grayson took his first lesson of the new season at Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra. He was excited to go skiing again!

Grayson did well at his lesson today. His balance was good and he was almost immediately taken up the lift. He was successful following directions and skiing around "obstacles" (such as beginner skiers). His instructors had him playing a game to try and get him to complete his turns and it worked well with him. It was a successful day!

Austin and Xixi arrived on the Horizon Air flight just after Grayson's lesson ended. We unpacked and decided that tonight was an "eat out" night! We had a wonderful dinner the off to the market to lay in supplies for the week. As always, Grayson was my cart pusher!

We came back to the condo and settled in for the evening. Most of us were very tired from all of the various activities we have been involved in. An early night sounds like a good idea even if it is New Year's Eve!

Pax!

Brant

Day 775 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-30T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

We left town at 3:30 today and arrived in Mammoth at 8:30 PM. We ran some errands, had a delightful dinner, did some grocery shopping, unloaded the van into the condo we have rented for the week, did some unpacking and – wow it was midnight! The day was uneventful (a good thing on a travel day!) and we are all safely snuggled in our beds – at least everyone but me.

Grayson was very alert all day. Regina and I think that there may be another one of those little growth spurts going on, but we are not sure yet. We will continue to watch and wait and see.

Unlike last year when Mammoth had record snow, this year there has been almost none. The ground in town is bare but they have made a lot of snow on the mountain. I'll have a better feel in the morning when I give it a whirl!

Tomorrow Austin and Xixi arrive and then we'll have a full house for New Years Eve.

Pax!

Brant

Day 774 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

We are madly packing for Mammoth VII – the 7^th annual Reed family ski vacation to Mammoth Mountain. Tomorrow is a travel day. More news soon!

Pax!

Brant

Day 773 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-28T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was back on a normal schedule today. Anishka took care of him while I madly tried to catch up on a myriad of personal business items. 2011 is almost over!

Grayson was a bit off his game again today. He was a bit slow all day and he repeated some words over and over. This was a bit disconcerting to us. He was better after he had been up a while so we pushed it to the back of our minds, but we'll keep an eye on this.

Pax!

Brant

Day 772 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-27T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

This morning I had to jolt Grayson out of a deep sleep to get him to a doctors appointment. In high school that meant that we were in the car in 20 minutes or less. Now it is more like 1½ to 2 hours to get Grayson out the door – and it requires continuous energy on my part (or the part of the person getting him ready) to make it happen. We were in and out in 30 minutes, then met up with Regina for lunch and picked up one of our cars that was in for service. For Grayson this morning must have felt like a blur – sleep, breakfast, shower, clothes, car, doctor, car, Mom, lunch, car – it makes me tired when I think about it given his limited capacity. Fortunately Grayson is always a good egg and will go along with anything!

This evening we met up with Regina again at the Apple store to set up her new iPhone (my Christmas present to her.) After the set-up (not as painless as one would have expected given the Apple hype, but we did manage to get through it) we had sushi for dinner at a restaurant next door. We returned home to watch the end of the Kennedy Center Honors, then off to bed with Grayson.

Grayson was a bit off of his game all day. Perhaps it was the rapid decompression between sleep and having a dermatologist poking at him, but he was a bit off all day. Tomorrow Anishka will be back and "normalcy" will resume – for two days anyway!

Pax!

Brant

Day 771 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-26T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was Boxing Day! We celebrated by sleeping in late, reliving a little bit of Christmas, enjoying coffee, watching some Christmas movies, and generally keeping a low profile all day.

Grayson and I took a walk today. For the most part Grayson was pretty alert. Because of sleeping in, he was only up about 12 hours today. Frankly I wish that I had only been up 12 hours today!

Pax!

Brant

Day 770 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-25T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends,

God bless us, every one.

Regina

Day 769 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-24T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It's Christmas Eve!

Today was filled with the joy of preparation for tomorrow's big celebration. The house looks beautiful, the gifts are all wrapped, the table is set and all is in order for the big day. I'm writing the blog a bit earlier than usual as we are heading to church at 10:00 PM for the late Vigil service. Regina is serving as the assisting minister hence the early arrival time for the 11:00 PM service. We should be home around 1:00 AM to prepare the stockings for tomorrow. With no little kids at home any longer we should be able to sleep in a bit!

Grayson was a champ today. He traveled with me this afternoon as we ran errands. When we returned home Regina asked him if he delivered any presents and he said that he had. "Who did you deliver presents to?" she asked him. "Howie and Julie" was the reply. How cool is that – that is short-term memory. He can't always do it but he did today! At one other point he saw something from Mammoth Mountain and he told Regina, "I'm going to Mammoth!" Yes he is – very soon! All of this tells me that Grayson is having a good day and there continues to be slow improvement.

From the entire Reed family, we wish you the most beautiful of Christmas Days tomorrow and may the blessing of Christ's birth continue to burn brightly in your heart for the coming year.

Pax!

Brant

Day 768 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-23T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was the first day of our Christmas Holiday! It was a full day and a fun day!

Grayson and I did the grocery shopping for Christmas dinner (and a few other meals along the way!) The store was as crowded as I have ever seen it. Grayson was, as always, my cart pusher – following me around the store as I filled the basket. With all of the extra people and obstacles today was a challenge but he was up to it! He was able to steer around obstructions as gracefully as he is able to ski around them on the slopes. He just knew that he had to follow me and he did. If someone got in his way, he patiently waited until the path was clear and moved on. I was very proud of him.

Today we finished decorating the Christmas tree. Every ornament that we hang has a story. As we get older the tree needs to get larger to accommodate all of these legends! This year due to the travel shortened season, we got a 6 foot tree, roughly 2 feet smaller than usual, so several of our ornaments never made it onto the tree. Nonetheless it is a beautiful cornerstone to our festivities and it smells great!

Grayson was also full of song today and it was great to hear him sing on pitch some old favorite Christmas carols with us as we decorated the tree.

During our tree trimming, Lauren called. We had a long and emotional chat. Our gift of a shortbread pan arrived tonight and she was overcome with the emotion of Christmases at home and memories of baking. It was wonderful to hear from her and at the end of the call she had a chat with Grayson.

For the closeness of family, no matter where they may be, we are so blessed.

Pax!

Brant

Day 767 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-22T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I made it! After a 10 hour day, the 2011 work year for my team is now over. While there are some areas working the holiday week in order to make year-end delivery commitments, my team is done for the year. I finished the last of my year-end tasks at 5:15 this afternoon and am now ready for a long winter's nap! Oh wait – is it time to start Christmas shopping yet? Fortunately this year most of my shopping was done online!

Grayson was a bit off of his game today. Those darned cycles! I bet that Christmas will get him going again!

Pax!

Brant

Day 766 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-21T23:54:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

One more day until the holiday break! (For me anyway.) I'm working like mad to wrap up all of the year end details and after another 12 hour day I think that the end is in sight!

I took a break this evening to join Regina and Grayson for dinner. After dinner I decided to run by the store to buy the beast to roast for Christmas dinner (in our case a standing rib roast), and I took Grayson with me. When we pulled into the parking lot of the grocery, I asked him where we were. He answered, "The market." I asked him why we came here and he answered, "To buy a fat pig!" That made my day!

Blessings to all of you as you prepare your "fat pig" for Christmas!

Pax!

Brant

Day 765 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-20T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a wildly crazy day at work for both Regina and I – year end rapidly approaching and few days left to get the work done! For me only two days remain in the work year – Regina has an additional 4.

Thanks goodness for Anishka! She now has Grayson on her own all day. Tonight it was a dinner, a little TV and off to bed sort of night.

Grayson was, as always, in good spirits. We giggled and played during our interactions this evening. Just like a parent of a young child, I feel guilty when work takes me away from him. Fortunately we now have good daytime care!

Blessings on the remainder of this Advent season!

Pax!

Brant

Day 764 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-19T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was the start of the last work week of the year for me (unfortunately not for Regina.) As of tonight I only have three remaining work days to get all of my work done for 2012 – now that is a scary thought!

Advent at the Reed Haus, after a delayed start due to our visit to see Regina's dad, is now in full swing. More decorations are up every day, packages are being wrapped, the Christmas menu and schedule for the day has been worked out, and the shopping is miraculously complete (thanks primarily to online shopping and a spouse that always has it under control!) I still need to go to the store to get a beast to roast, but I can't remember a time when things seemed so calm. Perhaps we are older and wiser, perhaps we are better planners, or perhaps we just lowered our expectations! The fact is I am so excited for Christmas, to hear the first carols at church, and to hear again of the miracle of our Savior's birth.

Grayson was a bit of a conundrum today. He was quite slow this morning but this evening he was able to answer some difficult questions with accuracy. He wouldn't sit still for lunch or dinner, but he went to bed tonight and stayed there without getting up. It is like he is having a good and a bad day at the same time. I have no idea what to expect tomorrow!

Pax!

Brant

Day 763 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a full day. We were off to a wonderful service at church this morning. I'm always thrilled to see the sanctuary so full! There was special hand bell music from the school and the sermon was actually presented by the younger kids of the church. They did a great job and had most of us in tears this morning.

We returned home after lunch and got right to the Christmas decorating. By the time we went to bed the house had gone a transformation. Advent is well underway and Christmas is just around the corner!

Grayson was a bit off of his game all day. Perhaps the hustle and bustle of the holidays has gotten to him, or maybe just the disruption in the routine. In any event he has been a bit more difficult to participate with.

This too shall pass!

Pax!

Brant

Day 762 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today we spent the day getting the house ready for Christmas. We installed a light fixture and brought all of the boxes of decorations up from the garage. Tomorrow we dress the house for Christmas!

Grayson was pretty alert today. We ran several errands together today and Grayson is always willing to ride somewhere with me. In the days before his injury he would fall asleep almost as soon as the engine started. Now when he is in the car he is awake and observes the world outside the entire time – even on long drives.

Tomorrow is the 4^th Sunday of Advent. Only one more week until the Feast of the Nativity!

Pax!

Brant

Day 761 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-16T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I arrived to meet up with Regina and Grayson for dinner about 7:00 this evening. They had spent the time after Anishka left doing some Christmas shopping and were ready to eat – so was I!

We had a nice dinner at our favorite local Italian haunt then returned home to watch White Christmas. There are a few ritual Christmas movies that we watch every year in the Reed Haus – this is one (the other essentials are Scrooge and It's a Wonderful Life.)

I'm not sure what Anishka and Regina did with Grayson today, but he went to bed like a sack of potatoes – sound asleep in minutes. How cool is that!!

Pax!

Brant

Day 760 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-15T23:59:00.000-08:00

My dear family and friends,

Grayson is definitely on a more alert upswing the last couple of days. Most people wouldn't notice but there are small signs throughout the day. At one point he spontaneously started singing a song with me. Usually I have to encourage him by requesting him to join me or by stopping a line which encourages him to complete it. Last night he remembered that Brant was meeting us to select a Christmas tree. Tonight he was able to tell me what he wanted for dinner and 15 minutes later remembered what it was.

When he is in this more active phase he laughs more. He finds something to laugh and giggle about in what he reads, what he watches, and of course in our silly banter with him. It's quite contagious.

As Brant has mentioned before, when Grayson comes out of a low period it also brings an increase in his jumping up during activities. It happened several times during lunch, twice while he was quietly reading, and tonight, right in the middle of "Holiday Inn" movie. When I asked where he was going he said, "To bed". Twice since he has gone to bed his door alarm has gone off.

There is some energy running through him that he's not sure what to do with.

May there be a blessed energy running through each of us.

Peace to you this night,

Regina

Day 759 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Busy days at work for both Regina and I. Thank God for Anishka!

The big news this evening is that we finally got our Christmas tree! Because of our trip to Hawaii we were over two weeks later than normal for our sweet-smelling Advent accessory. Grayson enjoyed our tree-shopping experience this evening and was equally excited to have a Christmas tree in our home.

Now that the tree is here, decoration begins in earnest tomorrow!

Pax!

Brant

Day 758 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-13T23:54:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today things were back to normal. Regina and I were back to work and Anishka was here to work with Grayson. The last few weeks before Christmas and the year end are suddenly looming both at work and at home!

Grayson had a full course of activity today. Anishka had him out on two brisk walks (the temperature here in Glendale was in the low 50s). She also played some games with him and generally kept him on the go all day. Grayson was pretty alert today. The unfortunate downside is his inability on alert days to go to bed. He has bounced up out of bed several times already this evening.

"Alert" is good.

Pax!

Brant

Day 757 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

We are back in sunny Southern California (where it was raining today and the high temperature was 49) from lovely Hawaii (where the temperature is always 80). A long night flight, a fast drive home at 6:00 AM then a few hours sleep in our own beds. I apologize that I forgot to post the blog I wrote on the plane until late in the day. Sleep deprivation caught up with me!

Grayson was pretty alert today considering what we did to him. He never slept a wink on the plane or the drive home (we did – on the plane that is!) We put him in bed as soon as we got the car unloaded (about 7:00 AM) then got him up at noon. He was charming all night and all day. He traveled a lot easier than I thought he would on a long flight.

Tomorrow we are back to normal – as normal as things can be with Christmas just around the corner!

Pax!

Brant

Day 756 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-11T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Aloha from somewhere over the Pacific Ocean! There is no internet access on this flight so this blog posting will have to wait until I am home before it can be uploaded.

Today we spent most of the day packing up and making sure that the condo was spic and span before checking out. We had a delightful and spacious unit overlooking the Kona Coast, and right at the foot of the street that leads to Regina's father's house. Great location two ways! We bid our temporary home farewell and headed to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening with Papa Tutu. There we chatted, watched the sunset and prepared dinner. It was a bittersweet celebration – it is always hard to go so far away from parents.

Perhaps it was all of the unusual activity this morning, but Grayson was very slow all day. It was not until we were ready to board our flight that Grayson showed some real alertness.

We'll be home in the morning after a short night on the plane.

Pax!

Brant

Day 755 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was day 6 without shoes. These luau feet have quickly become accustomed to the warm island life! Unfortunately our week on Hawaii is rapidly coming to an end.

Today we spent the day with Regina's father completing most of the chores we started during the week. After we finished up for the day we watched the sunset from his lanai. The sunset was one of the best of the week as there have been lots of clouds on the horizon all week. After dark we made dinner at his house and enjoyed time together.

Grayson continued to be aware and alert today. This has been a good week for Grayson – certainly one of on that is out of the norm. Routine went out the window this week!

Tomorrow we pack up and prepare to head home. One last day!

Aloha!

Brant

Day 754 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-09T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson and I spent time together today while Regina worked with her father organizing his records. Grayson and I stayed at the condo and spent some time by the pool and the ocean. We ate lunch on our balcony overlooking the crashing waves – and they were especially loud today because of particularly high surf.

Grayson was especially aware today. He was quick to follow instruction and aware of things around him. As always we are blessed by his good nature and cooperative attitude. He is a joy to be around.

Grayson and I picked up Regina and her Dad late this afternoon and took them to dinner. We dined waterfront at sunset and had another wonderful dinner here in lovely Kona as our trip starts to wind down.

Aloha!

Brant

Day 753 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-08T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Day 4 on Hawaii! Notice I said ON Hawaii, not just IN Hawaii. Hawaii, the Big Island, is where we are. Hawaii is the largest island in the Hawaiian Islands and is larger than all of the other islands combined. However it not the most populous – that honor goes to Oahu, home to Honolulu and Pearl Harbor among many other things. We enjoy our time here on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Today we spent most of our day with Regina's father, who we all call Papa Tutu. I finished working on his computer and Regina worked with him to organize his computer data and his business files. We all broke for an early and leisurely dinner and watched the sun go down over the King Kamehameha Hotel (a.k.a. the King Kam).

Grayson was very in tune with activity today. He did little things that let us know that he was alert and engaged. At one point I said that he should get out on the passenger side of the car, he pulled up the center divider and slid over to get out. At another point Regina said something about her getting her bag and Grayson grabbed it from the back seat and handed it to her. It was a good day for Grayson.

Aloha!

Brant

Day 752 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Day 3 in Hawaii. I haven't had shoes on since Sunday! It is 80 here – as always, but we have not had swimming attire on yet. There is still time!

Today we spent the day with Regina's father. I spent some quality time with his computer and I think that I banished some demons and managed to improve its performance. Regina spent time with her dad discussing plans for the future and finished the afternoon going through a large box of memorabilia.

During one particularly long computer operation, Grayson and I went for a walk. The terrain here is even more hilly (life on a volcano) than home and Grayson had a pretty good workout comparatively. While we were out we picked some plumeria blossoms for Regina and Grayson presented them on our return.

This evening we came back to our condo where we watched the sunset, cooked a tri-tip and enjoyed an evening together.

Aloha!

Brant

Day 751 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today we went out to lunch in Downtown Kona. We had a lovely meal across from the seawall on Alii Drive then we did a little shopping. We visited Regina's father this afternoon then we all had dinner with some old business associates of his from Glendale. Here is a picture of the four of us just before his friends arrived.

Grayson was with us and observing the familiar but new sights all day. Familiar because we have been coming here to visit his grandparents every couple of years for his entire life – the last being less than three months before his incident. It is a whole new world now.

Aloha!

Brant

Day 750 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-05T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Late last night we arrived here in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Between the arrival, fetching the luggage, getting the rental car, shopping for breakfast groceries, getting the condo keys from the agency and moving into our temporary "home" for a week, it's hard to believe that I forgot to post a blog for yesterday! We arrived safe and sound and awoke to a beautiful Kona morning.

Grayson tolerated the 5 ½ hour flight pretty well. The flight attendants were most helpful and kind – actually all of the American Airlines personnel are to be commended for their kindness towards us and especially Grayson.

Today we spent the better portion of the day with Regina's father. We visited, talked about issues, visited some more and generally spent the day precisely as we intended to on this trip.

More news tomorrow from Kona.

Aloha!

Brant

Day 749 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Oops!

Pax!

Brant

Day 748 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-03T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was a bit off of his game today. He woke up a little confused and he was never really able to focus during the day. Some of this might be the disruption to his normal routine, but it is hard to tell.

The routine was interrupted with the preparation for a trip to visit Regina's father. There was a lot of hustle and bustle around the house that was out of the norm. I suspect that this contributed to Grayson's inability to focus. When it was time for bed he pounced in and never budged.

We'll see just how well he adjusts to the next few days!

Pax!

Brant

Day 747 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-02T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was in good hands with Anishka today. She made sure that he ate, showered got ready, walked laughed and worked. After she departed late this afternoon, Grayson and I ran some errands then met up with Regina for dinner. Sushi remains one of Grayson's favorite foods and we had our share this evening!

When we returned home we watched UCLA get demolished by Oregon. During the game they spoke of the back-up quarterback having a broken femur. I asked Grayson what a femur was and without hesitation he pointed to his thigh. Wow. It is easy to think of and treat Grayson as a child but he knows and remembers a lot from his past.

Pax!

Brant

Day 746 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-12-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Things are back to normal this evening. Last evening I was rushing to get the blog posted before all of my computers and the network ran out of battery power. I succeeded, but the power didn't come back on line until 8:30 this morning – 8 ½ hours without electricity. We had quite a blow here locally. When we got up this morning the spark arrester from our chimney was resting on the sidewalk. Obviously it blew off during the night. I would hate to have had that 20 pound object the size of a small trash can land on my head! The rest of the damage was manageable – large potted plants tipped over, debris all over the yard, the streets and throughout the city. My roofer will be over tomorrow to see if we broke any roof tiles during the flight of the spark arrester. Hurricane-force winds are not what we are accustomed to here in LA!

Grayson was again well tended by Anishka. She took him on walks and kept him interested and occupied all day. What a blessing!

The winds are calm tonight – a peaceful night is in store!

Pax!

Brant

Day 745 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-30T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Well, it is one minute past midnight and a windy night has brought the power down here at the Reed Haus. I'll make it brief before all of the UPSs fail and the network switches, routers and the computers run out of power!

Grayson had a great day. Anishka was here again today and kept Grayson busy and full of activity – a great thing for him. We arrived home and had a wonderful time together at home this evening and Grayson was quite engaging – more so than he has been for the past few days. A great first week of Advent!

Pax!

Brant

Day 744 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson had a good day with his caregiver today. Regina got to have another full day in the office – two in a row! Having someone dependable with Grayson on a regular basis is a blessing.

He went to bed and to sleep quickly this evening – one of the signs of an exhausting day OR a down cycle. He appears to be in a down cycle, but he also had a big day. In any event we were glad that he conked out quickly so we could get to bed ourselves!

Pax!

Brant

Day 743 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-29T00:15:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends,

Today was another milestone day (for me, at least). After six months of working from home in early morning and scattered hour segments, going into the office in the evenings and weekends, and taking care of Grayson full-time, I am back in the office. The delightful Anishka took full charge of Grayson's daytime care today allowing me to pack up several large boxes of files and return to working a more normal schedule at my job.

Grayson seems to respond quite well to his new caregiver. She is sensitive, quite coachable and willing to learn. Brant and I are both encouraged that this may be a really good relationship for all of us.

Acknowledging all of the positives surrounding this new chapter, I must admit that an old, yet familiar pang gripped me as I drove to my office this morning. It felt similar to the first day of school – excited about new prospects, yet apprehensive that it is someone else who will be encouraging him through the daily growth steps. Knowing in my heart it is necessary for me to share his care with someone, yet feeling a little guilty that I was not there maximizing each hour with him.

Finding balance in our new life with Grayson is certainly the short and long term goal and this is a good move toward that. This will allow me not only to focus more productively on work but also to schedule medical and dental appointments for myself. When I return home in the late afternoon I will actually BE with Grayson and Brant, instead constantly checking emails, voicemails, and catching up on work-related tasks.

When I came in the door tonight, Grayson greeted me with a warm hug and rewarded my unfounded worries with some fairly clear speech. What a treat! In addition to that Brant had a terrific pork chop dinner ready (and another hug).

It's all good.

With gratitude,

Regina

Day 742 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-27T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

The first Sunday of Advent! Today I was off to church early because I was participating in both services. Regina got Grayson came to the second service and after a few "church chores" we took off for lunch. This afternoon was a quite one as both Regina and I were trying to catch up on some work.

Grayson was a bit slow to respond today, but he was also a bit more aware of things going on in him and around him – a good sign. We'll continue to watch and see if a new pattern is starting to emerge.

The 4-day weekend is drawing to a close. It was great!

Pax!

Brant

Day 741 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-26T23:35:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Sigh. The football season is over. At least the Trojans went out with a bang and delivered a one-sided victory over their cross-town rivals from just down the I-10. The Trojans couldn't seem to make a mistake and the Bruins just couldn't pull it together. I wish them luck in the Pac 12 Championship against the Ducks next week – Go Pac 12 South!

Grayson was a bit slow today. We went for a walk before the game and he was just having trouble moving faster than a stroll. He continues to have his happy disposition and affectionate ways but is having some difficulty executing tasks that last week were easy for him. I am now convinced that he is at the beginning of another down cycle since this has been going on a few days.

This too shall pass.

Pax!

Brant

Day 740 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-25T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

I'm not one for Black Friday shopping – I don't need the hassle or the crowds. Generally the day after Thanksgiving is occupied with making stock from the gallant bird that graced our table the day before. It provides lots of delicious soup and, most importantly, the frozen stock provides the special flavor for the dressing that I make the next Thanksgiving! Unfortunately today was occupied with internet service issues and turkey stock has been deferred until tomorrow. By game time all should be well in hand!

"Game time" refers to the cross-town rivalry of Southern California – the USC-UCLA game. This year the game pits the Pac 12 South champ against the Pac 12 South champ that is post-season eligible. The game is always a hoot and the teams look great in their home jerseys – a great tradition reborn a few years back. We look forward to cheering on the Trojans and hope that we prove an admirable tune-up for the Pac 12 championship game that the Bruins will play next week.

Grayson was a bit slow today. That may be due to the late night on Thanksgiving, the excess of food, or one of his cycles – we'll know after another day or so.

Off to bed – a big day tomorrow. Fight On Trojans!

Pax!

Brant

Day 739 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-24T23:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks be to God.

Amen.

Regina

Day 738 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-23T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

The pies (pumpkin and blackberry) are baked, the pumpkin bread is cooling, and the celery, onion, parsley, sage and garlic for the stuffing are all cleaned and cut for the morning ritual of preparing the bird. Thanksgiving is here!

Grayson was a bit slow today but he still had some encouraging signs. While getting ready for bed I asked him to remove his socks. He did then went over and put them in the laundry basket without being asked. Very cool! Anishka worked with him again today and he seems to respond well to her low key style and friendly smile. This is the end of her first (holiday-shortened) week and I think that she is a good fit with Grayson!

May the blessings of Thanksgiving fill your household with joy!

Pax!

Brant

Day 737 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-22T22:48:00.001-08:00

My dear family and friends,

Anishka returned for a second day to work with Grayson today. The good news is that she came back. The even better news is that when it came time for her to leave this afternoon, Grayson stood up and hugged her goodbye.

My gratitude overflows.

Peace,

Regina

Day 736 – Grayson's Journey

2011-11-21T23:18:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends,

What an answer to prayer today has been.

Grayson's new caregiver started today and what a sweet individual she is. She has a ready smile, is patient, encouraging and intelligent. I know it has only been one day but I am very encouraged that she will be good for Grayson.

If I may be so bold as to ask, please keep those targeted prayers coming that she finds this opportunity a good match for her as well.

With a new sense of peace and hopefulness, I bid you good night.

Regina

Day 735 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-20T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Regina and I were discussing our anniversary (yesterday) and she reminded me of our friends – including one of the groomsmen – that were so upset that we scheduled our wedding on the day of the USC/UCLA game in 1983! The game was on live in the bar area of our reception – a separate room so as not to distract from the 17 piece swing band playing hits from the 1940s!

Grayson was pretty sharp today. We got up and ready for church this morning, then returned for an afternoon and evening indoors out of the rain and cold that has settled over Southern California. "Cold" is relative, but when it barely gets into the 60s here, we think that it is cold!

We had a wonderful weekend and we are looking forward to a long Thanksgiving weekend in just a few days!

Pax!

Brant

Day 734 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-19T22:24:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

The Trojans beat the Ducks tonight! Thank you USC for the 28^th anniversary gift, even if it is at the expense of many of my Oregon relatives. Since it is our anniversary, we are signing off for the rest of the evening.

Pax!

Brant

Day 733 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-18T23:47:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

The big news today is that we hired a caregiver that will start next week! That is good news for us but will also require an investment in training time. Sometimes you can be so busy that help can actually be a burden in the short run. We are aware that it is the only way to get out from under, but there is that near term dread! Fortunately she is calm, has a big smile and is a mother. All of these are characteristics that will help her be a good fit with Grayson.

Grayson was alert again today. He has had a long stretch of good days – I love it when we have streaks like this!

Tonight Rita and Richard joined us at a local restaurant for dinner. It was an early celebration of our 28^th anniversary tomorrow. I can't imagine being with anyone other than Regina on this wonderful journey we know as life. It is a roller coaster ride but it is sure comforting to know that Regina is the person sitting next to you through it all. I am humbled and blessed.

Pax!

Brant

Day 732 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson remained relatively sharp again today. He has no idea of the milestone that we passed yesterday. Today was just another day for Grayson – another happy day at the Reed Haus because Grayson is always good natured and happy.

We are fortunate indeed. God bless you all for remaining with us on this journey.

Pax!

Brant

Day 731 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-16T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends ("my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown…" Philippians 4:1)

Two years ago today, Grayson experienced cardiac arrest, was with little or no oxygen for nearly 12 minutes resulting in a severe anoxic brain injury.

These two years have been difficult to say the least. Our world was completely turned upside down and will never be the same again.

For Grayson, it means struggling to be understood for the remainder of his life, dependent on the love, patience and support of his family or caregivers. It means having long term memories of what his life was like before, friends, interests, and independence yet unable to remember how to tie his shoes, write his name, what he just ate or how old he is. It means the young man who was curious about everything, now is content to read the same magazine or comic book for hours. It means having to be stretched every day to relearn the basics of daily living.

It put an incredible stress on Lauren and Austin, who found the older brother they grew up with now taking the role of helpless sibling. Their relationship with him forever altered; having to find their way through unfamiliar dynamics both with their brother and their parents. I acknowledge how hard this has been on them just as they were starting to launch their own independent lives and regret the obvious stress Brant and I must spill onto them at times. Our hope is that they know how deeply we love each of them and appreciate their efforts to find new ways to love Grayson and be patient with us.

The personal stress comes in many forms, including financial concerns for Grayson's future, curtailing our volunteer work, with little privacy or free time away from home. Overnight I went from taking pride in being a reliable, dedicated employee to indulging my employer's grace in allowing me to work from home and at odd hours. We are reshaping dreams of what our life was to be like when our family grew up and are trying to salvage our goal of the travel we put off for 26 years.

This journey, however, is filled with many blessings and joys. Grayson is a loving individual who responds to encouragement and cheerleading. He is trusting and fills our days with giggling and laughter. Who could ask for more than that?

Our circumstances have allowed us to become aware of just how loving and supportive our family, friends, and church community are. We continue to experience their love in countless ways and we thank God for each of them.

Not insignificant is the fact that sharing all of this together has allowed Brant and me to grow even closer. As we look to celebrate our 28^th anniversary this weekend, I cannot imagine taking this journey with anyone else and I am thankful to have such a good partner.

Thank you all for taking this journey with us.

As our friend, Mike Sutherland posted to his Facebook page this week, "We have all been given so much in life. So in life how do we respond? Let our response be as extravagant as God's grace."

Regina

Day 730 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-15T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was pretty sharp again today. The normal response to this was in full force and effect tonight – he kept getting out of bed until almost 1:00 AM. That perimeter alarm just kept beeping. I guess he is having a major "awake" period inside that head of his!

Two years ago tonight marks the last evening that we spent with the "old" Grayson. I was packing for a trip to Philadelphia in the morning and he was doing stuff in his room. We all had a nice dinner together. Nothing unusual – just family doing what family does when normal life is happening. In the morning I would head to the airport after a few early morning teleconferences, and Grayson would walk down to catch the bus to work – leaving about an hour after I did.

It was a normal Sunday night and we went to bed in preparation for our big week.

Pax!

Brant

Day 729 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-14T23:59:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson had me in stitches today. First off, he was as sharp as a tack. Yesterday was an aberration rather than part of a cycle and he woke up bright eyed and alert today. What cracked me up was at dinner and we were joking about a theoretical dog and I said that he was named Fido. I asked Grayson how to spell Fido and he said, "P-h-y-d-e-a-u-x"! He said it so fast that neither Regina nor I could understand, so I asked him to repeat it. He did so more slowly and we were able to understand him. We lost it. "Phydeaux" was the dog in a story that our Boy Scout Camp Ranger Terry Hall used to tell about a Cajun family. He used to have us all in tears laughing at his stories around the campfire. This one was always one of our favorites, and Grayson clearly remembered.

What a joy tonight, and what a joy it was to relive a few of those awesome camp memories from our Scout days. For all of you that are involved in the Scouting movement, the effort you make leaves a lasting impression – even on those affected by severe brain injury. God bless you all!

Pax!

Brant

Day 728 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-13T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

It was like someone switched off the "alert" switch today – Grayson was really low energy today. We got up this morning and had difficulty making it to church on time because he was dragging so slowly this morning. We did make it and it was an awesome service.

This afternoon Grayson and I ran some errands. One of the things we both had to acquire was new jeans. Now that the weather is finally turning away from shorts-appropriate, both of us have lost so much weight that new jeans were in order. We both scored new pants today, but were amazed at the crowds in the stores – it is not even Thanksgiving yet, but the stores were packed! (Hooray for the economy!)

True to form – a dull day and he went to sleep immediately tonight.

Pax!

Brant

Day 727 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Today was a wild day for Pac-12 Football! The Trojans pounded the Huskies, the Carindal got blown out by the Ducks, the Bruins got thumped by the Utes and the Sun Devils fell to the Cougers. Bowl-banned USC is back on top of the South and Oregon now has the inside track to host the first ever Pac-12 title game. Wow!

We of course cheered on our Trojans this afternoon. Between games late this afternoon, the three of us went for a walk. Regina even got Grayson running for a bit – a very rare sight! We had a nice time in the cool evening just before sunset. We returned to watch the Stanford/Oregon game and eat the beef stew Regina and I had prepared during the USC game. Nothing like a bowl of how stew on a damp and cold night!

Grayson, not a particular sports fan, tolerated the mass quantity of football today primarily by reading one of his Garfield comic books. He was a good sport, and he always enjoys it when USC wins. The exercise is always good for him and he was quite alert today. Unfortunately he was still getting out of bed after midnight – not so fun for Regina and I. Alertness seems to bring on the difficulty in going to sleep. The only sure-fire cure I have found is to have him ski for 5 hours. Last winter he would lie down after a day on the slopes and never even move. The good news is that Mammoth is already open. Soon we'll be there again!

Pax!

Brant

Day 726 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-11T23:39:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

11/11/11 – Today was a special day to honor our veterans. While working this morning, there were squadrons of WW II era fighter planes flying over the skies of Los Angeles going from event to event. There is just something so awesome about the sound of piston-driven airplane engines as they drone overhead. We all owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to all of the veterans of our military. It is great that we set aside one day a year to remember.

Today was also the day when the final Harry Potter movie was released to the home market. We had dinner and then watched Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2 from the comfort of our couch. Movies on demand – how cool is that!

Grayson was still pretty sharp today. We are looking forward to our "sleep in" day tomorrow then the USC – Washington game. Should be a good Saturday!

Pax!

Brant

Day 725 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was still in a pretty good place today. He was alert and aware of his surroundings. He was able to do some multi-step activities without help today. This is a good thing!

We had the second of several interviews this afternoon in an attempt to hire a caregiver for Grayson. Let's hope that the correct choice is placed before us. The candidate today was very good!

Pax!

Brant

Day 724 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-09T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was still pretty sharp today, but it appears that this cycle may have peaked yesterday. While he was with me at the grocery store this evening he had some difficulty. His task when the two of us go to the store is to follow me and push the cart. Today he couldn't seem to keep two hands on the cart and he kept trying to drive it with one hand. Steering is a real problem when only using one hand. Several times I had to remind him to use both hands – then further remind him to space his hands far apart as placing both hands on the cart next to each other does not help the steering problem! Several times I asked him to come along, and he left the cart and came up to me. He just had difficulty with some concepts that were no problem yesterday.

He also had difficulty sitting down to eat today. Food is usually a great motivator for Grayson, but today he just couldn't focus.

We'll see what opportunities and challenges tomorrow brings!

Pax!

Brant

Day 723 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-08T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was as sharp as a tack today – at least as sharp as Grayson can be. He was alert, was way more verbal than normal (not saying much here), attentive, and he was paying attention and following. It was fun to see him so interactive this evening.

This has been a rather rapid and radical swing this week. These upswings are always fun and they generally follow rather dull periods.

He even went to bed quickly and quietly and stayed down tonight. How cool is that!

Pax!

Brant

Day 722 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends

Wow – Grayson woke up way more alert than he has been the past week. He walked with much more speed and confidence, was very attentive and alert to even the most subtle humor, was bright-eyed and smiling all day – not the same Grayson that we have seen for a week or so. We are now out of the down cycle and in to an up one!

What a difference a day makes!

Pax!

Brant

Day 721 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-06T23:23:00.001-08:00

Dear family and friends

Grayson was much more on his game today than in the past few days. He initiated activity, followed instructions well (except when the TV was on) and was a little more verbal than he has been over the past week or so.

After church today, Grayson Regina and I went to lunch then ran several errands. Grayson was right there with me all day.

Perhaps this down cycle is ending!

Pax!

Brant

Day 720 – Grayson’s Journey

2011-11-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Dear family and friends

Today Grayson was still a bit off his game, but I saw glimpses of his coming out of it. He was still very non-verbal today. However he did react and respond better than he has in the past few days. I did notice that he was quite jumpy all day. At one point he startled himself and jumped when his knee hit the electric lock button in the car and they unlocked. I have absolutely no explanation for the jumpiness.

While I prepared dinner we watched a low scoring game between a couple of SEC teams tonight. No one even scored a touchdown! The team with the ugly yellow helmets eventually won in overtime. Grayson had his comic book to keep his interest!

Pax!

Brant