Carpe Christmas!

When I said "Seize the Season!", Cade took it literally. Here he is, attempting to scale the tree and "redecorate."

It's official. The [equal parts] excitement and anxiety of the holidays have officially set in for yours truly. I love this time of year but it goes by WAY too fast! Fortunately, I got my cards out nice and early and our beauti-FULL tree has been top-half-decorated (we have a busy toddler in the house, after all) for a couple of weeks, but there is still so much to do and Christmas Eve is 7 days away. We are not finished shopping for everyone on our list and not a single present has been wrapped. How did this happen? I have said it before, but this year, and December in particular, have most definitely been on fast forward. Long gone are the days when it would take FOR-EV-ER for Christmas morning to arrive *sigh*.

So, I've decided that one of my New Year's resolutions will be to seize the season and start Christmas shopping in November. Like, early November. And, to actually buy things for people, as I stumble upon them, throughout the year (tune in to a future episode of Hoarders: Holiday Edition, to see how that turns out). As much as it pains me to step on Thanksgiving's toes, there's no way around it. Taking little ones' (at the very least) wish list requests pre-Turkey Day should alleviate some of the pressure that distracts from the enjoyment, and true meaning, of the season.

I want to be spending more time with friends and family. I want to be [somewhat] relaxed and enjoy wintertime activities with my son, maybe even get some crafts going (for fun and gift-giving purposes). But it's hard enough to get the have-tos done, let alone get started on the want-tos (although my sis and I do always make time for cookie baking, natch). I truly feel like this must change. What do you think? Too ambitious?

I know that everyone feels this way at some point. So, how do you stay sane during this time of year? PLEASE share your tricks 'n tips in the comment section.

Christmas Confession

Our beautiful, half-decorated, toddler-friendly-ish, Christmas tree!

O Tannenbaum!

Forgive me, Father Christmas, for I have nearly sinned. I had impure thoughts that led me to consider buying an artificial Christmas tree. One look at that perfect synthetic one and I could not get it out of my head. It was just the right shape (tall and trim) for the limited space in the living room where we usually display our trees (this year's does not fit -- too full), it stood at a reasonably majestic 7.5 feet and featured a plethora of perfectly dispersed white lights. No water (translation: upkeep) necessary. And wouldn't it be so "green" (pun intended) of us to not buy a real tree every year?!

This is the first time in my 31 years that a faux tree has tempted me. David and I have lived together for almost a decade's worth of Christmases and never, in all those years, have I thought twice about heading to a tree lot to pick out our annual greenery. It's a family tradition that I have ALWAYS cherished and I believe that you don't mess with tradition. And that is especially true this year, when we have a little one who is becoming more and more aware of the world around him (and LOVING the lights, the wreath on the door, all of the decorations, the music), so you would think it's a no-brainer to get the real deal.

[For a good 2 hours] I hemmed and hawed and guiltily lusted after the simplicity of a tree that required such little effort. But as soon as we stepped foot on the tree lot, Cade's little paw tucked tightly in mine as he led me to a new adventure (I doubt he remembers picking out his first tree last year) . . . poof! Just like that, I snapped back to reality and the joys of hunting for a Christmas tree to call ours for the season. After chasing the little guy up and down the rows of green, we settled on a larger-than-planned but oh-so beautiful noble fir. Cade gave his seal of approval by attempting to hug it (and, if you can believe it, the attempts continue to this day).

The lovely, piney, smell of the "real thing" makes it all worth it. Well, that and the fact that, every morning, when I turn the tree lights on, my son gasps like it's the most amazing thing he's ever seen. The coolest part? It probably is . . . for now . . .

And, we get to do it all again next year!

Too Cute Tuesday

Fire truck. Footie pajamas. Face.

Shortly after this picture was taken, Cade needed a diaper change. After chasing him around for a sufficient (translation: asinine) amount of time, unsuccessfully, I decided to vocalize his options to him.

"Son, we need to go to your room and get you changed. I can carry you or we can hold hands and walk there together." In true toddler fashion, Cade proceeded to scurry toward me, smirk guiltily, turn around, and bolt in the opposite direction.

So, I gave up for a moment and resumed the conversation that David had I were having. When I looked back at where Cade was last spotted, he was gone (duh). That's when I felt a gentle tap on my leg and looked down to see him standing right next to me, looking up, one arm outstretched, holding his little hand out for me to take. And, just when I thought the mini guy couldn't make my heart melt any more (I'm convinced it has a super special way of replenishing itself), he succeeded. *Swoon 'n Sigh*

This moment was TOO cute for two reasons.

1. It was simply the sweetest gesture. When did my son become a little person?! Without saying a word, he was telling me, "C'mon, Mama, let's get this diaper changing show on the road."

2. He LISTENED to me. He heard me tell him his options, he considered them for a bit, and then he took action. I repeat, when did my son become a little person?!

This whole parenting gig continues to baffle and amaze me. There are so many moments that literally take my breath away. Do you have a too cute moment to share? Please do so below.

Merry Merry Movie Guide

'Tis the season for viewing all of your favorite holiday movies! Toss in a couple of those [mostly ridiculous] made-for-TV gems, for good measure, and you have yourself one heck of a holly jolly film fest.

Here are the ones I try not to miss:

1.   It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

2.   Elf (2003)

3.   Miracle on 34th Street (1947) - And while I don't LOVE the 1994 remake, I will watch it when it's on.

4.   A Christmas Story (1983)

5.   How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

6.   Home for the Holidays (1995)

7.   Home Alone (1990)

8.   How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (TV 1966) - The original cartoon.

9.   National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)

10. A Charlie Brown Christmas (TV 1965)

Ho-Ho-Honorable Mention: Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer (TV 1964), Frosty the Snowman (TV 1969), Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), Mickey's Christmas Carol (1983), The Kid Who Loved Christmas (TV 1990), Love Actually (2003), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), While You Were Sleeping (1995), Holiday Affair (TV 1996).

Which movies are must-see in your house this time of year? Please share in the comment section below.

Silly Sunday Snapshots

Cade was on a mission this particular evening. A mission to complete his first ever kitchen art installation. The captions tell the story . . .

Cade's thought bubble: "Hmmm, this looks good but it's missing something."

"The blanket and the bag were good additions, and the laptop definitely needs to be included. But . . . what else?"

"The fire truck is definitely the missing piece! Now if I can just get it over this gate . . . "  

"Man, this thing's heavy!"

Cade takes a quick break.

And with a final, heave-ho . . .

The pièce de résistance! The fire truck is on the "right" side of the gate and Cade's kitchen art installation is complete.

Possible names that I've come up with for this project: "The Kitchen of Misfit Toys" or "Kitchen Avalanche". If you have any ideas you'd like to share, please do in the comment section below! 

Quintessential Holiday Quote

Smiling's Buddy's favorite!

"The Code of Elves:

1. Treat every day like Christmas.
2. There's room for everyone on the nice list.
3. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear."

-Elf (2003)

Day 30 of Thankfulness aka Ode to Rach

L-R: Rach, Marj, Creeper (1998)

I am thankful for one vintage friendship in particular and the forever friend who comes with it. Waaaay back in 2nd grade, when I was the new girl at our elementary school, Rachele was the first person to approach me on the playground and invite me to join her and some other girls on the bars (as opposed to where you could find us circa age 21, IN the bars).

Since it was clearly magic that brought us together all those (almost 24) years ago, I shall put it in terms that loyal fans (us) of the magical Harry Potter, will truly appreciate.

If ever we were forced into the Dark Arts (in desperate times beyond our control, of course), there wouldn't be enough Horcruxes in this world to contain our friendship. Alas, I've started making a list of items we can use (J.I.C.):

A Mariners cap, a Rockies cap (Benny's Dodgers cap and Charlie Sheen's Giants cap would be too obvi), both halves of an old school BFF necklace, Senor Delgado's sombrero, one of our yearbooks (one that Rach is actually in), a Firestone chicken strip, a boy band CD (preferably *NSYNC), the key to Edward's Volvo (or Brando's Mustang or Dylan's Porsche (sorry, Steve)), Grandpa Cleo's fave cowboy hat, the napkin JK started writing HP&TPS on, a VHS tape with "My Son is Innocent", "Mother, May I Sleep With Danger?", and an episode of MMC recorded on it, black and gold pom poms, one of Grandma Jo's crocheted originals, Cher's Jeep, the Lifetime logo, a piece of Nat's famous peach pie, Victor's mustache, my two-line phone, one of Joey Mac's or JRT's former curls, The Plastics' "slambook", my 8th-grade-who-needs-to-wear-a-dress-to-every-dance-palazzo-pants (vest and choker optional), Mason Betha's $ chain, the hatchback to a petite, rust Civic, a cassette single of LLCJ's "Loungin' (Who Do You Love)?" featuring Total, the curling iron used to sculpt "the bangs" in the late 80s/early 90s, the bell from the Albatross, the headset Brit Brit lip syncs into, one of Mama Del's buttery rolls, Dobby's freedom sock, a whole lotta hubcaps, the letterman jacket Freddie Prinz Jr. prob wore in every horrid movie of his that we've paid good money to see, my preeeccccciiiiiooooouuuusssssss, the ciggy Ryan Gosling was puffing on when we DIDN'T talk to him, a CMSF concert ticket (any of the hundreds of artists we've seen together will do), a tube of Jabot lipstick, the blanket that played Devon Sawa's baby brother in NOTT, one mother of a magnet (aka Ohio Tech) . . .

This list is literally neverending (much like Atreyu's story) and the fact that we're adding to it every day is a heartwarming comfort to me.

What I guess I'm getting at is that our bond can never be broken. Not only because no one in their right mind would take the time to decode all of the above but because as long as we have each other (and I'm pretty sure we have no choice in the matter at this point), we can never be destroyed (*insert evil, maniacal laughter here* or simply the RMF version: ha ha ha ha ha hee hee hee hee ha ha). I love you FOR-EVVVV-ERRRR and beyond. XO

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 24-29

Day 24: I am beyond thankful for my son. He has changed our lives for the better and everything is most definitely brighter and shinier since he's been around. Toddler Bonus: Who wouldn't want a personal toilet paper unroller? I don't even have to ask . . . it's unrolled when I get there.

Day 25: I am also beyond thankful for my husband. He has surpassed every expectation I ever had for what an amazing boyfriend turned best friend and hard working husband, father, and all-around great man should be. And, you gotta love those sideburns *swoon*!

Day 26: I am thankful for my family. Not only the [aforementioned] fab lil' family unit that my husband and I have created, but our extended families as well. I always say, where there is a whole lot of dysfunction, there is also a whole lot of love *wink, wink*. In all seriousness, we are blessed in the fam department.

Day 27: I am thankful for open hearts and open minds. This world would be an ugly place without them!

Day 28: I am thankful for my parents. I owe them everything and can never thank them enough for my beautiful life!

Day 29: I am thankful for YOU! If you are reading this blost, you are supporting me and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate it. THANK YOU!

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 18-23

Day 18: I am thankful for my current gig aka being home with Cade. I always hoped that when we had kids, I would be able to stay home with them and I am so grateful we're making it work. I could not ask for a more fulfilling job, a more challenging "boss", or more amazing payment (kisses all day).

Day 19: I am thankful for my former career in radio (a medium that is alive and kicking, thank you very much!). I am honored to have worked for and alongside some fabulous women in the radio world and with some pretty amazing men as well.

Day 20: I am thankful for friends, old and new. My relationships mean the world to me and even if I don't say it enough, I appreciate my longtime bonds and the friends that I have made in recent years sooooo much.

Day 21: I am thankful for the holiday season. The rest of the year is alright too, but nothing beats the magic (see also: food and drink) of this time of year!

Day 22: I am thankful for my childhood. I grew up in a loving family in San Luis Obispo, CA (aka the happiest place in the U.S. of A.), surrounded by extended family and friends and a supportive community. I feel so fortunate to be able to "come home" again and again to such a great place filled with people I hold so dear.

Day 23: I am thankful for wine and champagne. Relaxing with a bottle of vino or toasting with a bottle of bubbly makes any event (even the end of a crazy weekday) feel like a celebration. Cheers!

What are you thankful for today?

Mama Memo Monday #3

Full disclosure: I intended to blost this edition of Mama Memo Monday a couple of weeks ago. However, between Halloween craziness (a day chock full o' ridiculous celeb buzz) and soothing a sad and sick toddler who is getting like ALL of his teeth in at once, it got put off. But let's face it, I'm a Mom so flexible is my other, other name. And speaking of flexible . . .

Long live stretchy pants!

I cannot sing the praises of loungy clothes enough. I have been a fan of stretchy pants (or the like) since I was a child. I have always been one of those people who comes home from school, work, errands, etc. and immediately changes out of my outside world (translation: presentable) clothes into comfy (translation: can double as pajamas) clothes. I believe it was my Nana who instilled the love of comfort in me and my fam because every Christmas, without fail, there'd be a pair of cozy sweats waiting for each of us under the tree.

Pondering parenthood? Well do yourself a favor and stock up on stretchy pants now. Any kind of exercise pants will do, even if that's the last thing you use them for. After my C-section I could not put "real" (aka non-elastic waist band) pants on for a good couple of months. My yoga pants saved the day then and continue to many months later.

Whether you are the one giving birth or not, you will be up with the baby all night and taking care of it all day for the first couple of months. And, unless you're one of those people who likes to be put together and dressed up ALL the time (man, I respect that effort), there are numerous reasons to sport the stretch. Here are a few:

1. You will be spit up on (and later thrown up on).
2. You will be peed and/or pooped on (sometimes simultaneously).
3. Food will be thrown at/dumped on you.
4. You will often need to dress in a hurry.
5. In the beginning, you will want to nap every chance you get and if you've got your stretchies on you are ready for nap time, any time.

Do you really want to be wearing your favorite "dry clean only" slacks when any of the above happens? I think not. It's imperative that you can wash and wear. Trust me.

And don't think it's just the ladies who like to get comfy . . . the menfolk are fans of stretchy pants as well:

Silly Sunday Snapshots

Since he discovered our DVD cabinet, one of C's favorite things to do is empty it. My husband and I have quite an eclectic collection of movies (Fight Club can be found in the vicinity of Babes in Toyland). On this particular day, for reasons that I can only assume (and hope) are color and not content related, he kept coming back to one DVD -- Reservoir Dogs. Call it a Poor Mothering Moment on my part but I think it's hilarious that out of ALL of the movies we own (the majority of which are family friendly, with warm and inviting covers), he is drawn to one of the most "unsavory". I think it's because the flap on the front cover is bright orange and opens like a book (which I believe is what Cade thinks it is). Don't fret, I only let him look at it long enough to snap a couple of pics so I don't believe I did any long-term damage to my child (*knock on wood*).

"Hmmmm . . . they're both about doggies but what am I in the mood for?
Disney or Tarantino?"

"This is a pretty short book."

"Let's play peek-a-boo, Mama!"

Reservoir Dogs has been relocated to a baby-free zone and I suppose it's time to separate all the grown-up movies from the kid ones.

Did you baby/kid-proof your movie collection? As long as the little ones aren't watching the movies do you need to separate the cases?

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 10-17

Day 10: I am thankful for our dog, Duncan. Although he has a few years on him (and the gray hairs to show for them) he is truly a sweetheart and has been so patient and loving to Cade since he was born (the under-the-highchair scraps probably help).

Day 11: I am thankful for the 19 years I had with my Nana. As much as I miss her and wish she could have known Cade, I see her sweet nature in him and feel her spirit every day.

Day 12: I am thankful that my son is getting to know his great-grandparents. I cherish the time I spent with my Great-Grandma Jo and look forward to my son having those memories as well!

Day 13: I am thankful for my older younger brother, Josh. His sarcasm knows no bounds and for that, and a million other reasons, I love and respect him so much!

Day 14: I am thankful for cold/crisp/sunny days. For native Californians (like me), these days are the closest we get to a holiday season.

Day 15: I am thankful for music. Music is another key to my sanity and has always been a passion of mine. I don't sing (well) or play instruments (aside from my short stint at attempting the flute back in the elementary school band) but I LOVE music.

Day 16: I am thankful for the crock pot. I am, what some might call, "domestically challenged" and the crock pot was my "gateway" appliance to becoming a somewhat decent cook (yes, it counts!). I have a long way to go but my husband (the former solitary chef in our household) is thankful for that ol' crock pot too.

Day 17: I am thankful for our home sweet home. David and I have lived many places together but it was an amazing milestone when we bought our house. Now, seeing Cade run through HIS backyard is pure magic. We've already made so many great memories here and I can't wait to see what's next! Be it ever so humble (we prefer cozy), there's no place like home.

Why are YOU thankful today? Please share in the comment section below.

Dear Joe Paterno,

I understand that you are a college football legend and a huge part of Penn State's history but, first and foremost, you are a human being. And now you are a human being involved in, what I believe to be, the most heinous of scandals (in my opinion, crimes against children are the worst of the worst). I just read that you are retiring at the end of this football season, rather than effective immediately, and I cannot understand why?

I also read the statement that you made earlier today and I find it unacceptable. I don't care how LITTLE you know about a child abuse situation, it is reprehensible when you choose to turn a blind eye to it. You don't need "graphic detail" to know when something, involving someone you have worked closely with for many years, is not right. And if you have the SLIGHTEST inkling or any reason at ALL to suspect that a child is in danger (or someone TELLS you they might be), and you do not take serious action (beyond what you are "required" to do), you are a party to the abuse. Abuse that went on and on. Abuse that, no doubt, ruined many lives.

I believe that there is a special place in Hell (or the like) for those who commit crimes against children. I also believe that there should be consequences for those who stay silent and allow such crimes to go unreported. At the very least, you should leave your coaching post of your own volition. Like, now.

If you are not going to "punish" yourself publicly and resign, I can only hope that you are experiencing some sort of internal struggle for not doing something all those years ago. Which would you rather have had on your conscience -- some lost football games or the lost (nay, stolen) innocence of children?

-Marja, an extremely disappointed fellow human being

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 8 & 9

Day 8: I am thankful for my youngest/baby brother, Trevor. He was the best surprise a 13-year-old aspiring babysitter could ever hope for and I can't imagine my life without his sweet smile and wonderful, booming laugh.

Day 9: I am thankful for chocolate. Whether it's "raw" or in the form of a baked good, to me, chocolate is a basic necessity and a key to my sanity.

So . . . what are you thankful for today?

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 7

I am thankful for great hair days. When the mane has been properly tamed, everything else falls into place.

Your turn. What are you thankful for today?

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 1-6

'Tis the season to be share why we're grateful! More and more of my friends are posting what they're thankful for every day this month on Facebook. I am inspired to do the same but have some catching up to do.

Day 1: I am thankful for technology (cue Kip Dynamite's love song), or should I say my sister's technology. When she brings her Macbook over, we iChat with my brother, Josh (who lives in Florida and hasn't seen Cade in person since he was 1 month old). It's nice that two of my special guys can see and get to know each other, even when they're not in the same time zone.

Day 2: I am thankful that my sister, Caitlin, lives nearby. And no, it's not only because we like to use her computer (although that is a nice bonus) or because she is the ideal built in babysitter. She is my best friend and an amazing Auntie to Cade.

Day 3: I am thankful for my health and the good health of my family and friends.

Day 4: I am thankful for good food. I love anticipating a great meal and the feeling of a warm, full belly once the meal is finished.

Day 5: I am thankful for my education. I feel so fortunate to look back on my schooling -- all the way from Montessori through college -- and how it has enriched my life.

Day 6: I am thankful for cold and rainy days. They are the coziest days and are especially fabulous when you can stay indoors and enjoy the sound of the rain from the comfort of your couch and/or bed.

Please join me. What are you thankful for today?

Dear Kim Kardashian,

Please tell me that your divorce filing today is some sort of Halloween hoax? You can't REALLY be SERIOUSLY ending your [second and ill-advised] marriage after, like, 5 minutes? Although I don't know you personally and have zero idea what goes on in your "real" life, here are the reasons this news is completely unacceptable to me:

Have you no respect for the sanctity of marriage? There are human beings in this world that want nothing more than to make an eternal commitment with the man or woman that they love; but they do not have the legal right to marry. And here you are, treating it like something disposable. Something that you can just try out for a minute or two and then undo. That is not fair!

Isn't the greater Los Angeles area full of therapists?! Yes, and there are probably just as many of them as there are struggling actors in your neck of the woods. They need work and marriage takes work! How's about picking up the phone and getting some marriage counseling on the books before packing it in and calling it a day? How can you just go from [supposedly] being soooooooo in love to this?

Didn't anyone advise you to live together first? Living in sin is the best! It's how you truly learn about your partner and whether marriage will be the right step for you or not. There's no better way than to immerse yourself into daily and nightly life with them. Maybe try that first, next time?

What a waste!

• A waste of money. SO. Much. Money. 
• A waste of time. Do you know how hard people had to bust their a$$es to make your day perfect? From the wedding planner to the groundskeeper at the estate where you got hitched. Hundreds of people [I'm guessing] put their blood, sweat and tears into making your day memorable. 
• A waste of food. All that wedding food would have been better served as a donation to food banks in time for the holiday season. The last thing your mostly well-to-do guests needed that day was to be well fed.
• A waste of materials. You [unnecessarily] wore 3 wedding gowns on your [now meaningless] big day. I was going to suggest this to you whether the relationship lasted or not but please, PLEASE consider donating those dresses so that 3 brides-to-be can make something good and beautiful out of your made-for-TV marriage's demise.

If for no other reason (like love), you should reconsider making this marriage work for your mother's sake. After all, she went under the knife for that express facelift so she could look her very best at YOUR wedding. Whatever happened to respecting our [plastic/well preserved] elders?!

You're welcome for putting things into perspective,
Marja

This is Halloween!

The elusive Baby Giraffe is difficult to photograph as he is constantly in motion (they move much faster than one would think). I did my best . . .

Pondering his great escape from the Zookeeper aka Mama.

And he's off!

Rear view

Swinging is serious giraffe business.

Baby Giraffe on the loose!

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Halloween!

Shots Through the Heart

Last week Cade had his 15 month check-up. The good news? He is healthy and growing beautifully. The bad news? He was due for 3 shots (2 routine, 1 flu). The vaccination portion of his check-ups have never been pleasant for me or my husband, but it is definitely getting harder the older, more aware, and freakishly strong, he gets.

I have never been a fan of needles. When I was a wee one (translation: up until my early teen years), the nurses at my pediatrician's office had to chase me around the tiny examination room for a good five minutes before I let them do their necessary evil. And even as an adult, when I have my annual flu shot, or have blood drawn, etc., I look away until the deed is done.

But now, as a mother, it is my duty to face the shots head on and stay strong for my son, no matter what.

No matter how many shades of pink and purple he turns during the struggle after that first shot.
No matter how long he gasps and holds his breath after that second prick.
No matter how long and LOUD he cries after that final poke.
No matter how fat the tears are that come streaming down his SuperMegaUberUltra sad face once the worst is over.
No matter the fact that, by my calculations, I lose one hour of sleep (that night) for every shot that Cade has gotten (that day).
No matter what.

Because I know that these shots are protecting him, and his little bod, from some pretty scary stuff. And because I am painfully aware that there are [little and grown-up] people "out there" who go through this agony, or worse, every day. Parents with sick children. Children with sick parents. And I can't even begin to imagine how much their hearts hurt.

So, I stick it out (pun intended), and once we get to the car, when Cade is safely strapped into his seat, I can take a deep breath, exhale, and maybe even shed a couple tears of my own.

As soon as the dread that we will go through this again in 3 short months sets in, it is immediately quelled by the relief that we only go through this once every 3 months.

Daddy Dressed Me

My husband is notorious for dressing our son in mismatched outfits (reality check: he's done it a handful of times) but this time was a double dose of wacky, because . . .

1. The pattern on the pajama top was different than the one on the bottoms (I do see the similarities but the cuff color doesn't lie):

2. He put the top on backwards. You can't really tell in this picture but there are buttons on the front that run from the collar to 1/3 of the way down the shirt:

Sidebar: I am beginning to realize that in most of the pictures I post of my son he is wearing pajamas. He does have actual clothes too but, what can I say? He's at his best when he's comfy (it's hereditary). 

While my hubs doesn't have a future in fashion, that is just fine with me because he is one incredible Dad to this little person. And, for that reason alone, I shall forgive all dressing faux pas! Even this one . . .

 

Why, yes, that IS a gold shirt with a brown color font, paired with gray, white striped pants.

Friday Funny: The Crust Stands Alone

Duncan, refusing to make eye contact with the unappetizing bread crust. 

Normally, no food goes to waste in this household. Cade is a pretty good lil' eater (except every other day when the picky toddler phase rears its less-than-adorable head) and when I give him bread, most of the crust is included and consumed.

However, on this particular day, Cade used his extremely long wingspan (for more on this click here) to grab some bread off of the plate I was feeding him from. He immediately took the bread bites to the face and nonchalantly chucked the crust (that I hadn't made bite sized yet) on the floor. Duncan sniffed it for a millisecond and then proceeded to ignore it while he returned to his under-highchair post to wait for "something good". And can you blame the pup? The least "they" could have done is come up with a more appealing name for the least appealing section of the bread (in my opinion).

A Halloweenie's Movie Guide

If you're like me, you enjoy a good scare . . . every once in a while. However, I am not one to watch REALLY scary movies over and over again (The Exorcist (1973) and Hostel (2005) *gag* were most definitely one time deals for moi). I've seen the majority of the "modern classics" (most recently, Misery (1990)) at least once and am pretty much good with that (although whenever Poltergeist (1982) is on the ol' boob tube I admit that I get sucked in).

I prefer to stick to the Halloweenesque movies that don't involve an overabundance of terror and/or gratuitous bloodshed, with the exception of Scream (1996). My girlfriends and I loved it so much that we saw it in the theater twice. I appreciate a little humor with my horror, you know, to take the edge off. Translation: I am an admitted Halloweenie and proud of it!

In no particular order, here are some of my favorite Halloweenish movies:

1.  It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

2.  Hocus Pocus (1993)

3.  Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992) - The movie that came years before the TV series.

4.  The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Bonus feature: you can watch this gem from October through December as it transcends the one holiday rule!

5.  Ghostbusters (1984)

6.  Beetlejuice (1988)

7.  The Harry Potter Series, 1-7 (2001-2011)

8.  The Goonies (1985)

9.  E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

10. Michael Jackson's Thriller (1983) - Yes, technically it's a music video, but at 14 minutes it's not much shorter than some of the Charlie Brown TV specials (although a whole lot scarier when you're 9 years old). My Mom would make a fun to-do out of watching it; we'd pop in the VHS tape and chomp on popcorn and other treats, cinema style.

Honorable mention: Casper (1995) - My sister and I LOVED the two minutes that 90s teen heartthrob Devon Sawa played the "real boy" Casper.

Looking to lose some sleep in the near future? Check out Vintage Love's Fright Fest O' Rama.

What is/are your favorite Halloween movie(s)? Any suggestions (fine, I'll take REALLY scary ones too)?

Sweet Saturday Snapshots

Earlier this evening Cade did a dry run aka half-dressed rehearsal for tricks or treats. He was all business in his giraffe head, with his pumpkin pail at the ready (and full of toys, although Mama is hoping to replace those toys with a nice little haul of treats for her and Dada, but mostly her, when the time comes) . . .

To Fast or Not So Fast?

After starting and stopping numerous times since my son was born (and my entire adult life) I FINALLY re-started working out on a regular basis. Things have been going great for the last month -- I already feel so much better (more energy is a beautiful thing when you're chasing an almost 15-month-old around all day) and cannot wait to get back into all of that neglected denim collecting dust in my closet.

While the exercise and diet (everything, chocolate included, in moderation) have been falling into place (so far), I am aware that I have a large bulge long road ahead of me in the post-baby-tummy-shrinking department. So, lately I have been pondering trying one of those cleanses that I read so much about. You know, a juice fast or daily cleanse that lasts a week or so and supposedly helps kick-start your weight loss? However, I don't know how safe these truly are or if they even really work so I'll definitely consult with my doctor before I proceed.

In the meantime, please share your fasting experience with me. Have you ever done a cleanse? Did it "work"? Would you do it again?

Silly Sunday Snapshots

This morning Cade thought that he'd brush up on his Pop Culture via Mama's very "educational" magazine. I'm so proud . . . 

Quintessential Quote

"There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin."

-Linus Van Pelt (aka Sally's Sweet Baboo), "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown"

Friday Funny: Pee Pea

A pea where pee should be.

When I changed Cade's diaper a couple of nights ago, I discovered a lone pea among the, well, pee. What makes this pic extra funny is that I'm not sure how the pea got in there as Cade was wearing a (snug) onesie and t-shirt and shorts (over the diaper) at the time. He must have been doing some mid-dinner dancing and the pea must have shimmied along with him?! The mystery remains but I thought this snapshot was too funny not to share.

Hope everyone has a weekend full of laughter!

That Old Fall Feeling

Our less than impressed son circa Halloween 2010.

'Twas a wise girl band (Expose) that once sang "Seasons change/feelings change/people change". And while I could do without the feelings and people changing I am definitely on board with the change of seasons! We (Californians) caught a glimpse of Fall the week before last (what a wonderfully blustery Monday it was) but then the heat came back and Summer seemed to be sticking around to make up for lost sun earlier in its designated time slot (Winter was so RUDE this year). But today is feeling fabulously Fallish; leaves are blowing around in the slight breeze and the fact that I don't have to turn the AC on and can enjoy fresh air coming in through the open windows is just lovely! 

This is such a great time of year, with so much to look forward to, namely the entire holiday season --> Halloween, Thanksgiving and oh-so magical Christmas. I am giddy just typing about it. Cade already has his Halloween costume set and I am chomping at the bit to decorate our house for All Hallow's Eve. Pumpkin hunting will be extra fun this year with our lil' guy in tow and he and I have been chatting a lot about pumpkins in the last week so I am sure he is going to go crazy when he sees SO many in person at "the patch".

Your turn! Fill in the blanks: "The holiday I am most looking forward to this year is __________ because ________." Please note that your responses can be longer than the line shown :).

While you ponder your response, press play to enjoy the sweet sounds of one of my favorite late 80s/early 90s girl bands (I wore this tape OUT) . . .     

    

A (Sneaky) Boy and His (Spoiled) Dog

Last week Cade officially began (oh-so selflessly) donating every-other-bite of his lunch to his pup. It started out innocently enough, with a little under the high chair action . . . 

Caught red-handed! (And no, that is not ALL I feed my son for lunch. *Eyeroll*)

And quickly escalated into Cade hunting and gathering in the depths of his high chair. Or, more specifically, under the high chair pad where all the "good stuff" that has missed his mouth (in the last few days) collects.

Once Cade stumbled upon a gem (translation: a squished pea, stale noodle, piece of cracker, hard-as-a-rock raisin) worth sharing he did the subtle hand-off to his four-legged partner in crime. And then he went back for more.

I admit that this was a rather Poor Mothering Moment (we'll call it PMM for short) for me because I don't even know how long this was going on before I became aware of it. But I can tell you one thing -- those two cleaned up shop because Cade's high chair has never looked so good!

How Do I Love Glee?

Let me count the ways . . .

1. The message.
2. The music.
3. The [Glee Club] members.
4. The mentors (guest stars).
5. The melting pot.

Yes, I think that about covers it. Season 3 of this weekly treat starts tonight on Fox and if you haven't already jumped on the Glee bandwagon, I highly recommend it. What's not to love about an hour (or less if you DVR it like I do ;) of singing, dancing and quirky yet timely (and moving) storytelling?

Are you a Gleek? What do you love most about the show?

For no reason in particular, this blost has been brought to you by the letter M.

Wino vs Whine-o

Krabby Patty Supreme

Ever have one of those days when your toddler (or newborn, infant, child, tween, teen, significant other) simply cannot be consoled? Sometimes, despite your best efforts (Rocking Chair Olympics - you know when you're rocking so desperately and trying out different baby maneuvering positions if feels like there MUST be a gold medal up for grabs?, toys, books, funny faces, silly hats, other toys, crazy dancing, all of the aforementioned, etc.), he/she just has a whiny day and there's no way around it. 

What gets me through these days, you ask? I take solace in knowing that eventually my hubby will be home and once everyone is safe and comfy, Mama can crack open a bottle of her favorite vino and [somewhat slowly] chug-a-lug. I don't do math (statistics included), but I do know that there may be a slightly unhealthy and very direct correlation between the super whiny days Cade has and the amount of wine I consume on said evenings. Alas, at the end of one of these (thankfully not frequent) types of days, Cade and I will both pass out. For two VERY different reasons, but pass out just the same. There's nothing a night of sound (and soundless) sleep can't take care of. And the next day, we start fresh!  

What are your favorite vices crutches ways to get through a tough day? 

Mama Memo Monday #2

Give the gift of gift receipts!

Baby showers are a definite bonus to being pregnant (beyond the obvious fact that you will be a parent soon, of course). There's nothing better than loved ones, friends, co-workers, etc. getting together to shower you and your baby with love . . . and much needed gear! However, the post-shower organization period can be a stressful time once you realize you were gifted four of that cute polka-dot blanket (as opposed to the one you registered for) and you're swimming in a sea of other repeat presents -- some of which were on your registry and many others that came from who-knows-what-store.

Let's put ourselves in the sensible (translation: flat and comfy) shoes of the Showered One (who is by no means ungrateful for everything you've done for her/him but wants to share this knowledge with as many peeps as possible).

Picture this: You and your BD/BM (Baby Daddy or Baby Mama) have sacrificed at least one entire pre-baby Saturday (which are now becoming alarmingly scarce) to waddle (or schlep, depending on where you are in your preggoness) around a (usually big box) store (or two if you're registered at multiple places). In one hand you carry a scanner gun, like what you may have used when registering for your wedding (back when you actually knew what you needed/wanted and could breeze through a store in an hour or two, firing that thing like you were the John Wayne of registries). In the other hand, you clutch a checklist that you've downloaded from your favorite baby website featuring the oh-so daunting "Things You and Your Baby Cannot Possibly Survive Without" (no pressure!). And stapled to that are a few pages of emails from family and friends who have supplied helpful lists of their own recommendations because, while you may know a cute Pack 'N Play pattern when you see one, there are a zillion brands of bottles and nipples and diapers and ointments, etc.; all the "little" but extremely important things, and you can use all the help you can get!

Exhausted yet?! Don't get me wrong, it's very fun and exciting to make a wish list for your little one. But it's truly a lot of work, especially when you're first time parents and have no idea what you're doing.

That little glimpse into the Showered Ones registration experience is exactly why you should ALWAYS give the gift of gift receipts! Because even if they've requested something in particular, they may get ten of it or they may want to replace it with something else. You will be making new Mamas and Dadas everywhere so very happy by simply asking the cashier for a gift receipt and dropping that sweet little ticket into the card. Trust me, it will be like you're giving them two gifts if/when the time comes for them to return or exchange it.

The gift receipt knows no limits. Gifting diapers? Tape the gift receipt right onto the box because you never know if those size "newborn" ones you purchased will need to be exchanged for a box of size ones. And, if you're one of those adventurous types who likes to avoid gift registries, this will be especially helpful, so that BM/BD don't have to put guesswork into the return of your gift OR so they know where they can go to purchase more of it, OR to recommend it to others because it's so fabulous.

I am SO sold on the power of gift receipts that I now give them with EVERYthing I gift. Ideally, the Showered One will keep and cherish your gift forever but if that is not the case, let's make it as easy on them as possible!

Quintessential Quote

"How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!"

~Maya Angelou

This is one of my all-time favorites. What are yours?

The Young and the Soapless

I shudder to think about what a world without Soap Operas would be like. Sadly, it feels like we are all getting closer to finding out as two ABC programs will close up shop at the end of this year and the beginning of next. Fortunately, my all-time, A#1 fave, The Young and the Restless (Y&R) -- second runners-up are General Hospital (GH) and Days of Our Lives (DOOL) -- appears to be going strong (for the time being).

If you claim you've never watched a Soap, you're not telling the truth. They're impossible to escape and at some point in your life you KNOW you have stopped flipping the channel long enough for Victor Newman to ponder his next move against rival Jack Abbott or to see Marlena Evans (aka Doc) torn between her loyalty to Roman Brady and her passion for John Black. You didn't even have to be watching it on purpose; maybe you were an innocent bystander who grew up with a parent or guardian who had a favorite Soap that was always on and you had no choice but to watch Luke and Laura Spencer's globetrotting shenanigans day after day.

Whatever your history, there's a good chance that Soaps fit into it somewhere. It makes me sad to ponder the extinction of scripted daytime dramas. What will kids watch on sick days home from school whilst sipping their ginger ale? What will lounging teens be sucked into when they wake up in the late morning/early afternoon of a Summer day (right after The Price Is Right, of course)? What will full-time parents and working women and men (I know more than one, thank you very much), set their DVRs to capture 5 days a week and then enjoy catching up on with weekend marathons? (Sidebar: I may or may not have personal experience with each of these scenarios, but that's beside the point.) Even worse, what will future generations really know about over-the-top, unbelievable drama without them? There is NOTHING REAL about Reality TV (translation: prefab drama) but the great thing about Soaps is that they never claim to be real. They're total escapes from the real world and all its trials and tribulations; good old fashioned entertainment. For posterity's sake, here's a few things that I've learned from the Soaps:

• The odds are good that you have an evil twin that you may or may not know about.
• When you die it's pretty rare that you are actually dead.
• When you hit your head, you will get amnesia. Every. Time. Wait . . . what was I saying?
• If you're a child under 11, you will be sent away to boarding school at some point and come home for the Summer having aged 7-10 years.
• Whenever you say something super important, you should hold your pose, gesture, etc. for a good 30 seconds after your declaration (if not for a commercial-break than at least for dramatic effect).
• There is at least 1 villain in every family.
• Even though someone talks about their job often you may never actually see them do any work or ever see the outside of the building they work in.*
• You will never wear the same outfit twice but you may wear the same thing for many days in a row.
• Time moves slowly. One day in Soap time typically = 2-3 days in real time.
• Changing your identity can be as simple as changing your name and dying your hair or as complex as having a complete face transplant to look like your arch nemesis, someone you are obsessed with, or someone you want to get revenge on. (Sidebar: I don't know why it's taken real-life surgeons years to perfect this procedure; Soap docs have been doing it for decades.)
• Whether you are "dead" or in the Soap version of the Witness Protection Program your phone number will remain the same and your cell phone will be in working order at all times.
• The average person will get married no less than 3 times.
• Tampering with or changing the results of a paternity test is simple and at times necessary.
• When you're pregnant, your baby will have no less than 2 possible daddies.
• Just when things in your life seem happy and quiet, something will go awry.*
• There are only so many places in town you will EVER go. Typically there are no more than 10 locations you will ever be (more if you include residences).
• You will never go to the grocery store. Food and wine and liquor just miraculously appear in your home. (For this reason alone I could thrive in Soap World.)
• If you are a man, the odds are pretty good that you have at least one child "out there" (living next door) that you don't know about.
• If you are a woman, the odds are pretty good that the baby you are raising and think is yours was switched at birth and your actual child is somewhere "out there" (being raised by your arch enemy).
• Unless you are at a bar or restaurant, you will dispense booze from crystal decanters that you keep on display in your main living area, in your place of business, on your jet, etc.
• Everyone is connected*. No matter how far fetched.
• If you are staring longingly at a picture of your lost or unrequited love, the odds are pretty good they're doing the same with your photo at the exact same moment.
• Behind every closed door is a man or woman or child leaning against it posing with a look of great concern or distress on their face. There may even be a single tear running down their cheek.
• Something major will always happen on a Friday but nothing will ever be resolved on that particular day of the week. Every Friday is a "cliffhanger day".
• Saxophone music will always play during "intimate" times.
• Any memories/flashbacks you have will be slightly out of focus and surrounded by a fuzzy, cloud-like border.
• If you are a female in prison you will be wearing jail bird duds but still have full access to hair and make-up teams.
• Private jets are more commonplace than cars for day to day transportation. Someone is always calling to have the jet fueled up.
• There is always more to every story.*
• There will always be drama.*

* = This may be the case in reality as well.

What have the soaps taught you? C'mon, you know you want to share . . . start dishing!

Mama Memo Monday

I am a planner (translation: control freak) in all aspects of my life. However, when it came to finding out the gender of our first baby, David and I agreed that it would add to the excitement of the pregnancy (and it did) to wait until he/she entered the world to know. I cross my heart and swear to you that I did not have a preference in the matter; I only wanted a happy, healthy baby and that's exactly what we got! There is nothing like that moment of the "big reveal" and when Cade made his long-anticipated entrance in that delivery room, all three of us were in tears (for different reasons, of course, but in tears just the same). All that having been said, when we registered for our baby showers we picked all gender-neutral items; everything was made for boy AND girl.

Most preggos and their mates cannot (and do not) want to wait to find out what they're having (besides a baby ;), but to those people I ask this simple question: are you planning on having more than one child? If the answer is yes (or maybe), then when you register, I highly recommend going gender-neutral in the bedding and bath departments. Adding accent colors and decorations that are more gender-specific can be done with those basic pieces. Also, think about all the big ticket items a baby requires (swings, pack 'n plays, high chairs, car seats (infant and toddler), strollers, etc. . . .) and how much money you (and loved ones) will save if you go neutral with them. This doesn't mean that EVERY item you register for has to be green and/or yellow. The days of pink OR blue are long gone so there is much more flexibility (the infant car seat and stroller we chose are baby blue and the jogging stroller I purchased is red and black). This is just one easy way to have fun planning for the future and be frugal at the same time!  

Friday Night Lights Out

Clear eyes. Full hearts. Can't lose.

Why do all of the good television shows leave us too soon? After 5 solid seasons, Friday Night Lights (adapted from the book and movie of the same name) came to an end a couple of weeks ago. David and I are way behind the TV times (I have yet to watch the Season Finales of Glee or 30 Rock) so we fired up the ol' DVR last night and finally bid farewell to one of our favorite shows. I think that a part of me wanted to hold out for as long as possible before watching that final episode because I just didn't want it to be over. As I watched the lights on the football field go out for the last time, I felt a tinge of disappointment but was definitely satisfied with how the writers wrapped things up, and I'm glad the show went out on a high note (a la My So-Called Life, Sex and the City, Friends, pretty much any show that I have loved and lost).

I think the best part of FNL is the characters. Even though I was a fan of Kyle Chandler before this show (remember Early Edition?), he became Coach Taylor to me. EVERY one, from the lead characters to the smallest supporting roles, is so real and that's because the cast is A-mazing (well done, casting agents!). If you've never watched an episode, I urge you to add Season 1 to your Netflix queue, hop on Hulu and get to watchin', or head to your local DVD rental store (if one still exists in your neighborhood) when the next rainy day comes around (which could be any minute the way this Summer has been going). Trust me. You don't need to be a football fan to enjoy it and I guarantee that you will fall in love with Coach, Tami, Julie, Gracie Belle, Street, Saracen, Smash, the Riggins brothers, Tyra, Landry, Lyla, Jess, Vince, Mindy, Luke, Buddy (the list goes on and on), and gladly get sucked into their stories.

Tell me . . . what dearly departed television shows do you miss?

Dear San Francisco Giants,

Cade = Not thrilled with the way the team has been performing of late.

Oh, the torture!

I just want to make clear that, for the record, I cannot have a good luck charm baby for you EVERY season. It's just not gonna happen. Cade's arrival in the world gave you the power you needed last Summer but now you're on your own. At some point (in the very near future) you're going to have to get your business together and start getting some strikes AND hits. Find strength in your talented and well compensated roster and those A-mazing fans in that beautiful City by the Bay (and beyond) and bring on those orange and black attacks we love so much!

Let's Go Giants!

Fondly,
Good Luck Charm 2010's Mama

Happiness is . . .

Being an Auntie again! My dear, one-tough-cookie of a sister-in-law gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby boy this morning and we could not be more thrilled. The new addition joins his two older sisters who I can only imagine are over the moon excited about the anticipated arrival of their little brother. I love the fact that there is a new member of our family to love and can't wait for our son to meet his new little buddy; it will be awesome watching them grow up together <3.

What made you happy today?

Honey, I Shrunk the Kid's Hair

After a few weeks of debating whether we should or we shouldn't cut his hair, I finally decided that Cade needed a new "do". The curly wisps were super cute (and made it through his first birthday) but they were driving our lil' man nuts. His "sideburns" were so long that they tickled his ears and he was constantly tugging at them (the tendrils and his ears) and trying to move them away (naturally they bounced right back into place). So I made an appointment at our local kid salon and 24 hours later our little baby officially looked like a little boy. Here is C in the super fun car chair, ready for a new look:

And here are a couple of shots of the sweet new style:

I must admit that when the stylist started snipping I got a little choked up . . . Cade just looked so grown up in the chair and it seemed too soon for us to be taking him to an appointment that wasn't with his pediatrician. While I was sad to see the longer locks go, and check yet ANOTHER "first" off of Cade's rapidly growing list, I love that we can see more of that sweet face and he seems so much more comfortable now.

Faux Words

I am a woman of many pet peeves (which will most definitely be explored in future blosts). However, one of my biggest pet peeves of all time is when people mispronounce words. I am constantly surrounded by English language bloopers from everyone (family members, peers, television "characters", strangers in public places, EVERYone). Here, I have compiled a short list of some of my least favorites:

1. Fauxword = the mispronunciation of forward. There is clearly an R in there, people! (Sidenote: if you are a Bachelorette fan you've heard Ashley use this old chestnut a time or twelve.)

2. Warshington = the mispronunciation of Washington. I don't care where you are from, no matter who or what you are speaking of (the state, the D.C., former President, Denzel) there is NOT an R in this word!

3. Supposebly = the mispronunciation of supposedly. You should not be replacing the d with a b. They are two completely different letters of the alphabet.

4. Q-pon = the mispronunciation of coupon.

5. Woof = the mispronunciation of wolf. This is the sound a dog makes; nothing more.

6. Elemenary = the mispronunciation of elementary. The T is not meant to be silent!

7. Punkin = the mispronunciation of pumpkin. This is only okay if you're using it as a term of endearment (See also: puddin').

8. Libary = the mispronunciation of library. The only time this word should EVER be mispronounced is if you are a) under 5 years old and/or b) you've never actually been in one or c) you are Strawberry Shortcake, in which case the odds are pretty good you frequent the Liberry (I am SUCH a child of the 80s).

9. Acrost = the mispronunciation of across. Again, adding letters is a no, no.

10. Heighth = the mispronunciation of height. This is only acceptable if you talk with a lisp or have a speech impediment. The rest of you should be ashamed (*wags finger*)!

I apologize if you are guilty of one (or more) of the above and I have offended but the good news is . . . it's your turn to vent . . . what mispronounced words make YOU loco en la cabeza?

Lyrics I Love

"You belong among the wildflowers
You belong in a boat out at sea
You belong with your love on your arm
You belong somewhere you feel free"

-Tom Petty/"Wildflowers"

Go Go Gadget, Sticky Hands!

Do you remember this?

It's the infamous sticky hand! And I'm sure that, at some point in your life, you spent a hard earned quarter in one of those grocery story prize-in-a-plastic-egg machines to get one and proceed to drive your entire family crazy with it (For those of you who opted to save your shiny quarters, think gumball or candy machine but instead of containing sweet treats they were full of those plastic eggs containing random prizes or stickers). My brother, Josh, had a yellow one that I'm pretty sure hit every surface in and resident of my parent's house at least twice in its all-too-short life.

Now, do you remember him?

Why, yes, it's that kooky and well-meaning Inspector Gadget (cartoon star of the 80s/silly but beloved entertainment from my childhood) whose niece, Penny, and dog, Brain, secretly solved all of the cases that he was working on and saved him from the evil Dr. Claw on [many an] occasion. My favorite part about I.G. was when he'd say aloud "Go Go Gadget, arms!" and an extra set of extendable limbs would appear and help him complete the task at hand (Did you not believe me when I said that I adore puns?!).

Well, it turns out that you don't need a plastic toy machine or a time machine to experience either of these blasts from the past. In fact, my baby was born with both; two sticky hands in place of actual hands and two Go Go Gadget arms where normal baby arms should be. The toddler can grab ANYTHING, from ANY distance away, without ANY one seeing or hearing. It's hilarious and frightening all at once. Hilarious because one minute I'm standing in his room holding him, and the next I'm holding him and he's holding two of his favorite stuffed animals, which he has used his extreme wingspan to reach for and those gummy paws to hold in his grasp. It's frightening because danger lurks on every surface in our home; kitchen counter tops, the entire bathroom, the desktop, dresser tops, the fireplace, the floor, the bookshelf, etc. And, as baby proof as our home is, there is always new trouble that wily Sir Grabsalot can find for himself. I appreciate his moments of independence and the initiative he shows and LOVE how curious he is; I suppose that we just have to be more mindful than ever of what he's doing at all times and not take our son's stealth abilities lightly.

The irony? With a face like this . . .

. . . all the little man has to do is point and there are two suckers who-shall-not-be-named (with the initials M and D) waiting to give him the world.