Didn't really expect that...

I was busy at work today, running my butt off while trying to do the work of 3 people (seriously - one who went home sick and one who didn't show up, plus doing my own stuff) when I got called into the back to meet with one of the managers. I was really kind of aggravated at that point, so I really didn't even care if I was getting in trouble - even though I couldn't figure out why that would happen in the 10 seconds that it took me to get back there.

Instead, quite the opposite happened. She handed me a cup of goodies and a certificate - apparently every few months they have a meeting where employees can nominate coworkers who they feel are doing a good job - and I was one of the ones who was picked for this round.

I had to pick either KU or KC Chiefs. It was the lesser of two evils.
But Jared likes KU, so he can have the cup.
Not the candy. Just the cup.

It was still a craptastically busy day, and I wanted to rip my hair out more than once during the 8 hours that I was there - but at least now I have chocolate to show for it.

This is what happens....

.... when I leave the boys at home with The Dude while I go to work.



By the time I got home from work 3 hours later, Daniel was tying his new shoes. 
All by himself.
I'm not sure who is the most proud here....Daniel for learning it, The Dude for teaching him, or me - just because he's my kid and I'm allowed to be proud of him.
Have I mentioned how incredibly wonderful The Dude is lately? Because if I haven't, this is a good time to remind everyone - including myself.

Grab some tissues!

I don't know if this link will work or not, but I'm trying it....

This is my nephew, Richard, and my niece, Kimberly.

I can't even put into words how proud I am - of both of them.

I haven't seen them or their younger brother for 2 years now, and I miss all of them very much. Seeing this video just reminds me of how important family should be - to everyone.

Rich - thank you for your service. Thank you for choosing to serve our country at an undoubtedly hard time. After seeing you just a few minutes after you were born (and changing more than one of your diapers) I just can't even begin to express how proud I am of the man that you have become.



Edited on 1/12/2012 to change the link to the video....