Are you ready for this?

I've spoken about our new, used Hyundai Elantra Wagon.  I've mentioned that it is the perfect height for a now eight year old golden retriever to easily hop in the back.  I've talked about the gas mileage and the superior used car ratings it receives.  I don't think I've mentioned the trailer hitch (bike rack!) or the roof rack, but those are both good.  Yesterday I mentioned the repairs needed to make the car roadworthy and all along I've mentioned just how damn ugly the paint job is.

Well - if a picture is worth a thousand words then here comes your 4000 word essay that can only be entitled,

"What The Hell Were You Thinking When You Picked Up The Spray Paint Gun".

And for extra credit, can someone please explain this:

It's starting to look a lot like...

Christmastime.

One day you're remembering your nation's war heroes and the next the man in the red suit is getting set to squirm down your chimney.   I looked at the calendar and sure enough, it's only eighteen days 'til the big event.  The kids are right - it is time to decorate.

Last night we cleared a spot and hauled the tree up from the basement.  Now. the whole tree decorating thing has never been a big thrill for me, but when I see the kids actually cooperating toward a shared goal - well, you've just got to love that.

So the tree is up and, weather permitting, I imagine the outdoor lights might be going up tonight.





There was also a birthday around here and it was one that we almost missed.

That's right - the lovely Willow is now eight years old.  The kids insisted we do it right and get her treats and a new toy.  Unlike this particular picture, she was thrilled with her birthday gifts.

This weekend my wife and I attended a murder mystery dinner party hosted by our local BIA.  It was well-attended with local merchants, restaurateurs and even a local council member and the township's mayor.  I am glad to report that I neither murdered nor was murdered through the course of the evening.  My wife cannot make the same claim.

I know that I promised some pictures of our new, used car, but the safety discovered some invisible issues that are being dealt with.  I should get the car back today and pictures will follow.

I need to get back to writing so I'll leave you with this picture.

And yes, that is the beard.