Veterans Day

Guys,

Today is Veterans Day. Ours is not a "military town" and I worry--having grown up in a series of such towns--that you will miss out on some of the respect and tradition paid to our servicemen and servicewomen. Many of them are really just girls and boys, yet The Uniform and accompanying responsibility render age-as-a-maturity-indicator pretty useless. Still hard to think of anything but a kid when you see a number like 19 or 23 next to an obituary notice though.

Without getting too preachy, I want you both to hold a special respect for military members, past and present. Sometimes ignorant people ascribe certain views to all members of the armed services--as though a conservative brainwashing occurs during boot camp--but the only thing they all have in common is the voluntary subjugation of their own lives to their country's security. That's huge, and it should never go unappreciated.

So when you enjoy your day off from work, school, or other pursuits on the 11th day of the 11th month each year, I only ask that you take a moment to remember the reason why. Remember, and be thankful.

The Artist

Jason,
Lately you've been on a painting spree. You paint at school, at home, with brushes, with stamps, with fingers...if I let you paint with your feet you would! The good news is I get lots of original artwork to frame and display around the house. I think you need to work on the whole tortured artist thing though. You're WAY too happy to be a serious painter!!

Sit, Matthew, Sit!

Matthew,
You have officially mastered the art of sitting. This development, while impressive to Mommy, is not nearly advanced enough for Jason, who today asked when you would be able to play chase.

Swinging

As winter looms I dread the temporary end of our daily park visits. Matthew even gets in on the fun now!

Trick or Treat!

"Trick or Treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat!"
-- Jason, a.k.a IRONMAN, Oct 31, 2010, thanks to his father.

Jack O' Lanterns

Today was Halloween! You are more into this holiday than any so far...we've had lots of fun doing all the traditional things, but you really put your Daddy through the ringer with Pumpkin Carving. We found a patter for Ironman Jack O' Lanterns in the store, and since he's your very favorite super hero I just couldn't resist. Especially since I knew Daddy would be assisting you with the actual carving. I think you boys did a wonderful job, and I KNOW you had a great time ;-)

Carrots

Matthew,

We started feeding you "real" food. You don't like it.