Swings, Falls and Blame Daddy...

Well this week was spring break and the first couple the weather was really nice. Wednesday with our journey to the Children's Museum the weather turned a bit cool and wet. The boys have begun to really get on each others nerves which does not make the summer look good. This morning I decided we needed to get out and what better place to go to then Trader Joes. It has been a while so we loaded up the van and went to the market. Off course the moment we walk in 2yo starts saying "Joe Joes...Joe Joes...Cookies" The Trader Joes brand of sandwich cookie is know as "Joe Joe's" We did our shopping and filled the cart. I guess it was not a good idea to shop on an empty stomach...

When we made it back to the homestead it was time for lunch. I made the boys sandwiches upon request and popped a TJ Deli Mini Pizza in the over. Roasted Tomato and Sausage... Mmmmmm The boys ate while I picked up a little around the house and checked on some work items. They finished up just as my food was ready. I cleaned up faces, floor, table & chairs and let them run around. I decided to try to get a few things done for work while I ate when all I hear is..."Go Outside!!! Go Outside!!!" 2yo runs gets his shoes yelling at the top of his lunges. I told him I would love to go outside, but I would like to finish my lunch first..."All Done food...Outside!!!" No I said in a few minutes... He has a major meltdown and then says... "Bed Bed...Ba Ba...Bed Bed" I asked him if he wanted to go to bed and have his Binky... He nodded yes and ran upstairs. He went to sleep in minutes. We are breaking him of the Binky, but he still has it at night and during naps.

During Nap time I got some work done while 6yo listened to his Spanish Audio Lesson. For his class he needs to listen the the CD at least 4 times a week. I actually converted it to MP3 and he uses my iPod. He thinks it is so cool he can listen using the iPod. Keeps him happy and allows me to have a little piece for about 30 minutes. When he was done he and I played a little "Empire At War" Actually I played and he watched. He is learning how to play and actually has beaten the computer in some skirmish battles.

Once 2yo woke up we all went into the backyard to play. We ran around chasing each other and had a blast. Then they would go to the swings. (6yo on swing, 2yo on "Rocket Rider") Well I was pushing 2yo and he was having a blast until he let go!!! He slide and held on for dear life...As I got him stopped he said AGAIN!! His brother at that age would have not gotten back on. 2yo on the other hand tries and tries and tries no matter what...

Now for the BAD part...

6yo was swinging and I taught him how to JUMP from the swings...He was doing great and asked me to push him... I started pushing him and then I guess we timed it just right. I push right as he pumped and he went REALLY HIGH... His feet went back and his butt ended up being at the highest point with his head facing straight DOWN!!! The chains all of a sudden had slack and he went tumbling backwards holding on for dear life when the chains got tight again and POP he goes flying to the ground on his BUTT and BACK from at least 3 feet up... BAM!!! OUCH!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!!!

My heart stopped... He was OK just a little shaken... I came running to him as did his little brother.

So tonight he was playing in the toy room with his brother and did something to get hurt... Mom says "Wow you are trying to get hurt today" he responds... "NO the swing was Dads Fault, Not Mine..." GREAT!!!

Well at about 3:20 today the Car Dealer called and said that my wife's Mazda 5 was ready. We had to have the bumper repainted after a repair that had issues. They ended up getting a brand new bumper and started from scratch.
The only problem is that the dealer is about 30 minutes away. Since my wife has been driving a loaner for two weeks I thought it would be nice to get her car back tonight. So as soon as she got home I left and picked up her car. The car is back better then new and nice and clean. On the outside anyway. When it was really nice out the car was in the shop...

The5

1. Crazy Drivers - I saw a van today that was a work van for a door company that was just out of control He was ridding the backs of cars so close that even a slight change in speed would have caused a crash. He was swerving in and out of traffic and even cut in front of me with just enough room not to clip my front bumper. I sure hope he finds a ditch somewhere to get stuck in...
2. Mazda 5 - I sure hope this is the last we have to deal with after the Raccoon issue last fall. It is crazy how much trouble on fur ball could cause. Granted I think he got the short end of the stick being squished...
3. 163 Days - Until the NFL season kicks off. I added a countdown clock to my google home page.
4. Google Home - I needed to organize a bit and get an online calender so I went with the new Empire...Google. I use the website and have all the blogs, news outlets and cartoons I look at each day. Not to mention an entire tab devoted to the NFL... So far I have liked what I have seen with the page.
5. Riding - I have not ridden my bicycle all week because of the wonderful sinus infection. I am hoping by Monday I can get my life back to normal. I am hoping to be riding outside daily really soon.

Daily Observation: When something scary happens it seems like life stands still. Seeing my son come crashing down from the swing seemed to take forever. In the end he was bale to laugh at it, but I am still a bit freaked out...

A Day At The Children's Museum

Well today the we headed out to the Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier. The boys had a blast!!! At first 2yo was a little shy, but once he got going he was really into it. 6yo kept saying the best part of the day was EVERYTHING!!! It was really nice that there were sections just for the little ones and just for the older ones. I was a little disappointed that many people did not pay attention to signs and many of the big kids were running around in the toddler areas. The weather today was rather nasty with it pretty cool and rainy.

On the way home we decided to do the Lake Shore Drive / Sheridan Rd Lake Michigan drive through many of the really nice areas. Drove through the Northwestern Campus and off course looked at some amazing houses along the way.

Other then still feeling rather awful from the sinus infection it was a fun day and both boys were extremely good and had a wonderful time...

Exciting Night... Well when it was time to get ready for be the boys took a bath. We have a little potty chair in the bathroom so if 2yo decides he wants to try. Well tonight his brother had to use the bathroom so the 2yo got out of the bath went to the little potty chair opened up sat down and peed. WOW he was so happy and we were very proud and happy. I will not force him, but as he gains interest it will be there for him...

The5 (Times Two)

1. Sinus Infections - Are Awful...this time it is the worst I have ever had... UGH!!!
2. Traffic - Traffic going downtown was bad even at 10:00 am... If I had to go there all the time I would have to take a train...
3. Weather - the shift in weather again has made it even more difficult to deal with the sinus issues. 80 on Monday, 40's today!!! UGH!!!
4. Laundry - Tomorrow will be one of those AWFUL days where I am attacked all day by the laundry monster.
5. xXx - Ok..for the record I have only paid for one movie rental in over two years. My local library has a huge DVD collection and always has the newest films. Thankfully I did not pay for xXx State of the Union... What a BAD MOVIE!!! I enjoy a bad movie from time to time, but this movie made the first one look like an Oscar Winner. SLJ is of course awesome a usual and Willem Defoe is a great bad guy, but other then that.. I think I should have been paid to watch that one...

Part Deux The Online Etiquette Version

1. RSS - RSS is a family of web feed formats used to publish frequently updated digital content, such as blogs, news feeds or podcasts. (See the rest here at Wiki...) There has been some issues with a misunderstanding in the Dads Realm. I think more people should understand what is going on. You can subscribe to my feed at the right...
2. Flaming - Flaming is the act of sending or posting messages that are deliberately hostile and insulting, usually in the social context of a discussion board on the Internet. (See the rest here at Wiki...)
3. ALL CAPS - USING ALL CAPS IS NOT ONLY DIFFICULT TO READ IT TYPICALLY MEANS YOU ARE YELLING. Take the time to write properly. No Need to Shout...
4. Be Kind - Remember the person behind the post and what your mother probably told you when you were growing up. If you do not have something nice to say don't say anything at all. Or at least some version of that...
5. Context - Because not everyone writes or reads things posted in the right context it is easy for someone to misunderstand the meaning of a message, post or even blog entry. Be careful and if you feel you have been insulted make sure that was the intent before beginning a "Flame War" (see FLAME Above)
   

Daily Observation: One Small Ember can great a massive fire if the Flames Are Fanned. Don't forget to put out the FLAME!!!

Doctors & Vets & Meds Oh My!!!

Well in two days we have been to the doctors twice and the vets twice...

The Vets
Well Monday and Tuesday we had appointments for the dogs. Frodo the Little dog went for his yearly and all was well. Sebastion the big dog on the other hand went in for health issues. He is 11 and has be having seizures that have be getting much worse. So now he is on meds the rest of his life in order to keep him from having the seizures.



The Doctors...

My Story...

Well Saturday I began getting symptoms of a sinus infection. Sunday I woke up and I felt like I was punched in the face, but Doctor is not open on Sunday. So I call Monday morning hoping to not have to drive in with the boys and talk to the nurse. The normal nurse practitioner I see was on vacation. (she would have gotten me a script without even coming in...Knows me well enough) She said she would speak to the doctor and call me back...2 hours later she calls me back and said the doctor would like to see you. Ok let me get an appointment...

Passes me to the appointment person and she says I can get you in Wednesday afternoon...WTF!!!! I said that won't work I need to do something about this a bit sooner then that. How about sick call tomorrow morning at 7:00... I said it would be impossible to get in there during RUSH HOUR traffic with to young kids... Well you can call again tomorrow and try to get a same day appointment because right now it is late for that...

Now I got PISSED...

I said look I called at 8:30 when the switchboard was open and talked to a nurse to see if I would even have to come in. I get a call back 2 hours later and now it is too late to get an appointment...

So I lose it...

"This is insane, I call to find out if I even need to come in, I know I have a sinus infection and now you want me to wait until Wednesday or try to drag my two young children out at the crack of dawn in rush hour... This is unacceptable and now I am getting Pissed!!! I guess I will have to see if I can find a different practice that is willing to see me!!!"

With that she said hold on... Let me talk to the doctor...

Can you come in at 11:30... Yes...Thank You...

I call my dad to see if he is around and my mom answers...Spring Break (She works at a High School) Both my folks are home so I drop off the boys on the way in...

So I go in, pay my co-pay and see the Doctor for 10 minutes... What do you know...A Sinus infection... Get my script for Antibiotics, suggestion for a decongestant and free samples of Nasonex (I have a script for Flonase, but with the infection is giving me a bloody nose) At least the samples cover the co-pay... He also said it is a pretty good infection as well... REALLY!!!

As for the other appointment...

6yo has had a bit of a rash due to his allergies that just wont get better. We go in to his primary doctor and decide the best course would be a dermatologist. He gives use some samples and a prescription to help until we can get the referral in order...

So the Med count...
Pills for one Dog
Meds and Cream for one Child
Pills and Spray for one adult...

Walgreens stock has gone up just because of my family...

So Off To Bed...

A Double dose of The5 Tomorrow...

Of Mice And Men

The air is still the light creeps in as the sound or something moving comes from inside. A wash of odd almost ammonia like sent floats from the dark recesses of the shed... MICE!!!

The past week has been extra busy and I have not had the time, energy or willingness to post much. As for this weekend it was a bit strange. Saturday I got up and replaced all the outside lights with new fixtures. The original builders fixtures were awful in my opinion and off course are on every house. A few people in the neighborhood have changed fixtures and now I am one of them. Saturday afternoon my 6yo had a party at a sports center where he played soccer and dodge ball. It was really cool and he had a blast. Mom and the 2yo went to a family party for our niece that turned one. Since we had so much going on we had to split duties. The evening was short and we were all asleep by a little after 10:00. I had been feeling bad and extra congested.

Sunday morning I wake and I feel like I have been punched in the face. My eye, nose, cheek and top row of teeth hurt. Grrr a sinus infection and my Doctors office is closed. As I wake and get moving upright the pressure on my face is a bit easier to deal with. I figure the best thing for me to do is get on with my day and not think too much about it. I purchased some solar flood lights to place on the sides and front of my house in order give a nice warm feeling to the out side. I put up one set and then went into the back yard to poopy scoop and get the swings out for the boys.

As I open the shed door the air is still the light creeps in as the sound or something moving comes from inside. A wash of odd almost ammonia like sent floats from the dark recesses of the shed... MICE!!! The floor is covered with bird seed shells, fertilizer, dirt, sand and flakes of material... I pull out my canopie top and see no less then a dozen holes in it. As I pull out item after item there are holes chewed in them. My Lawn Mower bag, Leaf Blower Bag, Tarps, Screen for my gazebo... We have our last soccer game of the indoor league and now I have this... So I keep removing things until it is time to go to play our last indoor game.

Soccer... the kids have fun again and in the last second lose the game, but the record is not kept. It is just a fun league I gained my first coaching experience. Since it was only games there was no practices and it was all in fun. My biggest problem was getting the subs in and out. In the end the kids received nice little trophies for playing and I was surprised when the head of the program gave me a special gift as well. A mug with the league information and my name as coach. It was a nice surprise.

The rest of the afternoon I spent cleaning out the shed and hosing it out. I threw out so much stuff that was destroyed as well as spilled all over the floor of the shed. I decided to get my lawn mower out and take a look, but I had trouble setting it up. The pull start seemed to be jammed and the handle was stuck down. I look under it and around the blade the mice made a nest so the blade was jammed with stuff. So I broke out the power washer and cleaned the underside. what a mess. So now the shed looks great and my mother will be patching the canopy as soon as I get some canvas.

The5

1. Mice - The little monster(s) did so much damage all I wanted to do was step on the little beast. The wife really did not want me to rub the little nasty out. So I complied...
2. Water - While cleaning the 3 inches of stuff off the floor I spied the mouse. I was not supposed to kill it so I hit it with a spray from the hose soaking the little monster. It was pissed...
   
3. Sinus Infection - Ouch... It also will be fun today to try to get to the Dr. Joy!
4. Battlestar Galatica - Season Finale was last night. I have yet to decide what I truly thought. I did not delete it off my DVR so I think I will have to watch the final 10 minutes again...
   
5. 80 Degrees - The projected high for today!!! YEAH!!!!

Daily Observation: You get the sickest when you are unable to see a doctor...

Lightning Strikes

The rain was coming down in sheets as I made my way to the grade school. The traffic slowed, the thunder cracked and the water ran across the roads like a river. As I looked in my rear view mirror a bright blue light flashed with an almost otherworldly glow. CRACK! the lightning struck a power line and flames and sparks jumped into the air...

Today was the first time I have actually seen a lightning strike. I have seen the damage and the effects in the distance, but this was the first time I saw the actually strike... "HOLY SH*T"

Well the past few days have been really busy for me as well as needing to catch up on sleep after 2yo was not feeling well all weekend and then the remnants on Monday morning... Acid Diapers... Ewwwwww!!!!

We are coming up on the final Episode of the Season for Battlestar Galatica and there are rumors flying about who the last Cylon humans are...

Hearing The Music? Is this a sign of the Cylons, or something else???

Tory Foster - The Presidents Aid is rumored to be a Cylon and has been acting rather Strange. She is not sleeping and may be hearing the music that a few others are as well.

COL. TIGH - Adamas right hand man and the troubled XO is in bad shape. Not sleeping, Drinking and claims to be hearing some music.

Sam Anders (aka Mr Starbuck) - Is playing games in the bar and also claims to hear some music.

Felix Gaeta - The Right hand man of Baltars on New Caprica during the occupation. Was he helping the people, or using Baltar?? Could there be a major reveal in order to save Baltar on trial?

Baltar- Could he actually be a Cylon or just a confused PAWN? Is he the man that should be worshiped by Humans and Cylons alike? Will he get airlocked?

Starbuck - "Died" in a bright flash of light a few episodes ago...Is she dead or is she a special Human Cylon Hybrid that is truly SPECIAL like her mother and later the Cylons said she is?? Will she be revealed as the most important of the 5???

Chief Tyrol - Is he a Cylon? He had dreams for a while that he was...Could he be the link? Unlikely!!! He has a daughter and there has been no mention of another "Special" child...

Romo Lampkin - The Lawyer for Baltar...Is he a Cylon? The perfect lawyer the perfect person the perfect plot... Hmmmmm

Needless to say I really want to see the final episode this Sunday... Then the DVD Movie this "Offseason" and then Season 4 Next year.... Yeah!!!

The 5

1. 45/45 - 45 minutes on my Bike today and 45 Minutes talking 2yo for a walk...
2. Da Bears - the Bears traded a later round pick for Safety Adam Archuleta... Does this mean Mike Browns days are numbered? Will he redo his contract to stay???
3. March Madness - Not My Thing...
4. Pressure Washer! - I bought an early birthday present. A 1450 PSI Pressure washer for my cars... YES!!! POWER TOOLS!!!!
   
5. Weather - The weather seems to be warming up...Has Spring Finally Sprung??

Daily Observation: Driving real fast in a subdivision and then running stop signs really makes you cool. Grrrr....

Extra Long Weekend

Snipes and Snails and Puppy dog Tails...Thats what little boys are made off. I am not sure that is correct. Maybe Rocketfuel, Whine and Hot Sauce... 2yo had not been feeling well at the end of the week so he slept really bad making wife and I struggle to get any sleep. The weekend was extra long, but at the same time way too short.

St Patricks Day...

6yo had his final basketball game at 9:00 am and my folks came out to watch and had a good time. The wife decided she actually wanted a corned beef dinner seeing as we have a rather strong bit of irish in us. I decided to do a few errands and get a corned beef and potatoes. (We Don't Do Cabbage) When I got back from the store I find out my parents called and invited us out for Corned beef... DOH!!! Have a nice piece of meat in the freezer now. Will probably Crock Pot the CB next month. That night 2yo actually slept ok...

Sunday Soccer and Shopping

6yo had a double header indoor Soccer game Sunday morning, however the team was missing 3 of the 6 kids... DOH!!! the other team was also a bit short as well. So we had two OLDER boys from the indoor age group one step older play in goal. They could not use their hands and a good time was had by all. Sunday afternoon we ran out to Lowes to get some outdoor lighting so in the next few weeks I can replace that. We also stopped by Old Navy to see if they had any good deals. BOTH BOYS WERE TERRIBLE IN THE STORES!!! Joy...

Unfortunately with the complete lack of sleep for a few days I did not blog much. There will probably be two or more posts today.

The 5

1. Lowe's - First time in a Lowes yesterday. I like it better then Home Depot and Menards. We ended up getting a really good deal on a bunch of outdoor lighting.
2. Corned Beef- Mmmmmmm
3. Old Navy - $4.99 T-Shirts for me... Yeah... that are actually long enough for me
4. Car Being Painted - Wifes front bumper get repainted this week... Loaner car again...
5. Mondays - They Suck...

Daily Observation: There never seems to be a shortage of idiot drivers in a hurry to crash and burn...

Cool Down or Melt Down

Well the weather has made a major change from Tuesday. Went from the 70's to the 40's Oh Joy! The sudden change in the weather and a bit of a long week has made the kids a bit short on patients. Not to mention my patients...

Both boys were up way too early this morning so the day started rough. 6yo not awake and breakfast a bad combination. Again 2yo spent much of the morning being pissed at the world and making messes. It was apparent an early nap was in order when he got frustrated with a plastic ball and then yelled at it. He not only yelled at it, but he gave it a tongue lashing in 2yo grunt noises... He did however make up with it before his nap.

3:25 the doorbell rings and a package I have been waiting for arrived. In it more cars from the movie CARS! These are actually the small size like HotWheels. I had thought they were the bigger ones, but in the end 2yo was beyond excited. Mater, Sally, Romone, Flo, King and Mcqueen... He ran around making the KING crash like in the movie and saying Oh No!!!
Those ended up in bed tonight with him.

7:00 6yo has starts mouthing off and basically has a meltdown. He was way over tired from staying up too late and getting up too early. He really pushed it tonight to the point of no return. Being 6 he wants to push it, but has no clue when to stop and just be quiet...

So was today a Cool down or a Meltdown?

The5

1. New Toys - 2yo loves everything to do with the movie cars. Getting "The King" was the highlight of his day. Plus the cars being a smaller size he calls them babies... Baby McQueen, Baby Sally...
   
2. Weight Management - It has taken a few weeks, but I think I have finally found the right balance of food when I ride. So far this week I have ridden 47 miles in about 200 minutes. Tomorrow I will break the 60 Mile mark for the week. Today was the first day this week that I really felt hungry. I have been cutting back on portions and junk, so the past couple weeks have caught up with me. Hopefully I can get over the hunger hump today...
3. Broken Glasses - 6yo popped the screws out of his glasses AGAIN!!! Need to take them in and put back together. I need to find out if it is all young kids or just my 6yo that seems to have his glasses fall apart.
4. Bumper Paint Job - Well the damaged bumper on my wifes 5 that was repainted has been nothing but a pain. I am dropping the car off on Monday to have the ENTIRE bumper stripped and painted AGAIN!!! Better work this time or the dealer will be paying someone else to do it...
5. Spring Cleaning Coming - Well we have some major spring cleaning to do. I want to clean out some junk in my garage (My Messy is most peoples clean) and rearrange some shelves and hooks. With the bikes, trailers, toys... I need to make better use of the space. And NO I will not park the cars outside. 2 car garage for 2 cars... Then the fun begins. This spring we are going to go through the boys rooms and the toy room and clean out old toys as well as throw out anything broken. This will be interesting...

Daily Observation: The sound of a 2yo getting made at a toy is both scary and funny at the same time. Makes me glad I was not the toy...

70 Degress and Sunny!!!

The warm spring air rushes in as I begin opening the windows. The winter air that has remained trapped in the house is finally replaced with warm fresh air. The melting snow and sun combine to give a feeling of relief resembling the morning after a late spring storm.

Last night ended strange and that strangeness found its way to today. I was really tired last night and had to stop work a little early because I could not focus and I found myself dozing off. I relaxed and watched a little Tivo'd tv with my wife after she was done working. At one point while fast forwarding through a commercial I fell asleep... My wife began to laugh as she woke me.

Even though I went to bed at 10:15 this morning I could barely get up. I struggled to go downstairs where my 2yo was playing while my wife showered. I locked us in the family room and fell back asleep on the couch with a 2 year old sitting on me watching cartoons.

For most of the morning 2yo was rather destructive. As I would try cleaning up one toy mess he started another. Then came the dreaded morning cookie request. "Un Coo-Key Dad..Not Du...Un" I refused to let him have one since he barely touched his breakfast. I go off to the bathroom and when I come out I here a CRASH... "Oh No" I here... 2yo in a hurry to get some Teddy Grahams while I was in the bathroom spilled the entire container all over the floor. I came out and gave a yell and made him sit in the chair for a timeout. He moved REALLY quickly and sat there watching me clean up his mess. The rest of the morning I spent cleaning up one thing after another until I decided it was time to go to Meijer for some odds and ends. This kept him from destroying anything else.

After lunch he napped until his brother got home from school. We then walked down to a neighbors and 2yo played with the other 2yo boy. They had a blast and it was not too long before there were 6 boys running around ages 1-8...

I had planned to get a bunch of work done tonight, but it seemed everything was working against me. Dinner, Little Dog getting REALLY muddy...I picked him up and put him in a bath. Then 6yo had a loose front tooth start to fall out and get stuck 95% out and spurting blood. I had the honors of the final pull.

Throughout the day there were too many challenges that tested my extremely tired mind... Here is to another day.

The5

1. Over Tired - Really amazing what happens to your mind when you feel a few steps beyond tired.
2. Bad Customer Service - I was given a Gift Card for Xmas from my boss and I have never had such issues with anything. VISA ALL ACCESS card is all trouble. I might have to spend some time causing them problems.
3. MUD!! - this time of year it is EVERYWHERE!!! YUCK!!!
4. TV - All the new programing will come to an end in the coming months... Doh... However STARGATES and many new SciFi shows start as well as the Shield...
   
5. SHIELD - The Shield starts its final season soon. Is this the end of VIC!!!

Daily Observation: When you need to work everyone and everything will do its best to prevent you from working. Especially on a Beautiful day...

300 Movie Review

I published a review of the movie 300 at dadcenter.com

Read It Here...

End of the Weekend

As with all good things they eventually come to an end. This weekend was rather pleasant and extremely busy. The weather was in the 50's which is much better then the crazy cold Feb.

Saturday - I signed up my 6yo for football and I am on the list to coach. In the later morning my 6yo had a Basketball game so we all went and my father went as well which made my sons very happy. After the game we stopped at the sports store and picked up Pee Wee Game Football so my son will have something to get used to prior to the season beginning. In the early afternoon the wife and I had a date to see 300. We both enjoyed the movie and I have done a review for dadcenter which should be online Monday. I will link the review to the blog as soon as it is up and going.

Sunday - the morning was spent getting some house stuff done prior to my sons Double header Soccer games. I coach that as well which is basically just time management for an indoor park district program. We won one and lost one. All the kids were happy and very tired. the afternoon was less pleasant since I still had some stuff to do around the house with a really bad headache. Battlestar Galatica was on tonight...YES!!!

The 5

1. Movie Reviews - After seeing 300 I wrote my own review and then spent much of last night reading all the reviews out there. Some were very well done and other I am not sure they watched the same movie. There were more for the movie then against, but a few of those against were very well done. However I think many critics take that critic thing too serious. I read one count where an ethnic reviewer was upset at the lack of certain groups as Spartans... Hmmm Another was talking about Ninjas... WTF? See my review tomorrow and remember Opinions are like Farts...Everyone has them and they all stink...
2. Pee Wee Football - I can not believe my son will be playing football in the fall!
3. I Have A Head Ache This Big - And Excedrin did nothing...
4. Time Change- Was nice to have it light out after dinner. And maybe just maybe the time change will get the 2yo to sleep a little later...
5. Roller coaster of Weather- The next few weeks will get warm and cool often enough to probably make everyone sick...

Daily Observation: Nudists do not do what they do for a social statement...They do it because they are sick of laundry...

50's a walk and a wonderful afternoon

The sun was shinning and the snow was melting. The temperature was rising and it looks like spring might have sprung...

The day did not start out all that wonderful with 2yo waking at 3:00 AM and coming to our bed pissed off and not sleeping for at least another hour. The night was long and uncomfortable since he is a restless sleeper and kept kicking me in his sleep. The wife left a little early so 2yo and I walked 6yo to the bus stop and wished him well. Already the temperature was rising and it looked to be a good day. I decided to get as much work as I could get done early so I could have the afternoon to be outside. 11:00 rolls around and 2yo is really tired and demands bed. So it is off to a nap for him. He takes about twenty minutes of talking to his cars before he falls asleep. I have made it a point to have his nap time be my ME time. So I decided to go for a ride on my bike in the basement and watch a little DUNE... I rode 40 minutes, showered and shaved and felt great. I then made a Trader Joes Kung Pao Noodle box for lunch. I had really hoped to get a slice for the local Pizza place, but someone was still sleeping. I get a bit more work done knowing a little someone would wake soon... He did not... 2:00 rolls around before he wakes... Almost 3 Hours!!!

We decided at this point a walk was looking pretty good. Cabin fever had been in full effect in Feb, so now it is time to be out. We looked over the Jogging Stroller and inflated the tires. Off we went for a 40 minute walk in the sun and snow... We had to walk mainly on the street since most of my neighbors refuse to shovel the sidewalks when it snows. With the melting the big piles of snow on the sidewalks are now about 3 inches of Ice and Slush... YUCK!! 2yo had a wonderful time and we both really enjoyed being outside.

Dinner... PIZZA!!! YES!!!!

1. 300 - 2:30 Tomorrow we have a sitter and are going with some friends...
2. DUNE II - I found DUNE II RTS ported to updated PC's One of the first if not the first RTS ever. What a blast it was to play that again. Brings back memories of staying up late with my 386...
3. Star Wars EP III XBOX - I picked this game up a few weeks ago for my 6yo. He was frustrated with a few levels so I have been playing it on and off. It is a really short game so tonight I beat the last level and lopped Anakins Legs off...
4. 55 and Sunny - YES!!! What an amazing afternoon... Too bad at about 4:00 it started to rain.
5. 40 Minutes Biking and 40 Minutes Walking - What a great day to get some exercise, granted I wasted all that great exercise with Pizza and a Big Gulp!!!
   

Daily Observation: 40-50 degrees in the spring is warm, in the Fall it is cold... I like the warm!

When Service is Good...

My wife has a Mazda 5 and a few months ago we hit a raccoon the size of a house that destroyed the front bumper. Since then we have had little issues here and there and the Service Manager at the dealer has been all over it. Not only has he made extra arrangements due to my son he as come to my house and fixed a faulty key fob and tonight will be coming by to inspect an issue with the paint from the repair so I do not have to make an extra trip in. Would I recommend this dealer YES, would I recommend the service department...YES!!! When someone does even the little things it makes the experience that much better.

Toys R Us and a 2 Year Old

With a swoosh the automatic doors open to a amazing wonderland. A 2yo's eyes widen like saucers with a jaw dropping amazement...Then the excitement builds until he can no longer hold it back...TTTTTTOOOOOYYYYSSSSS!!!!!

Well yesterday I had a major case of cabin fever so after we ate lunch we headed out to Toys R Us to get some presents for 3 upcoming birthdays. While we were there I looked for some decorations from the Disney/Pixar Movie Cars and some toys from the movie. We had no problem with the gifts, the decorations and we did get two cars. (Sally and Radiator Springs Lightning) Since I found some cars I needed to make sure I found something for the 6yo. His favorite thing is Star Wars so I looked at the legos and they only had the really expensive ones so off to action figures. They had very little in this section as well, but they had a Clone Trooper from EpIII and that was PERFECT!!!

Both boys have yet to leave the toys for more then a few minutes...

The5

1. 300 - Going to go this weekend to see the movie and probably with another couple. After the movie I will be putting together a review and posting it at DadCenter. So when it is done I will link to it...
   
2. Battlestar Galatica - Only three more episodes left and from what I understand the Season Finally will be mind bending!!! Someone else is reveled as a Cylon... For the record I do like most of the SIDE characters, but my comment about the four characters I felt make the show special and should not be killed does not make me like other character any less. As a show it is the entire cast, but the anchors are what I feel makes it the show it is...
3. Transformers - This summers big budget movie... Can Not Wait!!!
   
4. Football - About 6 Months to Football Season!!!
5. Writing - Well I have just a few projects going right now... A Man Among Mommies, Wonkemtel and Dadcenter. Plus I Moderate a Dads Forum as well as run a forum for my HS Class. I think I have issues...

Daily Observation: Grocery Carts should not be left across the aisle...

Two Extra Days Off...Too Much

The yells, thumps and crashes make the house tremble. Dogs run, kids chase cabin fever sets the pace...

Well Monday 6yo was off for Casimir Pulaski Day and school was closed Tuesday for Parent Teacher Conferences. A four day weekend when it is still cold and a bit snowy can make anyone go a bit goofy. After what seemed to be a extra long weekend with the boys both getting on each others nerves I knew we would have to make plans.

We attempted to get a play date on Monday, but that did not work out so we packed up the van and went to the local McDonald's Play land. Since the nearest play land is in the next town away where they had school it was pretty quiet for the first hour we were there. After about an hour and a half it began to get busy and the 2yo kept getting bumped. So we called it a day out and went home. Both boys were exhausted and I put 2yo to bed and made 6yo listen to his Spanish CD for class.

Tuesday we got the play date planned and a friend of the 6yo was coming over just after lunch. We had to do some errands in the morning so off to the Library and Walmart. 6yo in Walmart was acting up which made the trip that much longer. By about 12:00 6yo was wondering when his friend would arrive. The plan was for 12:45 so I had 45 minutes of "when will they be here?"
After his friend arrived they ran off and played along with 2yo. After over an hour of the 3 of them playing 2yo asked to go to bed for a nap. While he was sleeping the older boys played Star Wars games on the XBOX...

So tomorrow I get my schedule back and will have life back to normal for a day or two.

The5

1. Cedric Benson Your Turn - Well the BEARS traded Thomas Jones the "Starting" running back to the JETS for a swap of second round picks. Some people are pissed since CB has not proven himself. The BEARS still have two good running backs in CB and Adrian Peterson. Funny thing is ALL three backs averaged 4.1 yards per carry with CB and TJ tied for long run of 30 yards... Hmmmm
2. Lance Briggs Don't let the Door Hit you in the Backside- The BEARS other Pro-Bowl Linebacker DEMANDED a trade on the "Eastcoast Sports Putz Network" Smart move for someone that owes his success to the entire defense and the fact that a certain number 54 takes the pressure off. Maybe if he could stop the run as well as he shot off his mouth to the media he would be in a better place. If he really wants to go...GO!!! Roosevelt Colvin was before Lance Briggs and I would bet the next LB to line up with # 54 will do just as well...
3. 1 Hour Ride - Well I hit the bike inside for another hour, but I only averaged a little over 13 MPH... By this time I am not really in full form. I am really happy I did get the ride in...
4. LUX- Downloaded a demo version of LUX. A Risk Type game that can be played online by Sillysoft Games. A few friends and I have been trying to find a way to keep playing games together despite being spread across the country.
5. 1:55 Scale Die cast Car Movie Cars - My 2yo loves everything that is a car and has a special love of the cars from the Disney Movie. Well he had been given some for Christmas and I have been trying to find many of the others since then. Sure you can get them from collectors for like 10 times the amount. I just want the cars that my son knows the name of without spending more then retail... I will keep looking...

Daily Observation: Stupid People Do Stupid Things, Evil Worthless People Do Stupid Things to Children...

Battlestar Galactica: Is Starbuck Dead?

Well for anyone that has read my blog before you know I enjoy Sci-Fi. On the top of my list of shows that both my wife and I enjoy is Battlestar Galactica. The show always seems to push the envelope with great stories, enough action and AMAZING performances. Last night there were no punches pulled again in an emotional and powerful episode. Edward James Olmos had a very powerful scene at the end of the episode that will be one of those moments always remembered.

Starbuck goes down in flames while having visions of her mother, Leoban and the Eye of Jupiter. However in her visions Leoban is not Leoban... so who is in her mind... What do the visions of her past have to do with the Cylons, Eye of Jupitor and the current Oracle??? Is She Special???

The5 (Starbuck Is Dead (NOT) Edition)

1. Special - Many of the episodes have been focusing on the fact that Starbuck is "Special" and has a destiny to be realized. She is NOT dead since they have put so much effort into this plot of her being something special to kill her off would be a strange turn.
2. Eye of Jupiter - Starbuck kept seeing the "Eye of Jupiter" in everything from Dreams, Old pictures, Storm Clouds and even dripping wax. This is her destiny and will play out in the future. Who or what she is still needs to be determined.
3. The Ship Of Lights - Well this episode could be a play on the Ship of Lights from the original seris where Apollo "Died" and came back. As Kara began to crash she was washed over in a BRIGHT WHITE LIGHT...
4. The Other 5 - In a similar play with the ship of lights it could be a combination of the ship of lights and the 5 Cylons. She saw or thought she saw a Cylon Heavy Raider. What is to say they did not take her and have a plan for her that has been in place since she before she was born. Her mother was a hero of the first Cylon War... Could she have been captured and altered so Kara would be the "Special" child???
5. The Cylon In her - Is she a Cylon? Did the Cylons create Her? Have the Cylons had something to with her entire life?

I honestly hope they have not stepped over the line and killed off Starbuck. I feel as a fan of the show there are really only a few characters that must be part of the series. Adama, Apollo, Starbuck and Baltar... The rest of the characters could easily be killed off. However the show has proven it is willing to kill of characters and keep the stories fresh and powerful...

Starbuck may you return!!!

Daily Observation: Battlestar Galactica proves again why it is one of the finest shows on TV...

Are You Ready For Some Youth Footbal!?!

Well it looks like my 6yo will be joining youth football in the fall that is full pads full contact. Registration next weekend and he would be in the 6-8 age group under 110 Pounds. He will be 7 by the time the season starts and probably about 50 pounds. He is not a big kid, but he is quick and has endurance.

I have been torn when it comes football. I absolutely love the game, played the game, but felt the effects early from the game. I stopped after 1 year in High School because my knees were always hurting. I had played little league and did rather well. When my 6yo was born I swore I would not push him towards football, but he really wants to do this. There will be two practices a week for two hours as well as games on Saturday. He would be playing with the in house teams rather then then travelling team to start. If the kids play well enough they can start looking at the competitive travel team. I also put my name in to help coach so I can be involved. I have no idea how I am going to manage the practices each week, but I think I can figure something out.

Once I get 6yo registered I will find out what ball they use and get him the same one to practice with all summer. I will also help him with some fundamental skills training and make sure he understands the game. Football Season Starts Next Weekend I Guess...


The 5

1. Colbert Report - Stay At Home Dads... This video is really funny and pokes fun at the Stay At Home Lifestyle really well. It plays as a smack in the face to the people that do not understand. It is really funny and I take it all in good fun...
2. Soccer Coach - I "coach" my sons park district indoor soccer team. Coach is not really the right term. I sub them and make sure they are going in the right direction. There is no practice this is just 4 on 4 fun. I am very proud of my son. He has improved and is all over the court. He still needs to work on the whole AIMING thing...
3. Paint - I had to run to Home Depot and get a small amount of paint color matched to my ceilings. I had a little can, but it was all gone!!! I had to repair some holes in the ceiling where some lights were hanging. I hate to Paint the ceiling!!!
4. SCI-FI Tonight!!!! - Battlestar Galatica!!!! Review Tomorrow
5. 300 - Opens FRIDAY!!!

Daily Observation: Snow Piles In Parking Lots Can Scare The Crap Out of You Backing Up the Van... (LOL)

Weekend Update

The cold air blows again across the frozen tundra that is the Midwest. Rain, Hail, Sleet and Snow Falling and Falling creating a desolate wasteland. Then the sun comes out and the world begins to thaw. Then the cycle starts all over again...

Well this is going to be a long weekend. My 6yo has Monday and Tuesday off and will probably be bouncing off the walls by Tuesday. I think we will have to come up with some easy adventures for those days. I do need to get some work done, but at the same time having the 6yo around allows me to work a little easier. Well as long as the boys play nice...

Today was fun...It snowed a little again after a nice rain that turned the snow to ICE. The drifting and slight powder snow made some really interesting road conditions. this morning was basketball for my 6yo so I finally got a chance to watch him play. The last few weeks I have been doing major household projects. 6-7 yo's playing can be rather entertaining. A good friend called us that has two boys that are in soccer with my 6yo. They are joining football in the fall. FULL EQUIPMENT LEAGUE... My 6yo wants to play too. Money is no issue with this, but I just worry he is not ready for 2 a week practices and weekly games. The deadline is in a month to join for the fall!!!! So we have some talking to do.

This afternoon the boys were being rather goofy so we decided we needed to get out. 6yo said I want to go play with Grandpa... then the 2yo starts chanting..Grandpa grandpa grandpa... So we call over to my parents and they were home. So we dropped off the boys and went to Home Depot and Costco... We have been exploring a few other projects for around the house. Getting out even to a busy store was nice.

Next Weekend we have a Date!!! 300 opens on Friday!!!

The5 (Video Game Edition)

1. Older Games - I have an XBOX with no real desire to buy a 360 or PS3 due to the really high prices. Since I have two kids I really have not had the time to play many of the games I would have loved to when they came out. With the hundreds of really good games out there I have no need to upgrade.
2. Prince of Persia The Sands of Time - I picked this up a few weeks ago. My brother gave me the two sequels so I decided to go searching and pick it up. $9.99 and buy two get 1 free. (Picked up two other games for my 6yo)
3. Star Wars Episode III - My 6yo is as big a Star Wars Fan as I am. I saw this and picked it up for him. He has really enjoyed it, but he does get a little impatient
4. Star Wars Battle Front I - The first game my 6yo ever bought was Star Wars BattleFront II when it was on sale. He loves that game and just likes to battle. I say the first one in the cheap bin and got that with the buy2get1
5. Warhammer 40K Dawn of War - I picked up this PC game on clearance one day and now have the first expansion. I used to play the TableTop game and this RTS version is really good. There is a second expansion, but I am waiting for the clearance price. Maybe in the next few months.

I could by a 360 or PS3 for like $500.00 or buy 50 games at $10.00 each for my XBOX and Gameboy Advance... Hmmmmm

Daily Observation: Nothing like almost hitting a bus to get your attention on the road...

Trader Joe's

Well today was pretty uneventful other then our Trader Joe's Trip.

If you are not familar with Trader Joes here is the website and a little info...

"Who Is Trader Joe's?-Allow us to introduce ourselves. We’re a different kind
of grocery store. The kind where shopping for food is actually fun. It’s true. We like to think of our stores as a bit of an adventure, where you’re likely to find something new each and every time you walk in the door. The best part is that your adventure won’t cost you an arm and a leg - or even an elbow."

I truly enjoy going to Trader Joe's and the food and values are fantastic. I enjoy everything from their fresh breads, frozen foods, prepared foods and deli style selection of cheese, wraps and salads... Oh and don't forget the wine!

I do not always make it to the store as often as I would like so sometimes I go a little overboard. If you could even buy too much at Trader Joe's. Today I tried a few new items along with some family favorites. So if you are ever in the neighborhood of a Trader Joe's... Take a look.

The5 (Trader Joe's Edition)

1. Trader Joe's French Toast... Mmmmm It has to be one of the best Frozen French Toasts I have ever had. Always good and the boys love it!!!
2. Wine - I am not a big wine fanatic, but I do enjoy a some wine here and there. Plus there are health benefits to some red wines. The selection is outstanding and the prices are even better. I have purchased some wines under $5.00 that are better then wines I have paid 5 times that for. the selection includes MANY Trader Joes Exclusives...
3. Trader Joe's Pizza- they have some great deli style premade not frozen pizza that is really really good. Roasted Tomato and Sausage!!! Mmmmmm
4. Trader Joe's Joe Joe's Cookies - Like Oreos, only BETTER!!! No Transfats and just great. The kids love them, as do I!!!
5. Premade Meals- They have a wonderful selection of premade meals and marinated meats. Tonight was a Roasted Tomato and Cheese Tortolini with Grilled Chicken Strips... Mmmm Mmm Mmm GOOD!!!

Daily Observation: Trader Joe's does things very well at a good price... My kids love it and even the picky eater likes the Trader Joe's Brand!!!