Happy Birthday Baby

Yesterday was Stacey's birthday. We had already had an excellent weekend.

We spent the 4th of July with our friends Roy and Monique and their daughter Elise as well as another couple they are friends with. We grilled out and drank beer (well, I ended up drinking Stacey's share. Somebody had to drive). The girls stayed out late, but not late enough to enjoy the fireworks. I think they would enjoy them, but they were just so tired. The night came to a close when Ellen, as graceful as she is, took a header into a concrete block. She was a trooper as she always is, and wanted to continue playing once the blood was cleaned up, but it was clear the grumpiness was getting the best of her so we headed home.

The 5th was a fantastic weather day. As planned, Jen and Brian stopped by before a Schwartz family rebellion in Monticello. I took Brian for his first mountain bike ride of the year. Brian would be a fantastic rider if he rode more. As it was, he struggled a little at first, but regained his composure quickly. I very much engrossed him with mountain bike culture by bringing a 30 pack of Miller High Life with us to the trail.

Brian attempting the skinny

B Didn't make it on the first try, but did on the 2nd try. This is a feature a lot of the veterans don't have the juevos to attempt, so I was quite proud (and vocally so) when he made it on his 2nd try.

One of the many trail features at Beverly Park

A little fun on the picnic tables:

After we rode we went to Monticello for a BBQ and some good ol' family fun. Played some bean bags, ate some grilled goodies, and I drank WAYYYY too many beers. Thanks to the sober drivers.

Ellen hanging out after dinner playing in the rocks.

Me and two of Stacey's cousins playing bags. (Brian and I went undefeated)

Mara and Ellen with Grampa and Uncle B on the golf cart.

Finally, on the 6th, Stacey and I just layed low all day. In the morning I filled up the swimming pool that I had got from Target a few weeks ago. Now, let me tell you about this swimming pool. This here swimming pool is the Grand Daddy of all blow up swimming pools. Complete with and inflatable bench and three cup holders, it holds 217 gallons of garden hose goodness. I was stoked. I filled it up, and couldn't wait for the water to get warm enough, which, if timed right, should be right about after nap time. I was not at all disappointed. Nap time was short for Mara that day. After holding it in for five days, she left a poop in her diaper that Fat Bastard would be proud of. There was no going back to sleep for her. Hell, I'd be on cloud Nine too after a dump like that. So we put on her swimming suit and headed outside. She loved it. Absolutely loved it. I grabbed a little hair of the dog and sat down in there with her. A while later, Ellen and Stacey joined us , though Stacey did not get in the pool like I did. The kids loved it and I'm back in the running for Dad of the year.

Mara and Ellen diggin' the big pool

Mara and I made this cake for Mommy during the day. She helped blow the candles out. Stacey didn't want this picture published, but I couldn't resist. It was awesome. Mara had a lot of fun wishing Mommy a Happy Birthday. She even helped me sing the song. It was great.

This was a fantastic weekend. Thanks baby for all you do. Happy Birthday.