Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Chicago Auto Show, 2009

Last Friday, Doug and I zipped up to Chicago to take in the world's largest auto show. We saw a lot of cars, I snapped a lot of pictures. Here's a few of them.

One of the neat things about the Chicago show is that it's a venue where the manufacturers bring out their newest concepts. If you read car magazines at all, you know that these are often one-of-a-kind rigs - some functional, some not - that showcase the auto maker's highest technology and style. It's cool to see them in person. My favorite concept this year? The Cadillac Converj electric super car. If this is where electric is going, I'm all for it.
There were a lot of trucks as well and I think we sat in every one of them. My favorite was a close race between my Dodge and the Toyota. I don't know if I can put my finger on it exactly, but the Toyota just felt a little more refined, a little more innovative. And the TRD is an awfully nice looking truck.
My favorite bicycle? Wait a second, what's a bike doing at a car show? And is that a bamboo frame?! (Yes it is)
It was also tough to pick a favorite production super car/muscle car out of very long list of very nice looking contenders. This mid-engine Audi A8 with a V10 and oodles of horsepower definitely sits near the top.
Doug had to try out one of the smallest cars on the floor. Doesn't he look Smart?
I took a lot of pictures of headlights. These three are some of the best, from three classic American muscle cars. Can you guess what they are?

I know not all of you are interested in car shows so I'm going to quit while I'm ahead, but I did put together an album (with comments) for the viewing pleasure of the few gearheads out there. Here's the link, knock yourself out.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Mr. Happy And The Number Eight

We woke up this snowy morning and discovered that our little boy is eight years old.

And he was tickled pink to discover the long-desired big-boy bike. Happy birthday Kenrick!


The party's on, more pictures to come.
Posted by Picasa

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Spring?

The other day it warmed up to sweater temperature and turned the little snow that we had left to mud. The boys couldn't wait to go stomp in the puddles. And do other things. Like cover the slide in mud. And make mud balls to throw at mom...

Paxton enjoyed being out as well. He'd dearly like to get down and stomp around in the mud with his big brothers, but we haven't yet let him cut loose.
Unfortunately, the warm temperatures aren't here to stay just yet - we're supposed to get snow tonight. Oh well, it was nice while it lasted. Can't wait for spring.
Posted by Picasa

The Official One Year Picture

Don't you think he's about the cutest kid you ever saw?
Posted by Picasa

Monday, February 2, 2009

The Old Days

"Dad?" Kenrick asked today at supper. "Was there Groundhog Day in the old days?"

"I guess. It's been around for a long time, I think."

"But did they have it when you were a kid?"

What! Does he mean...? Just how long ago does he think the 'Old Days' were?

"And when were you born?" he asked.

I told him.

"Wow, that was a long time ago."

Oh boy.