Big, big update

Christmas is almost here!

The last couple of years we cut our own trees out in the field. It's cheaper and if you are willing to drag boys around through the snow you can find some nice trees. 

Last year, or the year before, I made the boys miserable by keeping them out in freezing rain while I tried to find something acceptable. Josh runs, Sam chases him, daddy gets increasingly grouchy.

This year I was determined to spare them that, so we bought pre-cut. And didn't notice that some of the trees are "premium" trees. By the time Susan realized, it was already cut and ready to go and we were stuck. The only way to recoup our losses is either to have no tree next year or to dip this one in acrylic to preserve it for re-use.

It *is* a nice tree. And the boys had a ball decorating it.

Sam's Birthday

Sam got some fun gifts this year, such as a bathrobe (he doesn't wear it much yet, but I have high hopes), and an "Ollie" which is a little cylindrical robot controlled remotely with an ipod or ipad. 

Had Ethan and Connor, neighbor boys, over for Sam's party, then let them watch City of Ember. A good time was had by all.

Josh's smile tells you everything you need to know about him.

Thanksgiving in Columbus

Made the pilgrimage south this year. Too much time for me spent in child care and computer repair and washing post-feast dishes, but it was still a delight seeing everyone.

Sam playing for Nana

At Inniswood playing in a hollowed-out tree

This needs no caption

Amy looks charming and Susan's almost complete suppressed the annoyance of having me take her picture!

Went bowling Saturday morning. Had the lanes to ourselves. Josh liked to carry the ball two-armed up the line and toss it in the air.

During the big OSU-Michigan game we visited with Heather at her new farm. Truly a delight to see it and her. We all had fun meeting Dollar and Danny, her two horses, as well as watching a train go by, across her driveway. (Cool!)

Sam's Fall Chorus Concert

Sam's in chorus this year and is really enjoying it. The school had a musical concert at the high school. The 4th+5th-grade chorus performed two pieces, one of which was from the Grinch. They sounded great, and not just because they followed the screetchy Suzuki kids. :-)