OmaHeck: Christmas Miracles

Both the Holy Bible and the Book of Mormon teach readers that miracles will only cease when faith no longer exists. I am here to tell you that faith, if it endures long enough, can see miracles never expected.

Just last night, Cyndie and I were talking about Dane's increasing unwillingness to eat food, even cruddy, preservative- and sugar-laden offerings. His pallet includes a very few foods, or foods so altered from their normal presentation that they are rendered nearly unrecognizable (think Jennifer Grey after the nose job).

Our great fear is that we haven't planned our food storage to sufficiently accomodate his finickiness. That generations hence, readers of history will come upon the story of parents who watched their child starve to death not for lack of available food, rather for lack of available acceptable food. This must be what the loved ones of those with eating disorders feel. We both laughed and cried as we imagined his pleasant, but wholly unsubstantiated "Um, no thanks" in tandem with a hand wave and turned head as he withered away-an unnecessary tragedy.

Today after church, he bit into a piece of pecan brittle. That was miracle #1. Then he said he liked it. He was mostly eating the candy coating, but he'd taken in some nut as well. I offered him $1 to eat the nutty piece sitting in front of him. (I make this offer frequently, and if he had taken me up on it over the last 3 years, he'd probably have about $500--or I might have decided he was eating enough good foods and stopped, either way he'd be better off).

After the pay-for-performance incident, he grabbed another piece. Then I offered him some cashew brittle: "Have some cashew brittle, Dane" I said. "Geshuntiet!" he responded.

He wasn't as big a fan, win some, lose some, just glad to get one in the W column.

However, that wasn't the end of the miracles. Just a few minutes later, Dane tried 2 different kinds of grilled cheese sandwiches: one with colby jack cheese (not a true fan) and one with Kraft Singles (he was in Nirvana). Even asked for a second sandwich.

We're not completely celebrating yet, we're not sure he hasn't cashed in one of his other limited food choices for this newest outreach. But we have faith!

OmaHeck: Of Giving and Gifts and Orange Juice

I took a bunch of pictures, but I'll post them later. Right now I want to share some thoughts.

After the Christmas Eve celebration at Cyndie's parents' home, Dane was so very excited. I think it may have been the most excited he's been for Christmas. Ever.

Pulling in to the garage, he told us, "I am so excited! I don't think I can wait any longer... my stomach has that crazy feeling and I think it might just burst!"

Fortunately, there was no projectile excitement at any point in the last 24 hours.

As we got the boys in bed, it was evident we were prepping for an early morning today. We told the boys that they couldn't get up before 6 am. Believing that to be reasonable, both agreed. Tate had unplugged his clock a few days ago to use the outlet for a charger of some kind... so I asked him if he wanted me to reset his clock, or just wait for Dane to come wake him up. He thought a brotherly wake up call was sufficient.

Dane told us that he knew he needed to stay in bed until 6:00 (a substantial challenge since he's been known to come in to our room, or pay his brother a visit at any and all times of darkness) and then go nudge Tate gently.

As some point I heard him hop out of bed and open his door. I called to him, and reminded him that he needed to stay in bed until 6:00. He replied, "It is 6:00. I watched the clock and it said five-five-eight, then five-five-nine, and now six-zero-zero!" Who knows how long he'd been awake, but now it is five-three-six and he's still going strong.

Both boys were sweet and thoughtful as we opened presents. They were humble and grateful and offered sincere thanks for the gifts they received.

About 10:30 Cyndie's parent's arrived with more presents. Me-Mah wanted a bigger box than the Wii game game in, so she packaged it in a shoe box. As Tate unwrapped it, he saw the shoe logo and a look of disbelief enveloped his face. With disdain dripping from every vowel and consonant, he looked a Me-Mah and said matter of factly, "I didn't want shoes!" It was such a change from where he'd been just an hour before, it caught us off guard. Fortunately, we got him to keep peeling, and excitement returned as he saw that the shoebox housed Scooby Doo First Frights. (Straight from his wish list) Whew!

It was rewarding for me (as a Dad trying to teach these boys) to see them be grateful and thoughtful as they opened gifts.

Shortly thereafter, Cyndie's sister Lori arrived with husband Rod and we prepped brunch.

Apparently, there was some discussion about the brunch ingredients prior to my involvement. Lori and Rod were in charge of juice (in some corners of the universe, newlyweds are given very limited, simple, and straightforward assignments as they are often otherwise focused). As I understand it, the only guidance they were given initially was "orange juice", and "for everyone." Well, in these course of subsequent conversation (again, I was not involved), it came up that I am somewhat of a diva/snob/persnikety Pete/virtuoso when it comes to OJ.

In my defense, I was raised in a house that valued prime OJ. Both my parents cut their teeth in California, and we didn't drink bad OJ. Often, there were fresh oranges (really good ones) hand squeezed into the best concentrate on the market. It was sweet. It was pulpy. It made all breakfast food that much better.

Further, I have travelled and been to enough "free breakfasts" in hotels to tell you definitively that there are drastic differences between really good orange juice and what often comes out of a dispencer labeled "Orange Juice" (and as a result, I am developing a really good pallet for the subtleties of apple juice).

So Rod had grabbed some OJ at Costco, and when he got back to the cart, Lori told him that wouldn't do. It had no pulp, and was the bargain brand. Lori filled him in.

As I heard this story today while making eggs, I was a little embarrased. I don't want to be a diva. When others are required to adjust their plans for me, I often feel a little uncomfortable. I had barely begun to share these feelings when all involved said it was their pleasure to make my day by ensuring the best OJ possible (Odwalla, lots of pulp). It was really humbling to see how my family was looking to take care of me. Makes me want to find ways to serve them. Always.

The day is drawing to an end... my guess is the boys don't have an hour left in them. I want to reinforce some of the gratitude they've expressed today. Think we'll bust out the Thanksgiving crossword we didn't get to last month.

OmaHeck out!

OmaHeck: Tate's Take

In a new feature, we're calling Tate's Take, our very own philosopher will opine on anything that catches his fancy.

While Tate has never been a fan of the written word, at least not if he's required to write it, he loves reading, and relating those facts and stories he gathers. Our problem is that the process of having him put that information on paper is like pulling teeth... from a rabid pirana... that weighs 120 lb.

Working with his teachers and counselors at school, we've discovered that he likes to type, and type, and type... Well, let's not get carried away. But at least he is willing to do more than resist the assignment.

The school has outfitted him with a tool called the Alphasmart. It's like a keybord with a battery and memory chip. Using a USB connection, he can hook it up to a monitor to see what's being typed, or directly in to a printer to print his work.

If you have a topic you'd like Tate's Take on, he's currently taking suggestions.

Here's a recent sample:

12/16/09
1. The music from the bagpipes sound is so beautiful you can’t resist.
2. They are from the island known as Scotland with the drums.
3. Bagpipes are one of only the two instruments of Scotland.
4. They played Scotland the brave with a bunch of people.
5. The regamentel march also has a bunch of bagpipes and drums.
6. Bagpipes act a lot like your lungs and you blow in them.
7. Bagpipes are also used in Scotland games for the effects.
8. Bagpipes are for festivals as well as other stuff.
9. People have used bagpipes for centuries as well as men.
10. A lot of people say Nessie is attracted to bagpipe music.
11. They use bagpipes to wait when haggis is cooking for them.
12. Bagpipes are also used after you win in golf ,yay.
13. You cant tell a bagpipe from a turtle unless you see moving.
14. It is illegal to hurt bagpipes without asking other people.
15. The future of bagpipes will never ever change its sound.


12/17/09
1. Dimeter is Persephane’s mother and goddess of the romance.
2. Heistia is the goddess of the harth and the warmth.
3. Hera is the goddess of love, marrage, and kids.
4. Zeus is the god of lightning, thunder, and even storms.
5. Posidon is the god of the sea, ocean and salt water.
6. Hades is the god of the death and the underworld.
7. Aphrodite is the goddess of birth and is so naked.
8. Ares is the god of war and feud and fight.
9. Hephastis is the god of blacksmiths and building and constucters.
10. Athena is the goddess of protection and shield and defence.
11. Hermes is the god of flight and the sky and air.
12. Aros is the god of archers and arrows and bows.
13. Apallo is the god of music and songs and singing.
14. Artimis is the goddess of the hunt and the hunters.
15. Persephine is Dimeter’s daughter and the youngest goddess on Ollympus.

OmaHeck: We Wish You a Merry Christmas

So here's my lame attempt at a technological Christmas offering. Due to the lateness of the date, this blogged Christmas Letter and Card will be posted to Facebook, where I'll tag you if I haven't sent you the tactile version.

Maybe next year I'll be more on top of things

I haven't figured out how to attach a PDF here or to FB, so I'll just reproduce the text of the letter.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a wonderful 2010!
____________________________
We’ve had a memorable year with lots of learning and laughs—and lots of blessings. This Christmas season brings us joy and peace, and we pray it does the same for each of you.

Overheard
“What freak? Where?!?!”
-Tate, when Mom (exasperated) told the boys to “Get the freak away from the TV!”

“A cannibal?!? I’m not gonna eat people!”
-Dane’s response when the Bishop reminded him that after baptism, he'd be “accountable.”

Dad: What do we call money we give to help the Church?
Tate: Tithing.
Dad: Right. And what's a slightly lesser amount we contribute?
Tate: Taxes!
Dad: Uh, no. Taxes are more than Tithing, I promise.
Tate: Um…Bailout!

“Stopped smoking?”
-Dane’s answer when asked how someone becomes President of the United States

“You wouldn’t want to pour water on KISS because it would reveal their true human form.”
-Tate, on the legendary rock band and their equally legendary make-up

“Mom, sometimes do you want to sell me to a Mexican circus?”
-Tate, sitting in Church, apparently trying to make Cyndie laugh (‘cuz it worked!)

“It’s my first day on the job!”
-Dane, ready for his first cub scout den meeting

“It’s like crack for me!”
-Cyndie, describing her relationship with iTunes


Comings and Goings
Dane’s Baptism – Lots of friends and family joined us for Dane’s special event.

Spring Break – we hit the red rock cliffs and Arches National Park in Moab this March. A return summer trip included a few more stops, like Dead Horse Point – a singular place with astounding views.

Mid-Summer Classic – Dad was fortunate to meld work and fun by attending the MLB Home Run Derby and All-Star Game in St Louis. Busch Stadium is a great venue and even a 2 hour security line (the President was in attendance) just added to the experience.

Getting Belted – Tate has advanced through four belts in Karate this year.

Big D – Dad and friends got to head to the Jerry Jones Dome (aka Dallas Cowboys Stadium) to see BYU take on Oklahoma in September. A great start to the season (though we hit a few bumps later).

15th Anniversary – We planned far in advance for our celebratory trip. Our family vacation to Disneyland in October included an anniversary dinner beside the Pirates of the Caribbean. Mickey’s crew didn’t disappoint! And we enjoyed a pit stop in Las Vegas en route (thanks, Young family).

OmaHeck: More MLB

Snipers on the roof. They are gun-toting and pretty cool looking.

The flag brought out by a local Missouri National Guard Unit recently back from service in Afganistan (I think, can't remember that well nearly 6 months later).

This is the game-night flyover. There were 4 fighters the night of the HRD, but I didn't get them in the pic.

For the sensitive who may be reading, we'll just call these next 2 the Clydesdale pictures.

Big horses and the "big dog."

Cyndie can attest that I get way more excited than I should about "grass art." I think being the head groundskeeper at an MLB ballpark would be a highly rewarding job.

Coast Guard on duty. This gentleman was just behind our seats along the first base line about halfway to the right field wall (and second deck).

It may not show up on this blog (or your computer), but this shot showed just how green the grass looked on the big screen. Much more green than the actual field.

I haven't spent a lot of time in St Louis, but the city has a great skyline with the arch, the court house, the varied architechture, etc.

OmaHeck: Bagels and Schmear

Tate just informed us that no bagel is complete without cream cheese and "stallions"

I really wasn't sure where he was going with that, then Cyndie looked at me at said (with that look, you know, the wife look you get when you really aren't thinking), "Scallions, dear."

OmaHeck: Midsummer Classic

In July, I was really fortunate to go to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. It was in St Louis at the new Busch Stadium. What a great venue with fantastic views of the city! We hit the Home Run Derby, and then the Game the next evening.

President Obama attended the Game, and created a bit of a security issue as every attendee had to go through these airport-like security lines. It took us 2 hours. Inside there were snipers on the roof, Coast Guard at the portals and a general buzz about being in a venue with the President.

Hitting. Big Bombs... That's what the Home Run Derby is all about, friends. Here's home-town favorite Albert Pujols (Prince Fielder eventually won.) I was cheering for Minnesota Twins' Joe Mauer.

There was a lot of celebration. Fireworks, dancing, honoring volunteers, extremely cool Air Force flyovers, and a fair amount of eating great ballpark food!

Here's a shot of yours truly with the game in the background.

Here are things I learned at this event:

1) The grass is always greener on the Jumbo-Tron. Really, it's unnatural. I'll see if I can get some more pics shortly.

2) While the President has a gift for oratory, his delivery to the plate could use some work. He almost one-hopped the opening pitch, and would have if Pujols hadn't reached across the plate to scoop it up.

3) My 2x zoom camera is really outdated.

OmaHeck: Secret Stuff

This morning I was lying in bed trying to decide whether it was time to get up and get ready for church or not.

There was a rustling in the hallway and I was pretty sure Tate had made his way down the hall. He never made it to our room, but I heard him open Dane's door. With paternal discresion, I called out "Don't wake up your Brother!" To which an already awake Dane responded with a "chirp."

Shortly thereafter (I still haven't decided at this point that it's time to get up) I hear Dane belting out Led Zeppelin's "Rock and Roll": It's been a long time since I rock and rolled. It's been a long time since I did the stroll. Oh baby, let me get back, Let me get back, Let me get back...

When I asked him later to sing some more, he looked at me cock-eyed and informed me in no uncertain terms, "That, my friend, is classified."

OmaHeck: The Blogpology

It has been *several* months since I last updated the OmaHeck blog.

By several, I mean that I have made roughly 3 entries since June. Dane will tell you that "several" means 5-7, but more like 7. Because he needs to know how long until we arrive.

Recently, I have come under serious fire for my blogging, or lack thereof. Both Sister and MIL have noted on numerous occasions that there isn't any update when they check the site. Before I go missing, or have some strange accident befall me, blog updates must occur.

I really have no excuse. I come from a writing lineage. There are several published authors in my family, even in my generation. Writing is fun. And it isn't like nothing is happening in our little neck of the world... it's just that I have been busy. Yep, you heard right. When forced to prioritize, the blog got my vote for something I could live without updating. For a list of other things that were prioritized below the "gotta get done" line, see my lack of exercise, lack of yard work and son who still refuses to ride without training wheels.

Here's the real skinny (not talking about my wife here, this is a metphor, because the rest of you don't understand when I say "here's the bag of food" - love ya baby!): In July I took on a new job. Same company, same title, same office, same contact info, etc. I just inherited all my partner's accounts as he took a new role in our organization. It has also been recruiting season. I am the head recruiter for Union Pacific at BYU, and that takes some time. Opportunities abound. I am excited as the first 6 months of this one close out. However, I get emails about once a week from someone in another time zone that says something like "Dude, go to bed!" Usually, I'm way ahead of them: wireless and blackberry let me do email in bed!

So today I am working, but now I am taking a break. The reality is I probably do too much of the former and inefficiently manage how I do the latter. My guess is that I could find a week long course in how to do both with better yield. Fact is, I took a day off yesterday so I could go to the office, shut my door and turn off my phone and get to some things that needed to be complete before Thanksgiving. I did go to the Temple before I went in to work, so that worked well for me!

Not complaining! Just stating facts. I like my job more than I have liked any before it. And right now, I am feeling really blessed to be there.

In the interest of keeping you interested, here's a list of things you can expect to see in short order on this blog (and for those who would rather follow on Facebook, these entries will be automatically posted to my FB account, which you can access at www.facebook.com/Anderprise):

• Disneyland Vacation
• Franny K
• Dallas
• Halloween
• MLB All Star Game
• Instant Replay in Baseball

See you on the blog side

OmaHeck: Truly International

Best Kid Quote!

Today with about 15 minutes left in church, Tate looks at Cyndie and, with as straight a face as ever, says, "Mom, sometimes do you want to sell me to a Mexican circus?"

Neither of us laughed out loud, and that was evidence of a modern day miracle.

OmaHeck: Father's Day

So I am pretty much the luckiest guy around. I have a father, am a father, have the wonderful opportunity to raise 2 future fathers.

My sweet wife is the vehicle to my fatherhood, and the boys make the system complete.

I feel so much love from all of them, and they made this Father's Day a wonderful event. Here's the evidence

Dane made a great Father's Day Tie using some yarn and a bag of M&M's. I LOVED smelling like chocolate all during church!


Here's my sweetheart, looking fine... and proud of herself for the celebration she orchestrated (and kept secret!)


The boys wanted me to open presents as soon as I was out of the shower, so I didn't get a chance to do my hair. The boys tried nearly half a dozen pics of me, Cyndie and the iHome she got me, but every one was blurry, so I snapped this gem.

Dane was in super-tie mode... this one contains multiple coupons for great gifts. I think he's still asleep in this pic.

Me with both boys. Tate in his Sunday regulars, Dane deciding whether to shed his blanket. I am opening a gift.

Tate holding the picture he gave me. I love it! The picture is hanging above the table by my bed.

Being a Dad is a very cool blessing. I love taking on the challenge... and pray daily I succeed.

4th "O" July

Here's a video from some friends' front yard in Omaha. They live down the hill from our old place, so this is only about 60% of the view we had.

Mind you, this is not a municipality or public show of some kind they are peering at. This is a bunch of citizens, a few adult beverages, and several thousand dollars of pyrotechnics. The show slows down about 3 am.

You'll have to visit when we get back.

Whaddaya Think of That?

I am generally of the opinion that most mass entertainment is purely for enjoyment (or tolerance, as the case may be), but I have to say our recent viewing of Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian may have changed my mind-at least a bit.

Don't get me wrong, I am all for being entertained. Escapism is a practice I can really hide behind.

The best review we'd heard of the movie went something like this: "If you liked the first one, you'll like the second one, too... 'cause they are essentially the same!"

From the first trailer, the boys had a plan to see v2.0. They loved the original(history and facts are tops!), and were thrilled to see a movie set in a place they'd been.

When Tate was turning 7, he told us definitively that he'd like to go to "a dinosaur museum and an art museum." Our best bet was to take a trip to see Grandma & Grandpa in Washington, DC. Once on the Smithsonian Mall, we hit Natural History, National Art Gallery, Air and Space, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument (or "giant pencil", as it was dubbed).

The movie was fun. As expected, the shortest among us couldn't have had a better time. And when we got home, we saw art breeding art. Dane stated emphatically that "The Thinker" was his favorite character (spoiler alert: when Larry and Amelia ask him for some information, he just keeps saying "I'm thinking, I'm thinking, I'm thinking...") and Dane does a pretty good impression of the voice. After we all laughed at Dane for a while (a relatively frequent passtime here) he told us that he was going to build his own "Thinker" with clay.

Here's his finished product:


Not bad for a little monkey!

Tate watches the news (apparently)

I was teaching Tate's Primary Class (Sunday School for those under 12) a couple of weeks ago. The concept we were talking about was Fast Offerings: an offering made in lieu of $$ spent on food.

Tate wasn't really focused as this verbatim account will show:

Me: What do we call money we give to help the Church?
Tate: Tithing! (Correct and fully acceptable at this point)
Me: Correct. What's a slighly lesser amount we contribute?
Tate: Taxes!
Me: Uh, no. Taxes are more than Tithing, I promise.
Tate: Bailout!

At this point it was all I could do to stop laughing. I explained that Bailout comes from the Government.

Ultimtately, we refocused and he went on to contribute to the discussion.

Tate: Fast Offerings, Fast Sunday. Then why does it go so slow???

10 Things I learned at the Scottish Festival

Tonight the Omahecks ventured south to Thanksgiving Point and the Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Not knowing completely what to expect, I have to say that we learned quite a bit: primarily that we need to be better about carrying a camera with us. Sorry, no photos.

Learning Points:
1) Haggis (at least what they serve at the Heritage Foods trailer) isn't too bad. In fact, Tate is a real fan.

2) Pipe and Drum bands are very cool.

3) The concept of belonging to a "clan" is really appealing. Maybe that's why I flaunt my Batesville roots. Being from Batesville is like being in a clan.

4) Traditions for the sake of tradition has its place (it's generally called kitch).

5) Traditions that bonds those otherwise unconnected is powerful.

6) Traditions that can generate a profit: wicked awesome!

7) 6'9" is freakishly tall. We saw Cyndie's HS classmate and our college friend Kenneth Roberts at the show and even from a distance he's just still really long.

8) The origin of the word "tattoo" comes from a Dutch phrase for "shut off the tap." When the English military bands played the "tattoo", the bar tenders would stop serving drinks and send the soldiers back to barracks. Any guesses where the other usage of "tattoo" comes from?

9) The more swords and weapons, the cooler the tent.

10) There is a special place in Heaven for a guy who dresses in medeival armor and spends an entire evening fighting an incessant line of children. Accosted by pygmys armed with shields and foam swords, he also puts on a good show and lets the children win. Every time.

Oh, My Kids!

For Family Night, we talked about why families are so important. We read The Family: A Proclamation to the World, and told the boys how each member of the family is important and has critical responsibilities.

At one point, things got a little wierd, here are some choice quotes:

Tate: "Does torture rhyme with nurture?" Then in a singing/chanting voice: "To nurture and to torture..." as Dad read some more.

Dad (to boys): Where will you get married?
Dane: "I don't want to get married. I just want to be myself and live with you and Mom forever."
Tate: "I think I'm going to get married in Juvenile Hall!"
Dad: "I was going for 'In the Temple...'"

Somehow, I thing the whole teaching and nurtuing thing could be going better.

Great Dane!

I have been gone for a couple of days and came home to a couple of classic quotes today.

First, Dane had been outside. When he came in Cyndie was making no-bake cookies and flatbread. Dane said, "Mmmm... something smells good in the steak of Denmark!"

Second, I was on the road last week during the Innauguration and grabbed a Tuesday and Wednesday copy of USA Today (each with President Obama on the cover.) I thought they'd make good visual aides for talking with the kids about how government works, how blessed we are to live in a country where we get to elect our leaders and such. I asked Dane who was in the picture. He matter-of-factly said, "Obama, our President." So I followed up with a question about how he got to be President. Dane shrugged and asked, "Stopped smoking?"

Did you know?

This week we witnessed a historic event. President Obama was innagurated as the first African American President of the United States.

WARNING: The following entry is pretty political, the fun family stuff is below.

I haven't waxed political on this blog, but here are a few observations under the Heading "You have to dig to figure this out":

1) The Constitution works. We had a peaceful transition from the end of the Bush Administration to the beginning of the Obama Administration. Ask yourself how many people dream that political transitions in their countries occur in relative peace.

2) Government is not designed to act quickly. Even with clear and decisive majorities in both Houses of Congress, there is not unanimity on how policies will go forward (or even which policies will go forward). President Obama wanted a stimulus package on his desk Jan 21. Didn't happen. I have read lots of reports on the stimulus bill, and I am not convinced it is all bad.

First let me say that I don't really consider myself a Keynesian. I think JMK's principles work in the short-term (building roads and bridges will employ people, and require lots of freight rail!!), but can hide fundamental problems with the economic and fiscal policies that will impede long-term growth. For example, high tax rates needed to support (or partially offset) significant deficit spending can impair firms' ability to earn an adequate return on capital invested. This means that further deficit spending is necessary, ultimately crating a system that only works by offering returns based on new tax revenues, not profits at or above the cost of capital. If you haven't been watching the news lately, you might not see a clear parallel between the Keynsian Model and one Mr. Bernard Madoff.

There are good results from a short-term stimulus that likely cannot come from tax breaks alone. However, there are aspects of... OK, I am getting too in depth for a family blog. If you want to talk economics and poly sci, give me a call.

3) Seemingly insignificant omissions and inclusions are used to sway opinion. Let me preface this by disclosing that I am currently reading "The Irregulars", a historical documentary about how the British Intelligence Service used their connections in government, the press, Hollywood, and the US Intelligence community to sway US popular opinion and get Roosevelt to join Churchill in the war in Europe.

One of President Obama's first acts was to reverse several of President Bush's Executive Orders. One that has recieved lots of press is that the US will now fund International Aid Agencies that perform abortions or counsel regardign abortions (President Reagan stopped the practice, Bush 41 continued it and Clinton reversed the policy. Bush 43 re-instituted it, and I suspect this will continue to see-saw for as long as there are two parties.) Other Executive Orders included closing Gitmo (Guantanamo, Cuba. I wonder if Félix Cortez from Clancy's Clear and Present Danger is still there--book version, in the movie he died), ending certain coerced interregation practices deemed torture, and another reversal of policy regarding stem cell research.

Having listened to President Obama during the campaign and in the months since the election, I can understand why he made these decisions. They are in line with his party's platform, and were part of the agenda he promised to carry out.

In the past few days I have read literally scores of articles that laud President Obama's decision to "end the Bush Administration's ban on stem cell research." Here's the rub. There was no ban on stem cell research. Never has been. Acknowledging that some Americans consider the destruction of an embryo a murderous act, Bush 43 enacted a policy that federal tax funds would not be used to fund further research on stem cells with the exception of existing strains. Given that this is such an emotionally heated subject, and fearing that expanded funding by the government would lead to more embryos being created explicitly for research (hence explicitly to be destroyed), I think he struck a fair compromise. Enter President Obama's executive order. Federal funding is the ban he has lifted (along with the expansion of strains to include all newly discovered strains), however, only in remote corners is there clarity of what was banned. It is diffucult to concede that this isn't a planned attack on President Bush as a small minded religious bigot/zealot who doesn't care about others. Wow. In a time when we all need to tighten our belts, is it really the best time to introduce new avenues for federal funds to flow from Washington?

Sometimes you gotta fight to be a man!

Kenny Rogers' "Coward of the County" introduced us to a boy called "Yellow". That color takes on a whole new meaning when it's wrapped around your midsection by a Sensei in your local dojo.

For a few months now, Tate has been taking Karate. He really loves it and looks forward to his twice-a-week classes. This month he was invited to test for his 10 kyu (one step above white belt).


The day started off with warm-ups. Students of every skill level were preparing for their tests.




Here's a pic of the class, students with the Sensai (Marius, back row left) and Senpai (Scott, back row right).



There were lots of cameras going off, so here's one I caught of Tate in "Classic Form." That's classic for Tate, not for Martial Arts!


After performing his routines, techniques and combinations, and showing an indomitable spirit, the review board called Tate (and Wade, left of Tate) to the table. Sensai Marius told the boys they were going to ask a few questions, to which Tate immediately replied. "Will it blend? That is the question!" The Sensai and the Senpai asked questions about his goals and why he wants to study karate. He told them that karate was something he always wanted to do, and that it is getting easier the more he practices. He wants to be a black belt, so he can be "graduated" from karate.

Here is Sensai Marius giving Tate his 10 kyu belt. We are all quite proud!

Great to be Eight!

Dane's Brithday was a huge event in the history of the cosmos. He's come a long way from the hospital in Coon Rapids, MN and a frosty -17 degree trip to the house. A singer, songwriter, performer, athlete and champion competitor, Dane makes our lives unique and wonderful.

We took a friend to see "Hotel for Dogs" for a special treat.

He is so proud to turn eight. Can't wait for Cub Scouts, but truth be told, the most excitement is that this is his Baptism Birthday. He went to the store and picked out his own Bible and Book of Mormon. When his name was embossed on each cover, he beamed!

Dane had an interview with the Bishop in preparation for his baptism. Dane was glad to share all the information he could muster. At the end of the interview, the Bishop reminded Dane that once he was baptised, he' be accountable.

Those huge D-Max eyes bugged right out of his head and he said "A cannibal!?!? I'm not going to eat people!" Needless to say, that was a big laugher.

Baptism is scheduled for January 31 (my birthday) and we are excited to gather family and friends for the event.

Here are some pics from the birthday events:

"Brother" (not sure the last time I heard Dane use Tate's actual name) assisted with the candle lighting on the official "Day of Eight"

Dane huffed, and puffed, and then realized that the sparking candles also relight themselves. It was our trick to get him to hyperventilate and pass out! (just kidding DCFS)

Dane asked for a "Pizza Cake" and the fact is, you can't stop Cyndie in the kitchen. She plotted and planned, experimented with various toppings and viola! Here's the finished product:

Here's a quick break-down of the cast and crew:

Starring vanilla frosting as "Mozzarella"

Fruit roll-up playing double duty as "Pepperoni" and "Green Peppers",

Tootsie-Roll in the supporting role of "Sausages"

Red Sugar as "Sauce"

Black Icing Gel as "Olives"

And Chocolate Icing as "The Upper Crust"

Holiday Cheer

Here's a post I started and never finished.... couldn't get the verbage right. Still not my best work, but if I don't publish now, I probably wont! :P



We have enjoyed being in Utah for the Holidays. Thanksgiving with Cyndie's family was lots of fun. We also had a great "adults only" dinner with my cousins Cyndi and Rick and their respective spouses Ron and Laura. They introduced us to our new favorite Greek restaurant in SLC: Aristo's. The lamb shank was absolutely succulent!

We also had a great opportunity to hit a uniquely Utah event: The Heber Creeper Polar Express. Ok, so I don't actually know that it is uniquely Utah, but I haven't seen it anywhere else.

Each Christmas season, the Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, UT transforms into the Polar Express, hauling its payload around the scenic Heber Valley.

It is a great event. There is a Host/Reader and several Elven Helpers. Riders are treated to steaming hot chocolate and fresh homemade chocolate chip cookies. Delicious! Aunt Becca is a reader and cousins Jana and Kate are elves. Jana and Kate were elving in our car. Becca was off that night, so she and cousins Ellie and Matt rode with us. It was great having Becca with us off so she got to fill us in on all the cool behinds the scenes 411. It was like a backstage pass at the Cirque du Soliel!

Here are some cool pics from the event:

The Christmas Man himself made the evening a total success with his cameo after we reached the north pole. That's Matt (left profile) in the foreground.
Cousin Jana (codename Sprinkles the Elf) escorted the Jolly One through our car.

Kris Kringle brought each child a Christmas bell. Upon receiving his, Dane looked at Father Christmas, and with all the sincerity he could muster, promised to always hear the ringing.

Among his proudest possessions, Dane wanted a pic of just his bell.

Cousin Kate, also an Elf, made sure Dane was in the know for bell care and such. Cousins Matt and Ellie stop for a snuggle with Papa Noel. The Elves look on in admiration.

Some Other Christmas Joy

I was really bad at posting over the Holiday, and too bad becasue we had a lot of fun together. However, I didn't take tons of pics, so too bad for you, gentle reader (as Miss Manners would have me write).

Dane watched Ratatouille about 15 times over the Holidays. This is his best impersonation of Gusteau, Remy's muse.





Here's our tree. It was probably the best looking tree we ever had. The pine smell spread throughout the house and made the holiday feeling just right.

We ventured to Salt Lake City tourist destination, Temple Square, to see the lights. The night rocked! We rode the train into downtown, a really good call since it started sowing pretty hard on the way. The train was crowded, but fun, we didn't have an original idea, plus Neil Diamond was in concert as well as a Christmas concert at Abravanel Hall.

The flakes were falling fast and furious (though big and "flakey" for lack of a better description). Cyndie was a trooper (she gets cold some times).

I have never seen Dane be so stoic in a photo as this one.

The fountains were running full bore, and with the snow and the lights, there were dazzling glints of reflection all night long.

Wind earlier in the day had created a bit of ice on one walkway. Well, a little ice and a little inclination, and you have a free carnival ride for the masses. Dane, Tate and I were whipping down the slide. I did feet only, but the boys and the inevitable friends they made on this cool Christmas ice slide were sliding on bums, and doing belly slides (alternatively called "penguin" and "seal" mode).

When I took this pic, I thought Dane had fallen, but when I asked if he was OK, he looked at me and said indignantly, "Dad, that was my Ninja stop!"

I looked at the pic again, and sure enough, he's a ninja!

This is about when the batteries in my camera died, so no more pics from our journey to Temple Square.

We did see the Nativity display, the statues of the Prophets (Brigham Young's hair was a bit ske-wampus, and Tate told us several times that he needed to have his hair combed), and the Christus. There is audio accompanying the Nativity scene. Part of the dialogue is President Gordon B. Hinckley's testimony of the birth of the Savior. It was a very touching testimony. When Dane realized who's voice he was hearing, he looked up at me and said, "Dad, that's President Hinckley!" and then got a little emotional. We loved President Hinckley, and though the Lord in His mercy has provided us a new Prophet, we still miss President Hinckley's familiar style.

One last cool thing from the Holidays was that my sister, Becca (Aunt Bec, or One-Hecka-Becca to the boys) published her second book. We are very proud of her. The audience is teen girls, but I read it and truth be told, enjoyed it tremendously.

The title is "Bright Blue Miracle" by Becca Wilhite. Get your copy today!

I'll post some more stuff from the holidays later, but for now I have to get the garage a bit more clean.

Best Question Ever!

We got a new TV this year (not for Christmas, we waited for the real sales and still overspent). It's bigger than the old one (and has a much better picture! Hooray, we can watch Heroes and not have to guess what's going on in the dark scenes.

Anyway, the boys think they need to sit really close to the screen,

so we have been encouraging them to slide back so they can touch the couch with their hands...

This morning, they were watching and were way too close, so I reminded them that they should scoot back. Cyndie said, "Geez, get the freak away from the TV!!"

Tate and Dane jumped back, and, while frantically looking around the family room Tate asked, "Mom, what freak?" We all laughed when we realized he was trying to get the freak away from the TV, if only he could find the freak. Maybe we'll have to let him watch Napoleon Dynamite's dance moves.