Holiday Review

Before we begin the journey into 2008, let us reflect on where we have been. Here is a quick review of the holiday season of 2008.

Cade understands that the holidays can be stressful and a large undertaking. A lot of work goes into making Christmas a special time. Cade knew when to call in for help with constructing Christmas.

Gunny has a killer set of tools

We started off the festivities with a small dinner party with some freinds. The Schwartz family lives right next door to Gary and Sue Becker, and Cade loves to play with the kiddies. They all came over early in December, and a great time was had.

They look harmless enough

We waited to visit the Big Man until it was quite close to the Big Day. Last year, Cade was a deer in the headlights when sitting on Santa's lap. But this year, Cade was ready. He was quite happy to sit with Santa, and had no fear. In fact, he was so at ease, that Cade immediately reached over and grabbled a candy cane. The boy does love his treats.

"I want an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle."

After visiting Santa, Cade managed to ride on a choo-choo train and view wildlife in its natural habitat. Mix in a breakfast at Ruby's, and we are talking a full day.

When it came time to open gifts on Christmas morning, Cade was prepared. Headbands and wristbands were handy to help him work through the many gifts to open. But, he had so many gifts, that we actually had to pull some back. We have a little stash that we can mix in throughout the year. For special occassions like when he actually goes big potty on Elmo, if you know what I mean.

Olivia Newton John would be so proud

We were very fortunate to have not one, but two world-class photographers in the house to document the Christmas morning festivites. Chris and Jessica combined to take some great shots (which were stolen and displayed on the previous post).

Here is the behind the scenes secret on how they capture the shots:

Step 1: Distract/amuse the two year old by waving wrapping paper in the air

Step 2: Have the subjects in your sights

Step 3: Snap the finished product

One of Cade's favorite gifts was his rocket launcher. Since we have been having very nice weather, the day after Christmas was spent playing with it. Headbands were part of the required uniform, of course.

Serious Hang Time. Very Serious

Houston - we have liftoff.

At halftime, we have Goldfish. Orange slices will come in a few years.

It just goes to show you that kids can be happy with only minimal financial input. You don't need electronics that cost hundreds. You need Wal-Mart specials that cost under $1.00. The flute - 87 cents. The centipede - 87 cents. Both are big hits.

part Kenny G, part Yanni, and part Ron Burgandy

It was a wonderful holiday season. Good times. Good times. But it is now time for the new year. 2008 will be eventful. The family will grow with the addition of a little girl. The LA Marathon looms in March.

My resolution: Do everything in my power to get the Chiefs to the 2009 Super Bowl.

And keep this boy smiling.