Emmett meets his new house

Though it still smells mildly of cat, Emmett puts a stamp of approval on his new house. Specifically, the backyard. As long as there is a ball in it.

Where's Uncle Blair?

We don't want to give it away but, let's just say that if Uncle Blair hasn't showered, Dalton McGuinty knows it.

Unlike Aunt Nancy's appearance on U.S. network television, this doesn't quite qualify Uncle Blair for superstardom. Almost, but not quite.

Twenty four months later

Images of 9/11 flood the news as the ten year anniversary is recognized and remembered. The missing B.C. boy is returned safely to his home, four days after he was abducted. Defending champion South Africa narrowly wins against Wales during the opening weekend of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. And Emmettilius stranmccannii celebrates his second birthday. At a bowling alley.

Nothing says birthday like lobbing a heavy ball down along hardwood floors. After learning about a kid friendly bowling alley from a homeless person on the train, Emmett's Dad thought it a great idea to celebrate the day at Let's Bowl. Equipped with bumpers for the gutters, child size shoes, a ramp for the bowling ball, and beer (for Auntie Clare), they gave it a try. Emmett scored a respectable 71, and shrieked with delight every time he rolled the ball. Much more fun than dodging moving boxes at home.

It took all day for Emmett to realize it was his birthday. Even with his parents prompting him..."Who's birthday is it today?", he didn't make the connection. "Ali!" he would yell. It wasn't until the birthday hats and cake were brought out that he finally yelled "Emmutt!", as they had pizza and cake in the park. (And yes, Emmett's Mom was NOT thinking when she bought sparklers for Emmett's cake. He was unsuccessful at blowing them out).

Happy Birthday Emmett. Let the terrible...er...terrific...twos begin...

Mobility quotient exponential increase 2.0

In eager anticipation of his second birthday, Emmett's parents hook him up with a sweet new ride.

It's not quite a carbon fibre time trial bike, but the incremental shift to three wheels is definitely a step in the right direction.

And that's the kind of day it's been

September 1st, 2011. The distracted driving law comes into effect in Alberta. No more cellphones when driving. The law also bans eating, teeth brushing, shaving, hair combing, writing, sketching, applying makeup and nose picking - all activities one would consider a distraction.

September 1st, 2011. No more analog signal for TV, as the switch is flipped to digital. Emmett and his parents lose the five channels that the rabbit ears brought in.

September 1st, 2011. Viewers watch as Lloyd Robertson bids farewell from the CTV anchor chair, after a 60 year career in TV, and 35 years with CTV. His is a voice that Emmett's Mom grew up with, watching Lloyd with her own Mom and Dad when she should have been in bed. Fortunately, Emmett's parents were able to watch the final broadcast through live stream and Mr. Internet.

And that's the kind of day it's been for this Thursday, September 1st. Goodnight.