James's Birthday Pictures

James enjoyed his 5th birthday even though the day involved a visit to the doctor for a rash. The good news of the rash is it put off his 5 year check up and the three shots that would have gone with it.

For his birthday meal, the sweet boy passed on his favorite (Brocolli Cheese Soup) because he knew his sister didn't like it. He went for Poppy Seed Chicken, rice, green beans and rolls. The ball and glove cake was of course chocolate.


James' 5th Birthday with a ball & glove cake made by Shannon. He enjoyed his gift, a indoor putting green


He was pleased with his gift, an indoor putting green. Which he put right to use.

James is a handful!

Today it is offical. My son James is a handful. Yep it now takes a handful of fingers to tell how old he is. I hope to post pictures tomorrow of the cake and celebration . It was fun.

However, sister stole the show. I wished her a happy Big Sister day since it was this day five years ago she became a big sister. Well, Grace preceded to shorten Big Sister day to "Happy BS Day". Maybe she was saying my Big sister day was a bad spin job on a day focused on her brother but I hope it means that she is still innocent enough not to know the significance of BS. I will have to remember not to do that next year.

Good Grooming Habits Start Early

A few weeks ago, Grace and James experienced the new exhibit at the Regional Hands On Musuem. A photographer from the Johnson City Press was there and took a few shots of Grace and James that didn't make the paper (One of James did). This gives proof we are working with them on their grooming habits.

More, More, More

I came across a short film while getting my regular dose of cynicism at Despiar.com. The film is called More and only takes about 6 minutes to watch. I think it is challenging. Let me know what you think of it.

As I read Matt Elliot's blog today it reminded me of one of my classic moments as a father and one of the moments when it began dawning on me just how smart my daughter was.

Seen is in our home in Hoover. Grace is about 3. After about 6 trips into the room to adjust covers, fix blinds, give a drink, etc... I offer the classic ultimatum. If I come back in here one more time, you will get a spanking. 5 minutes pass.

Grace: (in a feeble voice) Daddy!

Steve: (in stern voice) Grace, what do you want.

Grace: (in almost a whisper) Can I have a spanking.

Steve: (felling like real jerk) Okay, turn over.

(2 gentle love taps are given)

Grace: (Stronger voice now) Daddy

Steve: What?

Grace: (with confidence) Can I have some socks, my feet are cold.

Steve: Sorry Grace, getting the spanking out of the way and then asking for something doesn't work. It's bedtime go to sleep.

(Wailing erupts)

As I returned to the TV room, my wife gives me the confused look and I replay the episode for her. We do the hard silent laugh of parents not wanting their kid to know what they thought of a behavior they don't want repeated.

Thanks for the trip down memory lane Matt!

We're #2. Okay so maybe it doesn't ring as well as, "We're #1!". But it exceedes every expectation for Auburn this year. I would have liked the official recognition of national champs but can be more than satisfied with the reality of an undefeated season, an SEC championship and a Sugar Bowl win. I believe it may have been the best Auburn team ever.