Greatest Birthday Card EVER!

I've reached the age where you don't receive many birthday cards.  Other than family, I only received one this year.  I'm not complaining - I didn't have to cook on my birthday and that is ALL that mattered.

My favorite card arrived from Japan.  I don't know where she found this card, but it is the perfect birthday card for me.  I would have purchased it for myself.  The card has made it to the hallowed "refrigerator gallery" in the kitchen and has given me many a chuckle since its arrival.

I've decided to share.  Thanks, Bethany - you are a gem!



and the inside...

The Cart O' Crap & "The Stranger"

Heathen #1 was old enough this year to join the high school's indoor percussion ensemble.  This year's performance piece is entitled "The Stranger" and was written by the director, Jon Donath.  It is a great piece of music and the kids do a fantastic job.

My child plays in the pit, on an instrument that I have lovingly dubbed the "Cart O'Crap."  It is this really bizarre looking thing on wheels that holds all of the odd, accent-making type instruments.


Heathen #1 and his
"Cart O' Crap"



Heathen #1 and his "Cart"
on the performance floor.

The entire piece is several minutes long, but you can hear a small portion here (and see Heathen #1 in action!)  Enjoy!

Breaking Boards

Heathens #1 and #2 have completed belt testing again for Tang Soo Do. Both Heathens past with flying colors (and kicks!) and were awarded their orange belts!  



  

Heathen #1 preparing to break a board.

 


Heathen #1 starting a side kick.



Heathen #1 receiving his orange belt.




Heathen #2 doing a "mid level knife defense."



Heathen #2 preparing to break a board.



Heathen #2 receiving his orange belt.



Re-Pete Goes Home

We found the stray's home!!!!  I didn't have to take him up to the pound (thank heavens!).  His owner remarked on how much our dogs looked alike.  This was the best picture I got of the two of them together.

Pete and Re-Pete