His & hers & hers

A few months ago, my daughters expressed interest in Nerf guns. Being a gun guy, I thought it was a cute idea and both girls purchased some Nerf revolvers. It seems that in today’s times, Nerf is primarily a weapons manufacturer. The girls love setting up their toys and knocking them over or shooting each other in the butt. For Christmas, my wonderful girls got me the same model so we can all play. I love my girls!

posted @ 1/24/2012 8:39:40 AM | Feedback (10)

How awesome is my daughter?

THIS Awesome! Click to embiggenate At 9, she’s found a love for Tabasco. She’s having a ground beef stuffed potato from Publix (darned good eatin’) and soaking it with hot sauce. Both my girls like hot buffalo wings and Irelyn likes a little Tabasco on stuff from time to time as well. It’s neat that they can eat things most kids their age wouldn’t go near. Oh, and Georgia got her first report card on the A-F scale. Straight A’s! Irelyn got pretty much the same for her grading scale. We...

posted @ 11/4/2011 9:23:03 PM | Feedback (5)

Breaking boards

Irelyn loves Taekwondo. Here she is breaking boards. Kind of…

posted @ 10/29/2011 4:26:45 PM | Feedback (4)

I didn’t write a post yesterday

For one, my oldest celebrated her 9th birthday, so it was a day of happiness for our family. Georgia loved her gifts (even Irelyn bought her a doll out of her own money!) and had a great time with the family dropping by. My grandmother was there and gave both girls some diamond studded elephant pendants that she had collected over the years – my grandmother has always collected elephant related items – as something to remember her by. Cake was eaten, presents were open, dinner was consumed,...

posted @ 9/12/2011 8:53:05 AM | Feedback (3)

It’s my readers who make it all worth while

Met up last night with longtime reader Longhorn Jeff - he of The Wheelbarrow Full of Cash fame - last night at my favorite watering hole, The Tampa Bay Brewing Company. Great guy and to this day it still amazes me that people actually want to meet me rather than just have someone else hand me a restraining order (I mean, how impersonal is that?). Had a great conversation and Jeff also brought and old set of Lord of the Rings books, including The Hobbit, for Georgia since he read how much she...

posted @ 9/8/2011 9:53:43 AM | Feedback (6)

Not the best vacation news

Down at the beach with the family this weekend. Just got news that the little girl I've been posting about has passed away. Horrible, horrible news. I've made sure I've spent the best time possible with my girls so far. One never knows how much time we have left here on this planet, so make the best of what you've got. For those who have kids, hug 'em a bit tighter tonight. My prayers go out to Darien Engelberger's family in this horrific time.

posted @ 9/4/2011 5:11:12 PM | Feedback (8)

Horrible news

My wife just informed me that the little girl I blogged about the other day has slipped into a coma. The doctors found blood on her brain and are not giving her very good odds of recovering. I’m sick to my stomach, and I only knew the girl from seeing her at my daughters’ school. My prayers go to her family.

posted @ 9/2/2011 9:46:34 AM | Feedback (3)

Milestones

iMac lost her first tooth last night Did you know that first teeth are worth $5 these days? Almost makes me want to yank out a few of mine and put them under the pillow.

posted @ 8/31/2011 8:28:00 AM | Feedback (8)

Concepts antiquated by modern technology

Seriously, who needs to bury a ‘time capsule’ anymore? I have a blog that serves the exact same purpose. Which is the purpose of this blog post, by the way. It has nothing to do with guns, but everything to do with my two daughters who I love deeply. One of the great things about being a father is that I get to entertain my children and I do so by being as goofy as I can, and trust me, that can get really goofy. One of my lifelong goals has always been to voice a cartoon character but since...

posted @ 8/30/2011 9:31:42 AM | Feedback (4)

Too close to home for me

I love my daughters. They are both as close to perfect as can be – smart, well behaved, and most of all, healthy. I drop them off at school in the mornings and while I don’t know all the kids I see each day, you do tend to get to recognize them. Which is why when I heard about this story, my heart sunk. Darien Reese Engelberger is my 11-year-old niece. Until 7/29/11 she was a healthy, active (highly above-average) kid. I was at her basketball practice at the YMCA on 7/29/11. Two hours...

posted @ 8/24/2011 8:40:17 AM | Feedback (1)

This. This is what makes it all worthwhile

Georgia loves to read. She’s not even 9 yet and she’s chewed through the first three Harry Potter books. When she goes to the library, she always checks out as many books as she can and usually reads a couple of them by the time she gets home. The other day, she brought home a book as big and as thick as many that I’d read. She finished it in one day. So, it was time Look closely. Can you tell what she is reading? Here’s a few sentences to help. Up jumped Bilbo, and putting on his...

posted @ 8/18/2011 9:06:50 PM | Feedback (21)

Fatherhood is

Piggy back rides through the house This is why I’m hitting the gym several times a week. This is why I started running again. Last year, one loop around the house with one of my girls on my back was all I could do. Now, I can run around until they get tired. These are the moments worth living for.

posted @ 8/14/2011 7:34:33 PM | Feedback (7)

Why I fear for my daughters’ educations

I know it’s probably gauche to brag about one’s children, but both of my daughters are exceptionally bright. My oldest’s reading ability is literally off the charts. They don’t have tests that challenge her. My youngest too is well beyond her classmates in most areas. Georgia is a straight A student, iMac could be if she’d just pay attention a bit more (she’s more like me, scatterbrained and possibly having ADD which, honestly isn’t tha…. SQUIRREL!). We cannot afford private schooling for them...

posted @ 7/27/2011 9:24:27 AM | Feedback (38)

One of the best things in my life

Is celebrating her 6th birthday today. Happy Birthday iMac, Daddy loves you so much

posted @ 7/18/2011 11:03:37 AM | Feedback (4)

Living in the future

I remember, quite clearly, watching STS-1 take off. I was 9 at the time and remembered getting up bright and early on that Sunday to watch the spacecraft rocket into the sky. I also remember getting to watch it again the next day at school on the big tv that had to be wheeled around on a cart. My girls? They got to watch the last shuttle launch on my wife’s laptop computer. At work, everyone huddled around my desk while we watched it on my PC.

posted @ 7/10/2011 3:42:11 PM | Feedback (4)

May cause diabetic shock

I swear, this picture threatens to give me type 8 diabetes

posted @ 7/6/2011 8:45:12 AM | Feedback (0)

From the mouths of babes

I was explaining why we observe Memorial Day to my daughters. I explained that Daddy never had to go fight in a war even though he was in the Marines. My youngest asked “Why do we have to fight?” and I explained that there was evil in the world and places that want to destroy our freedoms. Her reply? “Like California?”

posted @ 5/30/2011 6:09:53 PM | Feedback (8)

How you can tell it’s Summer

When the Slip ‘N Slide comes out

posted @ 5/22/2011 8:00:49 PM | Feedback (3)

That didn’t turn out like we expected

Our oldest, Georgia, was asking last night before she went to bed if parents really were the Easter Bunny. She’s 8 and so smart it’s scary so it didn’t surprise us that she was asking those questions. She looked at my wife directly and said “Mommy, do parents put the candy in the basket?” Kari looked at me, grimaced, and said “We’ll tell you the truth if you want to know it” and Georgia nodded her head and said yes. My wife whispered to her “yes” and Georgia just laughed and said “Mom! Tell me...

posted @ 4/24/2011 7:42:37 PM | Feedback (21)

Why my daughter will probably have many run ins with teachers throughout the years.

The oldest got an assignment to list things that were blue. Not something that can be other colors, so blue shirts and blue cars were out of the questions, but things that are naturally blue. I did manage to get her to put down Copper Sulfate, but the wife wouldn’t let me get her to put down Cherenkov Radiation. She’s in 2nd grade, mind you. Last year she had to write a sentence using the word ‘toward’. We had her put down ‘Go toward the light, Carol Anne’.

posted @ 4/6/2011 10:53:54 AM | Feedback (12)

Best of luck, little buddy

A few weeks ago, my daughters got a couple of praying mantises from one of their teachers. We started off with 3, but only 1 managed to survive (no, he didn’t eat his brethren). We’ve been digging outside for beetles and bugs for him to eat, and he already went through a molting which was neat. However, we’ve not been able to supply him with enough food. For whatever reason, our hibiscus plants are simply devoid of aphids and all of our friends with gardens seem to be low on them too. So, we...

posted @ 4/5/2011 4:36:06 PM | Feedback (5)

Puppy love

posted @ 4/3/2011 9:42:18 PM | Feedback (9)

Sometimes, I get a clear glimpse at exactly how lucky of a man I am

posted @ 3/19/2011 10:06:26 PM | Feedback (12)

The grade I’m giving you is an F

Because Go Piss Up A Rope wouldn’t fit in the little box. State Representative Kelli Stargel has filed a bill that would require teachers to grade the parents of the students. HB 255 - Parental Involvement and Accountability in the Public Schools states Parental Involvement and Accountability in the Public Schools: Specifies purpose to provide information & tools to parents of preK-12 students & to set standards for parental accountability; specifies causes for student...

posted @ 1/20/2011 10:28:41 AM | Feedback (18)

One of my New Year’s resolutions

To be less impatient with my children. They’re both smart as a whip and I tend to forget they’re only 8 & 5 (of course that will change to 9 & 6 this year). I tend to jump into Stern Daddy Mode a bit too quickly. Oh, and to play with them even more. If that means I gotta be the Donny Osmand Barbie, so be it.

posted @ 1/3/2011 11:51:42 AM | Feedback (5)

Time well spent

At this precise moment, I have a headache. I’m also dog tired and could fall asleep at my desk on a moment’s notice. Why? At precisely 2:15 AM-ish, my alarm went off. I sluggishly got out of bed (do you know how damn near impossible it is to swipe the “Slide to Unlock” on an iPhone at 2 in the morning?), got dressed into some sweats and my coat, and woke up my oldest daughter, Georgia. Irelyn was too sleepy to get up. We then went outside and watched the lunar eclipse. I chose that time...

posted @ 12/21/2010 8:45:38 AM | Feedback (16)

Things that make a father proud

Seeing his 8 year old enjoying reading this much Georgia has always been a voracious reader. She’s now old enough to enjoy the Harry Potter series. We figure as she gets older, she’ll be able to deal with some of the darker themes in the later books, but for now, she’s thrilled to be immersed in the wonderful world of Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and Quidditch.

posted @ 11/27/2010 10:46:31 AM | Feedback (1)

The adventure begins

The wife is reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone to the girls. My heart is soaring. I happened to see the new Harry Potter movie today. Quite good. Now I just have to wait 6 months for the thrilling conclusion.

posted @ 11/21/2010 7:51:14 PM | Feedback (0)

End of the innocence

The other night, my girls were eating at the table, flipping each other the bird. My oldest was telling the youngest that she shouldn’t “do this” and of course, my youngest had to do just that. There I am, standing behind both my daughters giving each other the middle-finger salute, trying to be firm and not laugh. It’s truly sad as eventually their perfect innocence gets corrupted by life and there’s little to nothing I can do to preserve it other than try to lead a good example for them. At...

posted @ 11/16/2010 9:49:08 AM | Feedback (2)

Little twangs of freedom

Today my youngest got her first taste of freedom. It was a beautiful day and while she’s still too small to accurately handle the air-rifle, she’s big enough to do it with Daddy’s help. We placed a target (and a soda can) near the ground, tacked to a tree so that we would generally be pointing down and not have to worry too much about letting one go into the neighbor’s new pool screen. She liked it, and wants to do it some more. I think we’ve got a budding gunnie on our...

posted @ 10/16/2010 2:12:57 PM | Feedback (21)

Growing up

Last night was a bittersweet evening. My oldest is 8 and loves to learn. She was making up 'magic tricks' last night which mostly consisted of us closing our eyes while she did something. Now, I'm no master magician, but I know a few coin tricks that are pretty nifty and have been wowing my girls with them since they could realize that their ears could hold coins and small toys. Last night, I showed Georgia how they worked. She's been on a kick lately that 'daddy can't really remove his...

posted @ 9/30/2010 2:10:00 PM | Feedback (11)

Warning! May cause cavities and / or diabetic shock!

My youngest started Kindergarten today. Amazing how fast they grow up. Click for full size

posted @ 8/24/2010 12:00:22 PM | Feedback (10)

One thousand eight hundred and twenty six of 'em

Happy birthday, sweetheart

posted @ 7/18/2010 8:18:16 PM | Feedback (6)

A good return on my investment

So, I just got back from my oldest daughter's awards ceremony for 1st grade. She got an award for having perfect behavior as well as picking up Student of the Year for her class. I'm as proud of her as a father can be and even got a little choked up about it when they announced it. However, I had a stunning realization during the ceremony. Out of the 100 kids or so, there were maybe a dozen parents. While I can't make it to every function, I do my damndest to make as many as I can and the...

posted @ 6/2/2010 9:34:44 AM | Feedback (3)

How thpethial

The oldest finally lost one of her upper central incisors last night. The thing has been loose for months and it still took a bit of pulling to get it free. The wife did that as I can handle broken bones, concussions, lacerations, and skinned knees. What I can't deal with are injured digits or anything dental. It's so cute hearing her talk now that sibilants are difficult to form.

posted @ 5/28/2010 10:46:34 AM | Feedback (5)

Make no bones about it

My wife made these 'bones' last night for a snack at our little Halloween shindig. She took Pillsbury refrigerated bread sticks, cut them lengthwise at the ends just a bit, then balled up the two fringes to make them look like bones. She sprinkled them with garlic powder and a little kosher salt then baked them. They turned out wonderful. Add a side of "pizza sauce blood" and there wasn't a single one left by the end of the night. Irelyn went as a Vampire Bat Georgia went as...

posted @ 11/1/2009 8:45:35 AM | Feedback (4)

Science is FUN!

Some pics from the daughter's Mad Science party this weekend. I decorated the cake myself All the kids had a great time. Disappearing water, melting Styrofoam heads with acetone, the needle through the balloon without popping, making their own slime, and of course, FIRE! I highly recommend this for your kids.

posted @ 9/21/2009 9:54:54 AM | Feedback (1)

Stand back!

The oldest is having her 'friend' party today. The theme is Science. We've hired a company to come over and do experiments, all the kids get to make 'slime', and I've got a volcano ready to 'splode all over the place. Gonna be darned good fun!

posted @ 9/19/2009 12:55:36 PM | Feedback (8)

Life's a beach

Aahhhhhh.... Ain't done nuthin' but sit on the beach or just float in the ocean. Today, I was swimming with Georgia and I noticed a large, dark shape swimming our way. Not wanting to alarm her, I just started swimming towards the shore, an it turned out to be a manatee!Later, there were some dolphins swimming near by, and the girls loved that. Plenty of time left, too.

posted @ 8/12/2009 5:56:44 PM | Feedback (6)

What life is all about

This weekend, my oldest daughter was in her first play, 101 Dalmatians. She had been going every weekday to drama camp for two weeks, and this Saturday was their performance. Georgia had several parts. She was Narrator #1, a puppy, and one of the boxers. As Narrator #1, she had the first line and had a solo speaking part (the only one, if I recall). With her puppy outfit that she made and her makeup, she was just too cute She did really well. She nailed her lines, sang loudly enough, and...

posted @ 8/3/2009 8:35:40 AM | Feedback (4)

Four years ago today

The third installment of "The Best Things To Ever Happen To Me" was born Happy birthday Irelyn!

posted @ 7/18/2009 9:08:16 AM | Feedback (4)

I really can't complain

My youngest, Irelyn Mackenna (or iMac, for short), is the world's slowest eater. It's along the line of one bite every 5 minutes or so. The good part is that like her sister, she'll eat pretty much anything. Heck, my girls' favorite thing to eat is asparagus. Picky isn't a word we use to describe their eating habits. Frozen molasses is how I'd describe iMac's eating speed though.

posted @ 3/25/2009 9:03:26 PM | Feedback (2)

And it begins!

Georgia, my oldest (at 6½) doesn't like shopping at all. Any time my wife goes shopping, Georgia looks for excuses to not go. That, and she loves asparagus. I don't think she's human. Today was no different. I'm heading out to Tenoroc with Greg to do a little sporting clays and because I'm not going to be here, the girls will have to go shopping with mama. Georgia absolutely didn't want to go and when I jokingly told her she could go with me, she jumped on the opportunity (don't worry Greg, I...

posted @ 3/8/2009 10:56:25 AM | Feedback (11)

Double ear infections

AND pink eye!!! My poor daughter…

posted @ 3/4/2009 3:51:58 PM | Feedback (7)

Insanely jealous

That's how my oldest would be if I showed her this. She won't shoot the air gun, but she still wants the Pink Davy Crickett .22.

posted @ 2/16/2009 12:59:58 PM | Feedback (2)

Right now, life is good

Just sitting here at the park, soaking up the wonderful sunshine and watching my girls play. Seems like all the world's problems are a million miles away, and that's a good thing. That, and I'm in shorts. Makes thinking about leaving Florida much harder.

posted @ 1/25/2009 12:58:13 PM | Feedback (2)

My daughter, the carnivore

Took the family to the Florida Aquarium today. Georgia seemed more excited to see 'food' than 'fish'. She'd see a crab and go "Yum! Crab legs!" The shrimp didn't fare much better, and the grouper had her drooling. It's heartwarming to hear her point out cattle as we drive by a farm and instead of going "Mooooo" she goes "Mmmmm.. Hamburgers!"

posted @ 1/19/2009 9:34:37 PM | Feedback (1)

Two down

Thirty more to go

posted @ 1/6/2009 7:50:34 AM | Feedback (0)

My kids are like fountains of blogging material

So the oldest just walked in the office, carrying a Lego lid full of her little sister's toy Tinkerbell set and asked Who ordered the plate of fried fairies?

posted @ 1/3/2009 4:52:21 PM | Feedback (2)

Quote of the day - The truth from a child

My 3 year old, while trying to get her dressed and teaching her a new word at the same time I'm not modest, I'm cute!

posted @ 1/2/2009 9:35:39 AM | Feedback (2)

That's my girl

My oldest, Georgia, played her very first soccer game today. She scored the first goal for her team. I'm so proud!

posted @ 12/6/2008 6:56:50 PM | Feedback (5)

From the mouths of babes

The other day the Mrs and I were towing our crew around when we passed a funeral. Georgia, my 6 year old, exclaimed "Looks like someone is dying today. And they're throwing a party"

posted @ 12/2/2008 1:15:18 PM | Feedback (4)

The smallest of victories

The eldest tied her own shoes today. Wow. It goes so fast.

posted @ 11/28/2008 12:18:12 PM | Feedback (3)

Game over, man. Game over.

I just yelled at my 6 year old to not run with scissors....

posted @ 10/22/2008 6:20:08 PM | Feedback (6)

You know those annoying people at work who bug you to support their kid's latest fund raiser?

I'm doing it online instead. If you've got a few bucks to spare, just drop it in the tip jar and I promise it will go to my daughter's school and not ammo. 17th annual Walk-A-Thon! We would like you to be a part of this exciting and fun event. Our goal this year is to raise $5000 to be used to purchase technology related items for our school. The students will walk laps around the school during a 45 minute period. All monied will collected will go toward the support of our technology program....

posted @ 10/22/2008 7:22:51 AM | Feedback (1)

Hell hath no fury

Like a father protecting his daughter INDIANAPOLIS -- A man who police said broke into a home with the intention of sexually assault a 17-year-old girl in her bedroom died early Sunday morning after a struggle with the girl's father. David Meyers, 52, was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after officers arrived following a report of a home invasion in the 3500 block of West 79th Street at about 3:20 a.m. Officers said they found Robert McNally, 64, on the floor with his arm around the neck...

posted @ 9/29/2008 7:41:01 AM | Feedback (4)

I still have work to do

I was putting away all my gear a few minutes ago and had to load my pistol. I asked Irelyn, who is three, "What does Daddy have in his hands?" She said "a gun". "And what do you do if you see a gun?" I asked. "SHOOT!" she replied, quite enthusiastically.

posted @ 8/25/2008 6:16:02 PM | Feedback (1)

It's going too fast

First day of school again. Irelyn goes back to Pre-K, Georgia starts Kindergarten. You can't stop them from growing up, but that doesn't make it any easier.

posted @ 8/18/2008 11:39:28 AM | Feedback (7)

1,095 wonderful days

Happy 3rd birthday, Irelyn Mackenna (or, as she's known around the house, iMac)

posted @ 7/18/2008 3:33:01 PM | Feedback (0)

Ls

Irelyn, who turns 3 in 9 days, just decideda few minutes ago to stop pronouncing her 'l's like 'w's. Why? I have no idea. But it's cute to hear her say "lollipop" instead of "wowwipop" and "I love you" rather than "I wuv you". They grow up so fast...

posted @ 7/9/2008 10:06:48 PM | Feedback (0)

If you want to know why I had a great Father's day

Here are two of the three reasons The other reason is the mother of these two beauties, a beauty herself. Thanks babe!

posted @ 6/16/2008 12:13:26 PM | Feedback (1)

End of one chapter, beginning of another

I can't believe this was three years ago. Last night, Georgia had her going away ceremony for preschool. In a little over two months, she starts kindergarten. The Mrs. has pictures from first and last days, wearing the same outfit, and it's hard to believe they grow that much in less than a year. If you need me, I'll be the grumpy, melancholy guy moping about the house.

posted @ 5/31/2008 10:54:01 AM | Feedback (1)

Melt my heart, why don't you?

Yuri's daughter is soooo cute! Georgia has asked to go to the range with me. She's almost ready, I'm just not sure she'll be able to handle the loud sounds. Of course, I want to take her to an outdoor range to limit that, I just need to find the time. Like Yuri's daughter, mine already wants her own gun. Gotta be pink, too.

posted @ 5/27/2008 7:34:32 AM | Feedback (2)

About the picture of my daughter

I had someone comment on why would I ever want to take a picture of my daughter with such a rifle. Simple, I explained - I wanted a photograph that showed the juxtaposition between something that is generally associated with terror and mayhem and something that is innocent and innocuous, like the rifle. It's art, baby.

posted @ 4/27/2008 8:22:18 PM | Feedback (7)

Proud papa!

Georgia asked if I would teach her how to field strip an AR. I think I might just do that!

posted @ 4/24/2008 10:04:50 PM | Feedback (12)

Time to put the big girl panties on

As in, the youngest has officially transitioned out of diapers. Until you've got kids, this is a milestone you truly cannot appreciate in full.

posted @ 4/18/2008 1:18:34 PM | Feedback (6)

Stick a fork in me

Went to Disney World on Sunday (first time since I was like 5 or 6!) with the oldest. Went to Downtown Disney today for Bibbidy Bobbiby Boutique (for Georgia, not me. Although I seriously considered scheduling a session for myself before I get my next driver's license picture). I'm toast. We were at DW from 9AM to 10PM. Georgia was a trooper and didn't complain, but I had to hold her every here and there and let me tell you, they're making 5 year olds out of lead these days. And the poor thing...

posted @ 3/31/2008 7:49:37 PM | Feedback (5)

Apparently, they still make them

Went to a drive in theater last night down in Ruskin, Fl. to see Horton Hears a Who with the family. I think the last movie I saw at a drive in was Mary Poppins or Jaws. The coolest thing was that the owner didn't mind people walking into the projector room so I got to see an old school projector with all the film AND Georgia (my oldest) got to actually start the movie! He let her flip the switch and open the shutter with the light. Great, great, great movie by the way. I highly recommend it....

posted @ 3/22/2008 5:06:28 PM | Feedback (4)

Brimming with pride

If I was smiling any wider, I'd give the Cheshire Cat the creeps. I had pulled out the .22 rifle to examine it. It's a cheap Armscor M1600 that I got many years ago. Surprisingly accurate for an inexpensive rifle, and I got it in my head that I should paint it in some sort of girlie colors and give it to my daughters. The Hello Kitty thing has been done to death, so I'm thinking Care Bears or My Little Pony. Of course, I have a plethora of themes to choose from off of Noggin. Wow Wow Wubbzy...

posted @ 2/7/2008 7:47:49 PM | Feedback (10)

A fun day was had by all

Took the family to Busch Gardens today. Everyone had a blast. Still chuckled as they prodded through my wife's bag which was full of food for the kids and didn't bother to pat me down. I could have carried a 50BMG in and they'd have never noticed. But let's admit the truth, shall we? I only wrote this to post pictures of my kids! I mean, they're just so damned cute!

posted @ 1/27/2008 10:09:18 PM | Feedback (8)

Two reindeers

Took the crumb snatchers to the Winter Wonderland at the local zoo Friday night. We ended up getting their faces painted and they were so cute the face painting lady wanted the picture for her web site. We're sending this out in our Christmas cards. If you put your coffee or tea near the screen, this picture will sweeten it. I promise.

posted @ 12/10/2007 2:38:15 PM | Feedback (4)

A good time was had by all

Spent Thanksgiving up in General Coffee State Park in Georgia with the Mrs' family. It was good to have just a few days with everyone, especially since I got to spend so much of it with the girls. The park had a small "farm" with lots of animals, canoes, and plenty of trails. They were happy and that made me happy. It's hard for a lot of people without kids to understand, but it's times like these that make those memories that last forever and always put a smile in your heart when you think...

posted @ 11/26/2007 8:51:19 AM | Feedback (1)

Guess what ride at the fair I am now officially too old to ride?

Georgia loved it. I, on the other hand, was motion sick for hours. Getting old sucks. Of course, the lack of stomach fortitude is well balanced by the sheer look of joy on your children's faces when they get to partake in even the most simplistic of rides.

posted @ 11/20/2007 8:25:06 AM | Feedback (0)

That's it. No more TV for my oldest

The other night my 5 year old was writing MOM and DAD on little pieces of paper. She folded them up, shuffled them around, then started picking them up, one at a time. This is what I heard "That's one vote for Daddy. That's two votes for Daddy. That's one vote for Mommy. Daddy, you have been voted off the island."

posted @ 11/14/2007 2:07:35 PM | Feedback (3)

From the mouths of babes

Watching football, my oldest keeps calling 'em "The Indianapolis Clots".

posted @ 11/4/2007 5:25:35 PM | Feedback (0)

Let's not mince words here

It's not about the dressing up or the spooky kitsch, it's about the loot...

posted @ 11/2/2007 2:44:35 PM | Feedback (2)

Weekend fun

Took the girls to a train museum yesterday. You get to take a train ride to a "pumpkin patch" and they had a hay ride and face painting. It was cheesy, but the girls had a great time and that's what counts. I wonder if either of my girls will get my skin coloring. I was lighter as a child, but as I got older I kept getting darker and darker. The joys of being from a mixed marriage!

posted @ 10/29/2007 12:40:30 PM | Feedback (10)

Punk rocker in Pre-K

Around our house, tomorrow is a day of celebration. While September 11th, 2001 was a tragic day, September 11th, 2002 saw the birth of my first child, Georgia Noelle. Tomorrow she turns 5. Man does time fly when you're an old fart. Anyway, Georgia's favorite color is pink. Pink pink pink. Everything she wants is pink, including wanting pink highlights in her hair. So the Mrs. and me said "Why not?". We're cool parents, so this Saturday Georgia got her birthday wish. Getting ready Foiled!...

posted @ 9/10/2007 9:15:47 AM | Feedback (3)

How cute is that?

The other day my oldest daughter was drawing, as she is wont to do. She was proud of her masterpiece (which was a bunch of concentric circles) and showed it to me, so I asked her what it was. Targets. For me to take to the range.

posted @ 8/20/2007 9:54:15 AM | Feedback (6)

Motivational posters from home

Granted, I'm probably the only one who uses his child's potty training for humorous effect.

posted @ 7/26/2007 8:23:16 PM | Feedback (2)

Two years ago today

The third of the three best things to happen to me in life came into the world. Happy Birthday Irelyn Mackenna.

posted @ 7/18/2007 8:31:21 AM | Feedback (3)

Well, I've already found my daughters' 8th year birthday presents

If they're so inclined and want one, this absolutely rocks It's a single shot, bolt action .22 from Crickett Rifle. And it's PINK! How cute would that be to have my daughter at the range, plinking away with a pink rifle? Heck, I'd even pay extra to get Hello Kitty engraved on the butt stock.

posted @ 6/28/2007 3:37:49 PM | Feedback (3)

Happiness is

Knowing that these pictures of your 5 year old little girl helping you clean your Mosin Nagant M44 is going to cause several members of the Million Mom March to suddenly moisturize their Depends. Update: The bolt has been removed from the rifle, rendering it useless and impossible to fire. Hence why the muzzle placement isn't a major concern. However, Rule #2 is still important to remember (Never aim the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy). *Sigh* I'm just sad she's too small...

posted @ 6/20/2007 10:34:20 AM | Feedback (10)

The unavoidable confusion that comes from being very young

Yesterday, the Mrs. and I were furniture shopping. Georgia was at summer camp and Irelyn was merrily burbling the way only a 2 year old can burble in her car seat. I think it's a natural instinct that whenever parents pass small groups of bovines that we yell at our kids "Look Honey! Cows!" As if cows were some sort of rare sighting that should be written down in the annals of the child's history so that one day they could sit with their grandchildren and tell them that long ago, they once saw...

posted @ 6/13/2007 12:14:56 PM | Feedback (2)

Bath time

So, last night I had bath duty for the two girls. Usually the Mrs. and I swap days so that the other can get 25 minutes of time away. Normally I bring a book with me. The girls are old enough to play without drowning each other, so our presence is just in case of "soap in eyes" or a "sharing incident". However, last night I had no book. So I cleaned my rifle. The best part was Georgia commenting on how she liked the new synthetic stock and asking me what the bolt was and how it worked. She even...

posted @ 6/13/2007 12:05:29 PM | Feedback (0)

My lucky daughter

This is what she got to do last night. Her Aunt & Uncle (and cousin) took her to see the shuttle launch. I'm royally jealous. I live in Florida and I've yet to attend a launch. Next time though, I'm making an extra effort.

posted @ 6/9/2007 1:07:28 PM | Feedback (1)

Irelyn and the Sea Turtle

Just a picture of a friendly sea turtle that wanted to say hello to Irelyn

posted @ 4/1/2007 9:43:33 PM | Feedback (0)

That's it. Next time we head to Sears

Sometimes, being a professional photographer isn't all it's cracked up to be. Take for example, trying to photograph your two daughters, aged 4 and 1, for your Christmas cards. And this was the best shot from the group.

posted @ 11/25/2006 9:39:08 PM | Feedback (2)

Because one can never get enough pictures of a cute toddler in her first bubble bath

posted @ 11/6/2006 10:59:50 AM | Feedback (32)

Warning: High possibility of heart melting

Isn't Irelyn just too cute?

posted @ 11/4/2006 9:54:54 AM | Feedback (1)

Gift idea

As a father of two small children, when birthdays roll around the question of “What should I get your kid?” is inevitable. Usually the parents have a list of what to get their rugrats handy. Of course, if you’re (a) forgetful, (b) a procrastinator or (c) male, it’s usually the day before the party when it hits you that you’ll need to buy a gift. If you are at a loss or completely out of ideas, here’s something that every child needs, regardless of gender or age – A pack of batteries....

posted @ 7/26/2006 10:37:00 AM | Feedback (2)

Amazing how time slips past you

Just haven’t had the time to blog it, but last Tuesday in the SaaM household saw a little girl celebrate her first birthday. With the emergence of her second tooth, nonetheless.

posted @ 7/21/2006 12:24:00 PM | Feedback (0)

Start 'em early, I say

How can you get any cuter than a picture of a baby standing next to your new keg?

posted @ 7/6/2006 9:41:00 AM | Feedback (0)

Exciting moments in cellphone camera imaging

Georgia sure does love a good carousel ride (click for fullsize)

posted @ 6/12/2006 1:52:00 PM | Feedback (1)

My continued marriage to my wife is a constant source of amazement to me

My (almost) 4 year old, Georgia, is sick today. Didn’t even want to go to dance class. The Mrs. and I had the following email conversation. Wife: I just checked her temp. I gave her tylenol at 9:30 and her temp just now is 102. Yuck! Me: Ugh. Keep me informed, ok? Wife: She hasn't eaten anything and only had a couple sips of juice. She says she's not hungry or thirsty. She's very pathetic. I'm just letting her lay on the couch and watch t.v. Me: Oh my God, honey. It sounds very,...

posted @ 6/7/2006 1:26:00 PM | Feedback (1)

I don't know about you...

But I simply cannot get enough of my little girls. (click to enlarge)

posted @ 3/29/2006 7:16:00 PM | Feedback (5)

Moments like these

I love my girls. I really, really do.

posted @ 3/16/2006 2:30:00 PM | Feedback (1)

A berry good time

I took a few days off of work this week. We wanted to take Georgia to the Plant City Strawberry Festival on Thursday and Friday was my 5 year wedding anniversary. Georgia had a blast. She rode a whole slew of rides, but of course her favorites were the ones she got to ride with Daddy! And yes, her lips are actually blue from her first snowcone!

posted @ 3/11/2006 9:03:00 AM | Feedback (1)

Over the edge

Heard Irelyn crying on the monitor early this morning (a little bit before 5 am). Normally she doesn’t wake up to eat until closer to 6, but babies aren’t known for their ability to tell time. I heard my wife (eventually) get up and leave the room which kicked in my ‘go back to sleep mode’. 30 seconds later she’s yelling for my help. Turns out, 7 month old Irelyn decided to heave herself over the edge of her crib. 7 months old. Did I mention she’s only 7 months old and figured out how hoist...

posted @ 3/2/2006 12:27:00 PM | Feedback (3)

The shrine

It’s no secret I love my daughters. This is why my cube is often referred to as ‘the shrine’ (click to enlarge)

posted @ 3/1/2006 11:07:00 AM | Feedback (1)

A phrase that is used way to often in my household

“Georgia, where are your pants?” Man, I hope she grows out of this stage real quick. I’d hate to ask her that when she comes home from a date.

posted @ 2/28/2006 9:38:00 AM | Feedback (0)

You'd show 'em off too if you could

Click for full size

posted @ 2/24/2006 7:40:00 PM | Feedback (1)

Start 'em young, I say.

I forget how freakin’ huge my camera is sometimes….

posted @ 1/26/2006 7:13:00 PM | Feedback (1)

When life give you lemons

Make sour-puss faces

posted @ 1/26/2006 5:26:00 PM | Feedback (0)

Well, the Mrs. doesn't like it

Came up with a new nickname for Irelyn Mackenna. iMac Mrs. Marble isn’t thrilled with it. The rest of the family seems ok with it though. Georgia gets called ‘Little Ms. G’, but usually only when referencing her, not talking to her directly. Maybe if I was more like Lileks and called her Gnat or something, I’d get more readers. Or if I was a better writer, or something.Who knows?

posted @ 1/23/2006 9:43:00 AM | Feedback (2)

Happy 1/2 birthday!

Irelyn Mackenna – Already 6 months old! Can you believe it?

posted @ 1/17/2006 8:14:00 PM | Feedback (7)

Speaking of kids growing up too fast

Irelyn officially started crawling last month. Not even 5 & 1/2 months old yet. It’s not like she’s speed crawling across the floor, but it’s definitely up on all fours with a flump forward. Guess I need to start vacuuming more. I wonder if those Roombas are worth it?

posted @ 1/4/2006 1:54:00 PM | Feedback (1)

Time goes way too fast

Today is Georgia’s first day of preschoolShe took to it like a fish to water. Mommy and Daddy of course had a little bit harder of a time letting go. It’s hard to believe she’s already starting pre-k.I’ll be all sad today ;0)

posted @ 1/4/2006 9:32:00 AM | Feedback (7)

The inherent violence in today's preschool toys

So for Christmas my daughter got Word Whammer™ Fridge Phonics™ Set from Leapfrog. Basically it’s a set of letter magnets and a magnetic box that you can put 3 of the letters in to spell various words. One of the modes is a game where the voice tells you to spell a word and you try to find the letters and put them in the right order. The very first word it asked to spell? WAR Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?

posted @ 12/31/2005 1:54:00 PM | Feedback (5)

Why is it?

That little kids suddenly reach an age where they can no longer smile normally for a picture and instead end up looking like something straight out of a psycho movie?

posted @ 12/22/2005 9:52:00 AM | Feedback (6)

Show 'em off, if you got 'em

Seems like some people have to show off their kids. I guess it’s the ‘in’ thing now. Being that Sharp as a Marble® Industries is all about the bandwagon, allow me present to you my kids (the big ugly one is me, by the way) (click for full size) If you don’t have kids, I highly recommend them.

posted @ 10/17/2005 8:54:00 PM | Feedback (4)

Flipping out

Or in this case, over. Last night, Irelyn was trying desperately to flip from her back to her tummy. Kept getting all the way there then springing right back as she couldn’t get her arm out of the way. She did this for about 30 minutes straight, teasing us the whole time. Today my wife went on a shopping extravaganza and was worried she was going to miss the first time. She did, but then again so did I as I walked out of the room to return to Irelyn sitting on her stomach. Kids, they...

posted @ 10/9/2005 5:00:00 PM | Feedback (1)

Time flies when you have kids

*Sigh* She’s already 2 months old? The next thing you know, she’ll be sending me pictures of her 2 month old.

posted @ 9/19/2005 9:10:00 AM | Feedback (4)

Tiny tootsies and the footwear that love them

I posit that anything, shrunk down to infant size, will become automatically cute. For example. check out these slippers someone bought Irelyn.

posted @ 8/30/2005 8:51:00 AM | Feedback (0)

This little razor blade went to market

Dear God, what is it that causes infant fingernails to (a) grow an inch a day and (b) hone themselves down to lethal edges? It’s not like you can just clip them that easy either.

posted @ 8/22/2005 9:30:00 AM | Feedback (3)

How time flies

Irelyn Mackenna, already one month old!

posted @ 8/19/2005 9:35:00 AM | Feedback (3)

The couch hog

I go and buy a wide screen HDTV, and I can’t even sit down to watch it anymore….

posted @ 8/13/2005 8:40:00 AM | Feedback (5)

Let sleeping babies lie

Just a cute picture of my little one, snoozing on mommy’s shoulder Click for full size

posted @ 8/9/2005 10:37:00 PM | Feedback (4)

Sisterly Love

Just love this shot. I’ll have to keep it for reference when, in a few years, I can’t keep them from tearing each other’s throats out.

posted @ 8/8/2005 10:00:00 AM | Feedback (1)

From the mouths of babes

Georgia was walking around sans pants this evening. When we asked her why she was naked from the waist down, her response was “I’m married”. I can’t tell if I should be worrying or not.

posted @ 7/26/2005 8:16:00 PM | Feedback (5)

New wallpaper

Took this shot yesterday of Georgia while we were taking Irelyn's photo for her baby announcements. A simple change of color temperature and I now have a new wallpaper for my computer.I'm usually not one for artsy-fartsy pictures, either I like them black & white or in their original colors, but this one just jumped out at me.

posted @ 7/25/2005 8:50:00 AM | Feedback (5)

Stuck in the countdown at about 3....

Well, the Mrs. is having a hell of a time with Pre-labor. She’s had Braxton Hicks contractions (minor, small tightenings of the uterus) since 18 weeks. Most people don’t get them until a few weeks before actual birth. However, the past 2 weeks have seen something more severe than the regular BH type contractions. She’s had full blown, gotta sit down, damn this hurts, ouch my back! type contractions. The problem is they never get regular and they usually start strong and then...

posted @ 7/15/2005 9:30:00 AM | Feedback (0)

Combination Cat and Daughter Blogging

Snapped this last night after she had gone to bed. Bueller snuck in and found a warm place to sleep.

posted @ 6/1/2005 7:45:00 AM | Feedback (1)