Birthday bash

Today we held Elliott's birthday party at the McWane Science Center. About 40 friends and family came to celebrate with us, and we had so much fun!

Home Maintenance Mayhem

Today was probably one of the most exciting days in Elliott's life. He helped us sack up leaves all morning. Then in the afternoon he "mowed" the yard with Daddy (sans pants and shoes).

And then Daddy set the yard on fire. Technically, the lawn mower caught fire and the super-dry, dormant Zoysia was the perfect kindling. A little water hose action cooled things off before the whole neighborhood went up in flames, but there were a few hairy moments. Elliott keeps saying, "Daddy's like a fireman! He's fast and strong!"

On the plus side, Internet research seems to indicate that a little "controlled burn" is actually good for the grass. Who knew?

Anybody know some voodoo?

Elliott and Eric were playing in the back yard yesterday when suddenly A. DEAD. BIRD!!! dropped right out of the sky and almost landed on Elliott's head. Seriously. Like 5 feet away. This seems like something that should only happen to the kid from The Omen movies. Maybe we should burn some incense or something. [shudder]

En garde!

Here's how this conversation went: "This mine sword. I'm Peter Pan. You Captain Hook. YAAAAHHHH!!" And then violent swinging ensued. And then Eric ran away.

Be Mine

Winter Wonderland

Some people are tired of seeing snow this year. Elliott is not one of those people. He was absolutely thrilled to find our house blanketed once again this morning!