The Gate

At some point all good things have to come to an end.

It has been the wall that separates this young boy from independence. A baby-sitter at times. A container. A boundary to mommy and daddy's space. Many times that thin wall that separates the space between chaos and sanity. A metaphorical horizon for this 3 foot tall bundle of life.

Many young parents wonder at what point they should take the baby gate down. Well...

Many of you have asked "What goes on during those fun nights with daddy?" Well, this might give you a glimpse behind the curtain.

We usually begin the evening with some food. Actually, on a whim, we recently tried the Picadilly Cafeteria. And in one visit I cured myself of ever needing to go back there. And this might help you - a couple of post-manducated chocolate pudding shots(with sprinkles) -

Many nights there is a visit to the "paypace"or some other exotic locale. Notice the interesting social behavior of the two. Andrew quickly goes to make a new friend and ends up in the middle of the action. Ella...well, not sure EXACTLY where she is, but it is probably involves people named Drizella and Anastasia, Snow White, or maybe the "tep-mudda" (stepmother from Cinderella).

Finally, there is the celebration dance. Often enjoyed over an evening cocktail we call the "Milk Totty". The recipe is basically 9 parts milk, 3 parts back-washed milk, a splash of remnant graham cracker crumbs. Coat the outside of the cup generously with any left-over food from prior meals (within the last 2 weeks). It is rather potent...you'll see the effects in the video.

Feats Of Strength

Inspired by the folks at milescrew, we are including videos of this year's Festivus Feats of Strength. What is Festivus?

WARNING: Before you watch this video, make sure you have Kleenex nearby.

Ella has been honing her Hip Hop moves. Ginny started by working with her on the classic "pump fists round and round". Then I (off camera, as it went) showed Ella how to execute the perfect sprinkler head. (Some of the older folk might need a demo to understand). She was looking pretty strong until mommy intervened to keep macaroni out of her hair.

Winners of the 2008 two most beautiful women in the world contest (and favorites for the 09 event) . Winner: Ginny B. First Runner Up: Ella !

See how they grow? And you were all worried...

In response to the outpouring of concern for Ella's emotional state after the car-wash incident, we offer you this:

Christmas Contest

A special Christmas treat goes to the first person who can correctly identify this song in the comments section of breneblog.

A little fun at Shoe Carnival with my cell phone camera while Mommy shops for shoes!

This is our kids first Disney ride. Spaceship Earth at Epcot. Look at the apprehension.

Ella turns TWO!!!!!!!!!!!

Tonight we celebrated Ella's Birthday at Chili's (had a coupon)! Take a look at her birthday bash web album by clicking here.

Ella plays with Andrew's army men more than he does. She calls them her "bad guys". This morning she broke into my office looking for them about 8 times. I was ready for her with my cellphone video this time... She is saying "I need my bad guys".

Keep a close eye on the window after she shuts the door.

Here is some fun with Mommy...

Ella had some girl time last weekend with a little friend. Here is a sneak peak:

Click on this one to enlarge.

Found this one in the vault.