The Sharpie
So…
It got nice and quiet after I put the girls to bed tonight. The boys seemed to be playing well in Briggs’ room. I was surprised not to hear much of them while I was cleaning up but I didn’t suspect anything. Then…they came bounding down the stairs giggling about what they had done. Did I dare turn around?
Oh…was it a sight.
Did I mention that tomorrow we are going to Briggs’ school for a Veteran’s Day assembly where they will be showing a video Tim put together? Did I mention that I already had their clothes laid out? Did I mention that I spent awhile today making sure that the video and audio clips got in the right hands? Did I mention that it was time for the boys to be in bed and Grey’s Anatomy was starting in just 15 minutes?
Well…they decided it would be funny to draw on each other’s faces with bold, permanent RED marker. My initial reaction was to go ballistic on them. However, after a few very deep breaths I started laughing (in kind of a mean way though). Briggs could immediately sense that my reaction to this was bad. I said, “Well, you sure are going to look funny going to school looking like that tomorrow on Veteran’s Day. I have to get a picture of this!”
Within seconds the tears started streaming down his face. Gage could have cared less. In fact, he covered his feet legs with the marker too. See how different their reactions are in the images.
I turned to the internet for advice and found some interesting advice ideas which included: alcohol (rubbing…not a cold one for me), baby oil, wet wipes, and a lot of vigorous rubbing. I have pictures to prove all of this below.
But what happened to Briggs got even stranger as we tried to undue his mistake. He got really upset. I mean more sad than I have seen him since Tim left. The rubbing alcohol triggered it. He started screaming for his Daddy Doll. He kept repeatedly saying, “I miss my Daddy.” He was crying so hard that he had to catch his breath. I just held him…poor kid.
I got the markings off but what I really recognized is that sometimes it is just that one thing that will set someone over the edge. I talk about Tim a lot with the kids. We pray for him every night. But I know Briggs is now missing him more than he has let on.
In any case…I thought this was funny and sad rolled into one.
I know what you mean about being funny, but not. I did laugh out loud, but I feel for poor Briggs. I know this is hard for him (and the rest of you too). I can’t wait for Tim to get home either. BTW…The audio messages from were fantastic! We miss you Tim…
Betsy Roeder - November 9th, 2007 at 12:10 pmSo here is what I have been thinking about: What kind of adult is being shaped by all of these “events”? Truthfully, I’m a little worried about Gage. Or better yet, stay tuned…..will Tiffany and Tim survive the “teenage years”? And we aren’t even in full swing with the twins yet. You are a skilled mother Tiffany. Your kids are real lucky to have you and they won’t even know it for years!!!!!
Aunt 9 - November 9th, 2007 at 12:12 pmPS do marshmallows survive shipping?
I arrived after the meltdown and Briggs was happy to see the fish & tank I set up in his room. I have always known he bottles secret thoughts up in his mind…guess it’s better when he can let them out. He’ll be happy in February when Daddy arrives for his birthday.
These kids will all be fine, healthy in spirit and mind due to all of the patience, love and respect Tif and Tim show them. They are truly a very special family and I’m so proud of them all.
xoxoxo Mom
Loved the audio. Send chillls down my back..Tim, you sounded like you were in the room with me and guess what? You were. Be brave, be strong and remember we love you dearly.
Jean - November 9th, 2007 at 7:03 pmI really loved the picture of Briggs crying and Gage laughing…they are brothers but TOTAL opposites. As for you Tim, I think about you everyday and I pray and will keep on praying until you are home! God Bless you and your entire team. I love you all and thank you for keeping us safe.
xoxoxoxoxo,
Suzy - November 10th, 2007 at 7:01 pmThat was hilarious. I cracked up out loud. Thanks for capturing it with pictures
Big Stone - November 11th, 2007 at 10:23 pmThe picture of Briggs hugging the daddy doll after that is really touching…got to be really tough.
Big Stone - November 11th, 2007 at 10:31 pmMy heart goes out to Briggs–and all of you. I have to say, that picture of Gage, leaning back on his elbows–with that look on his face–that is one of the best photos I’ve ever seen. It made me crack up out loud.
You are such a great mom. You always amaze and inspire me. Thanks!
Ann Smith - November 11th, 2007 at 10:59 pm