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...