Five for Friday: Five Great Things That Maggie Has Done in Her First Year.

Happy New Year Everyone!

I still can't believe that Maggie is a year old now. Time flies. Maggie and I are just relaxing today while they finish the work on our apartment.

These are the five greatest things has done in her first year.

1. Seeing her laugh and smile. One of my favorite things is to make her laugh.

2. Walking. She still needs a little help with walking, but she does it so well. She can walk while holding one of our hands. You can tell by looking at her that she wants to walk so bad.

3. Feeding herself. Maggie won't really let us feed her any more. She will push the spoon away and insist on feeding herself. What can I say, she knows what she wants.

4. Being a camera ham. Every time I point the camera at her, she get a big smile on her face. I think I am over 5k pictures.

5. Making me the happiest daddy out there. I love spending time with her. Even on the bad days.


We hope everyone has a happy and safe New Year. If your in Chicago remember the CTA has penny rides tonight. If not, call a cab if you need to. Cheers!

Maggie is a year old!

That's right, Maggie is now 1. Just seems like last week we brought her home from the hospital on Christmas Eve 2009. She has grown so much in this past year. She was our little snuggle buddy at first with her sleeping on our chests after eating. With her legs tucked under her body and scooting up to our necks to be closer to us. Sometimes I would be on the couch for two hours because I was very comfortable and I didn't want to wake her.

Now she is growing teeth like crazy and starting to walk. She loves  to stand up and play and she very good at pulling herself up. She can stand for a few seconds on her own, but she lacks the confidence to try it by herself.

We had a few friends and family over last week to celebrate her birthday. Nothing to big, but I did make her a cake (below). Not bad for a rookie. This was her personal cake which we let her destroy. All homemade yellow cake with a chocolate butter cream frosting. Tasted pretty damn good!

Maggie got a lot of toys and books for her birthday. I still haven't opened some of her new toys as there is so many. You can never have enough books though. She love's all of her new toys. I, on the other hand are not a huge fan of the noisy toys. I got her some ABC 123 blocks for Christmas. No noise, only learning.

Maggie and I have been doing very well on my SAHD days. We still have pretty much the same routine. I play with her a lot more now. She is easier to interact with now. She is becoming her a little person! The only bad thing is that she is starting to yell and whine when she wants something and we need to stop this. When I am making her lunch for example, she will yell until she gets her food. Unacceptable. It will take time, but we will teach her this is not the way to get things. I like teaching her things. I want her to learn the best things in life.

Let It Snow!

We spent Christmas at my wife's parents house downstate in Highland IL. We had a great time while we were there. Best part was we really didn't do anything. For two days we just sat around the house and watched Maggie play with all of her new toys. The drive down was a whole other story.

We decided to leave on Christmas Eve after my wife got off work at 7:30pm. So I loaded up the car by myself (nothing new there), and headed to pick her up at the hospital. Did I mention it was snowing? Snowing the whole way down to Highland. As we left Chicago to roads were not that bad. When we got further away the roads got much worse. My average speed was 40mph. I didn't go above 50mph until we almost got there on the country roads because the roads were clear. I almost called off the drive early on, but the roads would get bad then better a few mins later. The drive took forever, and I drove the whole way (once again nothing new) because the wife was very tired and she hates driving in the snow. We finally arrived at 2am. I was tired but not as bad as the day before when I drove to the south side of Chicago, a distance of 14mi. and it took over an hour to get there in traffic.

We got up the next morning and had some breakfast and opened presents. I got the wife a necklace with Maggie's birthstone in it. I got some books and clothes. Maggie got me a Cookie Monster t-shirt. I smoked a few Christmas cigars out in the smoking lounge, aka the garage and yes it was cold. Those cigars kept me nice and warm.

The first pic is on Christmas. I got her as she was clapping. The second is the next night. Every time I pointed the camera at Maggie she did this. The last one I got yesterday. Took me a while, but I got one with her eating her toes.

A Lazy Sunday.

Today has been a very laid back day. Although, I am doing stuff around the house. Mostly just taking it slow since there is no 49ers game on today. I made the test cake for Maggie's birthday. I had a few nibbles, it tastes really good. The frosting is an Italian meringue butter cream. Very good and it was not too hard to make.

We went to see the Zoo lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo on Friday. We went with the kids that my wife used to nanny for. Those kids were so excited to meet Maggie and to see my wife. It has been some what of a tradition to take them every year and we always have a lot of fun. The 6 year old girl that she used to watch has been sending her notes. She called Elizabeth to let her know they are pen-pals. Too funny. Maggie will enjoy it much more next year.

We are getting ready for Maggie's first birthday. Still a lot to do. We are also getting ready for Christmas. This year we will be down state with the wife's parents house. I might go to the 49ers-Rams game on the 26th. At this point in the season, the 49ers are pretty much done for. We will be leaving Christmas eve for down state, that way we can be there Christmas morning.

Five for Friday: 5 things I wanted for Christmas but never got as a kid.

TGIF!

1. Cash register. I asked my mom for one and got a cheesy plastic one. I wanted the real thing! I think I told her that on Christmas, oops.

2. One of those Power Wheels things. You know the ones. Thought they where so cool! Maggie will be getting the pink Barbie one (if thats the one she wants).

3. Every Star Wars toy ever made. I did get a B-Wing one year. Wish I still had that thing.

4. A brother. Eh I was an only child. Got lonely at times.

5. Nintendo. Got a Genesis a few years later. I have a Wii now with a lot of old school games on it.

It's Almost Maggie's Birthday!

Maggie will be turning one in less than a week. I think I may be more excited than the wife. Of course I am excited for Maggie also. We are having a small party for her. Just family and a few friends. Nothing big. Although I am making Maggie her own birthday cake. This was a long debate for the wife and I. She doesn't see a need for Maggie to have her own cake. I think it is a nice idea for Maggie to have her own cake. I had my own cake, all to myself. Made for some great pictures of me devouring the cake. I intend on doing a test cake this week for her. The wife likes to make things from a box. I, on the other hand, like to make everything from scratch if I can.

We have been buying her birthday presents throughout the year when they are on sale. Don't tell Maggie, but we got her a doll stroller, a tea set, and a bunch of little people toys. Almost time to party!

Home Sweet Home

We are back home. Feels good to be home. Except for all of those crazy drivers in Chicago. Look for some changes in the coming weeks to this blog. I now have time to spend designing it as I want it.
Please don't forget to vote!

Maggie's First Visit to Santa

Hello again from Highland IL. We are still here until tomorrow. We are having a great time visiting and relaxing. I had a nice nap earlier today. Maggie on the other hand, did not. She only slept about 30 mins. She is the power nap queen.

Maggie had her first visit to see Santa on Friday. She did not like Santa at all. I kind of expected her to be scared of Santa. Even today, when her own uncle was dressed up as Santa, she cried the whole time. I took some pics on Friday. As you can see, she was not fond of Santa.

Maggie got a new Teddy Bear last night at grandpa's office Christmas Party. She loves it a lot. It is one of those build a bears. She also got a gift card to get some new outfits for her new Teddy. This kid has more stuffed animals than some stores keep in stock.

The other pic of the snow I took today when I went to Wal-Mart to get the wife a Diet Coke. Good times. As you can see the wind was really blowing the snow. I found it to be kind of fun. It was a short drive. Roads were not that bad. Visibility was really bad though.

Five for Friday: 5 Things I Saw at Wal-Mart (The small town kind)

Greetings from Highland IL. Pop 9500! We are visiting my wife's parents for a nice long weekend.


Five for Friday: 5 Things I Saw at Wal-Mart (The small town kind):

1. Several different things that had camouflage on it. Such as a Snuggie

2. A Red Ryder Carbine BB Gun, yep that one. 75th anniversary. Simply awesome.

3. Several different pocket knife gift sets (I'm one to talk, I carry one everywhere, and I still have my dad's old buck knife.)

4. I only saw three mullets.

5.I saw a blow-up John Deere tractor lawn ornament.

Makes for great memories. 

Five for Friday: 5 things Maggie has done in the last week.

Here we go

1. Pulled herself up to a standing position. She still can't stand by herself. If she hangs on to something she will stand and laugh all day.

2. Spit up on daddy's face. Yes this happened. Yesterday. This is only like the fifth time she has spit up.

3. Had her 1st ever Thanksgiving.

4. Had her first taste of turkey.

5. Started pointing at everything ( I mean everything, the cats, the pictures on the wall) and say ugg.

This pic is from yesterday at play group.

Shutterfly Holiday Cards

Hello friends, with the holidays right around the corner I wanted to share some holiday card ideas for you. Shutterfly.com has some great ideas for holiday cards, books, calenders, and so much more. We have used Shutterfly in the past to order Maggie's birth announcements (see below), and we couldn't of been happier with them. Shutterfly is great because you can design the stuff yourself, and their prices are the best around. I remember when we ordered from them their shipping was very reasonable and we received our order fast. Feel free to ask me any questions about anything that Shutterfly has to offer. Either myself or my wife can answer your questions. We are always glad to help. Happy holidays to you all.

Here are some links for some of great ideas.

Cards,stationery, and holiday-cards They have a huge selection of holiday cards.

Calendars/wall-calendars Wouldn't the grandparents love one of these?

Christmas cards These are awesome.

I Blog, Therefore I Am

Wifey and the baby is asleep, so I decided to blog a little. I know I haven't had much time recently, but I am enjoying a nice beverage in a quiet house, so I feel like typing a bit.

Well in the past week it appears Maggie's feet have grown quite a bit. I put her sneakers on her and they don't fit any more. My wife was worried she would have my feet, she thinks they are small (I wear a 10.5, not that small). Now she thinks she will have her feet.

Maggie looks more like my wife every day. When she was first born she looked a lot like me, now not so much. Except for those kick ass blue eyes, those came from me. Her hair is getting so long now. I look at pictures from when she was younger and I thought she had so much hair then!

The last week has been rough around our house. Maggie was sick last week with a double ear infection. Then I was sick all last weekend. I was supposed to go out last Saturday night for the wife's 30th birthday. I was unable to go due to how sick I was and I couldn't get out of bed. I slept 20 out of 24 hours on Saturday. Sunday I was pretty much back to normal. Then on Monday the wife got sick. Luckily we are all back to normal.

Maggie loves to stand up now. She can't do it on her own yet, but she will almost fight us to help her stand up and walk with her. I walk with her quite a bit all day long. I like to put her in the pack and play so she can hang on to the sides and walk around (the wife told me this is call cruising, learn something new everyday). I like to leave her in there so she can hold herself up and learn to walk. This is an argument my wife and I have often. I like to make sure Maggie is safe, my wife has let her fall a few times. Maggie was fine but I don't like her falling on our hardwood floors. I know she will fall, but I would like for it to be as soft as possible. I think it is just being a father of a girl, but I don't like to see her hurt like that. Wife thinks I stick her in there just to ignore her, but I do it mainly to keep her safe while I work. She is 6 ft behind me and I constantly turn around at every sound. Plus we have our little games we play such as the screaming game. Maggie will scream, then I will scream. The whole time shes laughing. Gotta love it.

I have learned a lot as a father so far. I know I will lean so much more. I wouldn't give up being a father for anything. There is nothing like seeing your child smile. On the worst of days, when I see that it changes everything around. I can't wait to hear her say "I love you daddy." Yeah I'll say it, it will melt my heart every time.

This is the latest pic of my princess. I looked on my phone and I have over 500 pics. So much more to come!

Five for Friday: Five Things I Love About Thanksgiving

This week it's Five Things I Love About Thanksgiving. Can you believe Thanksgiving is next week!?

1. Football. Not the only the three games on TV, but also playing. I usually play with my friends every year. I may not get a chance to play this year if my wife ends up working that day.

2. The cold air. I love to feel a blast of cold air in my face. Makes me feel alive.

3. The beginning of Christmas. I don't put out any holiday decorations or lights until after Thanksgiving. I love putting up the lights. I plan on doing it next weekend.

4. Pumpkin pie. Esp when I make one from scratch. So good!

5. Sitting on the couch after dinner feeling all full, and yet we go back for more.

Five for Friday: Five Things I am Thinking Right Now

I am a little under the weather and I have a ton of work to do, so I will keep this brief. Here we go.

1. Man this tea is good.

2. Is it just me or is it warm in here?

3. I hope I can go out and celebrate the wife's 30th b-day tomorrow.

4. Holy crap, I can't concentrate.

5. I just want to sleep. :(

At least Maggie is feeling better. Tune in tomorrow!

The Teeth are Finally Here and Other Tidbits

Maggie's teeth are finally coming in. I had her on the swing the other day and I happened to catch a glimpse while she was smiling. I checked in her mouth and there they were. Two bottom teeth right in the front. I'm so glad, because she really doesn't like to eat pureed food anymore. She likes to feed herself, so we give her small bits of food.

Maggie went to the doctor today. She has been waking up at 4am the past two nights coughing. Turns out she had both ears infected. I always hated ear infections when I was young. I remember I was in fifth grade when I got my last ear infection. He gave her the pink stuff. She is already feeling better today. Unfortunately I am not. I think I am getting what she has. I hope not, we are supposed to go out for the wife's birthday on Saturday.

I lowered Maggie's crib all the way down last weekend. Felt a little too soon, but she is pulling herself up from a sitting position already. After hearing the wife's grandmother tell me about the time her first daughter climbed out of the crib and fell to the floor in the middle of the night. I'm glad I got it out of the way.

We are already making plans for Maggie's first birthday next month. I think I may be more excited than the wife. I'm gonna make Maggie her own cake to eat herself. It took me a while of arguing with the wife to get it. I had one and everyone else thought it was cute. So I we agreed on a little four inch cake. It's gonna be awesome!

Five for Friday: Five Things That I Don't Want Maggie to do, Ever.

Welcome to another Five for Friday.

Five Things That I Don't Want Maggie to do, Ever.

1. Smoke. Smoke anything! Cigarettes, mara ja wana, crack, all that bad stuff.

2. Drop out of school. She's going to college, even if I have to drag her there myself. It is up to here what to do after college, but get an education first.

3. Be afraid to ask for help. If she needs help, ask.

4. Do any drugs. Drugs are bad mmmmmmmmmmk

5. Never, never, never give up. Same advice my mom gave me.

Bullying In America

Bullying in America, as you may already know, is all over the news. This is due to the rash of suicides that have occurred due to the person being bullied. Unfortunately for these bullied people, they felt like there was no other way out but suicide. It saddens me to hear about this. No one should be bullied ever, yet alone bullied to the point of feeling lost and that there is no place to turn for help.

A lot of this bullying was centered around the person being of a different sexual orientation. This is just ridiculous, because no one, even people of a different sexual orientation deserves this. After all, they are human, are they not? Why must everyone spread this hate just because someone is different? There is no need for this. But sadly in this world there will always be hatred towards someone that is different.

This country has a long history of treating people that are different badly. American Indians, African Americans, Italians, Irish, Asian Americans, and so on. Just about everybody of a different ethnicity has been treated bad and bullied. It needs to stop now. Just put yourself in the place of someone being bullied. You wouldn't want to be treated that way, would you?

I was bullied in Jr High and High School. Not a lot, but enough to make me feel really bad about myself. Unfortunately, I participated in a little bullying myself. Not really by myself, so to speak, but it was in a large group directed toward someone. I still makes me feel bad. I have seen both sides of bullying and they are both ugly.

Bullying comes in many different forms and occurs in all places; work, school, social functions. We, as a society, should think before the next time we are treating someone badly. No one should be driven to kill them selves. Remember there is always help. If you or someone you know needs help, please don't be afraid to ask. Below is the link the the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Let's try to make this planet we live on a little better place to live.




http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/    1-800-273-8255

No One Said This Would Be Easy

Being a SAHD is not easy. It is even harder going to school full time. I've been doing o.k. juggling the two. I usually have homework, especially on the weekends so I spend a lot of time in front of the computer. I feel a little bad that I don't get to spend a lot of time with Maggie when it is just us. I do spend time with her, just not enough in my mind though.

 I try to get most of my work done when she is taking a nap. Which is now down to one a day now usually 2-3 hours. I am also eating and getting some TV time during this period. My average TV time now is about two hours all day and night. I have a whole lot of movies to watch, some of these I've had for some time now.

I do take breaks, and check on her all the time. I usually have her on her blanket in the living room playing by her self. When she starts to wonder off of it and getting into mischief (which is very often, she is ten months after all), I put her in the pack and play, which is right behind me. We usually have laughing or screaming contests when she is in there. I am constantly turning around and checking on her. I'll pull her out and play with her now and again. Usually she is o.k. in there, but I always set aside some time to play with her during the day. She is never ignored, because after all SHE is the priority and she is still the boss. If she needs me I am always there for her.

A lot of times, I will be in the middle of writing one of my papers, and she needs something. Stinks for me, because I could be in the zone and then BAM she needs something. Like I said, it's not always easy, but I make the most of it and I my daughter always has the priority. I'm doing the best I can, cause as Yoda says, "Do or do not, there is no try".

Five for Friday:Five Halloween Traditions for Maggie

Five Halloween traditions I will pass on to Maggie:

1. Trick or Treating. Hello! Because it's the bomb yo! I will teach her when someone leaves a bowl full of candy on porch (did they still do this?), and it says to take one, open your bag and daddy will help you empty it into your bag. Also other little tricks that I learned.

2. Pumpkin carving. I still like carving pumpkins. We will be carving ours tomorrow night.

3. Going to the pumpkin patch. I still love to do this. After this years almost disaster (me driving the family around for 3 hours trying to find a u-pick apple place, and everyone was sold out), I got some making up to do next year.

4. Haunted houses. I haven't been to one of these in years. I used to be scared to death of them, but now I need an excuse to go back to one. Maggie may be that excuse.

5. Cool costumes. Price will not be an issue! I always got stuck with cheap ass costumes growing up. Yes Sweetie, you want the $500 princess costume. No problem. Just make sure the costumes don't show any skin!

Maybe I should start a This Date in History since I am a History major and such. On this date in 1929 the stock market crashed. Then something happened.... oh yeah a book was written about it. "The Grapes of Wrath"  I did this for the hell of it, why not. Yes I am losing it.

Five for Friday:My Five Favorite Books to Read to Maggie.

It's time for another Five For Friday. This weeks topic: My Five Favorite Books to Read to Maggie.


1. Good Night Chicago. Of course it's one her favorites.

2. Snuggle Puppy. Cause its just cool and it rimes.

3. Fifteen Animals. Love the twist at the end. That turtle is a pimp.

4. But Not the Hippopotamus. Yet another twist. You gotta love Boyton.

5. Any touch and feel book. She loves to touch everything and turn the pages.


If you have any ideas for Five for Friday. Let me know. Always up for a challenge. See you next Friday.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell.

I thought I would share some of my thoughts on don't ask, don't tell. I started this last week and for some reason  it did not save. So here we go again.

I for one, am glad that don't ask, don't tell was repealed. After all, there are plenty of gay, lesbian, and trans-gender people would be more than willing to volunteer to join the US Military. I think it is sad it has taken this long to repeal this ungrateful law. I see no reason why a homosexual can not serve in the military. After all they are human beings. So they are attracted to the same sex. So what? There are homosexuals severing right now, they are just not "out." They are doing the job just as well as a heterosexual.

Just think of it this way. What if it was your child trying to serve and he/she is homosexual? You would probably want them to be happy, correct? If any of my children were to be homosexual, do you think I would not want them around? Of course I would want them around, and I would treat them no differently than any other child.

I guess what people realize is that homosexuality has been around since man itself. It is just more widely accepted by the masses in today's age. I saw one of Italy's most prized pieces of art, David. Did you know that he was a homosexual? Bet ya didn't. But if you ever get a chance to see David, see it. I felt like I could sit down and gaze at it all day.

So really, what is wrong with homosexuals serving? I will tell you, NOTHING!

Downstate Road Trip and Cloth Diapers.

I feel like I have been neglecting to write. But the truth is, that I have been very busy with school work, and Maggie of course. We went downstate to visit my wife's parents. We decided to leave Friday morning this time, because we both were very busy on Thursday. We wanted to make sure we were well rested before we left. The Drive down went well, and we had a great time as always. The drive back was just as smooth. We left late and Maggie slept the whole way.

I bet everyone is wondering if we bring the cloth diapers with us. The answer is yes we do. It is not as hard as you would think.We usually make sure we wash the majority of them before we leave and we wash them before we come back to Chicago. We have several vinyl bags we bring with us for the dirty diapers. Doesn't even stink up the car. My brother in-law did a good job of that. The only thing that we don't bring along as far as diapers, is wipes. We keep huggies, or some other brand wipes there. At home we use cloth wipes. Which is really Gerber wash clothes (they're cheap!), and a organic diaper solution that we dilute and put into a foaming squirt bottle.  We just wash them with the diapers. No big deal.

If you all are wondering if my attitude towards cloth diapers has changed, it hasn't. I think it has actually gotten stronger. I don't mind them one bit. Maggie never has diaper rashes and she is able to tell me when she is wet.
I think they are great. It is definitely better than taking out the trash every 8 hours or so. If you have every thought about trying them, give it a try. You might like them.

Hump Day

Wednesday is almost upon us. After a rough Monday and Tuesday, the rest of the week should be much better. Took my anatomy mid-term tonight. I think it went well. I hope it went well.

Maggie and I had a great day today. She was in a good mood and she let me get my paper done. Wife is off tomorrow and working Thursday. I get to take her to playgroup again this week. We are going down state again this weekend to visit my wife's parents. We were thinking of leaving Thursday night, but we may get some rest and leave Friday morning. It is easier on Maggie to leave at night so she can sleep the whole way.

We went pumpkin picking on Friday. We were going to go apple picking, but everyone was out of apples already. There was even a article in the Chicago Tribune about how early everyone ran out of u-pick apples. We had a good time. Except for the 3 hour detour I took us on to find apples. Three orchards and no apples. Got some great pumpkins though.. Even a small one for Maggie. We may pick some apples this weekend. There is a small orchard in Marine IL that is pretty good. Hopefully they have apples.

Five for Friday

This weeks 5 For Friday: 5 Favorite Things About Fall.

1. The leaves changing color. Here in IL it's beautiful. Up north in WI, Door County, It get even better. One day I hope to drive through New England to see Fall there. 

2. The crisp Fall air. I especially love that first blast of cold air. Makes me want to sit outside with some tea and a fine cigar.

3. Football! I don't think I need to explain this. Go 49ERS!

4. Apple and Pumpkin picking. Nothing like picking an apple out of a tree, and taking a huge bite. I give myself a tummy ache every year apple picking. 

5. Birthdays! Mine and my wife's birthday are in the fall. Our anniversary is also in the fall also. Maggie missed it by that much. 

3 Years Already!

Yes time goes by fast. I can not believe it has been three years since my wife and I got married. We have had are ups and downs, but all in all, I've loved every minute of it. Our greatest moment as of yet, has to be the birth of our little princess Maggie. The greatest Christmas gift ever. Every day with Maggie is better and better. We love to spend time together as a family. My family makes me a very happy husband and father. I am happy every day that I am with them.

Five for Friday: 5 Random Things

It seems I forgot to do a Five for Friday yesterday. So here it is, better late then never. 5 Random things

1. I spent yesterday re-arranging and dusting my Star Wars collection.

2. I am going to see Primus tonight.

3. School is eating my brain.

4. I really should be studying right now, but I am on the computer up to no good.

5. When I was about 8 I wanted to own my own hotel. I have no reason why for this except that I was in a lot growing up. My mom took my on a lot of vacations.  We once  went to Costa Rica for a weekend at the last minute. Had a great time.

6.*bonus* I once flew to Pittsburgh from Miami and then drove to Foxwoods, played some poker, then on to Boston. slept for 3 hrs. Went to have a lobster lunch. Hit the bars. Went to Fenway at last minute and saw one go over the Green Monster. Awesome trip.

Hey a New Post!

Hello out there in cyber space. It has been a while since I have posted something, so this one could be long. We've been up to a lot lately. I have been super busy with all my school work, and when I'm not doing that I'm taking care of Maggie.

My mom came to town this week to visit me and Maggie. She brought Maggie a whole big suitcase full of toys. Where was that when I was a kid? She came up for my birthday, and we went out to eat at one of our favorite Mexican places. Very good as always. The pic is of Maggie waving to her fans (the ceiling fans, I think it's funny). My father in-law sent me some sent me some cigars. The perfect gift. Also ordered myself some 49ers gear, new hat, and some sleep pants. 0-3, yep still faithful.

The wife got me the BBQ book I wanted. Awesome. Already did one recipe, so many more to master. Gotta stock up on meat when I go down state in two weeks. SO much cheaper. Brisket, ribs, and steaks galore! Maggie got me a little Yoda for my backpack, best present ever (mainly because it's from Maggie).

The wife also picked out Maggie's Halloween costume. I won't tell you what it is until I post some pics on Halloween. We are planning on sitting in back yard (our place is on a corner and the sidewalk goes right by us) and hand out candy. I still don't know what I want to go as yet.

Sometime this weekend we are going apple picking and getting some pumpkins! Can't wait to do some carving. Oh and the tummy aches from eating too many apples.

End of a Long Day.

Like the title says it is the end of a long day. I was up late last night writing a paper that was due this morning (I wasn't procrastinating, I missed part of class Tuesday and I was making it up). I got to sleep a little after 2am and was awoken by Maggie around 8:30am. So I have been out of it pretty much all day. I would like to apologize for any grammar and/or punctuation errors in my last post, and this post. It took my over 90mins to write because Maggie was fussing every 5mins today. Every time I would start something, she would start fussing and I would have to go and tend to her. Yes Maggie was a handful today. Tomorrow should be better after we both catch up on some sleep. Maybe I will get some work done tomorrow. I have a lot of catching up to do. I might even hand out some blogger awards.

Five for Friday: My Five Favorite Places to Take Maggie

It's Friday and time for another Five for Friday. Hey I will start calling it Triple F, you got Guy with the Triple D now you got this. Ah I'm just messing with ya! This week we have my five favorite places to take Maggie. So sit back, have a sip of wine and enjoy.
1. Lincoln Park Zoo. Who doesn't like the zoo? Not to mention this one is free!
2. Target. Yep that one. We do most of our shopping there. Maggie and I like to check out the toy section (daddy likes the Star Wars toys) and share a pretzel.
3. The park. We usually go to the park a few blocks away. She loves the swings.
4. Toys R Us. We have one a block away. I like to look at all the great things that I can buy her for Christmas.
5. Anywhere! Cause who doesn't like spending time with their kids!

This was taken in the middle of the screaming match we were having. Don't let that innocent face fool you. She won.

Nine Months, The Zoo, and Weird Neighbors.

Maggie is now nine months old. Time to change into the 9-12mos clothes. We got her nine month doctor appointment next week. I hope we don't get yelled at by the nurse there for being a week off like last time. Maggie is still napping now, she's pooped The wife took her to the play group this morning. I stayed home and studied. I get to take her next week all by myself, wish me luck.

We went to the Brookfield Zoo on Tuesday. What a great day. It was perfect. Weather was nice and no one was there. Maggie got to pet a Guinea pig. They had a children's play area with a pet hospital and a zoo director's office. It was pretty cool. I could of spent all day in the pet hospital when I was a kid. I have a feeling we will be buying a membership next year when Maggie is a little older to appreciate it.

We have several visitors coming next week. My mom is coming for my birthday (and to see Maggie of course). My father in-law is coming up next weekend also for a visit. Speaking of him I got a package yesterday from him  for my birthday. I'm debating on whether or not I should open it. I think I will wait.

Have I mention our neighbors are weird? They just dropped what sounded like a 16lb bowling ball on the floor. surprised I heard it over their constant X-Files watching. Nice people, just a little off sometimes.

Looks like the last nice day of the year. Filling the pool so Maggie can go swimming. Got to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible.

Wave Hello.

Maggie just learned to wave the other day. She picked it up pretty fast. She also gave me a mini high-five. She catches on to stuff pretty well.
Yesterday after we had had a good day she woke up screaming from her late afternoon nap. I first thought it was the neighbors and there constant watching of the X-Files really loud. I think it was her teeth though. Still no teeth, but we know there coming. It took me a while to calm her down. I finally had to give her a self feeder with a frozen banana. That hit the spot for her. She was in a great mood after that.
She is also learning how to smile for the camera. She will see the camera and smile, and after the camera goes off she will look at you like "you took the picture already". I guess after the thousands of photos we have taken of her she picked that up too.

Five for Friday: 5 things I will tell my daughter throughout her life.

It's time for another 5 for Friday. This week it is 5 things I will tell my daughter throughout her life.

1. You can do anything you want. Don't let some one tell you just because you are a girl you can't do it because that is bullshit.

2.Go to college!

3. Learn to drive a manual transmission. Because there is nothing like dropping that clutch and taking off like a bat out of hell. Basically because who else will drive the Corvette (1966 Stingray jet black beast, oh yes it will be mine) after I am gone, cause you sure as hell ain't selling it (I'll be damned if my future son in-law will ever touch it, even if I do like him.

4. Don't ever do drugs, ever!

5. Listen to your mother, because I don't know what the hell I'm talking about, but you can call me 24/7 if you ever need anything.

Thursday Play Group

The wife and I took Maggie to a playgroup through our church today. It is the start of their fall session. I have to say I was a little overwhelmed this morning when we first walked in. It was a lot bigger than I thought. There must of been fifty moms there. I did see one other father there. I'm just glad I found the coffee. I was about to walk down street to get some and it started pouring. It was good coffee too. Maggie had a lot of fun. There wasn't a whole lot of kids her age, but there are some. They had a bunch of different toys to play with. Maggie really liked the car. We would push her around in it, and she would turn the wheel. She also really enjoyed the Sesame Street pop up thingy that I've been wanting to get her, but I am unable to find one.

I think my wife will be taking her every week, as I feel a little out of place (not to mention I am a little shy). If my wife has to work I will take her though. Looks like it should be some fun. They have events set up every week, including a Halloween party, and some entertainment.

I'll Have the Bath Water Please.

Tonight I have learned a valuable lesson. Kids will pretty much do whatever they want. I learned this while giving Maggie a bath tonight. She decided in the middle of her bath to lean forward and have herself a little drink of bath water. I'm sure my voice was very high pitched (my wife says I do this when I get shocked or surprised) when I reacted to her doing this. I'm just glad I didn't drop any F bombs.

So I scolded her and had to hold her head up because she kept trying to do it again. She's a smart one this one. She then picks up both her feet with her hands and tries to pull herself down to the water while I am holding her head up. After fighting her for a good couple of minutes, I finally had to call my wife in to help me hold her up so I can wash her. Daddy's Little stinker.

Bang Bang, Shoot 'em Up!

I'm am watching the end of a very depressing 49ers game. I won't bore you with details. Let's just say I am very upset.

True story:

So I was leaving school on Thursday night with my friend, we shall call him Jorge, and while we were having a great discussion over soy milk (yuk!), some dumb ass gang banger decided to pop off a couple of shots. We heard the first one and looked and then we see a bunch of little kids start running so we booked ass to our car. I think there was about six shots. We couldn't see what was going due to cover from the trees, but I know they were gunshots. We got into the car and took off like the falcon out of the death star. After my second attempt at 911, I got through and told them what was up. Now I know why we always see cops everywhere in that hood. Well we won't be parking there ever again. Glad we didn't end up with any extra holes in us.

Moving on now. School is going pretty well. I want it to be over already though. My princess is napping right now. Let's hope she goes to bed tonight with no trouble. Past two nights she has had problems going to sleep. Wish us luck!

Am I a Good Father?

Am I a good father? I ask myself that a lot. I bet just about every father does. I think I ask myself that every day. I think you have to ask yourself that to be a good father. I always wonder if I am doing the right thing, but I think I am on the right track. Maggie is a healthy, well taking care of baby. She gets everything she needs. She always will.

I learned a lot of what not to do about being a good father growing up. Not that my father was a bad father, he just wasn't around a whole lot due to my parents divorce and living in another state in another time zone (have I mention I hate the eastern time zone? Everything comes on so late there). He also passed away when I was a teenager, so I didn't get a whole lot of advice as I got older. I only saw him twice a year for about a week each. I wasn't always a fan of going the visit him, he was a different man after his stroke. The only good advice I remember him giving me is "smoking weed will make you forget shit so don't do it" and "go to college and get an education". I listened on both. Although, I am a little late on the second one. Only fifteen years.

My wife says I am a good father which means a lot to me. Every since my princess was born I always tried to be the best father I could be. I always will be. I have learned from my mistakes and will continue to do so. Being a father is not the easiest thing to be some times. But it has its rewards. I just hope when they have kids they tell me I did a pretty damn good job.

Five for Friday: My Five Favorite Vices

Hello again. It has been a long week. I got sick on Monday, which made it an even longer week. I got really bad on Wednesday. I got home from school at 3pm, ate lunch, fell asleep until 7:30pm, ate dinner, fell back asleep around 10:30pm and slept until noon Thursday. Felt alright on Thursday. Got some good sleep last night, and now I am almost 100%.

Now lets get back to it. This week's Five for Friday: My Five Favorite Vices

1. Beer. I love beer. All kinds of beer (light beer is not beer, its flavored water) Some of my favorites include Shiner Bock, Shiner Hefe, Trader Joe's holiday ale (I'm aging two bottles, one for this year and one next) Three Philosophers, Omerang Hennipin, and when it's hot outside there is non better than Red Stripe!

2. Wine. Yes I love this too, more so at meals and in the fall. My collection is only 6 bottles but I plan on getting more. If you know where I can get a case of Frimaio Chianti Classico 2004 (any vintage will actually do) please let me know. Brought one bottle back from Italy, glad I listened to the store owner, it was absolutely heavenly.

3. Cigars. I love them. There is nothing like a fine cigar to relax. Even better when it's accompanied by a fine wine or scotch. *Not around the baby!

4. Star Wars memorabilia. I have a bunch of SW toys that my wife can't stand. Some of it's pictures and other stuff. They sit on a shelf. That's it. Yes, I know I'm a big nerd.

5. Playing with Maggie. What else can I say. I really do enjoy playing with her. There is nothing like seeing your baby smile!

Now in honor of football season GO 49ers!!!!!!!

Papers and Pics.

Things have been going well here in Chicago. I just got a text that Mayor Daley will not be running for re-election next year. I must say I am shocked, I thought he would die in office like his old man.

School has been going well so for. I just finished my first paper. I've Got a quiz tonight. Maggie and are just chilling today. I've got to study a bit, but we have been playing most of the morning. I put here down in her crib while I hopped in the shower and she fell asleep for an hour. She is now standing up on her own. She enjoys it a lot. When she is standing, it is hard for her to sit down because she keeps her leg stiff and doesn't want to sit. It's too funny.

Maggie is in her pack and play and she is sitting in there just talking the day away. daddadaddadadadadadadadadaadadad or nanananananananannnanananaanananan. I can't get enough of it. I enjoy her sounds she makes.

The pic with Maggie standing up is her at the park standing all by herself. We don't think she is going to crawl at all, she will just start walking one day. She is still just rolling herself all around and hasn't pulled herself to a sitting position yet, but she is getting there.

We got up Sunday and we were reading the paper in bed with Maggie. I was flipping through the the Target ad when my wife and I saw the exact Britax car seat we have been looking for on sale for a $100. We decided to rush out and get one because it was such a great price. We got to Target and we had to ask if they had any in the back and we ended up with the very last one. Yay us!

5 for Friday. Double Your Pleasure

We are back and better than ever. This weeks 5 for Friday is going to be a little different. Since I didn't post one last week we are going to do a double dose of it. That's right you get two for the price of.... oh wait, it's free! So hold to your mouse as we get going.

5 reasons I didn't post in a week

1. I was very busy the past week, with school and I was out of town.

2. There was no computer where I was at when I was out of town (the in-laws computer took a crap)

3. The wife was always on the computer hogging it.

4. I have been playing with Maggie in my free time after she was hogged by other family all weekend( I kid i kid). Did I mention she is standing!

5.I've been studying as much as I can. I think I need a new brain, this one is full.

5 of my favorite books everyone should read, in no particular order.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird. 'Nuff said.

2. Angela's Ashes. Great story told by a great story teller.

3. A Monk Swimming. Malachy McCourt, yep Frank's Brother. He makes me wanna open a bar.

4. Kitchen Confidential. Anthony Bourdain. Another great story teller. I relate because I worked a lot in food service and I witnessed much of the same stuff. I'm also a foodie and love to cook.

5. War. Sebastian Junger. I recently read this. He does a great job of really telling you what is going on over in Afghanistan and the struggles our troops go through on a daily basis.

Image via Wikipedia

Image by wynlok via Flickr

Cover of A Monk Swimming

Skin Cancer Affects Us All

Do you know someone who has been affected by skin cancer? If didn't before you read this, now you do. Yes I have been affected by skin cancer. In December of 2005 I was diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). It may be the "best" skin cancer to have but it is still scary to have. I had surgery to have it removed in February 2006 and I was left with a wonderful scar on my face. Not fun to have but it is a constant reminder to wear sunscreen. No, I don't wear sunscreen as much as I should, although I am much more aware of the sun and what it can do. If I am not wearing sunscreen you will see me move into a shaded area if possible and stay out of the sun. I do this because I have a high risk of getting BCC again.

Maggie also is in the high risk category due to her pale skin and blue eyes (see being Irish can suck sometimes but most of the time being Irish kicks ass!). Now I hated when my mom used to put sunscreen on me, especially when we went skiing. Nothing sucks more than being in the snow and being covered in oily crappy sunscreen. I'm glad she did it though. I plan on teaching Maggie all about skin care, along with fearing the sun, and she will never set foot in a tanning salon.

I am putting a paper I wrote on skin cancer for my class last September. I hope you read it and take the information to mind. I am in no way trying to tell you how to live but trying to make you more aware of the dangers of skin cancer. I got an A on it so it should be good. Enjoy.

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. (Glanz, Shoenfeld, &

Steffen, 2010) Skin cancer is more common than lung, pancreas, or prostate cancer with more

than 1 million cases diagnosed every year. According to Fulmore, Geiger, Warner, Talbott &

Jones (2009), the American Cancer Society (ACS) reported in2007 that 1 out of 5 Americans

will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

Cancer occurs when cells in the body start to grow out of control. There are several different kinds of cancer that can occur, but they are all caused by this uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. These cancer cells quickly multiply into new cancer cells rather than dying out. Cancer cells can form tumors, which is what happens with skin cancer. These cells can metastasize, or invade other parts of the body. If the cancer is not detected, and treated in time it can result in death. (“What is cancer”, ACS, 2010)

There are three main types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each type is named for the type of skin cell where it originates. (“Skin cancer”, Wikipedia, 2010) The most common risk factor for skin cancer is Ultra Violet (UV) light exposure, which is estimated to be responsible for 90% of skin cancers. (Roberts & Black, 2009)

In addition to being classified based on the specific cells they affect, skin cancers are also classified by the general type of skin cell that they invade. The two general groups of skin cancer classifications are keratinocyte carcinoma and melanoma.

Keratinocyte carcinomas are the first group. These cancer cells are so named because they arise from keratinocyte cells. The two most common types of keratinocyte cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. (“What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers?, ACS, 2010)

Basal cell carcinoma begins in the lowest layer of the skin, the basal cell layer. About 80% of skin cancers are Basal cell carcinomas. “They usually begin on skin exposed to the sun, such as the head and neck.” (ACS 2010 What Are Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers) Historically, basal cell carcinoma was usually found in middle age or older people but recently more and more young people are being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. This is likely due to young people having increased exposure to the sun with little or no protection. . Basal cell carcinoma tends to grow very slowly and is rare for it to metastasize, or spread to other parts of the body. If left untreated, however, it can metastasize. Even after treatment, basal cell carcinoma can recur in the same area of the skin. New basal cell cancers can occur on other parts of the body as well. Nearly half of basal cell carcinoma patients will get a new skin cancer diagnosis within five years. (“What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers?, ACS, 2010)

Squamous cell carcinoma occurs in the upper part of the epidermis where the squamous cells are located. About 20% of skin cancers are squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma most often occurs in the area of the skin most exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, ears, and arms. It can also occur in the within skin ulcers or scars, or, rarely, in the skin of the genital area. Squamous cell carcinoma is more likely than basal cell carcinoma to metastasize to other parts of the body or lymph nodes, although this is still fairly uncommon. (“What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers?, ACS, 2010)

Melanoma begins in the melanocytes, which are the skin cells that produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment in the skin that makes skin tan or brown. Most melanoma tumors are brown or black because the melanoma cells produce melanin. This is not always true, however, as melanomas can sometimes be non-pigmented, the same color as the surrounding skin. Unlike keratinocyte carcinomas that occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin, melanomas can occur anywhere on the body. In men, the most common sites are the chest and back, while in women, the most common site is the legs. Melanoma is much less common than basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, but is far more dangerous. Although melanoma has a high rate of cure when caught early, it is much more likely to metastasize to other areas of the body than basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas. (What is melanoma?, ACS, 2010)

Having dark pigmented skin lowers your risk of developing melanoma, but even people with dark skin can develop melanoma on the palms of their hands, under their nails, or on the soles of their feet. In rare instances, melanoma can even form in parts of the body such as the mouth, eyes, and vagina. (What is melanoma?, ACS, 2010)

Risk factors for developing skin cancer include age, sun sensitive phenotypes, such as people with blue eyes, fair skin, and light-colored hair. Other risk factors include family history, personal history of precancerous lesions, or a history of excessive sun exposure such as multiple sunburns. (Glanz et al., 2010).

North America, Europe, and Australia have all seen increases in skin cancer rates in the past thirty years. “During this period, melanoma incidence rates more than doubled, and nonmelanoma skin cancer rates exceeded those of all other cancers combined”, (Roberts & Black, 2009). Many countries have started skin cancer awareness campaigns to make people aware of the dangers of prolonged UV exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the ACS have recognized a need to educate children and adolescents about skin cancer awareness and prevention. These programs enhance awareness and prevention of the risks of UV radiation and skin cancer. (Fulmore et al., 2009)

Simple steps can be taken to lessen UV exposure, such as lessening the amount of time spent in the direct sun, wearing long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses when outside, and frequent application of sunscreen. UV radiation levels are the highest from 10am to 2pm. Skin damage can occur in as little as 30 minutes of sun exposure. Studies have shown that high levels of childhood sun exposure are linked to increased risk of skin cancers later in life. It is important to protect children from sun exposure and to teach them about protecting themselves, as they get older. (Fulmore, Geiger, et al., 2009)

Although it isn’t possible or practical to avoid sunlight completely, but too much sunlight can be harmful, but there are simple ways to limit the amount of exposure to UV rays. “Slip! Slop! Slap!… and Wrap” is a catch phrase that the ACS uses to help people remember four key methods to reduce sun exposure. The first method is to “slip” on a long-sleeved shirt when going outside to protect your arms from excess UV radiation. The second method is to “slop” on sunscreen, and remember to reapply the sunscreen every two hours when outside. The third method is to “slap” on a hat when going out side to protect your head, ears, and face from excess UV radiation. The final method is to “wrap” sunglasses around your face to protect your eyes from the sun. (“Skin cancer prevention and early detection”, ACS, 2010)

There are several different ways to treat skin cancer. The type of progression of the cancer determines the treatment. Often, skin cancer can be treated with minor surgery. In these instances, the skin tumor is cut out of the skin. In some instances topical medicine for the skin can be used. Currently, imiquinod cream is used in early stage melanomas to help the body fight back against the cancer cells. In skin cancers with a high risk of spreading, surgery may be followed by radiation or chemotherapy. (“How is melanoma skin cancer treated?”, ACS, 2010)

New vaccines have been developed to fight skin cancers. Weakened melanoma cells can be given to a patient to try and make the body’s immune system kill the cancer cells. BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guerin) is a bacterium related to the germ that causes tuberculosis (Tb) it is sometimes used to help treat stage III melanomas via a shot (injection) right into the tumors. (“How is melanoma skin cancer treated?”, ACS, 2010)

Throughout the world skin cancer has been increasing. Several countries have started awareness and detection programs such as free skin cancer screenings. Many new treatments and options for care and prevention are now available and are increasing everyday with advanced research. There may not be a cure for cancer as of yet but prevention is the best medicine and skin cancer is preventable.

REFERENCES

American Cancer Society. (March 29, 2010). How Is Melanoma Skin Cancer Treated?. In Skin Cancer-Melanoma. Retrieved April 25, 2010, from http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_4X_How_Is_Melanoma_Skin_Cancer_Treated_50.asp?sitearea=.

American Cancer Society. (March 23, 2010). What Are Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers?. In Overview: Skin Cancer - Basal and Squamous Cell. Retrieved April 25, 2010, from http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_1x_What_Is_Nonmelanoma_Skin_Cancer_51.asp?sitearea=.

American Cancer Society. (n.d.). What Is Cancer?. In Overview: What Is Cancer?. Retrieved April 25, 2010, from http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_1x_What_Is_Cancer.asp?sitearea=.

American Cancer Society. (March 5, 2010). What Is Melanoma?. In Skin Cancer-Melanoma. Retrieved April 25, 2010, from http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_is_melanoma_50.asp?sitearea=.

Anonymous. (n.d.). Skin Cancer. In Skin Cancer. Retrieved April 24, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_cancer.

Fulmore, J.S., Geiger, B.F., Werner, K.A., Talbott, L.L.& Jones, D.C. (2009). Sun protection education for healthy children. Childhood Education, 85 (5), 293-299.

Glanz, K., Schoenfeld, E.R., & Steffen A. (2010). A randomized trial of tailored skin cancer prevention messages for adults: Project SCAPE. American Journal of Public Health, 100 (4), 735-741.

Roberts, D.C., & Black, D. (2009). Comparison of interventions to reduce sun exposure. Behavioral Medicine, 35 (2), 67-76.

Back into the Swing

Well it has been a long week for everyone. When we left to go to downstate, we left right after I got out of my night class. We got in at 2:30am. Went smooth though, because Maggie slept the whole way. We had a great time. I even learned that sometimes the party ends early because we have a baby now. We have a million mosquito bites that are still itchy (the bug candle, as we found out, doesn't work below the table you have it sitting on). We left at about 5pm on Sunday, and we got in around 11pm (we got caught in a little traffic due to some idiot riding his bike on the expressway, which cost him his life). I had class all day Monday so I am just now catching up on things.

I have been working on another post which should be up tomorrow on skin cancer. Please feel free to read it, as it is very informative. I must get back to studying. Look for some more pics to be posted this weekend. Oh and Maggie is standing up already!!!!!

Long Day Ahead

Tonight after I get out of class at 9pm we will be heading on a 4.5 hour drive downstate. Some of you may be asking why we are leaving so late. Well it's pretty simple. One, I have class tonight and I am not one to miss class. Two, Maggie should sleep the whole way. We have done this trip three times now with Maggie and it seems the best to leave at night. When we leave during the day she can easily add on 2-3 hours on to our drive due to all of the stops we make to feed and change her. The last time we drove down there it took us over six hours.

I slept in late so I can do most of the driving (I usually do all of the driving). The drive isn't that bad. We've made it over 30 times now since we've been together. We have noticed it gets a little more difficult with Maggie in tow. She needs more stuff than both of us combined.

This weekend should be a blast. It always is. The only bad thing is that we have to leave Sunday afternoon. I have class in the morning and the wife has to work. Wish us luck on that one.

Sometimes it's hard to discipline cause they are too damn cute.

Maggie and I were at Target today picking up a few things for school. I was starving, so I got a pretzel. I was nice enough to share with Maggie.

She was well behaved until I got to the school supply isle. She started doing her eating of the shopping cart thing she does. Usually we tell her no, and she stops. Not today my friends. She must of liked something on the cart because she kept going and going. Even after I scolded her. As I'm looking right at her and telling her in a stern voice 'we don't eat the grocery cart', she would just look back and put on a huge smile on her face. The first two times she did it I just blew it off. But the third time she did this (I think she put a little extra sugar into it), I almost started laughing. But I held character. What can I say she is too damn cute.

So all I did was just tightened the strap so she couldn't reach the bar on the cart. It worked.

I see this becoming a problem in the future. I need to take action now to block the "I'm so cute to be bad" look. But I doubt I will ever be able to. She's my little princess. Damn I wish I had the Force.

Do you have the TV on around the baby.

Image via Wikipedia

Having the TV on when the baby is up is one of the few disagreements my wife and I have about raising Maggie. My wife would not like it on at all. I disagree a little mostly because I am selfish in the fact that I want to watch TV. I have cut my TV time to a minimum. I may have the TV on in the morning when I am feeding her and the news on while I play with her, but that is it. I have had trouble feeding her sometimes when I feed her because she will stop eating and look at the TV. I just turn it off then.

Now I have used the TV to calm her down too. The wife uses it when she cuts Maggie's nails. She will turn on Sesame Street On Demand and Maggie just zones out on it which is just fine because it is after all Sesame Street and it rules! There is two kid's show's you just don't disrespect and will always be welcome in my home that is Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers. Now I'm not going to have it on 24/7. I still believe there should have limits on how much TV kids watch. Get outside and play for crying out loud.

Yes my daughter is only eight months old but I will take her to the park or just for a walk. I want to set a good example and get on the routine of her being active and not needing TV. Childhood obesity rates are through the roof in this country. Yes I know diet has a lot to do with it but so does exercise, Maggie is not going to get much exercise sitting in front of the TV.

Yes I like to watch TV. It happens to be on in the other room right now and I have the news on just to listen to it. Maggie is in the pack and play (she's getting fast at moving around and if you take your eye off her she will be under the couch, and right now she is plotting her escape) in the room with me and can not see the TV, so I don't feel so bad. But if she wants to go play and roll around on ground I will turn it off before she does like I did this morning and happened to get down on the floor and play with her. I know some parents will just set their kids in front of the TV all day, which is their right but I would disagree with this. Kids need to be active and interact with other kids. I know I do not take Maggie to the park or outside as much as I should, but I know when she gets older and we both can get more out of it I know we will spend a lot more time outdoors. It will also give me an excuse to get my lazy ass outside.

So I leave you with this thought. Do you think your kids watch to much TV. You may surprise yourself with the answer.