August 27, 2023
August 27, 2023
A memory of our visits to Potato Creek in the autumn. Hikes, meals shared and love remembered. Miss you, Tommy
This memorial website was created in memory of our beloved son,Tommy Paduano Wartell, 33, born on August 5, 1981 and passed away on August 27, 2014. May this site help the memory of Tommy to be with us forever,
.OBITUARY: Thomas “Tommy” Henry Paduano – Wartell passed away unexpectedly on August 27th at age 33. Thomas was the dear son of Thomas E and Margaret (Peg) Wartell; loving husband of Gerald “Jerry” Paduano – Wartell; beloved brother of Catherine “Katie” (Aaron) Hines. He was also a wonderful nehew and cousin, and a treasured friend to many people. He will be deeply missed! Two of Tommy’s passions in life were gardening and horticulture. The Wartell property bears witness to his genius. His family is very proud of his accomplishments, most notably chartering the Gay – Straight Alliance “GSA” at Naperville Central High School during his time there. Visitation for him will be Monday September 1st from 4-8 at Leonard Memorial Home, 565 Duane St. Glen Ellyn. A funeral mass will be Tuesday 11 AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 393 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn. Interment will be private.
Thomas Henry Wartell
GREEN EYES
Look into my eyes....look deeper? They are green like those of my departed grandmother. All she ever wanted was for my happiness so she took me as is. What a wonderful sort of love. I think we all get passed over by suitors and suckered by smarmy con artists. The one thing you should never sell is your integrity. If you stay true to yourself and show all your cards in a "take it or leave it" gesture it can lead to wonderful things like eternal love. The love she had for my grandfather (Henry) echoes throughout the family line as the most beautiful thing you can have. When I say I love you I am saying I love you "as is" we have no guarantees I'm the mortal coil the best we can do is love much and love deeply. The great thing about love is that you can do it over and over again. Love is what binds the world together and it stops hate from ripping it apart. I think sometimes we have to stop and think how many people love us as we are. Every cloud can have a silver lining if you want and rain makes the flowers grow. I just want to tell everyone I love how special it is how they have touched my life and the grief and sorrow of loss is better than a life without love.
Tributes
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August 27, 2022
August 27, 2022
Thinking of the good times today. All the parties, the laughter, the silliness make me smile. So happy we loved each other then and comforted to know we continue that affection transcending the boundaries of time and space. I love you, Tommy.
August 27, 2022
August 27, 2022
It has been awhile, but looking back, I still see your smiling face as if it was yesterday. We know you are with God and your Mom and other family. Rest in peace, we love you.
August 29, 2021
August 29, 2021
You are not with us here, but we know you are with God, and all the family members who love you. Rest in peace, Tommy.
August 27, 2021
August 27, 2021
Buddy! You are missed but more than that, you are loved forever.
August 5, 2021
August 5, 2021
I never saw a purple cow
I never hope to see one
I can tell you truthfully
I'd rather see than be one
Little Tommy laughed and laughed when I recited this. The memories of your laugh warm my heart. Love you always. Aunt Kathy
I never hope to see one
I can tell you truthfully
I'd rather see than be one
Little Tommy laughed and laughed when I recited this. The memories of your laugh warm my heart. Love you always. Aunt Kathy
August 5, 2021
August 5, 2021
You have been gone some time now, but I still remember you every day in my prayers. You and your Mom have joined so many people we love in a better place. Happy Birthday, Tommy. xoxo Aunt Lo
August 27, 2020
August 27, 2020
I miss your laugh, I miss your smile, I miss the way you knew me better than anyone else. This year is so hard. I am happy for you that you have Mom but sad for me that I lost you both. You will live forever in my heart until I can hold you in my arms when we meet again someday.
August 27, 2020
August 27, 2020
I remember the way you were able to take cookies home from family parties without anyone seeing you. Quite the magic trick! Think about you every day and hope you and your Mom are happy with God in heaven. You both deserve happiness. Love, Aunt Lo
August 27, 2020
August 27, 2020
I see you standing on the Liberty St. porch, a can of pop in your hand, laughing . You are handsome, dressed in a Hawaiian shirt, enjoying a summer day with family.
I remember your enjoyment of the buffets served and the silliness and affection that your younger cousins and you shared. Bkessed be, Tommy. ♥️ Thanks for the memories.
I remember your enjoyment of the buffets served and the silliness and affection that your younger cousins and you shared. Bkessed be, Tommy. ♥️ Thanks for the memories.
August 27, 2020
August 27, 2020
I remember taking a trip with Tommy to Colorado. It was just after he came out to me and Peg. One night found us staying at a YMCA camp, of all places. We were settling down in the bunk bed, in our cabin, and began to discuss his gayness.
He had been scared that his Mom and I would kick him out of the house, like a couple of his friends had been. Well that fear had been put to rest with assurances from Peg and me. And, here we were, on a vacation! Pretty far from ostracization!
As we talked, we joked about speaking softly, lest a Christian camper would overhear us, turn us in, and we would be ridden out of the place on a rail (or worse)! Many of the young people at the place looked like refugees from Oral Roberts University. Always squeaky clean; boys wore dress shirts, and girls had dresses on. A lot of Bible quoting, and "praise the Lord" being overheard. Of course, they didn't talk to us. We were obviously hawaiian or silly T-shirt wearing, laughing Democrats.
We only stayed one night.
He had been scared that his Mom and I would kick him out of the house, like a couple of his friends had been. Well that fear had been put to rest with assurances from Peg and me. And, here we were, on a vacation! Pretty far from ostracization!
As we talked, we joked about speaking softly, lest a Christian camper would overhear us, turn us in, and we would be ridden out of the place on a rail (or worse)! Many of the young people at the place looked like refugees from Oral Roberts University. Always squeaky clean; boys wore dress shirts, and girls had dresses on. A lot of Bible quoting, and "praise the Lord" being overheard. Of course, they didn't talk to us. We were obviously hawaiian or silly T-shirt wearing, laughing Democrats.
We only stayed one night.
August 5, 2020
August 5, 2020
When the pangs of loss strike, I sit and remember your lovely hugs, your wit, your loving presence, your adorable vulnerability, your budda soul. I love you always.
August 5, 2020
August 5, 2020
Happy birthday sweetheart. You would have been 39 today. As you had drawn in chalk for Mom, 39 4EVA. For me you will always be 33. This year is harder for Dad and me and hopefully a little easier for you. You get to have Mom with you now. As Dad and I try to celebrate your birthday without Mom, it's a new level of grief. I had thought that we were finally doing better. Now I feel like we have been knocked all the way down again. I try to picture you and Mom together and happy. It's what keeps me going when I miss you both so much it hurts. Happy birthday sweet pea. I love you all the times
June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
Well, now you have Mom with you. I know you are taking good care of her, and I think of the two of you together in Heaven. Love and laughter. I feel it. Love, Dad
June 3, 2020
June 3, 2020
I miss you so much sweetheart. I know that you are taking good care of Mom and showing her the ropes. My heart is breaking without both of you. I will picture the two of you dancing at my wedding. I love you.
August 27, 2019
August 27, 2019
I think I about him and pray for him every day
August 27, 2019
August 27, 2019
The light you brought
The love you gave
The laughter you shared
Are with us still.
All this and more
Color this day
This poignant day
This day of remembrance
I will not cease to miss you
I will not deny the ache
But oh, my Heart,
I will always cherish the love.
The love you gave
The laughter you shared
Are with us still.
All this and more
Color this day
This poignant day
This day of remembrance
I will not cease to miss you
I will not deny the ache
But oh, my Heart,
I will always cherish the love.
August 26, 2019
August 26, 2019
Kathy, thanks for the beautiful tribute
August 5, 2019
August 5, 2019
I watered flowers today
And thought of you.
I watched birds fly today
And thought of you.
I remembered family parties
And thought of you.
My heart overflowed
As I thought of you.
Through smiles and tears
I think of you.
I love you forever.
And thought of you.
I watched birds fly today
And thought of you.
I remembered family parties
And thought of you.
My heart overflowed
As I thought of you.
Through smiles and tears
I think of you.
I love you forever.
August 5, 2019
August 5, 2019
Can he really be gone five YEARS? Each day I talk to Tommy, each day, I pray for him. Mainly I remember him, and miss him. How can my funny genius son, be forever gone? He is always forever missed,.
Today we celebrate your 38th birthday. We will eat your favorite strawberry, whipped cream cake, We will shop at your favorite store, GW...GOOD WILL. We sometimes find a memory item. Do something extra fun today, Know your family is always here, remembering you.. LOVE, MAMA
Today we celebrate your 38th birthday. We will eat your favorite strawberry, whipped cream cake, We will shop at your favorite store, GW...GOOD WILL. We sometimes find a memory item. Do something extra fun today, Know your family is always here, remembering you.. LOVE, MAMA
December 2, 2018
December 2, 2018
four years without your laughter
four years without your smile
four years without your stories
and your Coyote wiles
Your life wasn't always easy
But your heart was pure and true
If you were his friend
I would say, lucky you,
Catch all the rainbows that heaven will allow
and stay close to all your loved ones
who will care for you for now,
Rest in Peace
Thomas Henry Paduano Wartell
August 5,1981 to August 27, 2014
12 Comments written by Peg Wartell August27, 2018
four years without your smile
four years without your stories
and your Coyote wiles
Your life wasn't always easy
But your heart was pure and true
If you were his friend
I would say, lucky you,
Catch all the rainbows that heaven will allow
and stay close to all your loved ones
who will care for you for now,
Rest in Peace
Thomas Henry Paduano Wartell
August 5,1981 to August 27, 2014
12 Comments written by Peg Wartell August27, 2018
September 3, 2018
September 3, 2018
These words seem to ring true for Tommy: Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Call me by my name, speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference in your tone, wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was, let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of shadow on it. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was; there is unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you, somewhere very near, just around the corner.
August 27, 2018
August 27, 2018
As I looked over all the beautiful tributes to Tommy, this one seemed to bear repeating. It answers questions like, "Why am I a mess 4 years later?" "Isn't time supposed to heal all wounds?" "Will I cry every August 5th and 27th from now on?"
The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not "get over" the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.
Elizabeth Kübler-Ross, Swiss psychiatrist and author
The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not "get over" the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the same nor would you want to.
Elizabeth Kübler-Ross, Swiss psychiatrist and author
August 27, 2018
August 27, 2018
I can see Tommy standing on my old front porch, laughing at something that struck him as funny. He had a can of pop in one hand, a cigarette in the other. He was wearing a brightly coloured Hawaiian shirt. His head was thrown back as he laughed and he was handsome and happy. Love you, Tommy. Always will.
August 27, 2018
August 27, 2018
Already four years! Tommy is with God, Grandma and a lot of other family members today. But he is always remembered by those of us who are still on this side of that veil.
August 27, 2018
August 27, 2018
Thinking of you all today on this 4th anniversary of Tommy's passing. The time passes but the memory lives on.
August 5, 2018
August 5, 2018
Tommy is thirty seven years old today. I pray that he is happy with the angels and that he is learning many lessons. Each day I miss him, and wish only to give him a hug. My blonde haired toddler with bangs, dressed in blue as often as possible creeps into my mind. The handsome groom at his wedding smiling a very wide smile is another image. I treasure my memories, and I treasure the fact that I had my Tommy in my life. My sweet, funny, unique son leaves me with stories for a lifetime. I love you, sweetheart. MAMA
August 5, 2018
August 5, 2018
I think about Tommy every day and he is in my prayers. Happy Birthday and hope you are spending it with God and Grandma. Love, Aunt Lois
August 5, 2018
August 5, 2018
Thinking of all of you today on Tommy's birthday. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten. I hope when you see a beautiful garden in bloom, or when it is "sleeping", you will think of him and smile.
August 28, 2017
August 28, 2017
As memories and incredible sadness roll around my head and down my cheeks, I sit here on the 3rd anniversary of my Son's death, trying to say something meaningful; to express the unexpressible. Only a parent who has lost a child can understand. And almost all of you reading this, mercifully, will not really "get it." I pray that you will never totally understand.
Only his mother, Peg, knows. Tom's sister, Katie, knows; but in a different way. As only a sibling can. Perhaps a deeper way.
And yet, there is solace. Solace in knowing that Tommy is happy and peaceful, and surrounded by loved ones on the other side of the veil. That helps. But not enough.
Take time to read Tommy's excellent words in Green Eyes. "I just want to tell everyone I love how special it is how they have touched my life the grief and sorrow of loss is better than a life without love."
Only his mother, Peg, knows. Tom's sister, Katie, knows; but in a different way. As only a sibling can. Perhaps a deeper way.
And yet, there is solace. Solace in knowing that Tommy is happy and peaceful, and surrounded by loved ones on the other side of the veil. That helps. But not enough.
Take time to read Tommy's excellent words in Green Eyes. "I just want to tell everyone I love how special it is how they have touched my life the grief and sorrow of loss is better than a life without love."
August 27, 2017
August 27, 2017
I prefer celebrating Tommy's birthday, but I do have a memory from his wake - he looked so serene and untroubled. I know he is in heaven with family who have gone before and that gives me peace with his passing. Love, Aunt Lo
August 27, 2017
August 27, 2017
It is so difficult to find words that are deep enough to express the sorrow at not having Tommy in this physical world. I find comfort in the reminder that he is not sundered from my heart. Not ever.
August 26, 2017
August 26, 2017
It's impossible., My son has been gone for three years. I miss him every day, I think of him everyday and he is a part of my life. For those of you who knew him, I know you miss him too. August 27th.,.,.2014, a day that should hold no special significance, but it is the day that changed my life forever, I will never be the same again., Those I love, and who loved Tommy will never be the same. So we will celebrate his life, the joy he brought us, and his eternal happiness in heaven. Happy Anniversary Tommy., WE miss you, and love you all the timesl'' MAMA
August 7, 2017
August 7, 2017
Tommy will always be Tom Thumb in my book because of his green thumb and passion for plants. I offer a prayer up today for St. Tom Thumb that he'll watch over all of my plants and our green forests everywhere!
August 5, 2017
August 5, 2017
When people pass on, we must choose how to remember them. I choose to remember Tommy in his best and funniest moods, in his love of nature, in his loving hugs. In my memory, he is forever young, forever smiling. I miss you, Tommy. I love you.
August 5, 2017
August 5, 2017
When I think about Tommy, I remember him as a little boy on our trips to Potato Creek State Park. He loved to explore on our hikes - and in between, he played on the only TV allowed. Love, Aunt Lois
August 27, 2016
August 27, 2016
Your life, your smile,
your voice and silliness too,
The memories live on in the
mind and heart of the life that was you.
Thank you
for honoring so many lives like mine
that's a tribute to you.
on this day eternal life
began for you.
your voice and silliness too,
The memories live on in the
mind and heart of the life that was you.
Thank you
for honoring so many lives like mine
that's a tribute to you.
on this day eternal life
began for you.
August 27, 2016
August 27, 2016
I recall starting aviation school under Tom Sr's. flight instruction in Chicago, and learning that Peg was about to have their second child. You can imagine the joy and slaps on the back when Tom came back the 6th of August: a little boy! Years later on a visit to the Wartell River House to join Tom in a little angling at the riverfront, I saw a beautifully- arranged fountain and pool surrounded by flowers and other plants. I asked how they had done something so amazing and Tom replied that Tommy had created and finished the whole thing. It was then that I realized that Tommy possessed what to me was that wondrous gift of taking the mundane and turning it into a thing of beauty. I can't help but think that he did that not just with nature, but in his family over the years, too. Memories are some of the best gifts to leave with your loved ones--they never grow old. Tommy certainly left many of them.
August 22, 2016
August 22, 2016
We had a delightful visit. Tommy met a friend online seven years ago. She lives in Columbus, Ohio with her wonderful husband Trent. They came to see us this past weekend, and it was like having a piece of Tommy back home with us. They are a lovely young couple and talking to them about their lives, and about Tommy was very good for our souls. Trent loves to fish, and our River House was in great form. Large carp, and small blue gill, and even some large and small mouth bass were caught. Jamie is an artist, so a trip to the art institute with Tom, was inspirational for her. Thank you, Trent and Jamie for visiting. We really enjoyed having you here. Love, Tom and Peg
August 14, 2016
August 14, 2016
A line from a Joni Mitchell song keeps going through my head:
"Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone."
"Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone."
August 13, 2016
August 13, 2016
Liz, Jeff, Kathy, and Brad,
Thank you so much for leaving tributes for Tommy's birthday. As Brad's tribute mentioned "love creates memories that no one can steal." Around Tommy's birthday the memories come fast and furious. Some with a chuckle, and some with a tear, but all with the knowledge that we were blessed to have Tommy in our lives. Thank you for sharing your memories with us! PEG
Thank you so much for leaving tributes for Tommy's birthday. As Brad's tribute mentioned "love creates memories that no one can steal." Around Tommy's birthday the memories come fast and furious. Some with a chuckle, and some with a tear, but all with the knowledge that we were blessed to have Tommy in our lives. Thank you for sharing your memories with us! PEG
August 7, 2016
August 7, 2016
Tommy was an amazing guy .. the kind who could light up the room as soon as he entered. Since I saw him so infrequently, it always amazed me that he would talk with me, or anyone, so easily. as if we had just seen each other the day before. Our priest recently offered a nice thought: Death leaves a hurt that will never heal, but love creates memories that no one can steal. We all have so many great memories of Tommy that will last forever!
With prayers for Tommy and the rest of the Wartells,
-Brad
With prayers for Tommy and the rest of the Wartells,
-Brad
August 6, 2016
August 6, 2016
Thinking of our wonderful Tommy today with sadness and love. I see his picture every day and remember him with tenderness and a smile. And always, always with gratitude for his loving presence.
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
Happy Birthday Tommy. I often think of you and your family with happiness!
August 5, 2016
August 5, 2016
Today would have been Tommy's 35th birthday. He lives on in his garden at the River House and in the hearts of all who love and miss him. Happy Birthday Tommy.
June 4, 2016
June 4, 2016
Its the time we are out in Tommy's gardens. The beautiful pink peonies have opened and the are gorgeous. The blooms are so big and each year we are blessed with more. Tommy brought them from Grandma and Papa's garden in Wonder Lake. Next to them are the poppies. Large red blooms, with black centers! Tommy planted them for their uniquness and their double meaning. I can no longer work outside due to my health (no bending) but Tom is superb, and has become an excellent gardener. As a tribute to Tommy we bought a wonderful statue. His name is Saint Fiacre. He is the Saint of gardens, and sits in my birthday garden. Tom and Jerry set it up for me years ago. He looks over impatients, and colleus and our little pond. The pond with its water plants and fountain will come to fruition in August. So, thank you Tommy for our lovely garden for out River House. I feel close to you when I am out there. Please keep inspiring us, we need it!
Love, Mama
Love, Mama
January 8, 2016
January 8, 2016
To my dear friends,
I am so saddened to have just learned of Tommy's death. I know he was such a true and genuine person, living the life that was meant to be and sharing it with all those who loved him.
My deepest sympathies. I know Tommy's light will live on in all those who knew him and loved him.
I am so saddened to have just learned of Tommy's death. I know he was such a true and genuine person, living the life that was meant to be and sharing it with all those who loved him.
My deepest sympathies. I know Tommy's light will live on in all those who knew him and loved him.
December 25, 2015
December 25, 2015
MERRY CHRISTMAS from heaven. I often talk to Tommy in heaven, so how can I presume that he doesn't listen to me! The wonders he must experiencing goes beyond our understanding. But, this Christmas and always, lets rejoice with him, and hold him close in our hearts.
December 15, 2015
December 15, 2015
Sue,
You are a beautiful writer. Thank you for your words of hope and joy at this holiday season. I know many people have a hard time coming to forever missed, but my son is HERE in many ways. The joyful pictures show how he loved life. He was certainly worrisome, and so much work to raise, but he was a joy. Your words were a great comfort. I feel he is going on with the Lord's work. Love, Ms. Peg
You are a beautiful writer. Thank you for your words of hope and joy at this holiday season. I know many people have a hard time coming to forever missed, but my son is HERE in many ways. The joyful pictures show how he loved life. He was certainly worrisome, and so much work to raise, but he was a joy. Your words were a great comfort. I feel he is going on with the Lord's work. Love, Ms. Peg
December 15, 2015
December 15, 2015
I knew Tommy through Peg's stories - always told with that great deep chuckle. I know he was surrounded by love and humor and care and JOY! His joy is complete in the arms of the Lord and though your hearts may feel empty I pray that his spirit of love and joy will fill them as you had always poured it into him.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
August 27, 2023
August 27, 2023
A memory of our visits to Potato Creek in the autumn. Hikes, meals shared and love remembered. Miss you, Tommy
August 27, 2022
August 27, 2022
Thinking of the good times today. All the parties, the laughter, the silliness make me smile. So happy we loved each other then and comforted to know we continue that affection transcending the boundaries of time and space. I love you, Tommy.
August 27, 2022
August 27, 2022
It has been awhile, but looking back, I still see your smiling face as if it was yesterday. We know you are with God and your Mom and other family. Rest in peace, we love you.
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Recent stories
When All You Have Are Memories
December 12, 2015
by Peg Wartell
♥♥♥♥♥ When All You Have Left Are Memories ♥♥♥♥♥
I opened my dresser drawer today
Way in the back were knitted cowboy boots
Grandma Wartell gave them to baby Tommy, and when they became too small, I put a ribbon through them and hung them on the Christmas tree.
He’s four and a half and does not know his alphabet! I know he is smart. What is going on? I bought him a dinosaur book. A is for Apatosaurus, B is for Brontosaurus, C is for Cephalopod. He learned his ABC’s in two days.
I do remember that he approached his entire educational career that way. If he was interested, and/or motivated he learned quickly. If not, the information wasn't worth learning.
If you knew Tommy you know that he did not have a stellar academic career. But I wanted to share the following information with you.
1999 Illinois Goal Assessment Program: I have never been prouder of Tommy, or angrier at Naperville Central High School. Tommy was abused for being gay in high school. I am not using that word lightly. His teachers knew how intelligent he was because they would tell me. But no one would figure out how to evaluate him differently, also they did not protect him from bullies. Well, these tests showed them my son’s intelligence, and how they all failed him.
. SOCIAL SCIENCE: student 363/ School 315.
Notable score:Tommy, GEOGRAPHY 100% /school 78%
How can someone get 100% in any standardized test? What a kid.
His test scores brought glory to his high school.
His high school brought shame and and sorrow to him.
SCIENCE: 420/ school 310.
There are many more, and they are all impressive.
So, if you know a “Tommy” make sure you fight for them. We did our best. After frequent meetings and struggles to help, Tommy did Graduate and we are very proud of him for that.
LOVE, MAMA
My 2nd Mothers Day
May 7, 2016
by Peg Wartell
Its my second mother's day without my son. Each and every day I picture him. He is sitting sideways on Tom's big brown chair. He is sleeping. Eyes close, peaceful. Jerry is screaming for Tom. As I come close I touch him and feel how cold he is. Sleep apnea and an enlarged heart took him to heaven as he slept. He had been gone for four hours before we even knew he had a problem. He had a great summer. Jerry and he had a great birthday weekend Aug. 5th, at Boys Town, and the Conservatory. Here it was Aug. 27th, there were no bipolar episodes, Tom had a good summer, how could he be gone? Each and everyday, I still ask that question. How can my funny, intelligent, loving son be gone? Please hold your babies close today on Mothers Day. No matter how old they are, they will always be a part of you. Please remember my Tommy. My knowing that you think of him makes it easier for me. I know I am not on this journey alone. We can all hold him in memory, and tell him we love him.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY EVERYONE
Off to Kindergarden
December 6, 2015
by Peg Wartell
When Tommy was five for no understandable reason he began to talk like a baby. It drove me nuts. (ahhhh, there's the reason!) No matter what I did this continued for months. It was time to for his Kindergarden evaluation. One of the tests was rhyming, so we rhymed like our lives depended on it, and he sure got that concept. My fear, of course, was that he would talk in that obnoxious baby voice. "Tommy, if you talk in your normal voice I will buy you one of those little dinosaurs you really like" (1.50). Now, the embarrasing part. I had to to ask the tester if Tommy used a normal voice. She said quizzically," he talked like a five year old." Off to buy the baby dinosaur.