Happy Father's Day!

I don't know how it happened, but the whole family is sick again (including Grandma and Papa downstairs). I think this is the first time that everyone in the whole house has been sick all at the same time. Also, from all the symptoms we've seen there's definitely a trend going on. Not the best way to celebrate Father's Day.

Malcolm is very cute with all the holidays, he's a champion gift opener. Roger got some really nice things, a few books, bbq marinade and a super cool Empire Strikes Back t-shirt! The family went out for a nice breakfast, had a quick visit with Grandpa Harry and played at the playground. Also, you'll notice a distinct difference on Roger's face, the playoff beard is gone! Too bad about those Canucks, maybe next year.

Happy Birthday Roger!

It's interesting where you find yourself with each year that passes. No time like your birthday to reflect back on the year that has gone by. The kids are a year older, a whole year of work has gone by, in Roger's case he launched his part-time photography business as well. He has mentioned that many of his personal relationships have changed too. He's made new friends and lost touch with old ones, who knows what will come going forward. One thing he really hopes for is for the Vancouver Canucks to finally bring home the Stanley Cup. We'll have to see what happens on Monday night!

So his birthday wish is this, he will strive to be a better husband, father, son, friend, manager, and photographer. Let's hope he's successful in every area. I'll report back in 2012 on his progress.

It's hard being a big brother sometimes.

Wow, lessons of sharing and trying to get Malcolm to understand that it's his responsibility to take care of Melody are difficult concepts to teach and comprehend. Everyday, it's a roller coaster ride. We don't always know who's going to show up, Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hide. What Tracey and Roger have seen that ages 3 and 4 are certainly a delicate age, where sensitivities and fights for independence can create havoc in a developing mind and thus in the surrounding environment. Simple tasks become complex, defiance and stalling become so routine that it's now expected. What really breaks their hearts is that deep down they know how charming, wonderful, and fantastic he can be, he just doesn't always choose to show that side. Absolutely, there must be feelings of jealousy as well, although not always clearly articulated. Melody can do no wrong and that can be a hard pill to swallow. It's difficult to understand how much power a little boy can have over his own parents, but he does. He can make or break an event and ruin a good mood in a heartbeat. Everyone is keeping their fingers crossed that he grows out of this difficult phase soon.

Here are some pictures taken at the park yesterday evening.