New Member of the Family

New Member of the Family. I wanted to say “household”, but Holly insists that our new cat is a member of the family. “Simon” (he’s Siamese, get it?) had been hanging around outside for over a week, sometimes disappearing for a short time, but always turning back up on our doorstep. Well, it looks like we’re going to take him in for good. I would never have guessed that Michelle would accept a stray cat into the house, but this guy is so handsome and has such a fun personality that she just couldn’t resist.

At first, it seemed like Simon’s biggest personality trait would be how affectionate he is, but it soon became apparent that he loves to play. His favorite solo toys are Holly’s elastic ponytail holders. He can flip one of these things into the air with either his mouth or paws, and remain entertained by it for a surprisingly long time. He also likes to play hide and seek, with an emphasis on chasing and being chased. He used to enjoy staring at the mouse pointer moving around on the big movie screen as I would browse the web and read emails. That was until he actually jumped to grab the mouse pointer and tore a few holes in the fabric! He’s not allowed anywhere near the screen now.

Holly’s Website Finally Updated

Holly’s Website Finally Updated! After over a year of stagnation, Holly has finally updated HollysNotebook.com. Andrew has also done some work on AcesBase.com recently. Check ’em out.

Holly’s 10th Birthday Party

Christmas Lights Photos

Christmas Lights Photos. Our first holiday season in our new house is also the first time we’ve ever put up Christmas lights. I had visions of a Griswold-style spectacle, but I was able to restrain myself and keep the display fairly tasteful.

School Photos

Photos of Furnished Rooms

2004 Texas LD Shootout

Home Theater Page

First Day of School

First Day of School. The  kids were both excited about their first day in public school. As you can see from the photos, Holly has to be ready for the bus before the sun is even up. Andrew gets to wait about 30 minutes longer. (As usual, click the small picture to see a larger one.) Holly ready before dawn First day of school without a uniform It’s a little early, but Ace is ready to go About to head out the door

Fireworks in Ellis County

Fireworks in Ellis County. For the first time in my Texas life, I was able to shoot off fireworks instead of only watching them. Andrew and I bought a modest bundle (spending around $130) and along with a couple of pals who were over, the whole family had fun setting them off. No photos of the action, but here’s one of our supply before we got started.