Toddo is 40, Lordy Lordy!

My first recolection of Todd is my brother being so proud to have a second son and saying: "Now David has what I always wanted! A brother!". That being said I am sure there were times Mike wished the order was a bit different when Todd and David were young. Though now they are much better friends, geography and life keeps them apart. Just like my sisters Kate and Holly who were arch enimies in their teens, now my sisters call themselves twins and I am lucky to be included as a sister. Todd, the second born of my brothers children. Born in Maryland, like me. The only other Marylander. Though you'd never know it, he is rooted quite deeply in Washington State. I doubt he will venture far from the Hogmans. His whole life it was David and Todd. Rarely Todd and David. And when the next sibling came along it was the blessed sister! Todd is definately the second child, overachiever. First to graduate from college, first to get a master's degree. Only one to have 7 children! He has spent his life being compaired to someone else, his brother, his wifes family, how they did things. And yet he is his own self. A good father to 6 sons and one daughter....so far! He loves the outdoors, unlike his father who only tolerated it. He is extremely busy, he will take the time for you if you reach out to him, though he rarely has time for himself or to reach out to you. The love of his life is his wife who is amazing after 7 children still looks like a teenager herself, yet she too is pushing 40!

So my Toddo, the second son of my brother.....who head butted his way into your heart. Here are a few copies of slides I've found and scanned and send to you. Know you are loved and have a family out east who still thinks of you, especailly one Aunt Heidi.

A funny thing happened

In high school it was a thrill to talk on the phone for hours to a girlfriend or developing relationship. Then college came and nights in dorm rooms spent studying, and talking replaced the phone. Letters from home and an occasional well timed call from home were the treat. Some where along the line in came the computer and your all important E-MAIL ADDRESS enters the picture. At the same time a cell phone which let me call anyone anytime (if I had the minutes) and a phone call, once again, became routine. Then it was a treat to get an e-mail from my friends and family. I'd open my e-mail with great anticipation of a quick note from someone keeping up or saying hello. Then came texting and no need to talk or be in person or even send more than a one liner. Then the photo on the phone, why text when you can send a picture, it is worth 1000 words isn't it?

So, now I sit in isolation from everyone and everything. No one calls, no one sends letters, rarely I get a text, and never do I have a personal e-mail. Except for my dear sweet Mom, she does all of the above. I sure do love her. Thanks Mom for calling, mailing, e-mailing and even reading my blog. I sure do love you.