There's a Little Leblogski

Fall, Generally

2011-11-22T22:53:00.001-06:00

It's a typical November in Dallas, and we can smell the pumpkins fermenting in the 80 degree weather. Ahh! Shorts and short-sleeves for the little guys. And the parents...

It's not so typical for the Parents, though, as time is knocking while we watch little Dylan become a big guy.

He's still got big brother Grant.

Ah, the Revelry! Happy Thanksgiving from the Benavides Family, Dallas Unit.

Discharge-d

2011-09-16T23:09:00.006-05:00

Three a.m., September 13, 2011: Life gives us lemons, but drinking the lemonade in a Wal-mart while buying clean underwear for yourself and your wife is just wrong. Thanks, Riggins!

Part I. The "diss" in DISCHARGE-D.

Four p.m., September 12, 2011: a call comes in on the hotline. "Honey, the doctor says we should go to the ER. It's in Plano." (30 miles away). Me, "OK, let's do it; I'll get Dylan; see you there." I didn't think about the underwear issue, but I did get Dylan some diapers. Way to go, Dad!

Two a.m., September 13, 2011: The seeds of wisdom are planted--you know the ones that sprout in the haze of our child (Grant in this case) awakening from sedation, of the uncertainty of where we'll sleep tonite, of the question how bad will it be, and of...

How to deal with a bacterially infected 3-year old in at least 5 steps:

1. Acknowledge that the child has a problem, a sore or inflammation appears. In our case, it was a big sore spot on Grant's thumb. We didn't think it was related that he had a painful pimple on his knee. So it's best to look for other sore spots on the rest of the child.

2. Do something about the problem, go to a doctor. Ask the doctor about the guidelines for prescribing antibiotics; this is important because it sets up the next question: Can he be treated now with an antibiotic that will treat MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)? In any event, accept that your child has an infection and will need to be treated. Stay calm, this could be a long haul.

3. You will be sent home with antibiotics and, if you have a three-year old, it will not want it. But get the meds into your child in anyway you can! More on this later. Antibiotics do not always work, even if faithfully taken, which Grant did. The "diss" is on.

4. If the inflammation does not get better within 48 hours, go to the ER. We did not do this, because the doctor said the two antibiotics would take longer to be effective and Grant never had a fever, both before, during and after this entire experience. It would have been crazy to bring a healthy kid to the ER. But if the inflammation does not get better within 48 hours or if a pus pocket forms (this is a white portion to an otherwise purple/red inflammed portion of the skin), go to the ER, skip your doctor, he or she cannot deal with it and will only send you to the ER, and by that point you cannot easily complete Step 5.

5. Pick a pediatric hospital with an ER that you are willing to stay at for at least three nights. One night anywhere is easy, but three nights is like moving in. Get an appropriate change of clothing, some snacks, basic entertainment (book, laptop, magazine, dvds); and most important feed and hydrate, if possible, your infected kid prior to arriving at the ER. The medical staff at said ER will ask you when your child last ate, and they will not sedate him unless he has not eaten or had any drink for six hours, but it will take the staff at least six hours to make a decision and take action, and in that time your child will get hungry and thirsty; so you're safe. Oh, don't forget your pets and other siblings!

Twelve a.m., September 13, 2011: The doctor is reading the consent-to-treat form, line by line. Sedation has risks, like "death" our ER doctor reminded us like three times. There are alternatives to sedation, but they're the kind that sound more psychologically painful than a simple 20-minute sleep. He's already had his blood drawn and has the IV tube in him; hasn't he been through enough?

I sign my name, giving consent, and we say a prayer.

Four p.m., September 15, 2011: Grant is discharged!

Stay tuned for Parts II - V in our five part series "Discharge-d"!

DISCLAIMER: Taking medical advice from the Interwebs is always a bad idea. Come on, people! And, by the way, the above is partially embellished to make it more fun, if you can call a staph infection fun.

Dylan? He's good...

The Transformers

2011-09-05T21:29:00.005-05:00

The Benavides Family, Dallas Unit, was in San Antonio on Labor Day weekend. We were there to visit family and friends, but especially to celebrate the life of our Aunt Trina Topalis. We have known the fruits of her prayers she said in Connecticut, all the way here in Texas. Now that she is with the saints that prayer and its appeal to God's grace is only multiplied. Thank you, Trina.

A funny story from that weekend: Grant in the picture above is shown believing that there is a Transformer (a trademark of Hasbro) in the vicinity, and that obviously the fire department is here to clean up whatever mess has been made. He has, as evidence, the fact that the lights went out in the hotel we were staying at, the testimony of the front desk clerk who said that it must have been a transformer that caused the outage, and his parents refusal to clarify the mix-up. It's funny, right?

When the lights went out, we called the front desk and let them know that we, like everybody in the hotel, had no power. The desk clerk said a transformer must have gone out. Daddy gets off the phone and tells Mommy, with Grant listening, "It was a transformer; they'll get it fixed." Grant, his eyes wide and showing some concern, "A Transformer?" Mommy and Daddy looking knowingly at each other, "Yes, a transformer."

"Oh no!" says Grant.

"Well Grant, a transformer is a box that helps keep the lights on, not necessarily an extraterrestrial robot that changes into a car."

A blank stare comes back from Grant. Minutes later a fire engine shows up, and Grant explodes, "The Transformer!" He is certain the firefighters are here to deal with the Transformer.

So we run out and the nice firefighter lets Grant into the fire engine. The other firefighters walk away mysteriously out of sight, and presumably to deal with the Transformer.

**************

Later that night the Garcia sister-clan (Grants great aunts) and their respective families gathered at Pico De Gallo in San Antonio, or "Pickle De Ga-l-l-o" as Uncle Greg says, and enjoyed a great supper.

I like to believe that everybody there dined beneath the shade of Trina's tree, and the Mariachi trumpets of heaven sang "Hallelujah," or was that "El Rey."

Oh, and Dylan's doing great!

First Vomit

2011-05-14T23:58:00.005-05:00

The buildings rise, the "spit" falls.
An evening hot and humid,
and a swim lesson in the Dallas heat,
A calzone, some juice,
some grapes, and cookies
Equals the perfect recipe
For inauguration
Into regurgitory bliss.

Oh by the way, Dylan's doing great. He's a chunk. He's smiling. Ok, get with the program kid, we need material.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T16:51:00.011-05:00

We're having a little contest with ourselves to see how much time it takes to get out the door to make any sort of outing. Sometimes a pressing matter, like church, gives a little bump, but about 2 hours is about our average, which is us really concentrating on getting it done. Anyone feel the pain? Or are we just slow?

We celebrated Mother's Day with a day in the park, very sweaty, some gelati, yum, and a trip to our favorite pizza place in East Dallas. Altogether a good day.

Grant did a great job on getting his Mother's Day thanks and appreciation out in a timely and well-done manner. Last night, he bragged on making a card for Kelly "all by himself," and for getting flowers to Kelly last night "all by himself." Ok, confession, Grant employs a driver who takes him to the store, and carries his credit cards around, and purchases and delivers the flowers to Mommy, all at his direction.

This is Dylan's first Mothers Day; so he and I made this little demonstration of thanks to Kelly. Unfortunately, Dylan is such a busy person, with his feedings and bowel movements that we had to incorporate such thanks into his schedule. WARNING: The following video contains explicit and potentially offensive material(s), such as references to poop and such things. If you are not a parent (current, not awaiting birth) or not a primary caregiver, then you we recommend skipping this, because it may dissuade you from parenthood, not a good a thing. Be fruitful and multiply!

What's a kid without his Mother...

One Month.

2011-05-04T23:49:00.001-05:00

Happy One Month Big D! He's up to 11 lbs.

Ok, his eyes are closed, gotta go! Good night!

D-Link

2011-04-18T18:23:00.004-05:00

Dylan got his first photo shoot. So serious. Well big brother Grant will teach him how to play it cool.

I would like to invite you to view pictures of Dylan at Amy Columbus Photography. They are located at http://amycolumbusphotography.com/photocart.

When you go to the website, click the Access Gallery link and enter in the access code below:

Access code: dylanb

After you do that, you will be able to view the pictures.

Two Weeks

2011-04-17T17:44:00.006-05:00

Dylan has had a restful two weeks. Do they start moving around more than this? Because this guy is easy to carry around.

Big brother Grant is having a great time being the wise one, and teaching Dylan all of his tricks.

Teaching Dylan how to drive is definitely on the list.

Being 3 is going to be good to Grant.

Thanks to all our visitors over the last two weeks: Kay, Elizabeth, Emily, Liz, Julie, and Ken.

Dylan Parker Benavides

2011-04-05T17:19:00.005-05:00

No overtime needed to close this one out. Here are the post-labor stats:

Born: 4:22 pm, April 5, 2011
Sex: Boy (confirmed post-utero)
Fingers: 10 (same as toes)
Weight: 8 lbs 12 ounces
Length: 21 inches
Mom: Tired and Excited
Dad: Proud

He's a little bruised on his face because of some rough play going for the goal, but otherwise he looks good. Thanks to all Dylan's fans for support, prayers, and love.

(No it's not a rehashed photo of Grant.)

The Pre-Labor Stats

2011-04-05T09:24:00.003-05:00

It's 9:30 AM, and most people are at work or school. But we're in our pre-labor warmups for the big show. We wanted to give you a quick look at the players and the stats:

Sir Victor Hicks is coming in averaging 3 cm per game, but he's always looking to improve on his game.

Heath Faiz-Mint is coming in averaging a red hot 85%.

The players are stretching and hydrating and are already doing their hill sprints.

April Blane!

2011-04-02T10:01:00.004-05:00

Thanks to those who sincerely supported the staff in its apparent choice of Blane Jonas Benavides as a name for our next. But it's just not a handle that these loving parents would give.

Despite its obvious musical references, the staff was just kidding, an ill-conceived April Fool's joke for which at least one member of the staff will pay, and dearly.

But if you liked "Blane" and/or "Jonas", you'll like the real thing.

Labor Bowl Weekend

2011-04-01T18:41:00.003-05:00

In case your not on The Facebook, the big Show-Down is set for Tuesday April 5, 2011. Get your get tickets now, before the scalpers do.

The Pre-Labor festivities have already begun! Looks like somebody's got a Dodge Durango parked outside our house with their tailgate down and some dogs grillin'. Hey! throw me a Tecate, no the can! Thanks.

Here's a tailgaiting tip for everybody: freezer bags and heavy duty foil.

Enough fooling, we've got some fun activities planned out (in our heads, mostly) for The Little LeBlogSki. And there are some compelling questions to answer:

Who is this new child?

Where did he come from?

Where is he going?

When will he get here?

What will he weigh?

But the one question that everybody really wants to know is what's his name?

Well, I have received last minute authority through a tight 3-1 vote to reveal the name to you, our loyal fans. So if you're reading this, thanks for checking in, even during the rough months, when there were no posts and all you had was the same tired commentary.

Blane Jonas Benavides

Or BJB for short.

Thank you very much.

The Staff.

Lucajamunya

2011-02-05T23:11:00.006-06:00

The There's A Little Leblogski staff didn't have much time to write up a posting this week, because of the all the wintry weather and Super Bowl parties. But we did review the recent entries for the Name Our Baby Contest, and though none were correct, we decided to make a composite of the entries, just for fun. You know, like when you electronically combine your and your spouse's face to see how your baby might look like. However, the name composite did not turn out too well--"Lucajamunya." So keep trying!

This week's clue: It's not a family name. Lo siento, abuelos.

Name Game Part 2

2011-01-29T00:26:00.003-06:00

Thanks for all your submissions. Here are the results of this week's contestants:

1) Thanks Whitney M. of Bellville, Texas for the most intellectual response so far. No "Obama" is not our new kid's name, but nice tie-in with the presidential theme.

2) Thanks Kay G. of Lakewood, Colorado for the most mother-in-law-ee response so far. No "Blake" is not our new kid's name, but Kelly started having second thoughts.

3) Thanks Matthew __ of ___, Texas (we think) for the most out-there response so far. No "Tnarg" is not our new kid's name, but that's a good middle name candidate.

This week's clue:

Vanna can I buy a vowel. The first name has "a".

Regression is Best Served Cold, and With Cookies

2011-01-22T19:47:00.005-06:00

He’s coming soon! We’re all excited about Number 2, but there’s the sticky point of what to name him. So we’ll give us some clues, and maybe together we can guess what the name of our new boy is. If you guess right we might even tell you, under a strict non-disclosure agreement, or we might just smile and nod. We haven’t decided yet, and it might depend on if we think you, the correct guesser, can really keep a secret. So the first clue is --

1) The first name has five letters. Just like Grant.

Here’s how Grant is handling our up and coming addition:

Parents R Lame

2011-01-16T02:38:00.005-06:00

Tonite you learned to jump. We came back from dinner and you were wired up. You wouldn’t stop moving around. I told you, “If you don’t sit down and watch your movie (Toy Story), I am going to watch sports.” You said, “I want to watch sports.” Surprised, I turned it to football; then realized this was my chance to watch the Spurs beat the Mavs. So I turned on the recorded game I wanted to watch. And you watched basketball with me. We saw Duncan dunk, and I told you that one day you’d be tall enough to dunk, unless you have my short genes, which you don’t.

After watching for a few minutes, you realized that you had your own basketball, and you started looking around for it. We looked upstairs and found a flat kickball which we played with, until we found your real basketball. We played catch for awhile and you tried to dribble by hitting the ball against the floor, without really bouncing the ball, which you got a kick out of.

Then, we started to play jump with the ball. I knew that you did not know how to jump. Your jump is more like an in place skip, starting on one foot and ending on the other, like a one footed leap to the next foot without any vertical lift. Not a real jump.

I showed you that if you bend at both knees and then straighten really fast with force, it would be a jump. You liked to bend at the knees, like a frog, but when the quick straightening happened, it turned out to be the in place skip of old. That is until the third time you tried. On that third try, both knees straightened and very briefly both feet left the ground--simultaneously. A textbook leap. A jump. Never before had Grant jumped, but today it happened.

You grinned and I praised you. And the fourth try was the same ole in place skip. But somewhere in that mind there was a set program to leap and leave this Earth, if only by one inch.

Good Thing Gum Doesn't Stay in Your Stomach For Seven Years

2010-10-31T21:03:00.000-05:00

Da's Anotha!

2010-10-16T23:59:00.006-05:00

Surprise, surprise! Oh, da's anotha!

He's a big brutha!

Lost Tape - Got Nufnin

2010-07-15T00:02:00.000-05:00

The following is a 'lost tape'--a segment of entertainment that has been withheld from you, in hopes of greater profit. Here, our profit is your further enjoyment! Darn, can't put an exact dollar amount on that, perhaps my accountant can? Anyhow, it fills in some gaps in the timeline between basically the end of Winter 2010 and Independence Day (2010), quite a stretch of time. It's a little rough, but so are all "basement tapes." No apology, just profit. For those that felt entitled to such, I am sorry.

Grant and Kelly in Sunglasses

He is tough;
He won't get in line;
No 'Sean!
No 'Sean! {and a fall}
Takin' it on the chin,
Gettin' up.
Hank wouldn't ' done it this way.

(There's a change a comin', but he doesn't know it. Don't worry, it's already happened. He changed schools. Long live 'Sean!)

****************

The boy has a blueberry muffin. He eats it at school, one per--day in and day out in a pattern. He's got his te-te, his blanket, and a blueberry muffin--a "nufnin".

He had a teacher, "Ms. DeSean." She tells him, "Get in line, like the rest." He eats from a paper towel and some fruit loops, thereupon. He walks away; he runs away. "No shawn!" he said every morning, because school means leaving his chair, and that's uncomfortable.

He runs from the line, the other Way, toward terrible two, or two and a half. He had a birthday.

Then, it snowed, again; Dallas in forgetful snow, feeding a little boy's Life:

[SNOW PICTURE]

but winter ended.

And the flowers bloomed from the ground.

Then, we went to the circus (not so maximus).

Circus

And rode a pony.

Saw some oliphaunts.

Run away he did, towards freedom and spring. He used to be somebody, a one year old, and now, with tomorrow, it's anybody's guess.

So he fell forward, onto his chin. An owee.

He's got nufnin (to lose), but a scrape on his chin, just a hang up.

Circus Dark

Caught up? I'm not, but I'm not the weary kind. Let's not forget the parents. . .

Kelly [Mother]

Marcus [Father]

A wholly fun family. But, alac, forget 'em, no matter, that boy 's cute!

BTW if you think that littleleblogski.blogspot.com is too hard to type, then just type www.grantwilsonbenavides.com and you'll get there [or here]!

Their Own Flag

2010-07-03T23:44:00.010-05:00

Happiness ... That to secure these rights to Such, Parenthood is instituted among Children, deriving Parenthood's just powers from the consent of the Children, That whenever any Form of Parenthood becomes destructive of these ends (those of the Children) it is the Right of the Children to alter or to abolish it (the parent's Parenthood, who just don't get it), and to institute new Parenthood (like the Children deserve better), laying [parenthood's] foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them (still talkin' about the Children) shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. (Safety being secondary to Happiness, of course!)

(Mom, Dad!)
(No go!)

(Hey!) Us kids know
(Hey!) No cars go

[[Thanks, Arcade Fire!--Legal Dep't]]

The kids know a place, where they Know. Otay!?!

Happy Mother Day!

2010-05-10T00:21:00.003-05:00

Eyes turned from
Mother; and why
Would the origins
of this small child
look so frownful
and obstinate?

In line,

She stands behind you,

always and

forever;

wouldn't it be

worth it to give up

one good photo?

Oh-Ten

2010-01-17T11:28:00.007-06:00

Grant's been clamoring, literally with pots and pans, for a new post. He insists that photos further promoting his cute factor be posted. So here's a couple:

Grant experienced his first white Christmas this year in Colorado, but would have had a white Christmas and blizzard in Dallas, too?!? He wanted to show off his sledding skills.

His Aunt Emily showed him some extreme sledding.

Grant was so extreme he didn't even need a sled, you know body-sledding.

Oh-Ten looks like it will be super.

Christmas Village, Again

2009-12-20T21:32:00.004-06:00

He has learned to say "cheese," above. Can you tell the difference between his portrait smile and his usual?

We made our fifth and last visit to the Christmas Village. This time we brought the ensemble of photographic and video equipment. And we used it.

Here's Grant and a snowman, above.

A firetruck.

Pet some Manger Goats, anyone?

And, below, he makes another try at fame.

It's not all about the Christmas Village. It's about family.

It's also about little pint-sized wooden shacks, like the Manger.

And the end of Fall and start of Winter.

And the, hopefully, clean floors of good Tex-Mex restaurants. Well, of every restaurant; he does this everywhere.

Here's looking to a good oh-ten.

He's Been Nice, Mostly

2009-12-13T20:09:00.011-06:00

Here Grant is at the Richardson Christmas Village! We've been three times, so far. He has a little stage fright, but you can tell he insists on being up there belting out a chorus of "Hark the Herald Angels." Don't worry Kelly is standing only a few feet from the frame of the photo.

Since, because of my procrastination, we begin in the middle of these Christmas affairs, let's backtrack to cover our post-Halloween autumn.

Grant was curious:

about some farm animals.

He got to San Antonio:

with some big insects in tow.

He likes running:

Up and down ramps.

He finally met his Great Grandmother Benavides; she's 97!

And taught her about CAWRS.

Gratuitous Cute Grant Photo #1

#2 And thanks to Gabriel for the ball pit.

Merry Christmas Everybody!

Tra-juh

2009-11-01T21:08:00.002-06:00

For a unique merger of Halloween and Monster Truck, and a piece of video that Grant has watched at least 10 times, please check out this. There's a commercial at the beginning, none of which Grant or Grant, Inc. endorses.

Hello-ween - "And who are you supposed to be?"

2009-10-31T14:46:00.017-05:00

For a 20 month old like Grant, Halloween can be exciting--everyone's got a new face, for better or worse. It's time the Benavidii updated their look.

Mommy's decided to change her image and "go country" to reconnect with her fan base. Mommy's got a tractor shirt.

And she got a cowboy hat. Gilley's, anyone?

Daddy needs a new gig, too. A Mexican wrestler who believes in science, perhaps?

Grant, on the other hand, wants to change his look from peaceful compliant child at 8 months:

To slightly disinterested child at 20 months.

"Pumpkins?!!!!?"

"Pumpkins?"

To the happy elephant.

A Festivus for the Rest of Us

2009-10-09T00:48:00.004-05:00

Well, September is over, stop yer cryin'.

We had fun, despite the rain and all. We made it to quite a few festivals and events, trying to keep our kid happy.

We went to Addison, where he forgot "the good sense to stand in the shade."

We went to McKinney, where we kept an eye out for him.

He nearly got away. Whew!

We went Macedonian.

We went to Richardson. Wait, we liver there!

And to Sharkarosa?! Anybody?

Can't get enough of this.

When September Ends

2009-09-20T20:59:00.013-05:00

It's September and you know what time it is--UT Football and Oktoberfest! We got both this weekend.

Thanks Grandma Kay! See what a great guy Grant is?

As Parents, we look back to a child more simple, more easily handled, and nevertheless look forward to an October Child more infinite in possibility and potential.

With a kiss, Grant, and a tear, Grant, on your ever lifting brow. -- "Yates"

Back and Forth Grant

2009-09-13T15:03:00.007-05:00

This weekend wasn't as fun as last weekend (notice how he still doesn't have the "going down a step" move down, he just kind falls off the step hoping for the best):

This weekend we were rained out, but we got out for a walk (thanks Jason Owen of Castle Rock, CO for the raincoat, it really came in handy):

Had a tantrum in a parking lot (he'll make a good protestor some day; he's got that "go limp and scream injustice!" tactic down):

Met a horse (he galloped right up to Grant, which Grant thought was cool):

And the nice policeman:

But, hey, we kept our cool:

Actually, most of the events depicted in the photos didn't happen this weekend; we really were rained out!

It Was Always About the Cars

2009-09-07T20:58:00.015-05:00

How do you get a kid to eat?! Shouldn't food be a given. One precious scholar says, "They'd rather play, than eat." This guy takes it to a new level. If you will, imagine a thin child, in his underwear, and it's late. He has a car in one hand, and a fish stick in another. He's got stuff to do, places to go. No time to sit with the family and discuss the day, much less eat. We could have talked about the park:

We could have talked about all the neat places we visited:

And the memories:

We had a good day, but he wouldn't stop to tell you. Grant will continue on with his schedule, his agenda:

He likes cawrs; don't touch them! But if one should fall, and roll beneath some structure, then pay attention 'cause he's gotta a job for ya.

"Play now; eat later, much later."

Sat Night

2009-08-29T23:54:00.001-05:00

Corn and a Johnny Cash cover

Summer Revue

2009-08-16T21:48:00.026-05:00

In the tradition of "Grease" and other summer flicks that tell us to hold on to summer before we get beat down with back-to-school blues, here's a look back at the Summer of Grant:

1) We went to the pool.

2) He got a hair cut.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

3) He likes cars.

3A) And trains.

4) He has a hat.

5) He likes his Space Pee-Js, both pairs, at once, over other clothes, during the day.

6) He likes cookies.

7) He got a tan!

8) He rode the Lazy River, in Florida.

9) He has a serious side.

10) To everything, turn, turn, turn. . . and avoid your meals.

11) He thinks the yard is neat.

12) He learned to ride a mower.

14) He's practicing with his teeny teeny back pack. . . Oh no. . . did you say "back pack". . . don't say "team work"! ! !

15) It's either a cookie, his car, or number three?

Happy 4th!!

2009-07-05T22:50:00.004-05:00

Happy Fourth of July! Hope your Continental Congress successfully resolved to be independent. Well, Grant's did.

In a month, since our last post, he has gone through quite the changes. He can drink from a straw, has a knack for running, thinks that he can magically descend stairs without injury, has a vocabulary (ebel, ni-ni, na-na, ehh-ehh, ba, bye, gesh gesh...), has a first love (besides the precious blanket(s) or "ni ni"). He won't stand for hand holding, always loves to explore, and can't eat from the hands of mom or dad. We apologize, on behalf of Grant, to all those parishoners and diners who experienced the fully liberated Grant this weekend. He's taken this independence thing a little too far, the parents think.

Time to get to the work of nation building...

An Alien World

2009-06-07T21:05:00.012-05:00

Welcome to Grant's Alien World, where the secrets of the cosmos are revealed. What's that smell? It's only the Genie of Diaperitus emitting a gas commonly found near carbon life forms. Perhaps we could seed Mars with that gas; there's plenty of it, like a renewable resource; oh yes, there's the gas on Mars,now--turning the Red Planet into the Blue we know.

Let's ask the cow to help. "Hey, cow! Stop that jumpin' and help us seed Mars with methane, you know to produce our own greenhouse effect, but for good, not for harm." We'll borrow the dipper, ladle some of it onto Mars, melt those ice caps, and make a new world!

Grant's Alien World rocks! We should get that alien to come help, with his ship. "Hey, how many miles per gallon you get from that ship?" The Alien answers, through a translating Babel fish, "Gallons, you mean light years per micro-ounce, if British units are alright with you. And the answer is 1.5." "Whoa, that's cool." "Yeah, but's it's just a lease, and any light-days after 3,000,000 light years costs me $USD 0.15 per light-day. Kind of a scam."

Despite Grant's apparent restraint in Enthusiasm, many thanks to Kristi for making Grant's Alien World happen. And also thanks to Kay and Al for laying the foundational colors for Grant's Alien World; without them it would be like having a Universe without a space-time fabric, what would hold the planets in place?

****************************************************

And speaking of seeing stars, welcome home Emily! You have been in our prayers for a speedy recovery, and it's good to see you back on your feet, or at least foot. You have the heart of Evel Knievel, a dare devil, but please make life a little more boring and stick to vehicles with airbags. We love you, Hot Rod.

Mother Day

2009-05-16T10:54:00.007-05:00

Kelly had a great Mother Day. We visited the Fort Worth Stockyards for a little steer and horse. Grant got everyone's attention with his smiles, but saved the best for Mom.

This Guy Walks

2009-05-02T07:15:00.008-05:00

It is for certain, Grant walks. And he can bowl, which pediatricians say has a possibility of happening in the first week of walking; read the worksheet. Below are his first two attempts, both gutters. He's already learned, however, that the key to bowling is getting that head pin.

Then, he throws a rock, and puts a little bit of himself into it, too.

BTW, there's a new poll, be sure to vote!

Mr. Fly

2009-03-15T21:38:00.005-05:00

Buzz, buzz. Now that Grant is One, he's been thinking about all that he left
Behind in his infant months. "All I want is You," he tells his mommy, Kelly. "But I gotta walk On, 'cause there's no line on the Horizon." "Gloria! and Hallelujah!", says Kelly. When he walks, he's just running to stand Still. "I want to go to the Heartland in God's Country," he insists. "Love is Blindness; love rescue Me," which one is it?

"Sometimes, Grant, you can't make it on your Own." Kelly turns to Grant. But he's cool, he's the Fly.

Grant turns, "when love comes to Town...I'm gonna get that train, Mom. I've got to go where the streets have no Name, in Van Diemans's Land."

"huh? where?"

"Nevermind, I have too many mysterious Ways."

"Grant, don't go, I can't help falling in love with You."

"Mom, you can take a day without Me."

"No! When will you be back? On the Fourth of July? In October? At Christmas, baby please come Home?"

"Mom, our hearts will always beat as One. Don't forget about the unforgettable Fire that I have for you"

"Oh Grant, I will always follow you until the end of the World. Remember when life leaves you Numb or gives you a Lemon, you've got to find the silver and Gold Lining."

"What advice, mom! I guess I won't leave; let's make today a sort of Homecoming. I guess I will continue to trip through your Wires. At least until you are Forty."

"Please, I have my pride, in the name of Love."

31,535,986 Seconds: If you will it, Grant, it is no dream

2009-03-03T19:02:00.002-06:00

31,535,987

31,535,988

31,535,989

31,535,990

31,535,991

31,535,992

31,535,993

31,535,994

31,535,995

31,535,996

31,535,997

31,535,998

31,535,999

He wakes up, like it's just another day, but today the clock, it ticks up its seconds to a Year of Grant. For his first birthday, his Mother has given days in and days out of time. Time in the morning, hello. Time in the afternoon, hello mister. Time in the evening, how's about a some dinner. Daddy arrives late, but not too late for goodnites, and loves you-s. A Year of Grant, a Year of Grace. Thanks to everyone for the support and love!

31,334,914 Seconds: We Can Let Him Expand

2009-03-01T21:31:00.014-06:00

We can, but seriously, should we? He's such a complete little package at less than one year, why should two be any better. We've heard they can be terrible. Above, he is shown pre-1, still, and cute with long hair. He is shown in the hair-cut chair, and he will lose some of that hair shortly, and with that hair cut our little, little infant becomes a boy.

And above is the after (at 31,354,525 Seconds), looks good huh? Here's a couple more befores:

6,559,772 Seconds: Our little boy, above, pictured on Mother's Day weekend. That swing is now long stored away, along with those pacifiers. Fortunately, he gave up his pacifier early on, and he's never had a problem giving up his bottle. His blankie is another story, don't mess with the blankie. His expressions have developed; now he'll stare at us wondering what that blank stare is on our face, instead of vice-versa.

6,562,717 Seconds: Above, it's hard to call him a monkey now, except in the figurative sense. Bummer. But, now, he can really climb and get up on things. For example, he still thinks it's OK to take a dive off a bed, or climb without consequence down stairs. Monkeys, however, are born with an innate sense of space and gravity. Grant still doesn't have the hang of simple Newtonian physics, like a monkey would by now.

22,276,002 Seconds: At this time, we still had hope for the Cowboys. I know. I know. I still had hopes for my fantasy football, too!! Look at the hope in our eyes; we were so young, so naive, betting it all on da boys, on Romo and his pinky.

4,144,597 Seconds: He is less than two months shown above, and quite a handful. He could barely coordinate his hands then.

-20,604,720 Seconds: He didn't even have hands at this time. When I saw these indicators shown above, I said, "Holy [Sheep Herders] I am a dad, my boys can swim!" Kelly rolled her eyes and said something like: "Hey, buddy forget your boys, this is bigger than that!" She was right, of course.

Starting at 31,354,525 Seconds, the family today had a Sunday Celebration for Grant's Birthday , but like other doors, this one, shown above, will stay private until at least 31,536,000 Seconds. Our prayer is very similar to the one on March 3, 2008, though: Lord Grant us the patience and strength to guide our son Grant further into this World. Notice how even then we tipped you off to his name. Thanks, we appreciate your attention to these matters.

30,850,558 Seconds

2009-02-23T20:05:00.010-06:00

357 days, 1 hour, 35 minutes and 58 seconds:

* 514,175 minutes (rounded down)
* 8569 hours (rounded down)
* 51 weeks

23,118,840 seconds: Learning from Books

From the first seconds out of the womb to the accelerating moments of clarity, Grant has taken it in this year and met the world with a smile; each second as precious as the first. Only one week to his birthday, we find him in his daily trips to day care with his little blue fleece that has "Grant" written on masking tape affixed to the back. He raises his hand to the sky with an open hand and gives himself fully to the world. He claps spontaneously and the chorus of adults join him. He stands up against his crib, the TV stand, the sofa, a knee, and anything else that will let him. When he makes it up, he smiles falls back down on his diaper-butt, then starts to get up again, like any person who would be proud to find a new ability.

This week we'll give you a glimpse back as we count down to THE LITTLE LEBLOGSKI: GRANT'O'TASTIC BIRTHDAY BASH!

30,653,760 seconds: What do you mean: brought him bowling?

Happy Balentimes

2009-02-14T20:56:00.004-06:00

As shown below, Grant sat in his first booster seat, today, like a toddler. He also held two forks today, like a big kid with two forks. Is that ever right?

He also stood against the railing of his crib. He has been trying to stand more and more, and with a little help from Daddy, he got there.

BTW, kids each of the photos you see were all carefully choreographed under laboratory conditions. Please do not try to recreate these scenes at home without direct parental supervision, and a good insurance policy.

What's Up with Grant

2009-02-08T10:45:00.016-06:00

After our January hiatus, we are rolling again, Bob.

To get everyone back up to speed with Grant's goings onses, here's a list of new things about Grant:

1. He has joined a new exclusive social club--Ms. Flor's Infant Room at Day Care. It's so exclusive that only four members under the age of 1 year are allowed in, by law. Luckily, Grant made the cut. There's also a strict no napping policy at the club.

2. He's an international traveler. After Christmas, he went to Bucerias, Mexico to get away from the hub bub of the States, and really reassess where he's going and how he's going to get there.

Its good the safety standards in Mexico are so much above those in the U.S. Here he is in a rickety hi-chair, "don't let me fall, Mom!"

He kept safe in the Pool, though.

We all went wail watching!

3. For now, he'll have to get wherever he's going by army crawling. He still refuses to get his tummy off the ground.

4. He has put in for a transfer. Apparently, his little cottage style home is not quite up to his standards. The family is movin' on up, movin' on up north to a deluxe ranch style up seventy-fi-hi-hive... (in Richardson, Texas).

5. He eats three bananas per day. Living up to his continued monkey-person dichotomy, he insists on having a whole banana appetizer before every meal.

6. He got over his first real cold. It lasted three weeks, and brought down his parents with it, as well. Thanks, Grant!

7. He has said "REBEL," we think.

8. He's got mad sippy cup skills. He will drink apple juice from his sippy cup until he is gasping for air, then immediately toss the cup off the high chair.

9. After last night, the family has given up eating out at nice restaurants until Grant regains his table manners, like for instance, not throwing half chewed food at old ladies, not yelling at his parents, and not smearing the other half chewed food on the table. From here on out, its dinner at kid friendly joints (read: "places that adults looking for a nice evening out avoid"). We saw this coming, but were in denial.

10. Grant has much longer hair, and its got some curl to it. His little wisps are getting long and its probably time for a cut, but Mom is in a little bit of denial--babies don't get hair cuts, toddlers do. Here's a very recent photo:

And here's when he got back from Mexico; thanks for the box, whoever....

11. Grant has started to pull himself up to things. For instance, he now wants to pull up in the bath tub; he insists on throwing things over the edge, and will not give up until a shampoo, a ducky, or a towel is heaved over. This has led his parents to compute how many different ways the little boy can hurt himself, like bringing what he's pulling down on himself, pinching his hands, jamming his hands, slipping, falling, bonking, and twisting something. It's exhausting the possibilities. Perhaps a padded room is the best, perhaps a padded world is better.

12. He can now do "arms up", "high five", and "clap hands." The dogs are jealous. I think now that his coordination is up, its time to teach him the Longhorn symbol.

13. He's learned sign language. When he wants a light on he points at it, with an open hand, and says "eh". When he wants the TV on he points at it in the same fashion, and says "eh". When he wants you to grab something, he points at it again and says "eh".

14. He's learned how to use the remote. Instead of eating the remote, which he used to do, he will push the buttons and point the remote at the TV. Usually, it switches the TV mode, or raises the volume really high, or erases something on the DVR. When he's done, he eats it, like old times. The remote has a bunch of teeth marks and the plastic cover is coming apart.

15. He has purchased his last can of formula, unless he takes it up again in college or something.

16. Mexico Rules. See if you can spot what's wrong with this picture, other than Kelly's hair and accessories?

Grant had a great Christmas; he enjoyed good times in San Antonio, and felt the love all the way from Colorado.

Thanks, everybody!

Christmas Wishes from Grant

2008-12-20T15:23:00.019-06:00

Grant has enjoyed his first Christmas season and wishes all his family and friends the best in the coming year.

As Grant approaches ten months of post-utero age, he has learned to squirm.

He's becoming very cultural.

He's gotten into the spirit.

He wishes you a Feliz Navidad!

WHEN it was over, Grant was ready for bed. Look at him, looking growner than ever.

A Seasonal Grant

2008-12-07T20:11:00.011-06:00

Grant has been chillin' these last couple of weeks, but that doesn't mean there hasn't been anything blog-worthy. He enjoyed a great Thanksgiving with the Walters. And now has been really getting into the spirit of things, trying to make his first Christmas a good one. He's gotten his tree up, his lights up, and even started on his Christmas list, what a responsible little boy. Since you've been missing him, here's a top ten list of things that you didn't know about Grant:

10. He doesn't like when people sneeze.

9. He's now been out of the womb as long as he was in it.

8. His stats are, as of 9 mos., 30.5 inches and 19.8 pounds. This puts him in the 97% in height and 35% in weight for babies his age.

7. He loves strawberries and bananas, but can really put down the hummus.

6. His favorite place is the grocery store.

5. He makes it a point to make one friend in every place he goes.

4. He will stare at a person until they give in and become his friend.

3. He had his first cold last week.

2. He's working on crawling.

1. His first words have been "ba-ba" and "ma-ma".

Here's a couple of pics from Grant's trip to the sculpture museum where he heard a bell concert;

see how he's so into art:

We spent today at the mecca for toys--Toys R Us--which got us thinking...Please vote in our new poll!!

What should Santa bring Grant this Christmas?

1. A sweater.

2. An educational toy.

3. A tickle me Elmo.

4. Thomas the Train.

5. Another dog.

6. A video ipod.

7. A new car.

PS. Emily the Bomb please see the response to your recent post.

Yes He Can: A Menagerie

2008-11-10T20:37:00.020-06:00

Grant went on a safari this past weekend, through the country of Africa.

He rode on horses to get there, which he didn't like at first.

Then, on zebras.

Then, on gorillas.

Then, past the alligators.

He met a bee, not a bumble bee.

He saw monkeys.

He rode atop a triceratops.

He went incognito as a lobster.

And then he rode home refreshed!

Congratulations! Sarah and Lino!

Happy Birthday Littleleblogski!

2008-10-29T23:19:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, our Little Leblogski turned one year old. At that time, we were just experiencing the first movements of our little Grant. We didn't know what he would look like, who he'd be, or how we as parents might handle all of it. We just knew we'd love him. And now he's a growing happy boy, and on the move, as you can tell.

As a family, there have many great moments: packing our old home, seeing Grant into the world, a new job, a new city, seeing new places, and many memories with friends and family. Guess that's just how the whole thing keeps perpetuatin' itself, the human (and dog) comedy, that is.

A Fall Harvest

2008-10-26T22:03:00.010-05:00

The family went to Colorado this past week to remember Iris Helzer, Grant's great grandmother, who recently passed from this life to the next. She taught her family the virtue of selfless love. Though Grant only met her once, please click here, Iris's spirit will live with him, as it does with the rest of her family.

Here are a few more videos and highlights of the weekend:

OOH-EEE He loves the swing!

Grant's a zebra! What do zebras say (make sure to scroll down to the bottom of the left column where it says listen to a zebra)?

Dad and Zebra

Grant's too cute

Amarill-a by mornin

2008-10-26T12:01:00.001-05:00

Down from Denver, we are halfway home. We had a great time, and we're happy we had the chance to honor Grant's Great grandma Iris.

Grant loves the swing

2008-10-25T16:23:00.000-05:00

Grant got to go on a walk in Denver

2008-10-24T19:58:00.004-05:00

One Diaper at a Time

2008-10-22T10:27:00.001-05:00

Grant's stock tip of the day: diaper commodities and stink bonds

Cool Joe Grant

2008-10-21T23:20:00.001-05:00

In these days of recognizing what Joe six pack and Joe the plumber want, let's not forget our little Joe Grant. Just keeping the economy floating one formula can at a time.

Autumnal Grant

2008-10-21T22:57:00.001-05:00

Fall is here!

Party Time

2008-09-22T21:50:00.013-05:00

Grant had the best weekend of his life, so far. As you can see, he's quite the ladies man. He traveled to San Antonio to get baptized. Getting there, we stopped in Waco for a picnic at the Texas Ranger Museum. He endured the six hour trip in the car, with a stop in Austin, which meant traffic. In San Antonio, we went out for his Uncle Matt's birthday. He was up late, but did not fuss.

Saturday, Kelly and I, like other parents, cringed when we imagined how our child might react to sitting through the hour long mass only to have it culminate in a personal bath in the waters of life, in front of a live audience. We were surprised when he took to it so well.

He'd had practice, though. Earlier that day, Grant got in the hotel pool.

So with that experience, Grant was ready for Baptism. The Godparents, Matt and Whitney and also Christopher, Sarah and Lucy came down from Bellville, Texas and helped us welcome Grant into the Christian community.

Grant was in a great mood, considering how late in the day it was. He smiled through the whole experience, kicking his legs in delirious glee.

Afterward, we celebrated by first getting Grant out of his Baptism dress, a must for all neophytes. Then, we went to "Taco de Jalisco" for dinner, a little place I know of, which had actually changed its name to something I already forget. Never mind, its right across the street from the Witte Museum on Broadway.

A harpist, Rene Devia, entertained us. He serenaded Grant, who was mesmerized by the sounds and movements of the strings. Grant got to dance. We had a great time with friends and family.

On Sunday, a breakfast with friends and a visit with Grandparents, and we were off back to Dallas.

Many thanks to everyone for a great weekend!

Matt, Whitney, Sarah, Lucy, and Christopher
The Brandts, Bob and Pat
Sarah and Brianna
James
Emily and Brian
Amirra, David, and Gabriel
Jean Marie (Pronounced in the French)
Father Thaddeus
Grandparents Terri and Mario
Uncle Mike and Aunt Shayne
Uncle Matt

You Missed the Tiger

2008-09-13T22:08:00.010-05:00

A rainy day in Dallas turned into a trip to the Dallas Aquarium, which is like an indoor zoo--of both people and animals. We wound through the narrow paths and made it to the aquarium part of the aquarium where Grant got to feed among the sharks and sting rays. He still struggles between his animal part and his human, and this outing didn't help any.

Along the way, we found a TIGER! Or should I say a jaguar. Sorry, jaguars, no disrespect.

For Liz and Marie, thanks for the comments. To keep you further educated on the subject of colliding objects and in keeping with today's animal theme, please check out this http://www.bbspot.com/News/2008/09/squirrel-smasher.html.

Finally, we leave you with a diversion of sorts...

We hope and pray all our friends in Houston safely saw Ike come and go.

LHC

2008-09-10T23:23:00.007-05:00

Our little hot child had a good weekend; he enjoyed a nice evening in the park, the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Good thing considering the impending tests going on at CERN. We should be con-cerned!! The mysteries of mass may be revealed, but does it really matter?

Grant has his rapping shoes on, and is ready for whatever might happen.

Unvetted

2008-09-05T21:49:00.006-05:00

This just in: there is a scandal at the House of Grant.

No, he doesn't have a teenage pregnant daughter; he didn't forget how many homes he owns (1, a rental); he didn't kill an Alaskan moose illegally; he didn't call Janet Reno Chelsea's dad; he didn't fist bump Michelle; he always wears his flag pin, but he's got a past (in his six months); something we, as parents, failed to vet.

Grant has a stand-in. Below, you can see photographic evidence that Grant has been employing a stand-in, often for attending and participating in undesirable events such as doctor visits, sweet potato feedings, formula feedings, listening to velcro, clothes changing, fingernail cleanings, bedtime, and press conferences.

He has fooled the American people by replacing his cute self with an equally cute stand in, to take some of the pressure off of being so cute.

At a recent doctor visit, however, justice caught up to Grant, and his stand in, who we now know as Brandt Bilson Wenavides. Apparently, Grant's secretary had mis-scheduled a gum cleaning so that Grant showed up to the doctor's appointment (and VACCINES) meant for his stand in, Brandt. Grant and Brandt were surprised when the papa and mama -razzi showed up with cameras. Quickly, the photos you see were sold for a profit, and justice ran its course.

In light of this scandal, we, the parents, have fired Brandt. No longer will Grant shirk his duties to you, his audience, and the American people to be the cutest guy he can be. Brandt is looking for a good home, though.

Photo Above: Brandt Bilson Wenavides at recent rice cereal feeding. Where will he go? He can't hold his cup right side up, though.

Sweet Potato

2008-09-03T22:52:00.005-05:00

Today is Grant's SIX MONTH BIRTHDAY!!!! What did he get? A new chair and new food. Here's a video of his first try at sweet potatoes.

Congratulations Liz, you are our most recent winner in the Grant Photo sweepstakes.

Grantus Homunculus: King of Frogs

2008-08-25T23:09:00.005-05:00

Wild beasts cannot get him and bees cannot sting him;
Our little man is soft and cuddly,
But his cries are strong and
Without waver.

The family made it home back to Dallas. We had a great time and thank everybody for staying tuned.

Government Grant

2008-08-21T22:16:00.005-05:00

We made it to the Capitol after a long ride on the Metro (Grant's introduction to public transportation). He fell asleep for awhile and then woke up refreshed and ready to hit the campaign trail. Instead, he got the gravel path to the Capitol from the Washington Monument. When will our tax dollars get us a paved path?

Kelly and I had sandwiches on the Mall as we watched people play kickball, soccer, and baseball.

After the long walk, we made it to the Capitol just as the sun set over Washington. The reflecting pool reflected nothing as it was currently being cleaned and had the neat fence around it you see.

Grant, for the record, favors Phelps's decision to endorse Frosted Flakes and win gold medals.

Viewer Mail

2008-08-21T16:07:00.004-05:00

Anonymous Writes: In reference to #43 [of our Get To Know Grant post]... I wonder, is that really his ice cream of choice? (he seems awfully young for milk products and sugar), or, was his response a double entendre of sorts?

Dear Anonymous,

He's also too young for double entendres. Thanks for writing.

BTW, any commenter who identifies him or herself will get an exclusive one of a kind never published photo of Grant emailed to that commenter. Please do not post your email address; we know you; we will get it to you.

{Disclaimer and Limitations: Limit one photo per customer. Offer does not apply to comments posted prior to this post. No guarantees are made as to the quality of the photo, the mood of the child, or the response time of the administrators of this blog. No returns or exchanges. No responsibility is taken for any damages or injuries caused by the mood enhancing effects of any photo provided; please do not drive and view or drive and comment. Offer subject to cancellation and the discretion of the administrators at any time. Enjoy!}

Patently Grant

2008-08-20T20:45:00.006-05:00

On this cool Virginia night, the family had Lebanese food at Zikrayet Restaurant and Lounge. Notice how he now sits in his souped up highchair. Also, in our video below, we decided to show off Grant's glass grabbing skills.

We briefly visited the park at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Kelly calls it the Patent Park), changed a diaper, and tried to catch a last smile from Grant. Have a happy night!

DC Baby

2008-08-19T23:34:00.004-05:00

Grant has flown for the second time in his life; it only took me twenty years to get above 10,000 feet above sea level.

The family is in DC, really Alexandria, VA, tonite. Coming into the airport, we could see the Capitol, the Washington Memorial (hard to miss), and the Jefferson Memorial out in the distance.

Our recent poll ended in a tie. 7 votes to keep Grant 4 months old and 7 to let him grow up to be his own man. I believe the poll reflects the push and pull in all parents to take a snap shot of their child and keep it fresh, but still let that kid do the work of life.

Tonite, our 5 1/2 month old sleeps in his little crib in our hotel room. Kelly and I can say we have spent the last week taking snap shots of him, to keep his growing up fresh in our minds and hearts; unfortunately, the courts dismissed our application for emergency temporary restraining order for lack of jurisdiction.

Incidentally, there are a ton of McCain and Obama (p.s. spell check offered Obediah and Alabama as correct spellings of Obama!) t-shirts out here, if anyone wants a hook up. I've got a conference this week out here, but Kelly and Grant will make up for my lack of fun.

Thanks to the Mahlmann Family for providing Grant's new best bud, Christopher's, response to our Get to Know Grant post. Please see their comment to our post listed below or click on the link provided. To get to know Sarah, Lucy, and Christopher Mahlmann, please see their blog here. Thanks!

Get to know Grant!!!

2008-08-15T23:02:00.010-05:00

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your Friends. 'press
> FORWARD' then change all the answers so they apply to you, and then
> send this to your friends including the person who sent it to you.
> The theory is that you will learn a lot of little things about your
> friends that you might not have known!
>
>
> 1. What time did you get up this morning?
> 730 AM, not that I ever do that normally.
>
> 2. Diamonds or pearls?
>
I really prefer ice chips, great on the gums.
>
> 3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
>
"Atonement," in utero, almost didn't come out because of that sorry flick.

> 4. What is your favorite TV show?

> SUPER WHY? (on PBS, if you didn't know) why? the book club, the problem solving, no brainer.

> 5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
>
whole mom's milk, pretty decadent, it's good genes.
>
> 6. What is your middle name?
>
Wilson, because Grant wasn't presidential enough

> 7. What food do you dislike?

formula, keep pumping mom!

> 8. What is your favorite CD at the moment?
>
ABC Sing-Along; I love that G-Song. See the Good G Post.
>
> 9. What kind of car do you drive?

2008 Jump and Go, it's a ride, takes premium, what oil crisis?!
>
> 10. Favorite sandwich?
>
Dad's sandwich: ham, turkey, pepperoni, pickles, and mustard, mmmmmmmmmmm, let me have it... no, let me have it!
>
> 11. What characteristic do you despise?
>
I really thought about this one, because it's so deep; after all that introspection, reflection and deliberation, I have to say that the characteristic I despise most, so far: is adults, like my parents, who eat in front of me, having a good old time, shoving in snacks like ice cream, chocolates, sandwiches, and, they don't share. Come on people, I want some people food!
>
> 12. Favorite item of clothing?
>
Dinosaur jammies. They rock, but they're so 3 months. But, hey, at least they're not hand me downs.
>
> 13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would
> you go?
>
Disneyworld, heard good things.

> 14. Favorite brand of clothing?

Another deep question, gotta go with: the kids section at Target.

> 15.Where would you retire to?

Geez, so much pressure...I don't know pick one...Cayman Islands
>
> 16.What was your most memorable birthday?

Not there yet, unless you count zero.

> 17. Favorite sport to watch?

My dad says, "any game where the Spurs win!"

>
> 18. Furthest place you are sending this?

I am worldwide on the interweb, baby!
>
> 19. Person you expect to send it back first?

Gramma Kay... (love you!)
>
> 20. When is your birthday?
> March 3, 2008.

> 21. Are you a morning person or a night person?
>
Morning. Sorry dad and mom.
>
> 22. What is your shoe size?
>
0, but in my defense, I prefer to keep my toes in my mouth.
>
> 23. Pets
>
Rebel and Bowie, I like to grab at them, but until I start dropping goldfish or cherrios on the floor, they won't give me the time of day, if they could tell time.
>
> 24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us?
> Yes, thanks for asking. I enjoy bubble baths in the adult tub, now. I will also be appearing at the Lincoln Memorial next week in DC. But I'll be here the rest of this week, tell your friends.
>
> 25. What did you want to be when you were little?
>
Big.
>
> 26. How are you today?
>
Kinda of Grump-o-licious.
>
> 27. What is your favorite candy?
>
Mom's milk on Twizzlers, she loves Twizzlers.
>

> 28. What is your favorite flower?
>
> My favorite flower? What's that really gonna tell you about me? Puhleese! I am not some sap, smelling flowers, I'm "Action". Thanks, Colbert!
>
> 29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to?
>
I live for today. Come on people.

> 30. What is your favorite pastime?
>
That's a tough one, thanks for asking. It's a toss up between pulling on the dogs' jowls and cruisin' in my 'jump-n-go'.
>
> 31. What are you listening to right now?

Rain forest sounds coming from my mobile, but when I am feeling high brow, it's Bach, again from the mobile.

> 32. What was the last thing you ate?

Don't rub it in, my parents had Chinese, and I had milk; hoping for the trickle down effect, though.

>

> 33. Do you wish on stars?
>
No, actually I wish on super novae, much more significant; I get better wishes!

> 34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
>
If I was a crayon, I'd be the color "AWESOME!!" You figure it out.

> 35. How is the weather right now?
>
Not too bad, less than 105, we can leave the house between noon and 7 pm.

> 36. The first person you spoke to on the phone today
>
What? I can talk on the phone? Gimme the phone!
>
> 37. Favorite soft drink?

An orange soda float.

> 38. Favorite restaurant of all time?

Playplace. McDonalds. Very exclusive.
>
> 39. Real hair color?
>
Brown
>
> 40. What was your favorite toy as a child?

Still running the numbers on this one. So far, the dragon that goes "BLAH!"
>
> 41. Summer or winter?
>
How would I know? These questions really presume that one has lived more than one year; What happened to inclusivity???
>
> 42. Hugs or kisses?
>
I want both, and in great quantities!

> 43.
Chocolate or Vanilla?
>
Swirl, actually.
>
> 44. Coffee or tea?
>
My mom likes coffee, so I get coffee.
>
> 45. Do you want your friends to email you back?
>
Yes! Now!
>
> 46. When was the last time you cried?
>
I crying right now.
>
> 47. What is under your bed?
>
Dog hair, and probably, one of my socks, they're so small

> 48. What did you do last night?

What I do every night: erp, cry, eat, cry, refuse to eat, cry, eat, pass out...deposited into bed, rain forest sounds lull me to sleep.

> 49. What are you afraid of?
>
I see through my fears, so there.

50. Salty or sweet?
>
What is salty? What is sweet?

>
> 51. How many keys on your key ring?
>
4: a red one, a blue one, a green one, and a yellow one.
>
> 52. How many years at your current job?

I have been employed for almost one year at the firm of Benavides, Benavides, Benavides, Rebel & Bowie. My responsibilities include waking up the staff, demanding constant attention, acquiring affection, public relations, and managing a staff of dogs. References upon request.
>
> 53. Favorite day of the week?
>
Saturdays and Sundays: two parents, fun stuff, and all the hugs AND kisses I can stand.

> 54. How many towns have you lived in?

TWO: San Antonio, mostly in utero (except for a frustrating Bezoar Week), and Dallas.
>
>
> 55. Do you make friends easily?
>
Yes, I have a magnetic smile.

> 56. How many people will you send this to?
>
How many people on the interweb?

> 57. How many will respond?
>
The ones that love me. Thanks everybody!

Cacophony

2008-08-10T21:30:00.012-05:00

No, it's not something in Grant's diaper. It's the sound of a thousand little baby toys, all going off at once; their cries echo. Now, master Grant has another soniferous toy, and, as you can see, he's quite the conductor.

At five months, Grant has progressed from his original monkey-like state. He has learned to hold items and bring them to his mouth. He's learned how to be ticklish. He laughs without regrets and cries like that too. He gives his all to all projects, be they food related or otherwise. For instance, he can now drink from a sippy cup, bottle be banished!

He can sit in his Bumbo(TM)now, like a big guy. Here are a couple of photos, one at Tin Star, a favorite eating hole; it's BYOBB (Bring Your Own Baby Bottle).

A Boy

2008-08-01T22:04:00.003-05:00

Grant is a star. The buzz about him is getting around the Dallas metroplex; from the hep tables of "Food from Galilee" to the echoing halls of the Kimball, Grant has a charm that reaches both hearts and imaginations. Here is a collection of images: CLICK HERE

Thanks to Amy Columbus Photography.

Change

2008-07-28T21:51:00.002-05:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Grant endorses neither candidate. He can't even vote.

A Tale of Two Weeks

2008-07-27T22:21:00.006-05:00

It is a time for cuteness; it is a time for grumpiness. It is a time for smiles; it is a time for growls. It is a time for milk; it is a time for refusal. It is a time for bed; it is a time for screams. There was a dad with a hope and prayer. There was a mom with an answer and a bottle. All these things and a thousand like them came to pass and shown to you, by internet, enjoy!

NEW POLL

2008-07-09T23:29:00.002-05:00

Kelly and I have decided that Grant is so cute at 4 months that we just can't let him grow up. Not sure if its legal, but we intend to request a restraining order on his growing up. These days he laughs at anything you say or do. He will just smile and smile. He makes these little noises like Monkey yelps. We just think that he can't get any cuter. So we want to hear what you think, too. Please vote in the new poll, perhaps you will convince us to let our little cute baby grow up to be his own man.

Above is Grant in late June 2008. Our Little Dude has got some lounge wear compliments of Matt, Whitney, Sarah, Lucy and Christopher; if only he had a beverage, man.

Top Words We've Learned As Parents

2008-07-09T23:16:00.003-05:00

We provide for your reference the top new words that Kelly and I have learned as parents to Grant, along with their appropriate definitions.

10. Kid Friendly - Leave your adulthood at the door.
9. Front pack - what makes Grant cry.
8. Boppy - a place to pee.
7. Binky - an addictive substance.
6. Bumbo - scary chair.
5. Meconium - black gold.
4. Breast pump - money saver.
3. Butt-paste - hand cream.
2. Ball Fan - male anti-moisture device
1. Chunk-a-Munkalis - the one we love.

Above Grant on June 29, 2008. See how he holds his head up.

What We've Done In Our Summer

2008-07-09T22:48:00.003-05:00

After a hiatus...WE'RE BACK. Forget we, though, GRANT'S BACK! Stay tuned for some Chunk-o-Munkulus bound to make you smile. Here you see the fam in June of 2008 at the greatest Chilis in the world and in Marble Falls Texas.

I'll try to give you dates for reference sake but don't expect anything chronological.

Grantus Monkulus - July 4th Weekend

2008-07-07T23:09:00.005-05:00

He conquered, crossing the Pecos, and the binky cast. His victory, the hearts of many. In the airport, the flight attendants oogled. On the plane, his own row. At 30,000 paces, he reposed across the sanctity of space. And on to take the Queen of the Plains, Denver, and her aquarium, with its bestiary of tigers. His own peeps laid laurels at his feet, and in his eminence he deemed it nap time throughout the folds of the front range.

To the venerable Rainbow, his retinue of menial parents made their haste with him to join the infloresence. A branch and a flower among many, he knew; his wisdom without end and his pamper so too.

Moments with friends, a visit with Great Grandma Iris, the hospitality of Grandparents, the gifts, the BBQs and good times. To home, a tired infant that sleeps the surly bonds of earth.

Apologies: Magee

Grant--Boy Monkey

2008-06-04T23:56:00.005-05:00

Rationale enim animal est puer

Kelly and I can see the reason behind the boy, but the animal still manifests. Here's a top ten Ways Grant Shows His Inner Monkey:

10. Stare Down
9. Fake Cough
8. Talk to the Hand (Still)
7. Kick-a-poo
6. Tongue Copy Cat
5. Just Hold Me
4. Where's the Music (wind faster)
3. Mesmerized by fixtures
2. Trail of Tears (around the block)
1. Don't touch that remote before my bottle

Keep On Rockin' in the Free World

2008-05-26T18:07:00.001-05:00

The family spent the Sunday before Memorial Day in Denton Texas. We lounged in front of the courthouse along with all the other freedom mongers. Why? Because we can. Happy Memorial Day!

Good With Hands Advanced

2008-05-26T18:06:00.005-05:00

Grant has increased his hand to mouth coordination. His fists often go into his mouth, but now he may have a hold on his bottle. Thanks Uncle Ken for showing him such a neat trick.

Photo-Grantic

2008-05-18T22:37:00.003-05:00

Slowly, Grant is learning to be one with the camera.

Good with Hands

2008-05-18T22:25:00.004-05:00

Grant has increasingly become quite a guru with his hands. In this series of photos you can see that he is quite expressive and communicates much about his own personality through his little mitts.

How's Your Lunch

2008-05-18T22:14:00.003-05:00

In a series of posting you'll see a week in the life of Grant. He's actually been out more than what you see, just that these are highlights. Here's one from the Arboreteum in Dallas. We spent a lovely Saturday exploring, between feedings, this nice park on a nice day. Please note that in the video Grant is giving his Mom possibly a "talk to the hand signal." I'll let you interpret.

Good G

2008-05-02T23:37:00.004-05:00

Here's a clip from a great CD ABC Sing Along (SOCAN copyright 2003) that you should buy it because it transformed our lives from boring to fun. We don't profit from you hearing this clip, except the profit of your enjoyment, which is of course invaluable and inestimable. Have a great day!

Go Grant Go

2008-04-27T12:48:00.005-05:00

Grant and I had a little pre-game party to celebrate the Spurs game Friday. Fortunately, there was a big win. It was probably the T-shirts that did it.

Smiles

2008-04-27T12:08:00.006-05:00

Grant had a visit from his great aunt and uncle, Lindy and Paul. They brought Grant a neat book which changes the words of classic songs like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" to "Stinky, stinky Diaper Change" Another example "Row Row Row Your Boat" to "Go go go to bed" Finally accessible works of art that our little guy can relate to. Grant put on a happy show and here's some photos and a video. Your welcome, Kay.

As an update from us, we have been shopping around for a more permanent home. Hopefully, we can find a home that Grant can grow up in, make friends near, and learn to ride a bike outside of. Grant really has been insisting on lower tax rates too! We'll see what we can do.

Grant also has started to sleep more at night; lets not jinx it though, but keep your fingers crossed.

Grant-o-vision

2008-04-23T23:01:00.003-05:00

Remember, money shot.

Gonna Be A Blurpy Monday

2008-04-23T22:41:00.004-05:00

Due to popular demand, here are more photos of our little Grant. He has his real baby moments when between the poops, burps, and flailing he calms down to communicate a coo or a smile. He's a great guy. BTW, check out the money shot in the video.

The Cute is Thick

2008-04-13T00:05:00.006-05:00

And oozing. Since last we blogged, Grant has become quite the baby and learned many modes of communication and messages to parents, such as

1) Baby coos 2) Grunting 3) Flailing of arms 4) Kicking of feet 5) Projectile poop 6) Many Faces 6) the cry of hunger 7) stink eye 8) talk to the hand 9) eager eater 10) don't touch me I'm sleeping 11) don't kiss me I'm too grown up 12) I peed on you and that's funny 13) ha-ha 14) not now 15) here comes a burp 16) my bowels are exploding 17) I need more 18) where's my binky 19) not that binky 20) I am not done eating 21) happy yell.

He has been getting bigger and more aware. Unofficially, he's about 23-24" long. Also, he now spends time swinging in his swing and laughing to himself. His favorite place is his changing table where he'll smile and laugh no matter what's in his diaper.

He also enjoys lounging in his space-themed room which now has an HGTV makeover to really tempt buyers. Enjoy!

Disast-hair

2008-03-30T19:42:00.003-05:00

A new bath and see what happens.

Child in Swing

2008-03-29T13:43:00.002-05:00

Too Cool For School

2008-03-28T21:13:00.003-05:00

Our little guy has turned bad boy, danger guy, let's hope he only gets detention for violating the strict dress code of the Institution. Tough guy, huh? Check out the revised "Where in the Universe..." entry for more Easter fotos.

Where in the Universe is Grant?

2008-03-22T20:46:00.004-05:00

Not to worry everybody, Grant has his social security number already. Pretty soon he'll be investing in the next fad mutual fund, you never know.

Besides being legit, Grant has today made it through his second adult dinner and without a hitch. He is better behaved out than in though, as I spent last night pulling an all-nighter with him, seems rumors about his party-hardy attitude are true.

Today, Easter, Grant celebrated a cool day in Dallas with a nice walk, a nice spit up over his bear outfit, and a nap in swing as his parents had dinner.

Besides enjoying the pics above please make sure to vote on our newest poll where you the voter get to pick Grant's new nickname--cuddle monkey is worn thin. Whichever name is most popular, we, the parents, will refer to him as that name at least twice in a twenty four hour period.

New to Earth and Loving It

2008-03-19T20:35:00.002-05:00

News Flash

2008-03-19T20:30:00.002-05:00

Grant just pooped and peed unrestrained! All over his changing table! Simultaneous spray and splurt! Our friend Elizabeth got to witness this extraordinary achievement in the life of Grant. Wish you all were here too.

Grunting Grant

2008-03-18T21:54:00.006-05:00

Grant has taken to the sedentary lifestyle except from 12a - 4a when he parties like its hot til he throws up all over himself. This means he goes through his club clothes like wild fire. Thanks to all who have given him his little man outfits. He's quite a looker.

During the day time hours, Grant has been to the pediatrician twice. He has regained his birth weight and the doc says he is filling out nicely and he has grown at least one whole inch--one more inch to success. And I am proud to say that he did not cry during his PKU test; quite a brave little man.

The cutest thing (not the coolest thing which is still his hair) about him is his grunting-style of communication. He will grunt and squeak telling us that he is hungry, wet, pissed off, or some other variation of the three. Every once in awhile enough gas forms somewhere about his alimentary canal that he forms what we humans might call a smile. That quickly passes into a sheer look of an excruciating urge to pass gas or matter either orally or the other way.

We already have several nicknames for the little guy: erpster, cuddle monkey, grumpalicious...Kelly likes to take the first one and adapt it to the Kit-Kat song to the effect of: "Give me an erp, Give me an erp, Give me, Give me, Give me an erp erp erp." Quite a composition.

Suffice it to say, we love every part of him. Please try to guess what part of him is shown in the first above photo by using your democratic right to vote. Enjoy the other ones!

Correction

2008-03-10T21:26:00.002-05:00

The photo of Kelly in the car holding Grant is not taken while the car is in motion. So I am not driving holding the camera backwards while Kelly contemplates our experiences as a family, as the car is moving. No, it's merely a burp stop at McDonalds. Please don't call CPS on us, yet.

Grant Day 6 - 7: Caveat Emptor

2008-03-10T18:10:00.007-05:00

The Bezoar is gone and Grant is discharged from his service of storing the Royal Bezoar in his stomach. Apparently, the bezoar is a well sought after item and in the sixteenth century lead to a legal battle over whether a bezoar was real or not. For further reading please see http://timkevan.blogspot.com/2007/04/bezoar.html

Interestingly enough the bezoar was seen as a cure for depression and if you remember from the beginning of our story Grant came out depressed. Spooky, huh?

Well enough of that. Grant is doing well and settling into his caveat emptor lifestyle. Here he is at a Starbuck's buying over priced coffee with his parents. And some more photos of him, Bezoar-less!

Please wish him a happy week one birthday at 7:15 pm CST tonite. And thanks to everyone for thinking, praying, laughing, crying, and commenting about all of it.

Takin It Easy

2008-03-09T16:57:00.003-05:00

Little Old Man Contemplating His Next Bingo Game

2008-03-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

Mommy Waits Too

2008-03-09T16:51:00.003-05:00

Pics to Pass the Time

2008-03-09T16:45:00.002-05:00

We wait on our results of the next ultrasound...hoping that this may be it. Here's some pics to pass the time.

Emesis My Nemesis

2008-03-09T10:12:00.002-05:00

Today, we found out that Grant’s Bezoar has not shrunk and that he could not keep his milk down. He spent the morning getting reacquainted with his breakfast and lunch. As a result, he’s back on pedialyte.

The doctors informed us that had he only kept his lunch down he might have gone home. Bezoar be damned! {little fists shake toward the sky}

So the parents have at least another day at the hotel that can only be described as a one star with personality and a two star with enough wine. Ever since Liz left, this morning, I have reverted to buying clean clothing from Target so that I don’t have to suffer at a washeteria or miss any of those money shots. Watch out for photos of me in this clothing as the days pass.

On better notes, Grant spent some time awake today, obviously getting away from our tactic to sleep the Bezoar to death. Also, Grant passed his hearing test; so we know he can hear me when I tell him to make good grades and go to trade school. Grant took the day in stride and kept his spirits up by being “fussy” during a bath and ruining his going home outfit (see the first paragraph above). Best of all, we got to take off our blue gloves. Now, Grant knows the touch of his parents and how much I can tickle him as he sleeps. He sleeps a lot and I am getting bored.

On worse notes, we have gotten to know the staff and now know the rotation of nurses. We have bonded with our neighboring baby families enough to know about some of the broken homes they are taking their children home to. Also, the baby photographers don’t really get the best photos out there. In fact, we learned that these photographers can actually make a good looking child look like a little old man contemplating his next bingo game.

Grant Day 4: A Plan for Breakout

2008-03-08T15:42:00.004-06:00

We conspired with Grant to break out. We agreed that we would lull the Bezoar to sleep and that when it wasn’t looking we would just walk out of the hospital leaving the Bezoar to its own devices, whatever those may be.

Grant’s part was to sleep. The Bezoar shrank some today, while Grant slept and ate. He started with lots of pedialyte and then with the approval of the doctor switched to mother’s milk—that liquid gold. He’s a voracious eater. His stomach, indicated by the books as initially the size of a marble, now must be the size of a grapefruit. I think that as our hopes for the end of the Bezoar rise, his stomach size enlarges proportionally.

The evening ended with visits from the grandparents, and indications that this might be his last night at the hospital. Stay tuned.