Dev’s birthday was a great success – turning five is a big deal especially when you wake up relieved to find that you have “the same voice, same body, same feet, and no beard.” While we were partying at his school he whispered excitedly to me “this is the best birthday ever!” That kind of declaration makes it all worth it. The only annoying thing is that he’s been playing with his Power Ranger cake decorations over the last few days even though we bought him tons of actual toys for the big day. Kids have a way of doing things like that. At least he wasn’t playing with the box the cake came in…

With Mother’s Day less than a week away you had better get to planning a day of pampering. I’m going to do something with seafood, a grill and perhaps shopping but that’s because I know the way to my wife’s heart is through her stomach, and retail therapy is a close second. I can disclose this freely because my wife doesn’t read this blog. She feels that since she lives it she shouldn’t have to read it. (Terry if you are reading this, don’t tell her what I’m doing for Mother’s Day.) But for those of you who still need some inspiration check out this site. I particularly like the idea of making a composter as a gift because it gives us Dads an excuse to play in dirt and garbage. I also like the Chocolate Bananas recipe…

Finally, while I was barbecuing I noticed this (below) growing on the tree in our yard. It looks like a nest and there is what appears to be larvae moving around inside. Can anyone say arachnophobia?