Dirkmonster

DNA Lifeprint provides an ounce of prevention

We now have a photo, fingerprints and a DNA sample stored safely away - hoping we never even need it.

Thanks to Andrews Cadillac in Brentwood for hosting the safety fair today, where our kids received reminders on safety in the street and online.  The main attraction was a team representing DNA Lifeprint who created computer CD's for parents that contained digitized fingerprints and a photo.  We also have a swab to capture a DNA sample to be stored in a plastic tube.

If we ever need to retrieve this kit, it means something terrible has happened.  Still, it might make the difference in getting a child back home.

Happy Birthday Jenna Claire!

Our daughter Jenna Claire turns 5 years old today.  She is getting ready to go to Kindergarten this fall.

This morning she woke up and was serenaded by her dog Barkley.  Happy birthday baby girl - We love you!

Day 1 in 1st grade

What a difference a year makes.

A year ago, there were tears and fear.  A year later, Ross woke up excited about his first day.  He saw his kindergarten teacher on the way into school, gave her a quick hug and moved on to 1st grade.  As he walked the halls on the way to his new classroom, he said hi to the kids he knew from last year.  He stopped for a few quick pictures but was more interested in getting inside his classroom and getting down to business.

He's growing up.

Look at a picture from a year ago:

And from today, Ross' first day of 1st grade:

"Happy Birthday Mommy!"

Jenna Claire sings her very own version of Happy Birthday to her Mommy.

Get to the Wilson County Fair

The Wilson County Fair runs through this weekend and it's well worth roasting away a day there. Yeah, it's hot as fire out there.

Our two kids, Ross (3) and Jenna Claire (17 months) both had a wonderful time.

• Get the ride bracelet because then you don't have to argue when the boy wants to ride the bumper cars again.
• Stop by the building with the commerical booths like Dell and the Watertown Chamber.  You'll get a free popcicle on the way in.
• One of the best drink prices I found was the Wilson County HS Cheerleaders stand at the main stage pavillion.  $1.50.
• I liked the grilled Italian Sausage on the hoagie roll but it's not for everyone.  I still have a big glob of dried mustard on my left sneaker.
• Remember sunscreen.
• Go early if you can. Get there right at noon and you can park steps away from the Orange gate. That's the one by all the tractors.
• The farm animals are a hit with everyone.  We got to see a sheep sheared.
• Harold Ford Jr. might be a good senator if he can get to the votes on time.
• The main ferris wheel is well worth it. You can see all the way past the city square.  Lebanon is flat!

The thing that really made it a great time for us is how friendly everyone from the fair staff and exhibitors to the food vendors and ride workers are.  It really is remarkable.

Spiderman Ross

Grandaddy, click here to see me in my Spiderman costume.
Love,
-Ross