Bye bye binky

Sage has used a binky to help her fall asleep since birth. She usually just used it at nap times and bedtime, but she definitely "required" it during those times. I have been wanting to wean her from it for sometime. Mason weaned himself at like 6 months and I've always been of the opinion that the earlier you wean the easier. I have been dragging my feet, though, because this summer is a little crazy for us and I was expecting it to be an ordeal. So I was planning on doing it after our 4th of July festivities. Nic had other plans. Last night he took the binky out of her mouth and said, "tonight's the night." He kept telling me that she would be fine and that it wasn't going to be a big deal to her. I thought he was dead wrong. I warned and threatened of hysterics and late nights and overall world destruction (including a ruined 4th of July weekend), but instead we just got about 45 seconds of crying followed by 45 minutes of babbling and then a sleeping baby. Today, at both nap times, she babbled for about 15 minutes and fell asleep. (She did the same thing WITH the binky). So here it is, in writing: Nic, you were right. Don't let it go to your head.

My Brother the Ninja Rockstar

I am not aware of any fame my brother has received in regards to being a rockstar, and I'm not sure he has any real nunchuck skills, but he is still pretty cool. This is not a special birthday post or anything like that. Its just an ode to my big brother whom I happen to think the world of. He really is the best big brother. When we were little I remember him letting me tag along with him and his friends. I'm four years younger than he is and so that is kind of a big deal if you ask me. Other than pinning me down and dangling big loogie balls over my face (which more often than not ended up in my mouth), he has always been a very gentle and kind brother. I only have positive memories of him as a child and as an adult he continues to be genuine, honest, and kind-hearted. He has the biggest heart of anyone I know and that is no lie. As if all of this isn't enough, he is also one of the most talented people I know. If he is interested in something he is good at it. As a kid he liked art, and some of his work is still hanging in my mom's house. Amazing stuff for being like 13 when he did it. In high school he liked football and track and did very well at both. He likes music and so he taught himself the guitar and he also plays the harmonica. His two loves, however, are skiing and fishing, and pretty much he is awesome at both. He is loyal to his "hobbies". This loyalty is what has made him awesome at what he loves to do, but also it makes him an incredible friend/brother/son. All I would ever have to do is point to someone and tell him that they hurt me and he would possibly kill them with his bare hands. (Don't worry, you're safe. I really don't have any enemies.) That is just how he is. So kind hearted, yet fiercely loyal. He is the best brother anyone could ask for and I am so lucky that he is mine. So here's to you big brother. I love you.

I stole these from his Facebook. I don't know the people who took them (except for the last one), but I'm sure they won't mind me using them, right?

Milk Goatee

Dear "Got Milk?" campaign,

For your consideration, I present to you this:

The milk goatee.