At least he has learned the important things

Although J is still a little behind verbally (not putting words together yet, but he does have a fairly decent vocabulary), today I realized he has learned what really matters. While watching M*A*S*H and having our afternoon snack, J looked at the TV and said "esh". Just to be clear, I asked him what we were watching and he repeated "esh". Even more impressive is the fact that it was the middle of the show, he didn't even have to hear the opening/ending music to identify it. I'm so proud.

My favorite Christmas presents

are from Nanny every year. Although she always gives us a very generous monetary gift she also buys the most unique things. Last year I got an ear cleaner/scraper. I love it- mostly for when my ear itches. In fact I use it almost daily. I also received a neti pot. Haven't used it yet, I guess I'm not super comfortable with pouring liquid up my nose. Other presents have ranged from a taco holder to a collapsable crate with wheels. Sometimes the items sit in my cupboards for quite a while before I find a use for them, but that's part of the excitement. Can't wait to see what this year brings.

Our Papa

passed away on November 29th. Sadly he entered the hospital on November 10th and in spite of everything the nurses and doctors did, he just couldn't keep up. In the past couple of days we've teased (it's the only thing that helps at this point) that he has been living on borrowed time for more than 27 years (when he jumped out of that darn plane- on purpose no less). He has survived a shattered femur (which required 3 major reconstructive operations), knee replacement and multiple bouts of MRSA, but his kidneys and liver just couldn't take it anymore. Not surprisingly though his heart held on long after they told us it would (so stubborn). With love but no regrets (you lived a truly amazing life), we say goodbye- we love you... I love you Daddy.