Actually, you got to stay with Grandma, which is always a big treat. Such a treat that when we arrived and you woke up from your nap, you were King Grump. You weren't all that happy to see us, even after two days of separation. But at least we knew you were in good hands while we were gone.

I never ever got around to replaying our family trip to Chicago from a couple of weeks before. Let's just say that you had a great time. You seriously loved the hustle and bustle. You were very content to be pushed in the stroller since there were so many sights to see along the way. The train, as I mentioned before, was the biggest draw for you. As was the chance to put on your Superman costume and hang out with Cadence at the Cultural Center. You've even mentioned her from time to time since we returned home.

You really enjoyed Halloween, too. I wish I had better photos. We hung out with Stacy and Molly, who brought along her daughter Betsy. Superman and the Fairy Princess. Great combo! Especially after you wore the wings. And Molly took some incriminating photos.

The best part of Halloween for you was the candy. The worst part of Halloween for Mommy and Daddy was the candy. You're a bit fixated on it. We end up explaining to you every night that you can have one piece after dinner. Tonight I could hear you arguing with Daddy about "one more" piece after you finished the first. You're all about bargaining. And you can get quite upset when the parents don't cooperate.

You sat in your chair at breakfast this morning asking, "Watch little bit TV?" I responded "No." You asked again. I said no again. You asked again. I said no again. You scrunched up your face in disgust. I said, "Sorry, buddy, but that's the way it is." You glared at me. I continued cleaning the kitchen.

It can be hard sometimes to lay down the rules and stick to them, but we know it's important. I just never realized how stubborn you might become. And that stubbornness seems to be increasing as you get older. Luckily it hasn't yet come close to outpacing your cuteness.

Posted on November 15, 2006 09:14 PM