BellaDaddy Blog

BELLADADDY.COM

2011-07-07T04:47:00.001-07:00

WE ARE NOW:

Come Visit our New Site!

Patience is a Virtue

2011-07-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

Or in this case, a time filler-upper. The reason for delay. A good excuse! HA!

Sorry folks, looks like one more day.

One more day for the surprise being thrust upon the world!

CJ...CONGRATULATIONS once again! I hope the wait will be worth it.

In the meantime everyone, enjoy a few photos, and this short video of the MASSIVE DUST STORM that moved through our city last night!

HUGZ!

And The Winner Is....

2011-07-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

CJ!

DON'T LICK THE FERRETS

CJ has been following our blog for sometime and so appreciate her. Please, head on over to her blog, click the link above, and send her some love.

CJ,. your prize, and handy work, will appear on Wednesday. This will be part of our...

BRAND NEW SITE!

That's right...come Wednesday, something we have been working on for some time will launch, and your tagline will be up, in all it's glory! However, I did make a few chances, editors privileges you know. Hope you wont mind!

SO, Wednesday, come here, be redirected, and see the new Web site...

(Mark, you were right all those months ago)

HUGZ TO ALL!

Tagline Poll!

2011-07-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

So many of you submitted! So many of you will lose! (HAHAHAHAHAHA)

ONLY ONE WILL WIN!

What are yo going to win? Not a clue. But it will be good...I promise!!
But, c'mon, you were adventurous! You submitted to our little tagline request, and now, you may be on your way to greatness.

WHY?

It's a secret. I will tell everyone right after we close the poll. And, the winner is announced.

So, thanks to ALL who contributed.

Now, everyone else.

TAKE THE POLL!

(upper left side, please)

Vote as often as you like!

and...

HAPPY FATHERHOOD FRIDAY!

Take a poll on over at Dad-Exchange.
Click the badge above.
Let the bigwigs know what ya
think of the new site and homepage!

We need a new tagline!

2011-06-25T19:56:00.003-07:00

I want a new tagline. ya know, the one up under the blog title: "Ramblings of a Stay-At-Home-Daddy" is just...well, it's just...mindless...boring...old...!

Can you help?

C'mon everyone, you read my juvenile rants and raves...my bouncing erratic postings...you know me better than anyone. Or, rather, you know our blog.

Once we determine the best tag line submitted, by your votes soon, we will announce an exciting change...finally!

Please, give it your best shot...tell me what ya think it should say...and win a cool prize. We'll decide the best ones (5 or 10), and post them in a poll...then, you vote the best...and win.

Could be a signed book by one of the authors on our blog.

Might even be a t-shirt with a Bella saying on it.

Who knows, could even be a bumper sticker (lol)

Sarcastic is good. Funny is hot!

Do it. Help a Blogger Buddy out.

Suggestions will be posted on the upper left of this blog. Please, feel free to vote as many times as you wish. Don't forget to check back often, as I will update the poll as they come in.

Bella sends her HUGZ! (if I could bottle them, I would be rich. She gives THE best hugz!)

Watch Our Kids Around Water!

2011-06-24T07:34:00.002-07:00

A few years back, (wow - a few years!) I printed a post about water safety. I written mostly out of sadness and frustrations, after watching the local news programs. And, in the several years now, that I have been posting, this (unedited) version, from a few years back, is the ONLY time I have gotten a (semi) negative comment on a post. It was from another Dad blogger who had a family member who'd almost drowned, and was now a paraplegic. I never meant to offend, or hurt anyone, ever. Only to help by bringing attention to a huge problem in our area, and what should be huge, across the nation.

Here it is, edited and revisited for current times.

You can see, even Bella has stayed current LOL!

Happy Fatherhood Friday & Happy Summer!

WARNING: This is Fatherhood Friday & Good Friday but the following is NOT a feel good posting. BellaDaddy's sharing important info on water safety. Therefore, if you were looking for a feel good, make you wanna smile all day type of posting, head on over to DAD EXCHANGE...plenty to read and feel good about there.

Here? Let's just say, someone needs to write this, and MORE need to read it.

Every year around this time, our local news is flooded with drownings and near drownings. ALL of which should NEVER have even come near to happening. Sadly, it does.

Every year, I sit and watch, tempted to change the channel or turn off the news altogether, simply because I find it extremely difficult to comprehend. HOW on earth do people lose track of their kids, even for that spilt second? No Clue. Every year, it is the same. Gates left open. No Gates at all. Parents napping while toddler crawls out doggie doors...etc...etc...etc...I will never be one to point fingers, however, I cannot advocate stupidity. We should ALWAYS be watching our kids...regardless of how tired, overworked, busy, etc...ALWAYS!, hoping, praying that this never happens to us, or anyone we know.

So, with that being said, please review the following tips. And remember,

PLEASE WATCH YOUR KIDS AROUND WATER!!

Drowning Threat

In many states, drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children one through four years age.

Children drown in pools, spas, buckets, toilets and bathtubs. A child can drown in as little as two inches of water.

A child can drown in less time than it takes to answer the telephone.

67% of all drowning deaths occur in their own backyard pool, spa or hot tub.

The majority of drowning incidents occur while the caretaker assumed the child was safely indoors.

25% of all children who have drowned or nearly drowned have had swimming lessons.

The risk of a drowning or near drowning is highest during the first six months a family has a pool.

For every drowning, an additional five near drowning cases are treated in the emergency room. Irreversible brain damage occurs in 3 to 5 minutes.

In California there are more than 330 people with irreversible brain damage because of near drowning incidents. Of this total more than 75 people are currently hospitalized at a cost of $120,000 per year for life.

Drowning is a silent killer. The victims don't cry for help. They are not getting enough air to breathe, so they don't have the extra air needed to call for help.

Drowning Prevention Tips

There is no substitute for adequate supervision. Children need to be watched. Never leave children unattended in or around pools or spas - not even for a second. Although accidents do happen, these particular types can be/should be, minimized!

Access to the pool or spa area should be limited by locked doors, windows and self closing, self latching gates on fences surrounding the pool. Latches should be above the reach of children.

Do not allow children to play in pool areas. Keep toys out of the area.

Keep rescue equipment such as a long handled hook and a ring buoy with a rope hanging near the pool.

Many floatation toys are thought to be lifesavers but they are not! They are only toys and should be used only as toys and with adult supervision.

Install a phone by the pool so you can answer it without leaving children unattended.

Always keep chairs, tables, or toys away from the pool or spa fence to keep children from using them to climb over.

Do not allow anyone of any age to swim alone. Drowning happens to adults too. When you are entertaining a group of children or adults, have a designated pool watcher who is responsible for keeping track of everyone.

Examples of safe water behavior by adults are important for young children.

Always completely remove a pool or spa cover before use to avoid the possibility of anyone being trapped and drowning under the cover.

Have members of the family take a swim class and learn CPR.

Pools Inspection List

Is the fence childproof with bars not more than 4 inches apart? If it is a chain link fence, the diamond shaped opening should be no larger than 1 3/4 inches.

Are the gates self-closing and self-latching? The self latching mechanism should be out of the reach of children. Is the self-latching mechanism at least 54 inches, from the bottom of the gate? If less than 54 inches, the latching mechanism should be located on the pool side of the gate.

Are all the gates kept locked?

Are all exit doors and windows leading from the house to the pool kept locked and secured?

Are pool rules posted in a visible location?

Is rescue equipment kept near the pool? A ring buoy with an attached line and/or a long handled hook.

Is the pool cover completely removed or properly installed? Never use a pool with its pool cover partially in place.

Are steps and ladders leading to an above ground pool secured, locked or removed when the pool is not in use?

Are there plenty of approved PFD's (Personal Flotation Devices) available?

Are the diving board and any slides in safe operating condition?

Does the hot tub or spa have a solid, locking cover, and is the cover in place and locked when the spa or hot tub is not in use?

Is your pool surrounded by a 5 foot 6 inch high or higher fence or barrier?

Enjoy Your Summer! Stay Safe!

Happy BellaDaddy & Papa Day

2011-06-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

AKA Happy Fathers Day!

Bella woke, jumped out of bed, and excitedly proclaimed it a Special Day.

"Happy Fathers Day, Daddy & Papa. I love You"

Fathers day around these parts usually starts out with Daddy making pancakes, Bella and Papa snarf em down, and then Daddy starts Laundry. Yeah I know, Laundry. But hell, it has to be done. Papa will go out and mow the lawn.

We exchange cards and gifts at breakfast. Bella presents cards that she made in school. The cards are actually bookmarks, feature her picture, and little hand created artwork. So special!

We made reservations at a new restaurant. New for us. We like taking the little one out to lunch...at different place. Her favorite is Chili's. Oh well...as she grows, so will her taste buds LOL. Today though, was Italian Fusion Japanese. (don't even try to figure that one out. Trust me, it was Yummy).

I like to reflect on this day. (hell, I reflect everyday) Imagine her as an infant. Oh man, what on earth did we do then? It seems so long ago,, and yet, she is barely going to be five years old. Being a stay at home parent, the days run into each other...and then, BAMM! She's in college! (exaggeration, I realize, but you get the idea.) Cherish every moment, even if those moments are blurred by laundry.

I've taken thousands of pics throughout her short, fun filled, clothing/shoes jammed life, and some of those are featured here. Who am I kidding? MANY of them have been seen here. Pics. Videos. All of it. Who can blame me?

We have a special family. When Bella was born, she was one of only 800 or so families, WORLDWIDE, to be born into a family such as ours. I'd say that makes our little family pretty darn unique.

We don't treat her as such,. She is a girl. Part of a small, loving family. No different than our neighbors down the street. But. In the back of our minds, we know. She IS special. She doesn't realize it yet...but she will. We can wait for that day.

Fathers Day is that day. the one where you want everything to go smoothly. It is MY day, after all. But, in the grand scheme of things....it is like any other Sunday. We have chores. We have to eat. We have to play. We argue,. Daddy yells...*SIGH* Another day.

BUT.

THAT day. To remember Fathers Day past. Fathers Day! Dream of the future!

WE ARE FATHERS! Sometimes it still sends me reeling. Thinking that we, Papa and I, are Dads!

Pretty Damn Good Dads Too!

When she runs up, plants a small kiss on our cheeks, and tells us she love us...damn it, we just frikkin melt. WE MELT! She knows what it means to love, and we are the fortunate recipients of that love. We didn't have to teach her, she knows it. The feelings She knows when to express it. She feels the love in her heart, and WE brought this little one to life. Through our own Love.

We ended the day with BellaDaddy BBQing Chicken Shish Kabobs outside. A rarity. (it's HOT here) Even had to go buy a small tabletop (cheapy) grill. But, heya, gets the job done. Small Family + Rarely BBQ = Small Cheapy Grill! We watched a movie, had some ice cream...and DAY DONE!

Hoping you had a SUPER FANTASTIC FATHERS DAY...To ALL the Amazing Dads out there...EVERYWHERE!

EVERYONE!

HAPPY FATHERHOOD FRIDAY!!!

2011-06-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Just days before Fathers Day and here we are, another Fatherhood Friday!

Please head over to the BEST site for Dads...(and moms)

Share you stories, give your opinions, and find some new friends.

I know, I do this every Friday, I say the same things every Friday, but c'mon...I LOVE these guys (and girls)

Share the love.

And, while you at it, share your favorite, or most memorable Fathers Day comments with ME! (and Bella)

Look for our special Fathers Day Post and What Fathers Day means to me, this Sunday!

Cheers!

Introducing...

2011-06-16T11:36:00.001-07:00

WHO...

...TALKS faster than the old FEDEX COMMERCIAL GUY?

...DANCES crazier than the DANCING BABIES?

... is able to LEAP tall bundles of Laundry?

... RAMBLES more than Donald Trump?

...BEATS BellaDaddy @ Wii Bowling? (truly, she does)

...EATS broccoli CUTER than a hamster?

Why, it's...

SUPER BELLA!

(yup, that's what she calls herself...)

Sorry, pic taken with cell Phone

Happy Thursday!

Thanks Guys!

2011-06-10T05:00:00.039-07:00

About 3 years ago, the surrogacy program that we participated in, (ya know, to have our little Diva), called and asked if we would be interested in meeting a couple. This couple was considering utilizing the program, and lived near us.

We were thrilled, and flattered, to have been asked. Of course we would do it!

We made contact, and invited them to our home. Bella was in heaven. They brought GIFTS! :-)

Great conversation was had. We told them all about about our journey. The good. The bad. And of course, they got to see the end result. After all, Bella WAS sitting right there in front of them.

Sometimes, when talking to people about having children, you can see the gleam in the eyes.

These two had "it!"

We wished them well, and offered to stay in touch. Hold their hands along the way if needed.

We emailed back and forth for a short time...

FLASH FORWARD THREE YEARS!

Yeah, I know, long time. But hell, we all get busy. We received another email...they had stepped through that door. Taken that long walk. Forked over ALLOT of money...and VOILA...they were having:

TWINS!

OMG! We couldn't help but think..."Um, were we responsible for this somehow?" (of course we knew we weren't)...but still...just saying...or rather, pondering.

Anyhoo, they were absolutely thrilled. So, we were as well!

A few days later.

TRIPLETS!

Huh? How? No Way!

Yup. Evidently the Dr. failed to make contact with the third little one. Evidently the little rascal was hiding.

There is much more that I cannot share here, but in short, um, er, ahem,...THREE!

First off, who can imagine having three at one time? Man Oh Man, one kid will exhaust the hell outta ya...but three? OH MY!

OK OK, I know, it happens. But still...I cant even begin to process, let alone know what is going through their heads.

Excitement? Nervousness? SHEER TERROR? That's allot to plan for. ONE was allot to plan for. SHEESH! Fortunately, they have an amazing Surrogate, and Surrogate Family. Close friends, close by. Including us!

We made contact once again and went to lunch at a great restaurant. Fun was had, Bella adored the two of them...especially when the LEMON INCIDENT took place...YIKES! And all this , started by one of the two about to be parents of THREE!

This was the end result:

THANKS GUYS!

Yeah, they're gonna be just fine!

Head on over (click below) and give Aaron & Cid some love. They've started their own blog and could use/would appreciate/love some advice and encouraging words!

ARIZONA TRIPLET TALES

HAPPY FATHERHOOD FRIDAY!

Brought to you buy the friendly faces,

goofy posts and admirable advice of:

DAD EXCHANGE!

They're Baaaaack!!!!

2011-06-03T04:59:00.025-07:00

Dad-Blogs is now:

DAD-EXCHANGE

(click on the badge below)

Please check out the new site, the new blogs and all the other parents. We have some amazing new bloggers. Awesome camaraderie. Excellent Ideas, Suggestions and Parenting tips. Loads of Humour, Opinions, & FUN!...pretty much something for everyone.

Even Moms!

Every Friday, members will post a new blog entry, with a theme. The next one is the BIG ONE:

FATHERS DAY!

So don't miss out!

AND, you get to read all of our Bella Buddy Blogs.

HUGZ TO ALL!

A Day to Remember...

2011-05-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

Our Memorial Day morning...relaxing outside.

The little one and BellaDaddy, enjoying our snacks and drinks at our local Starbucks!

Enjoy the day, Everyone!

Seriously, how many kids can say this?

2011-05-19T13:23:00.006-07:00

WE GOT TO SEE THE

OSCAR MEYER WIENERMOBILE

Up close and personal!

Picked up the little one from school. Stopped at our local grocery for her afternoon snack...and VOILA!

How coolio?!

YAY US!

Side Note: I didn’t tell the entire story, but, when we walked into the Safeway/Starbucks, the kid behind the counter asked: "Did you guys see the big wiener outside?" (I bit my lip)

Happy Anniversary!

2011-05-11T09:16:00.004-07:00

Yup, 9 years will do it to you!

Happy Anniversary Papa!

9 years ago

9 years (and one Bella) later

WE LUV THESE THINGS!

2011-05-09T16:39:00.004-07:00

We have so much fun. Can you tell?

What's Wrong With This Picture?

2011-04-25T08:53:00.005-07:00

OK, you get three guesses, and the first two don't count! (like my Momma used to say).

We went to the Zoo, about a year ago, and still get emails, trying to get us to buy another picture. This picture is featured exactly as it appeared in the email.

So, really? LMAO!

Happy Easter Everyone!!!

2011-04-24T05:00:00.002-07:00

Enjoy the vid, with the help of our friend Sarah, and of course. Grandpa!

GaGa Glasses

2011-04-11T16:50:00.004-07:00

Yup, you read it right...after all, Bella named them!

She names E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G!

We were headed to a company picnic. Cell phone camera.

A little blurred, but hey, Still...CUTE!

Happy Spring!

Feedin' Da Ducks!

2011-03-31T09:33:00.002-07:00

Bella hasn't been feeling all to well, with a nasty cough - AGAIN! So, after school yesterday, I'd decided it would be fun to get her out of the house....and what better way than to 'feed da duckies!'

We have the most beautiful park, literally one block from our home. It has lakes, wildlife, skateboarders and even a small amusement park. Of course, there IS a golf course attached.

A train runs in the park, as do joggers, bikers and lots and lots of families. On any given day, you will see people flying kites, BBQing, having birthday parties, playing soccer, basketball and racing remote controlled cars.

It is great fun...beautiful and so serene.

Until we arrived HA!

Enjoy the video!

Don't Be a Drag, Just Be A Queen!

2011-03-21T13:40:00.019-07:00

OK, so here it is.....

It all started because my partner and I started watching RUPAULS DRAG RACE, three seasons ago. We were hooked!....and then, eventually,. so was Bella.

Last season ( SEASON TWO) a drag queen named JUJUBEE was introduced...she, and she alone (at the time) became our instant obsession. We adored Jujubee...

She was catty, sarcastic, and yet lovable...and quite beautiful. Breathtaking in fact! We were rooting for her, all the way through, to win. Alas, she did not...but...we were certified (perhaps certifiable?) fans!

Flash Forward to the present:

About 2 months ago, I received an email announcing two of our favorite drag queens would be hosting a show here in our city. I emailed my partner, he agreed...we HAD to go. Especially since the VIP ticket offerings were for a "Meet & Greet" WITH JUJUBEE & JESSICA WILD ! We were beside ourselves when the tickets we purchased, turned out to be in FRONT ROW, CENTER!

YAY FOR US. Not only were we going to meet her, but we were going to see her...up close and personal. A little too personal for some HA! We were, literally, right upside of her skirt. And any of the other numerous performers...feet away...and just below...got some great pics though :-)

Bella was THRILLED! She knew we had to go without her, but she didn't seem to mind. (we don't get out allot without the little one, mind you) She knew she would have a fantastic time at our neighbor Tami's home...AND...

Bella asked Daddy top print out a picture of her..."so I can sign it - 'L-O-V-E B-E-L-L-A' and Daddy, you can give it to her. From ME"!

The show was great fun. Jessica Wild impressed the absolute hell out of the two of us. That chick can DANCE! Amazing, especially since she was dancing...all over the stage...in 4 inch stiletto's...DAYUM!!! BellaDaddy took 272 pics...of the show itself, and LOTS and LOTS of Jujubee and Jessica.

And then....

The time came...FINALLY....to wait in line for 45 minutes, to be rushed through, (they had to close the theatre at a certain time), to meet the coolest female impersonators...even next to RuPaul, these girls are AMAZING!!!

We get in, (rushed) hugz all around, and I leaned over and (hurriedly) told JuJuBee that we loved her and Jessica but...our almost 5 year old daughter was a HUGE fan...and handed her the pic.

JuJu looked at the pic, sighed that sweet gasp of "awwwww"...and asked: "Is this for ME"? I told her it was and she was so thankful and gracious!

Then more hugz, pictures and kisses....(all super fast and rambling on my part). Jessica Wild asked for our email address...so she can get copies of all the pics...

I think we made a few new friends!

We picked Bella up at 1AM, she had fallen asleep. The first things she says, when I wake her, in that cute little kid sleepy voice is, (along with a huge hug) :

"Daddy, I Missed You so Much"

*sigh*

Go Ahead...I Dare Ya!!!!

2011-03-20T07:30:00.003-07:00

Full story, coming soon!

JUJUBEE and JESSICA WILD

Happy Day

2011-03-17T10:22:00.005-07:00

UPDATED LINK! SO SORRY EVERYONE, the link for my friends website has been updated...please see below:

OK OK, I know, you are here looking for a hint about the "EXCITING NEWS " coming up....

So, it hasn't happened as fast as I had imagined, but it will...soon...

Therefore, as promised, here is the first hint:

WINTERHEART

Click above to check out my friends web site for a clue.

In the meantime, enjoy the video and have a GREAT St. Pat's Day!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAPA!!

2011-03-12T08:59:00.003-07:00

Papa is so0 grateful for all the birthday wishes...thanks SO MUCH everyone!

That's him on the left....he is so rarely photographed...BellaDaddy was the recent victim of a nipple tweak in this pic LOL

Changes...they are a comin'!

2011-03-06T09:52:00.002-07:00

Honestly, the exciting news, is more exciting for me....so don't go thinking we are announcing a new baby or anything similar. Um, er, ahem...not gonna happen...not anytime soon that is :-)

In the meantime, enjoy this silly pic, from Bella's school carnival...

...and...STAY TUNED!

will be offering up some hints this week...

Exciting News!

2011-02-26T22:10:00.001-07:00

Major Changes Coming Soon!

Stay Tuned!

And please, if you are following us, and we have never met, leave a comment. Let us know who you are...why you are following our little blog....and you may, just may, get some cool news yourself!

Cya Soon!

VACATION 2011!

2011-02-19T17:08:00.002-07:00

Stay Tuned for More...

...COMING SOON!

"Tolerance" - Really?

2011-02-07T17:59:00.016-07:00

Hopefully this will simply be read, and understood.

I believe "tolerate" is one word over-used...too easily and overwhelmingly!!

Stick with me here.

Think about it. The word tolerate means (thank you Google):

1.Allow the existence, occurrence, or practice of (something that one does not necessarily like or agree with) without interference

■a regime unwilling to tolerate dissent

2.Accept or endure (someone or something unpleasant or disliked) with forbearance

■how was it that she could tolerate such noise?

3.Be capable of continued subjection to (a drug, toxin, or environmental condition) without adverse reaction

■lichens grow in conditions that no other plants tolerate

Lets look at number #1:

"allow" being the first word, bothers me. Why would anyone simply "allow" someone else to just be? Allowing their "existence"...allowing? Hell, I may not remember being born, but I don't think anyone "allowed" me to be who I am. I just am. Who made these people master of all that is tolerated?

#2:

Lets go with the actual example. "such noise?" I make very little noise in this world, I would not expect anyone to "tolerate" me for being me. As I would not judge, nor tolerate anyone as such.

#3:

Well, I can relate to that one. We all can. Our bodies need to tolerate here and there...but our minds? I don't think so! We have the ability to choose. That is what makes us unique!

My point being: We all hear in the news, the Internet, the blogs, etc...how one group tolerates another. How one religion tolerates the others. One ethnic group tolerates another in a neighborhood. One nation tolerates the militaristic grumblings of their neighbors. One state tolerates the next states political visions. One gender tolerating another. That last one may be more acceptable than I am willing to admit, but hell, I have trouble with the same gender!

I DON'T WANT TO BE SIMPLY TOLERATED! I prefer to BE. That's it. Just BE!

I don't want to be tolerated for being who I am. For the color of my skin. How I think, feel and love. For the way I was born. How I live my life. For our daughters very special being - having two fathers. I don't want to be tolerated for having a family that just happens to be out of the norm.

Someone please tell me, what exactly is the norm these days?

My partner and I were at a dinner awhile back. There was a 20-something man, gay, heralding the idea of being a role model for gay youth. Sending a positive message that we can, and will, be who we are. That to teach "tolerance" was paramount in his endeavors. Get the word out, that gay people deserve to be tolerated.

I certainly salute his determination to make a difference, however, why on earth would you want to instill the ability to tolerate someone? I just don't get it. I don't want to be tolerated, damn it! I just want to be . I don't care to be accepted, or judged for sinning, but being loved as a sinner! How hypocritical is that? I only care to be me, a human being, taking up space on this mother earth. Don't think twice about who I am, and how I chose to live my life. My life is not yours to "tolerate". It is mine, and mine only!

We have such limited time in life. Why waste it judging people for who they happen to be. Love one another, smile for each other. Don't simply tolerate someone,. get to know them. Offer your life's experiences; absorb theirs. You may find some pretty cool friends, get some helpful hints for life...and downright walk away with a feeling of accomplishment and camaraderie.

Grin from ear to ear. Feel the love! We are all special in our own right. Open your hearts and minds to some thing/some one different from you and those who surround you.

In short:

"Don't Tolerate - Circulate! "

AH, You So Punny!!

2011-02-07T10:54:00.007-07:00

or...For a Good Laugh, read on:

1.The fattest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference.
He acquired his size from too much pi.

2. I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island,
but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian .

3. She was only a whiskey maker,
but he loved her still.

4. A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class,
because it was a weapon of math disruption.

5. No matter how much you push the envelope,
it'll still be stationery.

6. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road
and was cited for littering.

7. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blownapart.

8. Two silk worms had a race.
They ended up in a tie.

9. A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall.
The police are looking into it.

10. Time flies like an arrow.
Fruit flies like a banana.

11. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.

12. Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway.
One hat said to the other: “You stay here; I'll go on a head.”;

13. I wondered why the baseball kept getting bigger.
Then it hit me.

14. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center said: “Keep off the Grass.”;

15. The midget fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.

16. The soldier who survived mustard gas and
pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

17. A backward poet writes inverse.

18. In a democracy it's your vote that counts.
In feudalism it's your count that votes.

19. If you jumped off the bridge in Paris ,
you'd be in Seine .

20. A vulture boards an airplane, carrying two dead raccoons.
The flight attendant looks at him and says, “I'm sorry, sir, only one carrion allowed per passenger.”;

21. Two fish swim into a concrete wall.
One turns to the other and says “Dam!”;

22. Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft.
Unsurprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can't have your kayak and heat it too.

23. Two hydrogen atoms meet. One says, “I've lost my electron.”;
The other says “Are you sure?” The first replies, “Yes, I'm positive.”;

24. Did you hear about the Buddhist who refused Novocain during a root canal?
His goal: transcend dental medication.

25. There was the person who sent ten puns to friends, with the hope that at least one of the puns would make them laugh.
No pun in ten did.

GET IT? GOT IT? GOOD!!!

Which one is your favorite and why?

A HUGE THANKS to our friend, and Bella's Buddy; SUSAN C.!!!

Could Not Resist...(thanks Jeanna)

2011-01-16T11:15:00.004-07:00

When I was a kid, adults used to bore me to tears with their tedious diatribes about how hard things were. When they were growing up; what with walking twenty-five miles to school every morning....Uphill... Barefoot... BOTH ways...BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!

And I remember promising myself that when I grew up, there was no way I was going to lay a bunch of crud like that on my kids about how hard I had it and how easy they've got it!

But now that I'm over the ripe old age of forty, I can't help but look around and notice the youth of today. You've got it so easy! I mean, compared to my childhood, you live in paradise! And I hate to say it, but you kids today, you don't know how good you've got it!

1) When we were kids, we didn't have the Internet. If we wanted to know something, we had to go to the library and look it up ourselves, in the card catalog!!

2) There was no email!! We had to actually write somebody a letter - with a pen! Then you had to walk all the way across the street and put it in the mailbox, and it would take like a week to get there! Stamps were 10 cents!

3) Child Protective Services didn't care if our parents beat us. As a matter of fact, the parents of all my friends also had permission to kick our butt! Nowhere was safe!

4) There were no MP3's or Napsters or iTunes! If you wanted to own music, you had to hitchhike to the record store and buy it yourself!

5) Or you had to wait around all day to tape it off the radio, and the DJ would usually talk over the beginning and mess it all up! There were no CD players! We had tape decks in our car. We'd play our favorite tape and "eject" it when finished, and then the tape would come undone rendering it useless. Cause, hey, that's how we rolled, Baby! Dig?

6) We didn't have fancy features like Call Waiting! If you were on the phone and somebody else called, they got a busy signal, that's it!

7) There weren't any cell phones either! If you left the house, you just didn't make a call or receive one. You actually had to be out of touch with your "friends". Think of the horror... not being in touch with someone 24/7!!! And then there's TEXTING. Yeah, right. Please!

8) And we didn't have fancy Caller ID either! When the phone rang, you had no idea who it was! It could be your school, your parents, your boss, your cousin ... you just didn't know!!! You had to pick it up and take your chances!

9) We didn't have Wii, PlayStation or Xbox video games with high-resolution 3-D graphics! We had the Atari 2600! With games like 'Space Invaders' and 'Asteroids'. Your screen guy was a little square! You actually had to use your imagination!!! And there were no multiple levels or screens, it was just one screen.. Forever! And you could never win. The game just kept getting harder and harder and faster and faster until you died! Just like LIFE!

10) You had to use a little book called a TV Guide to find out what was on! You were out of luck when it came to channel surfing! You had to get off your butt and walk over to the TV to change the channel!!! NO REMOTES!!!

11) There was no Cartoon Network either! You could only get cartoons on Saturday Morning. Do you hear what I'm saying? We had to wait ALL WEEK for cartoons!

12) And we didn't have microwaves. If we wanted to heat something up, we had to use the stove! Imagine that!

13) And our parents told us to stay outside and play... all day long. And if you came back inside... you were doing chores!

14) And car seats - oh, please! Mom threw you in the back seat and you hung on. If you were lucky, you got the "safety arm" across the chest at the last moment if she had to stop suddenly, and if your head hit the dashboard, well that was your fault for calling "shot gun" in the first place!

See! That's exactly what I'm talking about! You guys wouldn't have lasted five minutes back in 1970 or any time before!

We could go on and on and on, but, why? The world changes, technology advances...we learn to live in the now. But please, do not complain how difficult you have it...not without thinking of life long before.

The Over 40 Crowd and...

It Was A Wonderful Christmas...

2010-12-26T07:27:00.003-07:00

(go ahead, click to enlarge. u know u wanna)

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2010-12-21T12:14:00.004-07:00

I don't care if it isn't PC anymore, I like saying it

Enjoy!

Introducing...

2010-12-14T17:50:00.006-07:00

Miss Iris Anne

Born December 9, 2010 - 12:45pm
8lb 11 oz - 21 inches long

This is Bella's 3rd Cousin.

My Niece, Debby Deb's 1st grandchild...and her son JC's first child!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Just Cuz I Wanna...

2010-12-06T11:34:00.002-07:00

...and cuz it was SO MUCH FUN!

...and VOILA!!...we have our winners!!!

2010-12-03T19:42:00.013-07:00

FINALLY! As Promised. (OK OK,a few times)!!

We have our winners of the DO WITCHES MAKE FISHES BOOK GIVEAWAY.

Written by my friend JASON MAYO, who, as many of you know, has his own blog...and is quite the pay it forward type. Please click on his name above, and consider the CHARITY which benefits from the entire kit and caboodle of proceeds from the sales of his book

Now, you can watch the TOTALLY UNEDITED video, or you can scroll down for the names of the winners...turns out, both are personal friends...(see for youself, we didnt cheat) LOL...and one has an Amazing Blog and is quite the accomplished Author herself!

Without further ado, the unedited (shortened) video:

(unedited to show names were chosen fair and square. Nya Nya Nya Nya!!

and, to be honest, the video had to be shortened, it was WAY TO BIG for the blog...but the name pulling is all there...unedited))

Oh, unedited, raw and full of silliness! We pulled the names in Bella's new Drama Room...upstairs.

Tee Hee!!

And The Winners are:

SUSAN R. from Philadelphia

LEX VALENTINE

Thanks to everyone who entered, and remained patient :-)

SUE ME!

2010-11-29T15:20:00.008-07:00

Or rather, forgive me!

PLEASE!

Just got so caught up in everything going on:

moving into our new home
sorting stuff
readying for the thanksgiving holiday
dealing with a flu bug...

...that and I forgot...and honestly, just put off, delayed, and plain ignored the CONTEST outcome.

Therefore, we are giving 5 more days.

That's right, FIVE MORE DAYS!!

So, get your comments in. Get your friends to comment...and come Friday, we will pull two names for the book contest.

I PROMISE THIS TIME!

AND, we will get Bella on video, pulling the names outta the hat...I PROMISE!

And, to get your interest going...we have TWO MORE contests coming up.

BOTH are great as gifts for the Holidays!

I PROMISE!

Stay Tuned!!

Tee Hee!

Two More Daze!

2010-11-15T10:07:00.008-07:00

(thanks for the pic Amy)

That's right, you read it correctly...only TWO MORE DAZE!

For?

Well, glad you asked...

In two short days, we will pull two names from the pot. The Kitty. The Ole Bucket O' Names...etc....for the "DO WITCHES MAKE FISHES? - GIVEAWAY"

Yup Yup Yup...TWO NAMES. How often do you enter a contest where more than one name is drawn?

Glad you asked...Answer: Not often!

So, glad we could make you smile.

But, tell your friends...only two more days...get the comments in...your name is automatically entered.

So far we have (a few have blogs, click on their names to visit):

PJ: (I know, he didn't want to be included, as he'd already purchased the book, but, I figure, if he wins another, he can give it to someone he cares about).

RACHEL: (My good friend from Overstock.com)

SUSAN: (Our BFF from Philly).

CHARITY: (BellaDaddy's lifelong friend and confidant)

SARAH F: (Bella's close adult buddy and my new goof off pal)

MIKE & MIKE: (Heh Heh, such the funny one, and no, two names do not count as two separate entries - sorry) LOL)

Mattie & Keith (Our new friends and neighbors)

CIARA: (BellaDaddy's friend from Dad-Blogs.com)

PARADYKES: (Gotta love the name!)

Best Wishes, and GOOD LUCK TO ALL!

Bella's New Favorite Book!! & Contest!

2010-11-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: C'mon peeps, it's a contest! Ya know, FREE STUFF! :-)

Leave a comment, win a prize. If you are not a member of Google's Friend Connect, you can still leave a comment. Select "anonymous", and comment, then type your name at the end of the comment. That way , we will know it is you.

And, GOOD LUCK!

OK,OK, So I realize this may be one shameless plug, but, c'mon; how many times does one get to talk about a book, actually written, and published, by a close friend. RARELY I would say!

If any of you have ever had an issue with your kids not eating the right stuff, (and who hasn't?!), then this is a must read!

So, without further ado, please...head on over to: DO WITCHES MAKE FISHES?

Read about it, realize the good this book will do...and...BUY IT!

(Bella Did)

I only had to read it once, with a few little voices thrown in for good measure, and Bella proclaimed: "This is My new favorite book - I Love It".

(true story)

Jason is a good friend, one we met in the blogger world. We have had a close, personal, cyber relationship (get your mind out of the gutter), and I truly believe in, and trust, what he is doing here. His blog is one of a kind, truly unique. He is currently on a break from said blog, but, you can head over, read hundreds of prior posts, and still leave comments. I know he would appreciate your kind words!

OUTNUMBERED

(or click on his head to the right of this post)

This storybook, is generating quite the buzz...and ALL proceeds (not just some) are headed to the GARDEN OF DREAMS FOUNDATION. We have donated before, also through Jason, and trust me when I say, this is one hell of a charity!

And, believe you me, the kids will ADORE this story!

Every comment left will automatically add your name to a pot. Bella will pick TWO names, and YOU may receive a copy! So, leave a comment, you can WIN!

Aw, The New Neighborhood!

2010-11-01T10:44:00.007-07:00

Well, we've moved and all is well. If you can stand living in and out of boxes. Landscaping tearing up the front and back yards. Loads of dust. But, hey, who's complaining. We love it!

And the neighbors? All I can say is this: We've definitely made the right move. So far, all the people we've met here have been fantastic! And that is a total understatement. And, so many kids. YES!

Our first week in, we were invited to a neighbors 4th birthday party. This for their son, Ronan. Needless to say, Bella had one helluva good time. They had a fire engine come in; sirens blaring and the kids went Bonkers. Bella LOVES fire engines, and firemen, and police men, pretty much anyone in uniform. She mistakenly identified a security guard at Safeway as a Police Man. He was flattered! (um, should I be worried already?)

So, the pic. HONEST, I did NOT ask her to pose for this. Nor would I have asked her to pose, um, er, ahem, in THAT manner.

She was actually attempting to maneuver under the steering wheel. Just as I snapped the pic.

Total truth here!!

I was NOT trying to get a pageant type pose from our kid. NO WAY!

Of course, since it turned out so damn cute, I HAD to share it.

Heh Heh!

Halloween Pics coming tomorrow!

2010-10-31T10:06:00.018-07:00

Happy Halloween

2010

See if anyone realizes the Frankenstein reference!

(Insert Evil Laugh Here)

And A Huge Thanks to our Special Guests:

Sarah & Amy!

Halloween Warning!

2010-10-29T10:50:00.002-07:00

YO! You Following ME?

2010-10-20T11:29:00.004-07:00

Being back in the blog-o-sphere is cool...loving it. Especially the comments you all leave...some of them leave me in tears, laughing out loud and some, well perhaps, at times, a bit confused. Believe me, it is Me, not You! :-)

I have also noticed, there are many more followers than before. If you wanna see them, look to the right of this post. I see many familiar faces, and allot that are not.

I am honored, and humbled that there are so many whom wish to "follow" our escapades. At the same time, I am a bit bewildered by it as well.

So, with that in mind, let me know who you are.

If you are following, and have never left a comment, please feel free to do so. NOW!

LOL!

Seriously, I would love to know who you are, if you have a blog of your own.

If you are concerned about leaving personal info in comments, know this, all comments are "approved" by me, before posting. Therefore, when you leave a comment, let me know it is confidential. I will either not post it, or edit the content.

So, with that being said, c'mon, you know you wanna:

Leave A Comment. Allow us that little peek into your lives. If you are planning a family, have a little one already or just following cuz we are silly fun, I wanna know. Okie Dokie?

You'll feel so much better. I promise! HA!

Kudos!

Daddy's Crying!

2010-10-18T08:55:00.013-07:00

I purposely did not post this past weekend, instead, hoping not to jinx it, I waited.

(ready to go)

BELLA STARTED SCHOOL TODAY! Whaaaahhhhhhh (that's daddy's tears - ONLY!)

WOW, whomever said we should question school administrators or teachers, were dead wrong. We were told I would be the emotional one, and boy were they spot on. Bella was like:..."CYA" and was eager (too eager) to join the kids on the playground for before school fun...and because she had chapped lips, and lip balm on, I couldn't even get a kiss. She did, however, blow me an "air kiss!" *SIGH*...

(see my back pack)

It all started on Thursday, the day we got the call...Bella was accepted to Pre-School. Frantic, I called her pediatrician, because I knew she hadn't had her 4 year immunizations just yet. We were lucky, they had a Nurse Practitioner ready on Saturday morning. Whew!!

Spent all day and evening Friday, pumping the little one up: "Bella, you have to be brave." "Bella, you are going to get 4 shots" "Bella, they are gonna hurt, but it will be better soon" "Bella, you will get a lollypop after the shots" Etc...Etc...

(good luck rainbow)

Bella took it all in stride.

(heading through the school gate)

I did not!

I don't do well with Bella and doctors office visits. I am always so concerned with her temperament, that I am certain, I cause her to be more nervous. So, I don't go anymore. Papa does. THANKFULLY!

As Papa said, Bella was a trooper. It was over in a matter of moments, and she was back to being herself. Very little tears. How does he get so lucky? Dunno, but I suspect, if I had been there, holy terror, there would have been "Drama - Trauma!!"

She has been so excited to head off to school. And no better example than this morning. Woke up. Got dressed. ate Breakfast...and was "ready to go now, Daddy".

Of course, i was the one delaying. Had to take pics. Ready to go, back pack on, at the gates, in the school...I was doing everything in my power not to lose it.

(and, there she goes...)

I did. IN STARBUCKS!

They asked where Bella was, I told them she had started her first day...and headed out to the parking lot. And cried!

Daddy's a big ole baby.

And now? Writing this, I feel better...Sorta!

Think I am gonna go let lose again!

Daddy's Crying!

School Daze

2010-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

So, we decided, long before Bella was born, that I would be a stay at home parent. Assuming I would be able to handle taking care of a kid, 24/7 for the first five years of her life. We were pretty adamant, considering we both had started school, then. Kindergarten.

Well, life moves on, things change and well, our outlook did too.

Now, before anyone assumes the worst, yes, I have had my moments, quite a few in the last year actually. I have noticed, and probably conveyed a bit too much: CABIN FEVER! Impatience. Yelling. but, never spanking. Yeah, I can yell. Big surprise , eh? HA!

Honestly though, it is more of a deep voice kinda thing. When I am angry with the little one (or Papa), the voice deepens a few octaves. Not Darth Vader deep, but low enough to get my point across. Normally. Not as often as I would like, but...well..it works. sometimes.

Anyhoo, I have noticed that my deep voice rantings are not working as much anymore. The little one chooses to ignore my warnings of not running in the house, running in flip flops, and in general, not running at all. Although, bribery still works. Probably will till the day I die LOL! She thinks it is funny to disobey these warnings, and Papa? Well, Papa likes to push my buttons and instigate the little one. NO worries, we are truly a happy family, but hell, I seem to be experiencing the good cop/bad cop dilemma.

Which brings me to this: I get a break! FINALLY!!

Albeit only a few hours a day, but YIKES! It has been FOUR YEARS since I had this much time on my hands...what will I do? Probably clean house. Initially. Then? Get back in shape. Yeah, contrary to popular belief, I ain't this pretty under all the clothes. I need work. Not having had that luxury in so many years, now is the time.

Enough of me. The reason for this post?: BELLA IS GOING TO SCHOOL! NOW! Before kindergarten.

We had known for some time, that the public school system in our state sucks. BIG TIME! Therefore, we were seeking alternatives for her schooling. She is a bright, creative and opinionated kid. Therefore, she needs to be stimulated. So, we determined the best bet would be private schools. NOT!

SHEESH, even with the economy in such a state, the tuition for kindergarten and up was a minimum of 12k per year. FOR A 5 YEAR OLD? I remember paying that for college...(almost)!

UH UH...so after careful and extensive research, we decided on Montessori. She can learn at her own pace, and excel. The system is such that it enables students to have a more personal approach to education, rather than the teacher sitting behind a desk, spouting off essays, rules and warnings.

So, we found a school. Learned there was a waiting list, and decided to apply. It is fairly close to our new home and we needed to get her on the list for kindergarten . ASAP!

We did, took the tour and discovered there was ONE opening for pre-school. PRE-SCHOOL!

Such the excellent adventure! Although we had never considered it before, we know this, now, will teach her the importance of socialization. And give her a head start on the learning/schooling processes.

We've already bought her back-pack, thermos and lunch pail. She is thrilled. For now. We all know that can change the moment she walks through that door and realizes Daddy & Papa wont be there...We all went through it at one point or another...life moves...and moves...and moves.

Yesterday, Thursday, Bella met her teacher for the first time. They call this an assessment. Teachers meet with students, one on one.

It went well. We Think. We should find out today if she has been accepted. Fingers crossed!

Perhaps soon...not only will I have time for me, I can do laundry, clean the house, pick up toys, plan dinner, work out and BLOG AGAIN!

YEAH ME!

*SIGH* (it only took 4 years and several months)

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

Educate yourself with the reading, writings and rhythmic movements of the members @ DAD-BLOGS

Halloween Redux

2010-10-12T06:48:00.004-07:00

Who knew our little one was frugal? With all the toys floating around, the cool clothes and perfume! And lest we forget the shoes. Gotta have the shoes that match.

However, this Halloween, Bella surprised us by saving her Daddy & Papa over $100 bucks!

True True!

We were trying to get a head start on Halloween this year, being that it will be her first time heading door to door. We have been pumping her up, teaching her the do's and dont's of trick or treating: "Ring the bell, or knock - say "TRICK OR TREAT"...then run like crazy! KIDDING! We all know the score for Halloween.

Since Bella was 1 , she has thoroughly enjoyed being the one to give out the candy. We have pretty much held back on her experiencing the sweet shops of lore, instead, "treating" her with sugar free ice creams, yogurt, fruits and fun veggies, and the like. She has been cool about it...until now.

She KNOWS what those commercials on TV are all about now...SHE KNOWS!! And she never lets us forget it. Being the Little Miss Chatterley that she is, she constantly, and incessantly, talks. (Another post soon, I promise)

So, this year, we decided, since we are moving soon to a cool new neighborhood, now is the time.

Anyhoo, back to "The Savings!"

We were recently looking through pictures of Halloweens past, Bella and I, when she remembered she had wings in the closet. We had previously chosen a Queen of Hearts costume. (Think Alice in Wonderland, the original) and it was in an online catalog for just about $100. You know the type: Costume Only, crown extra. Etc... So, it would have been approximately $150.00 when all the accoutrement were purchased.

Looking at the pictures, a bell went off in her head!!

"Daddy, where are my wings, I want my wings. The wings make me fly, I want my Wings. Can you find them Daddy? I want to wear them, Daddy. Please, oh please, Daddy, I want my wings!"....OK OK You get the idea.

Daddy found the wings.

And, I recalled storing the rest of the costume as well...close by. (Kudos to Daddy)

So I dug out the personalized matching treat bag, the tutu, the wand, the head band etc... We even had super awesome new pink shoes, with a large pink rhinestone on the toe, that work out perfectly! (not pictured)...Bella was so eager to try it on...and lo and behold, the damn thing fit. PERFECTLY!

To make a long story short, and to confirm the savings, Bella exclaimed: "Daddy, THIS is what I want to wear for Halloween! This one, oh please Daddy, may I wear this one for Halloween. Daddy, I want to be the Butterfly! Please, Please, Please"?

SIGH: who could say no? Especially to a $150 Savings!

Here is the costume, (cell phone pic - sorry) in (almost) all of it's glory. I remembered she outgrew the top that came with it (long gone now), so we will be shopping for just the right one, soon.

SIGH #2: I love this little girl!

Enjoy! - More posts coming soon: BELLA GOES TO SCHOOL! Restoration Pics. Bella's New Bedroom. Bella's new Drama Room...all coming soon....I PROMISE. There has been so much going on, that the blog has suffered. No more...I PROMISE!

VOTE FOR BELLADADDY!

2010-08-27T07:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Fatherhood Friday! Head on over to DAD-BLOGS!

For shiz and giggles, click the link below:

Perez Hilton and You Again present Now and Then Photo Contest

And, LQQK, Democracy at work...

Bella Voted in Tuesday's Primary Election!!

Guess Who's Special Day Today?!!

2010-08-03T08:59:00.009-07:00

Certainly not MOI!!?? (tee hee)

So very many well wishes and greetings this day, via the phone, and all Bella can do is...make noise, chatter, sing, run, yell, scream...OH, and fall on her face...(I keep telling her not to run in the house), JUST to get Daddy's attention and redirected her way... It's all about Bella, as you know!

SIGH!

Happy Day to Me!
(altho, she has sung "Happy Birthday" to me a few times...so frikkin cute!!)

Oh! Happy Daze

2010-07-30T08:58:00.013-07:00

The little one turned four, and a grand time was had. Since we are delaying the "big party", we had a small gathering at the cottage. Sissy Amy was there, as well as honorary Big Girl Diva Sarah, Daddy and of course Papa. Bella received wonderful cards and gifts. Even her BFF Sophia sent super presents from N.J.!

There was a lot of Juicy Couture flying around this day!

Here are just a few pics of the event...as you can tell, Daddy & papa seemed to have a bit more fun than most HA!

Enjoy!

Happy 4th Birthday Bella!

2010-07-28T05:29:00.006-07:00

On Your Special Day (which is truly OUR special day)...

Four years ago today, you entered our world...you became Our World!

Now, there are four times the fun, in everything.

Four times the laundry, but four times the Hugz!

Four times the booboo's, = four times more colored band-aids to choose from.

Four times more chat = four times less boredom and monotony!

Four times more clothes = four times more compliments (and shoes)! AND Four Times more Toys means four times more BellaDaddy playtime!

Four times the frustration and confusion, but four times the forgiveness!

Four times more opinions = four times the realization that Daddy is always right (almost)!

Four times more pouts, countered by four times the smiles when bribed with Chocolate!

No doubt, you posses four times the attitude, now that you have become a young lady, but with that, we get four times more understanding and yearning to learn!

Four years ago, you bounded out into our world...

you became, OUR WORLD!

Happy Birthday

to the

Love of our Lives!

An Open Birthday Letter

2010-07-16T08:11:00.007-07:00

Sent this out (via Email) today:

"Good Day Everyone,

We certainly hope this finds you well.

As many of you know, this is the time of year where we are usually busy planning the little ones birthday party. She will be turning 4 this year....yeah right, 4??? WOW.

Anyhoo, you may notice that you haven't received an invitation. I am here to assure you, it is not lost in the mail...nor have you been disinvited...etc....
We are delaying it this year. The party, not her birthday...after all...when you are born, you are born

With everything going on...(restoring a new home, etc...read about it here: http://belladaddy.blogspot.com/2010/07/i-brake-for-pidgeons.html), we just ran out of time, and to be honest, we have so little room currently, for all your wonderful smiles and well wishes.

Therefore, please, be patient, and keep an eye out in your mailbox...Most likely towards the middle/end of August. And, Bella would SO LOVE to hear from you on her actual birthday...July 28th, so please don’t hesitate to give her a call...but be warned...she does LOVE to talk on the phone HA!

All our Very Best Wishes,

David, Vince & Bella"

Get your birthday balloons on over to DAD-BLOGS.COM.

"Bad, Daddy...Bad!

2010-07-09T06:31:00.009-07:00

Standing in line, waiting on my coffee to be finished, Starbucks was bustling with customers. Some in line, most at tables...ensconced in subtle conversations. You could close your eyes and envision the espresso seeping through the veins of everyone drinking. Waking those needing to be awoken....racing through the arteries of the coffee junkies.

It was, typically, like any other time we venture to our local Starbucks. The staff there love to see Bella. She loves seeing them. They know my drink, and Bella's cup is always adorned with "BELLA" and a heart, stars and butterflies..here and there... She actually demands her name be on the cup...at the very least.

So...waiting in line...Bella at my side...one person in front of us...one person away from my morning fix...I feel the fingers on my right hand squeezed...ever so slight. UH OH, Bella must see something she wants...usually a cookie, or donut...or...who knows...

Um, Er, Ahem, Uh...NOT THIS TIME!

"Daddy, Look - HE HAFFA BIG BUTT"

Instant Mortification! (Yikes, Yikes and more...YIKES!!)

There, in front of me in line, was a fairly large man...ok, he was pretty large....ok, ok, perhaps his shorter stature made him look larger....but no doubt...there was a rather large pair of gluteus maximus...staring back at me. I honestly had not even noticed this person in line...in front of me...practically in my face.

But, Bella did...and let EVERYONE know it...

Damn! Do I laugh? (which is the usual for me)....or do I admonish her...in front of everyone...and HIM? (perhaps he hadn't heard this little voice, bellowing his backside measurements)!

Um, the kids behind the counter, making coffee...heating the milk...you know...LOUD! Well, they heard it...and turned away...quickly...so as not to bust out laughing...in front of HIM!

GAWD! I was shaken to my core...WTF am I supposed to do?

I lean down, practically on my knees...and say:

"Bella, Honey...He probably knows he has a big butt, but it is not up to you, to tell anyone. Ever, Ever, Ever. Now, please say your sorry"

"Sorry Daddy"

Walking out...she looks up...with watery eyes (after Daddy read her)..."He did haffa big butt Daddy"...'Yes Bella...he did...it was HUGE-MONGOUS!'

He never let on, if he had heard...he walked out...head held high...jiggly parts a'jigglin'

Bad Daddy, Bad Daddy!

Get your gluteus maximus on over to DAD-BLOGS for more hilarious, helpful and hair-raising fun!

Just Another WORDLESS WEDNEDAY!

2010-07-07T08:30:00.006-07:00

Sung to the tune of "Manic Monday"

Wander on over to DAD-BLOGS for super amazing pic and stories,

from Dads (and Moms) just like me!

I Brake For Pigeons!

2010-07-05T09:53:00.027-07:00

Daddy, why did you honk the horn?

Honey, I had to honk to get the pigeons to move.

Eww, I don't like pigeons - they are Rats with Wings!

You learn fast, little one!

One of many hilarious "chats" Bella and I have while driving.

And urban Living, at it's finest!

I had mentioned recently, that I would fill everyone in as to why I took that "break" from blogging. Well, here it is...in all its condensed glory.

Several months back, (OK., really like a year ago)...we decided it was time to move. We hadn't determined where, when or how...but we knew it was time. Our old neighborhood was beautiful...if you like desert scape (yuck) and cloistered neighbors (sigh).

Cloistered because we had a running joke. Once the neighbors drive into the garage, close the door, you don't see them anymore...weekends included. Most of them. It was odd really. Many families with kids...one of the reasons we built there...but we rarely saw them...or socialized.

At first, it was amazing...we met loads of neighbors and had oodles of friends...but sadly, it wasn't meant to be. Perhaps the novelty wore off...being two dads and a kid, we certainly stuck out...(our home was gorgeous and absolutely had an aesthetic life of it's own)...or maybe, it ended up being that we just did not have allot in common...or!...with Daddy's big mouth, people may have wanted to just stay away from the freak who rambles... - (a lack of adult interaction will do that to you). Long story short, after 4 years there, we needed more. Wanted more. Bella was getting to that age where she was questioning everything...(EVERYTHING - will blog more about our little miss Chatterley later on...). Of course, one question was a bit heartbreaking: "Daddy, when can we go play with (insert this name and/or that name here)?" It was difficult, at best, explaining why the kids were in school, and why she wasn't. Attempting to make her aware, that not all kids will want to play with her at all times...etc...Sigh!

WAIT: YIKES! I almost forgot to mention. We DID make some lifelong friends in our old neighborhood...those that will be with us no matter where we venture...and they know they can expect the same of us!

Whew! Where was I? Oh yea...long story short...

We wanted more. For our little one. For our Family.

More culture. More diversity. Less traffic (more like less road rage)...

So, we moved. Packed it all up...(and three storage units later)...and squirreled off to a lovely little cottage. Downtown. Historic District. All the museums, parks and 35 mph speed limits we could want for.

And. Pigeons.

Our old home had a plethora of wildlife...but it was geared more towards desert dwelling. Cactus. Rocks. Desert Brush. Needle-pin-pointed plants...all needed less water than the norm. We had Desert Quail. Gecko's. Hummingbirds. Wasps. Killer Bees. (yeah, you read that correctly - although they are everywhere around these parts). The coolest beetles ever seen, woodpeckers that pecked our fireplace cap (metal - it was loud- dumb ass birds). and Hawks...soaring beautifully overhead...waiting to dive down and latch their razor-like claws into our dogs...!!

We moved. Into a rental. 1280 sq. ft...(in comparison, our old home was 34oo)...it was to be a challenge. We decided to rent (neither of us had rented in so many years) in a neighborhood, or close to one, that we were interested in buying in. We decided on one of the many historic districts - downtown. Found a very cool little abode...and realized, our frikkin furniture was way too large to fit...Big house = Big Furniture...Little Cottage = logistics nightmare! Papa, being the Architect he is, came up with a floorplan...measured all the stuff we have...and made most of it fit...tightly! We have stuff in two garages. Two storage units and of course, packed to the gills in the cottage. The neighborhood is quiet, and oh so close to all we need or desire.

But...and yes, there is yet another chapter to this story. Once we moved into the cottage...(remember - renting)...we found a home to buy. Literally, one day after we moved into the rental. We had figured we would be here at least a year, until we could find that one perfect place. You know, the one where Bella would grow up in...we would never leave...at least not until retirement.

Anyhoo, here we are...stuff stored everywhere...in a rental...and we bought a home. Not just any home, but one that needs to be completely gutted...and restored. (Believe me, we got a great deal...and no longer have a mortgage).

A home built in 1938. My Partner, being the Architect, brought up the idea of restoring it, rather than renovating. So, the best part?...(other than it will be amazing when we get to live in it)...the shopping...deco fixtures. deco accoutrement...deco everything....will post pics here soon...but...we had to COMPLETELY GUT! Sewage, electrical, ceilings...pretty much everything is being re-done... The neighbors love it...the "eyesore" is being re-done - FINALLY!

Bella will once again have her drama room...and a bedroom that is HUGE, and will act as a playroom as well...we will have three bathrooms, as opposed to one now...(not fun)...and LOADS of grass and open...(after having a 1/4 acre of concrete removed out back...(another story)...

It will be heaven. But, as you can imagine, it hasn't been easy...and I was finding myself more and more stressed about blogging...totally overwhelmed with life in general...so much going on... And, because there was nothing to say...except how exhausted I was becoming...and I had already beat that horse to death. I was tired, but for Bella...well, of course, this was one huge adventure...and THAT was what kept me going...regardless of how pooped I was...or cranky...or...well, you get the idea. I just didn't want to talk about it anymore that I had to...and certainly not on the blog.

We discovered our new neighbors - (in what Bella calls our "New New Home" - the rental is the New Home") are amazing! Artists. Professionals. Cultured...and Diverse, Elderly, and quite the eclectic grouping. Perfect! We even had several over last night, for the Fireworks display downtown. Our garage has a second floor...the only two story structure in the neighborhood...and despite the construction dust and debris...we had a BLAST! Beautiful people!

So, here we are...living in two homes, with multiple storage facilities (we cant find half of what we need)...but...life is calming...surprisingly, there is less racing traffic (due to speed limits)...but, we have train noises in the far distance (we love it)...helicopters overhead (old home was in a flight path of planes - had been altered after we move in)...and LOADS of song birds, butterflies, wild lovebirds, cats, hummingbirds, lady bugs...and pigeons. Most of them alive, but, in the downtown area, a few squashed ones...OK, many...here and there.

Therefore, I brake for pigeons...

Happy Independence Day - Weekend!

2010-07-02T08:41:00.013-07:00

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

Grill on over to DAD-BLOGS!!

Enjoy The Fun:

Keep it Safe this holiday weekend!

Oprah is Calling...

2010-06-30T08:42:00.006-07:00

Calling on YOU, to help make our friend the next TV Talk Show STAR!!!

Seriously, I am certain by now, you have all heard about the controversy surrounding Oprah's new contest...ya, ya, that one. Click here for details: OPRAH CONTEST CONTROVERSY.

Anyhow, our friend Dr. Joe, is one helluva contestant, possessing all that you have come to appreciate in Dr. shows....(Dr. Phil does NOT count!!).

YOU can help make it happen.

Please, click on the link below and cast your vote for Dr. Joe.

Watching this hilarious video will most likely persuade you anyway, but, as an added incentive, you will get a few glimpses of Bella's BFF for life: Sophia.

Not to mention, Sophia's siblings, Julia & Paolo.

So, c'mon, leave a comment here...let us know you voted!

CLICK HERE for the VIDEO & VOTE:

THE DR. JOE SHOW 4 OPRAH

Wordless Wednesday, brought to you by Dad-Blogs

2010-06-23T09:15:00.004-07:00

It's That Time Again...

2010-06-18T08:15:00.020-07:00

Fathers Day, ah, the one time BellaDaddy solicits laughs, guffaws and thigh slapping good times...from a captive audience, at his own expense...(of course!).

Head over to DAD-BLOGS to wish others a happy happy day...after all, it is the one day we get to call our own! ...and, Happy Fatherhood Friday!

Happy Fathers Day!

When Life Gives You Lemons...

2010-06-11T08:38:00.016-07:00

...you marry them off, and let them squeeze out more Lemons!!!

Our dear friends, Stacy, Jeff and Aiden Lemon welcomed their second child into the world: Harper.

As Stacy is a member of DAD-BLOGS, I would hope you would venture on over and smother them in congratulatory messages!

click here for THE LEMONS!!!

Tell em Bella Sent ya!

Congratulations to a VERY special family!

SummerTime? Break it Down!

2010-06-03T18:34:00.020-07:00

OK, so,summer time isn't really here ...yet! But, for our state, it comes early...TOO DAMN EARLY! (As I write this, we are coming off a 100 degree heat - FIRST WEEK OF JUNE!)

So, in the sweltering spirit of brain damaging heat...I thought it would be fun to break it on down.

Enjoy the song...(one of my absolute favorites sung by FANTASIA.)

click on her name for the video...

Summertime,

And the livin' is easy

Fish are jumpin'

And the cotton is high

Your daddy's rich

And your mamma's good lookin'

So hush little baby

Don't you cry

And now, my personal break down of the song:

"Summertime, And the livin' is easy"

TOTAL BS! How can you live it easy when it is so damn hot outside, your fingers stick to the steering wheel...you cover the kids booster seat with a towel to keep it from radiating such heat, that it burns her little bottom!

"Fish are jumpin' And the cotton is high"

Ain't no damn fish jumpin here...if they did, they would die as soon as they hit the heat over the water...ya know...fly and die!

Cotton? Hell, the only cotton high here is the shorts running up the butt cracks of poorly dressed people at the grocery store. You know those glass screens over the salad bars? It ain't for anything other than catching sweat dripping off those uncovered arm bags!

"Oh, Your daddy's rich"

Um, er, ahem...anyone heard of the recession going on? Hell no, Daddy ain't rich...Stay at home dads are at the mercy of their partners...or government programs!

"And your mamma's good lookin"

For those of you still in the dark, as to our family make-up:...Sorry Kid! No Mama here...the egg donor is pretty darn good looking, but we have no contact with her! Snuggle on up with the sweaty neighbor lady!

"So hush little baby Don't you cry"

Should be...Hush little toddler, don't ask so many damn questions! Read recently that the average 4 year old asks 432 questions...PER DAY! Yup, Bella is going to be 4 next month. She got a VERY early start!

"One of these mornings You're going to rise up singing"

Yeah Right! That will be the day. We get.."It's Morning time"...Can I get up? Please Please Please...over and over...(at least 30 times) till we go in and get her out of bed! I'll sing the morning song..."Good Morning, Good Morning...It's good to be alive. Good morning, good morning, to you". Of course, I get that all important "morning hug"...she stands on the bed, and wraps her arms around me and squeezes oh so tight...and says:..."Good Morning Daddy."

"Then you'll spread your wings And you'll take to the sky"

Uh Uh, we don't let her jump on the bed...so if those wings spread, she is gonna fall...besides, ever heard of ICARUS? Ya know, too close to the sun and the wings melted? Yup, no doubt it would happen here! And there I would be, cleaning up yet another mess!

"But until that morning There's a'nothing can harm you"

LIES LIES LIES! I still monitor the monitor, to make sure she is good to go in bed. No bugs flying around, no one sneaking in through her window. Also, making sure she isn't jumping on that damn bed, trying to spread those frikkin wings!

"With your daddy and mammy standing by"

Daddy and PAPA, thank you VERY MUCH! Uh, Mammy? Not very PC eh?

...and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don't ask so many damn question! Driving Daddy Bonkers!!

Coming Soon: What I learned on my blogger months long break. (Hint) What Frikkin Break?

Coming Back, Slow But Sure...

2010-05-06T12:34:00.010-07:00

Will be posting here again soon...more and more...lots of cool, exciting things happening...as well as some, well, not so cool...

Enjoy this very recent pic...of our little one's FIRST runway show...Bella may not look happy for whatever reason, in this pic, but, long story short...she stole the show...(more on that later)!

And, thanks to all of you, leaving encouraging comments...we have missed you too. Cya Soon!

Happy Friday!

2010-03-19T09:32:00.006-07:00

Relaxing, enjoying the less-than-tension-filled week!

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

You MUST check out the Mentally Sexy RESERVOIR DAD

on DAD-BLOGS! What an amazingly cool representation of Aussie Dads

Cheers!

No, Really!

2010-03-12T07:21:00.007-07:00

Still taking that much needed "breather" and thanks for the coolio comments....we will be back...sooner than you can say "Where's My Bella?"

OK OK, maybe not THAT soon...but am certain you get the idea...

And if not, here are a few peeks into why the break is needed...

1) We are moving (not always fun - but we are happy about it)

2) Our new home is 1300 sq ft, our old; 3400 (the great space experiment)

3) We have GLADYS KRAVITZ type neighbors (only a few - one of which I confronted just yesterday)

4) Bella has begun the test of boundaries...attitude adjustment on it's way...

5) Today (Friday) is Papa's B-Day...(hafta clean the damn house LOL)

A few more things...will blog on all...soon! So, to smile, and read the happs, head on over to: DAD-BLOGS.

And, Happy Fatherhood Friday!

Cya Soon!

Sometimes...

2010-03-11T08:23:00.004-07:00

...ya just need a breather.

These past two weeks have been a new avenue in life for me to experience. Don't get me wrong, nothing bad has happened, I just needed a break.

There will be new posts here soon, highlighting the lives we are currently leading. But, for now, I just needed to take a step back, inhale deeply, re-evaluate our priorities.

Unfortunately, the blog suffered. So many of you have left such wonderful comments, on our last post, and sent emails wondering where we were. We are well, fine and trudging onward with all life has to offer...and yes, even throw at us.

I have read all of these comments and thoughts and SO appreciate your concerns. I have wanted to leave comments on your blogs, and yes, I have read many of them, but I just haven't had the mind-set to do so...yet.

Be warned! LOL

Apologies for sounding so cryptic...I promise to post more soon.

For now, look forward to tomorrow:

Fatherhood Friday over at DAD-BLOGS!

Happy Fatherhood Friday

2010-03-05T05:24:00.028-07:00

Picture yourself amongst the best of the best. DAD-BLOGS.
Where every day is a celebration of DADS!

Today's post is all about beauty. Beautiful Bella *SIGH*

It has been one uber-crazed week (more on that, in a few days), and I just wanted to stare at her face for hours on end, everyday. So today, you get the same privilege HA! Sometimes ya just wanna make people smile!

Take a gander at these "never before seen" - candid shots. (non-edited), (OK, somewhat edited).. !!!

Enjoy!

"Hey Hey We're Stepping On Up!"

"Lemmee Outta Here!"

"Hey Daddy, where's the furniture?"

"Yup, Told Ya. I AM A Shopper!"

"You're Gonna Cook My Dinner on THIS?"

"Happy Valentines Day! (Yeppers, I get a 'Happy Cake' for EVERY Holiday)"

"Smooch"

"A Lovely Rose, for ME"

"Lady GaGa, Inspires Me"

"and, I can Dance Too"

"Come On Baby,. it ain't THAT cold outside, let's Roll"

"I am SO gonna BUST Santa"

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK!

2010-02-28T19:39:00.012-07:00

This weeks featured blogger is one cool cat. OK, so he's not a cat, but, he is smooth, nonetheless. We have been acquainted for some time, and honestly, I feel kinda dumb, for waiting this long to feature him and his blog. In our mind, (a dangerous place), his blog is one of those we are most likely to refer to for some good humour. No, not the ice cream, just good ole, down home, giggle your booty off, fun! His kid is featured regularly, and the antics can by hysterical. This based on how he expresses his appreciation for situations, disdain for some and downright direct, point on descriptions of everyday parenting and life. It is great fun, for us, reading about their toddler and how they deal as a family. Brings back such memories. HA! even though ours are only about 4 short years, so far.

Now, his writings on his blog are out of this world good. Impressive! He writes from the heart, and shoots from the hip...and yeah, his wife gets a few good digs in here and there...but...his son? DEFINITELY gonna be a buddy for Bella..we may have never met in person, but it' s gonna happen. No way our little one is going to miss out on a cool friendship with such a smooth operator.

He features some pretty frikkin amazing recipes too...What? You haven't heard of blogs with food posts? Hell, I have gained a few pounds just reading his blog, and yes, have even tried a few of the recipes...YUM! HE certainly knows his stuff!

So, please, give it up for:

Vroom! Vroom!

AKA: REAL MEN DRIVE MINIVANS. You may remember his little one won a t-shirt from Bella awhile back. He is brave enough to not only admit he drives a minivan, but that he is proud too! LOL!

So, drive on over, and tell him Bella sent ya! REAL MEN DRIVE MINIVANS! We truly appreciate this guy!

Cheers!

Bella Update

2010-02-26T06:43:00.013-07:00

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

Boogie on over to DAD-BLOGS.COM for some cool columns, fast friendships and crazed camaraderie!

Although I haven't written exclusively of Bella recently, I have to say, she is growing into such the lovely little lady. Loads of attitude for her dear 'ole Daddy...but, (perhaps biased a bit?): Beautiful!

So, while I ponder the next Bella "Exclusive" Installment...enjoy these very recent pics:

"Cuz I Roll That Way"

Feb 13, '10

Stacy's Momma Home

A Little Rain

Lady GaGa Aint Got Nuttin On Me!

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK!

2010-02-21T17:17:00.018-07:00

So, this week's featured blog buddy is new to the Bella Fan Club scene. He popped up on DAD-BLOGS and the blogging neighborhood ain't never been the same since.

I am a meat and potatoes kinda guy, trapped in a chicken wrap, soy-milk, protein bar and bean sprout world (trying to eat healthy here) and this particular blogger makes me wanna head out and grab a cheeseburger...not because I crave it, but because I can...I want to...because I DESERVE IT! In a relatively short period of time, he has become one of my favorite blogger buddies...one of my favorite characters...and most certainly one of my favorite friends in the virtual world!

He leaves the most hysterical comments on our blog and honestly, I am always eager to see what he has to say next...his opinion matters and we adore his rants...and non-PC raves here! (He really is a nice guy although I have to apologize ahead of time to him - don't wanna ruin his rep with sugar coated compliments)...

We instantly became virtual friends, When you visit his blog, you'll encounter the same irreverent, funny, "piss you off - in your face" attitude that I love. And I say piss you off - in your face attitude because...well..let's just say he writes the world as it is...not only in his mind and eyes, but mine...and very well yours. That, and he even made me cry...The Bastard! (tee hee). Seriously.

Recently, I saw via the list to the right here, that he had updated. Blogged for the world to read...so, of course, being the uber-fan I am, (stalker maybe?) I raced over to see what was happening in his world. Usually, I read his musings and crack the hell up...(yes, a few profanities here and there, never hurts...and his blog is rampant with potty mouth analogies...(again, tee hee). To give him credit, and the benefit of the doubt, I am probably exaggerating a bit here...Man Oh Man I love reading this guys blog...can you tell yet? He has a badge on our blog, and that badge was made and posted just a few weeks after getting acquainted. We don't have many on here, but this was one we must have saved space for...hadda do it!

Anyway, I ventured over, clamping my butt cheeks, scrunching the abs, because I knew I was in for one hell of a belly laugh. Ya know, had to be prepared. And he made me cry.

THE BASTARD! (OK OK, I cry easily, being the emotional blob I am - but I was crying..and I mean C-R-Y-I-N-G! Out loud, lips quivering, body convulsing..,..thankfully Bella was napping and the other half was nowhere to be found!) Here I was prepared for a hearty good time...and I was blubbering like a baby.

This guy can WRITE! Seriously, like no other I have befriended in the blogger world. He says things that I think, he writes what I cannot...and he gets "it". You may absolutely love him, or hate him, but there is something you cannot deny...he is brilliant!

See for yourself...and go ahead...clench your butt cheeks too...it just may happen.

I give you:

SPUDS

THIS is why I love this guy. (even if he did call me Dave) Check out the comment left:

"Thanks Dave and thanks to everyone who has stopped by and left GREAT comments. You know... some will ask... "How did a bad-ass International Security Operations Specialist come to be such good buds with Bella Dad?" Well this is how it happened..."I first met him atop a mountain near Jerusalem, praying to God, asking his forgiveness for the Radical Right blood spilt by his sword. Next, he amazed me still further in Italy when he saved a fatherless beauty from the would-be ravishing of her dreadfully ugly uncle. In Greece he spent a year in silence just to better understand the sound of a whisper. And that is how I met the man, nay the seeker of serenity, the protector of Italian virginity, the enforcer of our Lord God, Bella Dad!" (Insert theme music) ***Some accounts may be slightly (or wildly) exaggerated... but then again, I'm a writer! It's what I do! "

Last Weeks Featured Blog: SURPRISED MOM

Back To The Future?

2010-02-19T05:00:00.002-07:00

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

WALK, don't Run over to DAD-BLOGS for some hearty, healthy blogger fun and info!!

Grab you airline bag, flip up the toilet seat, this post is gonna be a spew heavy writing...guaranteed!

OK, maybe not so bad...but, it all started last Sunday...Valentines Day. Not sure what part of the day, but, go on, you know you are curious; read for yourself. You decide:

We'd had a "yummy-licious" lunch at a local Mexican restaurant. One we frequent on the weekends. Earlier we'd participated in an historic homes tour...(lucky for us, no snow like the rest of the country AND we had temps in the 70's). Bella LOVES home tours...asking often if we can "go looking at homes today?" Bella had her first Lemonade Stand experience. with moi drinking most of it. As always (also on the weekends) we frequent the local Starbucks...enjoying coffee, chai tea and of course, the brownies. Bella LOVES the brownies...and the bling donuts, the chocolate donuts and apple juice. We always seem to have a full on eat all you can weekend...and I eat or taste most of everything. (Notice a pattern here?).

Back at home that evening, I wasn't hungry for dinner. I prepared meals for everyone else in the house and settled myself with an apple and some grapes...eh, it was filling. And I felt good about my choice. Healthy! We exchanged Valentines gifts and settled in for a night of easy, relaxing television and play.

So, Sunday night (3:22AM - yeah, yeah OK, let's be specific - Mon morning)...I woke with a tummy ache. Nothing unusual. Sometimes I get that "ate too much odd stuff and have a sour stomach)...so, I laid there for a few moments,,,thinking, if I move my body around a bit, the ickyness will subside...well it didn't. It only got worse. Within moments, I was up...running...BARELY making it to the restroom...and...well, to put it mildly: SPEW CITY!

FOOD POISONING! And boy was it violent. I mean, I was not only praying to the Almighty porcelain god, I was DYING! Sacrificing this life for a white, shiny smooth demon...regurgitating all of life's edibles for the cause. What cause? Who knows, but it was the most complete offering known to man. Everything! For hours on end. Every hour, on the hour, up until about 8AM, I was violently strengthening my abominable muscles for the good of mankind. (honestly, it was the most "active" volcano of spew I have ever experienced).

Finally, able to sleep, there was nothing left to purge...(yeah, I even had some of the dreaded dry heaves). Painful, to say the least. My partner had checked on me several times, and me, being the embarrassed type, said I would be OK, before shutting the door. Perhaps to mask the sound, the smells or insure my vomit face was not exposed. Dunno. But, hey, he cared enough to check...despite the scene. (Tee Hee). He even took that day off from his work, and took over the daddy day care responsibilities. Although this is a pretty awesome event, I was so involved in my own turmoil, I barely had a chance to notice...of course, I thanked him profusely afterward.

So, Monday morning, I wake...first thing on my mind...'how is my stomach, am I gonna spew again? Nothing....WHEW, I was OK...at first. I then realized, I couldn't move...my back. Seriously, my legs would not move. My toes would. Not the legs...not the back...nada. I was practically frozen. Some digits tingled, some moved freely. Scared, I yelled out, as each movement only heightened the pain in my back. Seriously, I COULD NOT MOVE. I rolled this way. I rolled that way, and each time, I screamed out in pain. What the hell?

In a split second, my warped imagination kicked in..."OMG, I am PARALYZED"...no joke, it was that bad. Finally able to maneuver myself out of the bed...I tried to walk. And fell. My legs gave out at the slightest EXTREME wince of pain...seriously folks, it was very very bad. I would take a few steps and collapse...on the floor. This went on every time I got out of bed and attempted to walk...over and over...all day long. My mind was working overtime again...I thought: "If this is what it is like getting old, arthritis setting in, or being paralyzed, unable to walk, or function normally...then what happens to my little one:...How one earth can I take care of my toddler, play with her, run with her...and in general, do the everyday chores necessary to live a normal life...HOW???

If something were to happen to me, in the house, with our young daughter around, how would we get help? Who would come to our rescue? How would Bella deal, handle this?

SO MANY things running through my head as I tried to walk...tried to yell out for help...so many things, and yet, no answers to the questions were forthcoming...futile. I was (am) the only one who can fix this.

Making a long long story short, I recovered. Finding out that I had spasmed by back...strained it really, while spewing. That's right folks. You can actually throw your back out by vomiting. So, beware...the Almighty porcelain god will not only take your food sacrifices, but your body as well.

When I Was finally able to walk again (at least 24 hours later) without falling...I started in on the little one. "If Daddy falls and gets hurt, and cannot get up, who do you call?" "If Daddy gets REAL sick and cannot get out of bed, who you gonna call?"...911...Of course, Bella finds it funny, and realizes she gets to play with the phone...and starts with 9911. Um, er, ahem, no Honey, not 9911...so I wrote it down...she gets it now. Also, l had to teach her how to turn the phone on talk to dial...but she is a smarty...she gets it.

What she doesn't get yet...is the fact that someday, I am gonna be old...infirm...and she may have to change my diapers...wipe the drool from my face...clean the chocolate pudding off MY legs...

Oh The Sweet (Irony) Revenge!

Click on these helpful sites:
Teaching your child how to use 911
Stranger Danger Quiz
Private Places

Check out our BELLABUDDY BLOGS OF THE WEEKs Past:

SURPRISED MOM
TEACHER TOM
WINTER
THE LEMONS

I Threw Up In My Mouth A Little Today!

2010-02-17T15:14:00.015-07:00

We are the parents of a wonderful little girl. Beautiful. Intelligent. Smile Infectious. A truly amazing little human being...one who touches each soul she meets. BUTT! (and yes, you read that correctly B-U-T-T) there are some real asses out there in the world.

Recently, (today, which is why I am writing this now) I came across a comment on another blog (which shall remain nameless), whereby an "anonymous" person (yeah, brave, eh?) suggested that parents, who give birth via surrogacy stand accused of paying for a "Designer Baby".

Seriously? A designer baby? Because they opted for a surrogacy program? Because this particular child has Blond hair and blue eyes, the "anonymous" person likened their birth choice to the NAZI MASTER RACE PROGRAM. THE FRIKKIN NAZIS!!! (never in a million years would I have thought to mention Nazi's on our blog...maybe fashion Nazi's, but that is another story). This because most surrogacy programs allow two men to determine whose sperm will be used. Either mixed or chosen. Some, for considerable amounts of fundage, will even allow you to choose the sex and eye color...(which we declined...cuz personally, we found that creepy). OUR OPINION for US ONLY!

I threw up in my mouth a little when I read that! How could anyone accuse parents of such a thing. Two people who probably weighed the best, most important birthing decision of their lives. Our experience was long and drawn out, because we had to weigh countless choices. Adoptions (our state did not allow it at the time), Live birth (we decided against for fear of the birth mother changing her mind. Open Adoption, (same reason as Live Birth)...foreign surrogacy (too involved for us at the time and difficult to find a trusting source) and Foreign Adoption, (again involved and no guarantees). In short, it took almost three years before we had even conceived, just because of the paperwork involved!

Perhaps we were selfish. We knew in our hearts, for us to have a child together, we preferred the biological method. With all the legal, medical and scientific crap involved, trust me, it never really felt like a biological birthing process. Men and Women can get pregnant, easily. In my thought process, there are way too many "easy" babies out there...wanting homes...and we could not give them one...for so many ridiculous reasons. And quite frankly, we were not willing to wait any longer, for anyone else to determine if we were "fit" to be parents.

We chose surrogacy because we wanted to. We could. Regardless of the reasons, it was our decision. OURS! We would never, ever demean someone, discriminate against or judge anyone based on their very personal decisions to have a child. However they chose to do it. Many people could never afford the program we utilised, and we have had plenty of comments pertaining to that fact (most harmless, just curious as to how it worked) and we have met those comments with facts...not glossing over the difficult times...the seemingly endless frustrations with the lengthy process...the HUGE amounts of money set up in trust BEFORE you are even matched with a Surrogate. The worrying if our sperm count is up to par, or if we will even get pregnant the first time, the concern that the surrogate will stay healthy...that our child will be born "normal" (all ten fingers and toes - yes I counted when she was born).. Endless concerns. Just like you...anyone having a child. And, we most certainly share the joyous times; Meeting the surrogate for the first time, the one who will unselfishly give up her life for up to a year...and that first ultrasound...or the first heartbeat...yup...just like you. I would assume the first time a potential adoptive parent see a picture of the child, or the ultrasound, it would feel exactly the same...the pride, the joy!

We considered adoption, (again, not legal in our state at the time), and also the fact that there are millions of unwanted, abandoned American Children who need loving homes...but, we were not given that opportunity because we are Gay. We could have gone out of state, but., the costs, although reasonable would have provided no guarantees...and bringing a child across state lines, legally adopted or not, creates a whole other bag of tricks for us Gay Folks (again, at the time, 5+ years ago, in our state). And, to be honest, we were eager to have our family come to life...Once we had made our decision to start a family, nothing was going to stand in our way of creating life...our way. We have even had some rude comments and insinuations that we should have gone the adoptions route, considering the amount of money it cost us to conceive and carry, based on the amount of children needing homes. We considered all of it...with very heavy hearts! And when we meet families with adopted children, we are thrilled for them as a family. We don't compare our processes with theirs...we are just happy for them. They were able to create a family...to provide a loving home...to a child! (and of course, I tend to whip out the camera and blind everyone, taking countless pics)...

Now, I am sharing all of this because I feel the need to remind people; Please, before you open your mouth and let out a whole lot of hurt, consider yourself. Consider the position you would be in, doing whatever it took to make a family. Reach out and try to understand, to educate yourselves in the many options, and not, that are available (and not) to anyone. Gay, Str8, etc...doesn't matter. Options are out there, but the right options can only be chosen by those involved. And if you have never had to experience any of these life altering, life changing avenues...then please, shut before you speak!

Allow these families to enjoy their, well families without their having to consider your opinions! Consider what each go through, and will continue to go through, their entire life. No one should look in shame on any family...for wanting just that...a family!

It shouldn't matter how people have children, what should matter is they did...they do..and they will. Bringing children into this world (legally) is a miracle. And for the record, we are considering expanding our family..this time through adoption. Stay Tuned!

Our little one (and this blog) should be testament enough!

We know resume our regularly scheduled broadcast. You have not missed any of your favorite shows!

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK!

2010-02-14T19:28:00.014-07:00

SURPRISED? I thought not...but, you will be...or may be, pleasantly
surprised. I know I was, the first time I encountered our newest Blog Of The Week Buddy! Being a member of Dad-Blogs, it has always been all-inclusive when it comes to Dads...and moms. Which brings us to our next surprise (no worries, eventually, you will understand the constant use of the word..."surprise".

This blog buddy-ette has always been there...always sweet, compassionate, and a truly good person. There has never been one moment of question, regarding our vastly different lives. We are simply parents, and she conveys just that...as though we have known each other for years. Though we have never met, I feel certain this person has one incredibly kind, caring and passionate life philosophy. There is not one post that we write, that she hasn't commented on. No matter the topic,. No matter the silliness, there she is...and always...(surprise) kind words...and encouragement for our little one.

I feel (not surprisingly:) that she truly cares about what we post...how our little one is learning to live in this world...she seems genuinely interested, and follows us religiously. (Surprised I used a biblical term?)!..LOL

Her blog is direct, full of deep, personal thoughts...and I love reading about her days at work...her commute...her long hours during the holidays...her co-workers antics...how she missed her daughter who has recently moved away...her commitment to her children, her silly sense of humour, and in general, her zest for life...she is pretty darn cool in our book. (in case you hadn't already noticed).

People love her. I read the comments on her blog, and feel the warmth emanating from not only her blog, but her followers. You can see she is truly appreciated. So, without further ado, and no more surp rises, I give you a very special BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK:

SURPRISED MOM

Please, visit her blog, SURPRISED MOM, leave a comment, get to know her as we have. Tell her Bella sent ya!

Last Weeks Featured Blog: TEACHER TOM

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

and...Tango on Over to DAD-BLOGS for FatherHood Friday!

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK!

2010-02-07T17:55:00.031-07:00

Sunday, February 7Th, 2010

We've featured two MOM'S recently in our newly dedicated weekly postings...and with all due respect, they were fantastic, but, it is finally time for a Dad! I truly choose blogs at random. I will scan through our friend lists, our followers and wait for a light to go off...to be inspired.

This weeks featured BellaBuddy inspires me...daily. This particular blogger is a preschool teacher, writer, artist and the author of "A PARENTS GUIDE TO SEATTLE". He was called "The Peter Pan of Teaching" in a prior posting of ours, (I don't think he saw it - tee hee)...and I have to say this...I can only wish I'd had him as any one of my own Teachers. We all remember that one inspiring educator. The one took you by the hand and told you all would be ok...defended you against ridicule and encouraged you to succeed in life, at play and at home. Even at that most important, tender pre-school age. I remember mine, vividly...

This particular one, although long past my "Remember the Cool Teacher" phase , is nonetheless, still inspiring to me now. In these days of Stay-At-Home parenting, every inspiration, educational nudge and downright crafty fun-ness is needed...and appreciated. Virtually (get it?) -LOL) every day, every post, this guys has the coolest, most awe inspiring class projects...featuring pics and stories from that Great Pre-School Classroom of his...and the fun-stuff featured are too educational to pass up. We have tried several and Bella always screams for more...

The stories he shares about his students only further my desires to see Bella learn, every time we play...smile, laugh and downright educate through this guys' eyes and mind. And hey, who knows, the next Van Gogh, or Michelangelo (Or Lady GaGa) may be playing amongst his very students...and he will be the one they remember!

I am telling you, this guy truly is inspirational! (I am certain I have said it more than once, but c'mon, it is my blog after all!)

TEACHER TOM

But, seriously, don't take my word for it, check out his pic above..(again, I stole it without permission). That should be an indicator of what your in for...:-) Being an educator, his blog is easy to read, and get all caught up inspiring your young ones. And hell, his blog is fun! If not to inspire, he will certainly make you think...and wanna get down in the trenches and play...with mud, paper, paints, rocks, plants, etc...etc...etc...and even scientific stuff ;-) All the while learning some cool information...you could puff out that chest, be proud and inspire a HUGE Grin from your kid (insert melting comment here).

Please, fly on over to his blog. Make sure and tell him Bella sent ya!

TEACHER TOM

Cheers!

Last Weeks Featured Blog: WINTER

"Daddy, Where's Your Vagina?"

2010-02-05T05:00:00.008-07:00

I will relent, Bella hasn't' actually asked that question...yet. But I know, with the type of household (irreverent) we reside in...it is coming...sooner than later! Read on for more BellaDaddy Ramblings into the title of this post!

"relevant" "poignant" "humorous" "compassionate" "truly entertaining"

There comes a time, in everyone’s life, when you meet a special person; that one person whom commits to your personality traits, your overblown ego, your insecurities, your life. That person is open minded, loves, and in general becomes a crutch; one that supports and props you up with encouragement.

Nope, not talking your spouse, partner, lover, husband or wife…

I am talking: Joe Schatz!

I “met” Joe, by chance really. Perusing Google for stay-at-home-dad support groups, I came upon a fairly new blog site: DAD-BLOGS.COM I imagine everyone rolling their eyes, shrugging their shoulders, as I talk about, and feature DAD-BLOGS.COM on our blog…incessantly. But, this time, it was special. It was as if a new chapter was opening up in my stay-at-home-parenting life. A door I was not willing to close abruptly this time. You know the kind, where you find that very cool feeling, like things are going to change your life and outlook and then BAMM…you find out all they want is your time and money.

Not this time. I was smitten.

Dad-blogs was a place for SAHD’s to hunt and gather. Loads of information. Tips, Camaraderie, etc… I fell in love with the site. And, with Joe. (Sorry Joe, man-crush alert)…So, yeah, I am exaggerating about the falling in love thing, but…

Here is a guy who is allot of what I am not: Str8. Married. Parent to multiples. Catholic. Founder of a Dad site, etc, etc. etc. Blah Blah Blah. But one thing we share, (other than being male) is that we are both Stay-At Home-Dads. Proud ones, in fact! So, when he came out with a book, one detailing his life as a SAHD, I had to know more.

I manipulated the “system” and got my hands on a copy. Manipulated? Hell yes, I would have paid for it, but an opportunity arose (that, and I played on Joe’s charitable nature – another worthy attribute), and I was mailed a copy. Autographed to Bella, no less LOL (yes, I am that good, and can be quite persuasive…although, Joe is just that nice of a guy!).

I have to say this…I was a little concerned (not too much) that a str8 dude, writing a book, could never be that interesting for my life as a SAHD, (or Father for that matter.) Come on, think about it, we are quite differing in our lives…but, once I began to read, I realized, hey, we aren't that different, we are Parents…and his book details just that…we all get spit up on, fingers in baby poop, worrying about kids “escaping from their cribs”, parental discrimination's, etc…we all do…we are Dads!

The intro for Joe’s book is quite moving…in fact, I had to put it down after reading…pondering my life and dedication to my family…it brought a tear to my eye…but, I was eager to continue reading…

And you should too. This book is direct and quite poignant considering it is a book primarily based on personal experiences. But hell, these are happenings we ALL experience…Mom’s too. In short, we are all different, yet, we are more of the same than we may realize. This book is relevant!

So please, check out the book…you will not be sorry…in fact, you’ll be laughing quite a bit… It is easy reading and super entertaining…I guarantee, you will be laughing out loud, with your kid(s) wondering what that’s all about. The cover and title has brought Joe some flack, some citing that it was inappropriate (to put it mildly)…I say, lighten up people! Don’t judge a book by it’s cover (cliche – but appropriate here).

You will realize, quickly, that Joe and I (and you) share similar parenting ideals, opinions, frustrations, compassion's and even resolutions. We are really the same…if not for that whole gay/str8 thing! And you will truly enjoy the read!

Click here to : BUY JOE'S BOOK!

Oh Happy Daze! Joins us over at DAD-BLOGS!

PLEASE NOTE: We here at BellaDaddy Blog do not normally promote items for sale. But, in this case, I thoroughly enjoyed this book AND I have great feelings toward the author! I trust his judgment and appreciate his diplomatic approach to life. Don't just take my word for it, visit the dad site we always talk about. See for yourself, what he and his partner Pete have founded. DAD-BLOGS.COM

...and the award goes to...

2010-02-02T09:12:00.052-07:00

ME!

OK OK, so, I never really got the whole blog awarding thing. instead, I usually found it to be an annoyance, taking up valuable space on our blog pages...not so much an award, as it is a chain mail...or pyramid scheme...or an invasion of privacy. KIDDING, KIDDING! (no hate mails please)

Recently, "Toddler Knows Best" awarded us the "Sunshine Award", to the left here, (I did nada to deserve this). I thought..."Oh Crap"...one of my bestest friends in the whole world had done the same...and I forgot.

I forgot to copy her list, paste it here, and come up with my own answers...and then, after reading it, yet again, I realized...HOLY Crap...I am supposed to come up with 10 RANDOM things about MYSELF? WT...? Like I have any clue about randomness, parenting a toddler...hell, I don't have time to count ten toes, let alone realize ten random things about myself...but, ok, ok, I can try...

So, without further ado, I give you the award, "The Honest Scrap Award!" (Honestly, when I first saw it, I thought it said HONEST CRAP!) Honestly!!

Thanks MRS. LEMON, your a pal!

1. I am pretty emotional. I like to see the good in people. I cry at commercials…and yes, even I consider myself a wuss. A nice wuss.

2. I don’t care to stand in line to get in anywhere. Clubs, Restaurants, etc… I figure, if there is a wait, consider the crowds inside, waiting to bump into you…or the slow service you are going to get in a busy restaurant. ICK!

3. I am fairly sarcastic. Having been a stand up comic (long ago) I tend to find the humor in just about everything. Nothing is sacred.

4. When I am stressed out, I clean. EVERYTHING in my path!

5. I am an habitual shopper. Online, offline, always looking for and, (I must compliment myself here), finding GREAT deals. My kid has an amazing wardrobe. LOL

6. I take things too personally. When I post here on the blog, or comment on others’, I want scores of comments. When they don’t come? I wonder what I did wrong. I wonder if the blog is too “involved”…too difficult to read or navigate. I get twisted about it, but then I get over it. See # 7.

7. I have a temper. Sort of. I get angry, flip out, scream, yell, and get over it…all in the space of 10 seconds. and mostly in my head. Yes, I talk to myself when I am angry or upset. After all, being a Stay AT Home Parent, who is going to listen?

8. I hate the fact that I am getting old…I just don’t feel it, yet, when I look in the mirror, there it is.

9. I miss being on stage. I was a successful actor for a time…stage, tv, movies, commercials…*Sigh*….

10. Two of my biggest pet peeves are:* BAD DRIVERS.* LACK OF COMMON SENSE!

AARRRGH! (talking inside my head again) Whew! there…over it!

P.S. Watch out...these people are next! (let's see if they notice!). And, even if they dont, click their names to visit their blogs...I can assure you, every blog is worth every moment!

MY TWO DADS

REAL MEN DRIVEMINIVANS

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK!

2010-01-31T18:57:00.022-07:00

Sunday January 31, 2010

This week's blog is a bit different that what most of you may be used to...so grab on, and enjoy the ride. There are not cutesier kids, goofy family videos, parenting advice and the like...this one is a bit, well, let's just say this blog SUCKS!

There is no nudity, but I have to warn ya, there are LOTS of hunky men and women...and no, it is far from porn, not for kids viewing, not for the faint of heart...but certainly entertaining. Be prepared to remember the name "Marcus!"

This particular blog belongs to a lifelong friend, one I met when I was 14, she was 17. Inseparable, we would get into SO MUCH TROUBLE.

She had a STARSKY & HUTCH CAR, exact replica...

We were given a nickname. Mind you, not one I would have chosen for us, but, as far as I was concerned, it made me feel special...it was fun..."Starsky & F**ked"....yeah yeah, I was f**ked. Hey, we were teenagers. She was the one who encouraged me to change my life, to follow my dreams. The Arts. I did well throughout the years...and always fondly cherished her wisdom, her faith in my talents, and remembered her for pushing me to succeed...to continue my education...to finish at levels my family had never seen.

I recall all too well, her writings...even 30+ years ago...still vivid. I would beg to read her short stories, her novels...but she was fiercely protective. These were her "babies." No one could read them until they were "ready." Inevitably, I would be the one. The Critic...(HEY, bite me, I may not be one to get my thoughts in type very well, but I CAN read :-) She would reluctantly give me the finished product...I always ended in in tears. Her gift was (is) amazing...we always KNEW she would be published...She HAD to...she was that good.

Well, finally it happened, in this past year...as they say, good things come to those that wait...and wait, and wait...she was published. I could not have been more proud, or happy!

We lost contact for many, many years, finally finding her online...and although we reconnected, and it felt as though we had never been lost to one another, we still haven't been in each others presence in over 25 years now. Amazing eh?

So, for this weeks highlight, I give you one of my dearest, and oldest friendships:

SUNLIGHT SUCKS

Please, make sure when you stop by her blog, (click the link above) mention BellaDaddy sent you! And don't forget to check the links, for her amazing, published works!

UPDATE: Please follow this link: SUNLIGHT SUCKS to read Winter's write up to my post!

Last Weeks Featured Blog: THE LEMONS

Bella Speaks!

2010-01-29T05:55:00.003-07:00

Another exciting Fatherhood Friday! Join me at DAD-BLOGS for some creative columns. debating dads and moms, and even yummy recipies!

As many of you have known for sometime, we are pretty darn silly in our household. We have goofy, gibberish conversations all the time...inventing our own words. (no worries, she has an extremely accurate command of the English Vocabulary).

Bella has her own "Bella Speak" and gives nicknames to all kinds of things: Toys, Clothes, Hats, Body Parts, Shoes, etc....

(to highlight a few - a very few - in her own words):

DeelyBopper Hat (watch the vid to see)

Booty

Yumalicious (this tastes good)

MooMoo (nightgown - no clue where she got that one (WINK).

Gazoomba (when someone sneezes)

Daddy-Doo & PaPa-Poo

And, well, quite a few expressions that she seems to come up with herself. There are so many, but, check out the vid...get an idea of what I am saying here...

Recently, Bella discovered her butt crack in a mirror, and how her cereal bar has a similar, uh, feature....and well, er, um, ahem, check out the video. See exactly where she thinks that food "ends" up!

Enjoy!

Sorry, Couldn't Resist!

2010-01-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

I just hadda....

Check out the hair on me. I believe I must have had that same style, some 35-odd years ago. (Extreme emphasis on odd)...AAAARGH!

Enjoy! (at my expense, certainly - tee hee)

Don't miss out on voting! Take the poll to the right.

BELLABUDDY BLOG OF THE WEEK

2010-01-22T08:46:00.001-07:00

We are starting a new feature here at BellaDaddy Blog. I was thinking; "wouldn't it be cool to show other people, some of the cool blogs that we follow?" OK Ok so maybe more cool for me than you....but hey, c'mon...deal with it :-) Humour Me. I am starting this today, Friday, but...this is to be a regular Sunday Feature...and will take it's regularly scheduled programming on Sunday Nights. Beginning NEXT Sunday Night...so this post will actually run for a few days longer. But, on Sundays..you got that...right?

Lucky You, eh? HAHAHAHA! (Let me guess, you figured I was gonna feature JASON, again? Hell, he doesn't need anymore "help". He's got it covered, quite well. Heck, who am I to lie, he will be here too...eventually! No one will know when and how they are Blogged About.,,the choice will be at my discretion...so beware...you could be next...(if you don't wanna be featured, please, let me know...I respect all limits...sorry Stacy, you had no choice this time INSERT EVIL LAUGH HERE)!

Our very first blog buddy holds a very special place in our hearts here at BellaDaddy Blog, and in our personal lives. Stacy, Jeff & Aiden. Stacy and I met while working together in a rather unique business for a rather unique man...(that's another story). We hit it off immediately. We stayed close throughout our time there, partying together (before Bella & Aiden of course)...working, supporting, confiding and yeah, we even had our moments...arguing here and there...

Talk about HOT. Stacy was always considered the bombshell in our place of employ...A rocking bod, amazing fashion sense...(always a Coach Purse on her arm...or similar) Wouldn't be surprised if a diaper bag or two had been from Prada! Hell, She coulda been a BEARD if we'd thunk about it...but alas, we never did...we were more like trouble making BFF's than anything.

Long story short, we stayed friends...even after we'd left our employment. She, to move away with her boyfriend, me to have Bella. But, we all think we make major changes in our lives...for betterment, for change, for whatever...well, Stacy made a HUGE one...she got married! Woo Hoo....and then...well...the cutest little boy...Aiden...

These days, we stay in touch, more so, via our Blogs & emails...we live kinda far apart...but we will always be close... When you visit their blog, you will find some recently very exciting news for their family!

So, go read them for yourselves...open up your blog-o'sphere and absorb some new people info...make sure to leave a comment on these blogs, letting them know "Bella Sent Ya

...and don't forget to visit those other hot Dads & moms over at DAD-BLOGS. Where Fatherhood Friday is the Bomb...no BEARD needed!

So, without further ado, I give you:

THE LEMONS

click on the link above the pic to visit their blog.

Haitian Donation!

2010-01-21T10:46:00.053-07:00

This morning, I received this from my buddy Jason, over @ OUTNUMBERED:

"Hey guys, Just a pass through but I donated the other day to the Clinton-Bush Haiti fund and asked them if they had banners that bloggers can add to their sites. He sent me a few (attached) and the link below to link up to. I threw a banner up on Out-Numbered. If anyone is interested, in helping out, I figured I'd pass it along. No pressure obviously.

www.clintonbushhaitifund.org/donate

Peace Jay"

Consider donating by clicking the link above, the badge to the left, or texting.

YOU!

2010-01-15T05:00:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Blog!

http://bopmyspace.com/

And who can forget...it is TGIF..sooo:

HAPPY FATHERHOOD FRIDAY!

(click the badge below to join us)

WOW, 2 years! Kinda crazy that we have had this little blog for so long...or rather, it doesn't feel even remotely close to 2 years.

I remember being so excited to start the blog, JANUARY 08 to keep in touch with family and friends. And now, now, it has grown to so much more. As of this posting, we have had over 6000 hits (since Feb 27, 2008 when I started tracking it)...and 64 "followers". Straight, Gay, Single Parents, Nuclear Families, Intended Parents, Adopted, Surrogacy Birth, Legal Guardianship...Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Spiritual, Atheist...all races, creeds and colors. You name it, you are all here. So Cool. So many people that I have never met, probably never will. Yet, here they are...friends...interested in our life, our little one and the erratic ramblings of a sometimes crazed Daddy.

I have shared so much, yet, kept so much back....preferring to share the positive most times...and sometime the frustration...but hell...having a child, watching them grow, educating, playing, forming...it is all so new...yet now, so seemingly regimented...I feel like an old pro! All I ever wanted was to share our life in a blog...to document our littlest ones life a bit...so she can look back later in life, and kick me LOL...(Don't forget to backup your blogs!).

Most of my posts have been mundane, with a few exciting, emotional bits...here and there...but mainly, people have been so very positive and refreshing...and helpful ...in their comments. There have been a few, that I have not posted (you now who you are)...and a few followers I have blocked...actually, only 3...but I felt they had no reason to follow a blog like this...eh, my choice, right? (Honestly, they were in countries that are known for hacking, pic stealing, no real reason to follow a blog about a kid)...Takes all kinds, I suppose.

You have watched our little one grow...rocked out with our vids, left comments and suggestions for her growth...and been truly inspirational! I feel like I could reach out and hug each and every one of you.

You have empathised, sympathised, agreed and agreed to disagree...all the while enriching our blog with you presence, enlightening, silly and otherwise intelligent comments. Encouraged us to grow, to live and to enjoy life with a little one! Since the beginning!

Now, we have followers all over USA and the World: The Netherlands, Britain, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, Malaysia, and more...I have to thank DAD-BLOGS specifically. Without them, we would not have met super Dad's & Mom's like JOE SCHATZ, (whose book is featured on our blog - go buy it) and PETE JANELLE who co-founded Dad-Blogs.com. THE LEMONS who hold a very special place in our hearts, WEASELMOMMA who has such amazing insight, or SURPRISED MOM who dearly loves her family, TEACHER TOM who is the Peter Pan of Educators...DADDY FILES who tells it like it is, and encourages you to disagree (wink)...and PJ MULLEN, who drives a minivan, and is proud of it...to name only a few. Ah, so many more! We have exploded...

(OK, not as much as our friend Jason over at OUT-NUMBERED- but for little ole us...it works).

And now, two years later...a new blog design (take the poll to the right)...I could go on and on, about so many things, as many of you know, I like to talk....but, hopefully we can let the blog speak for itself...

Stay tuned for inevitable tweaks, skewers and do-overs, new posts, vids and pics, AND a little Bella Store!

More of the same, and loving it!

So, again...THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!

We are so grateful to have you along for the ride!

A Day At the Park

2010-01-08T05:05:00.000-07:00

New Years Day, 2010...we had such a great time. We'd discovered, only days before, a little amusement park...for small kids...in the middle of the city. Having lived here for 10+ years, it was remarkable that we hadn't ever noticed...really...N-E-V-E-R noticed. RIGHT in the heart of the city... we thought it was a lake - HA)

OK OK, so, giving us the benefit of the doubt...perhaps we should only be admonished for not having known about it since the birth of our little one...almost 4 years LOL

Any hoots...we found it....so, we decided New Years day would be a cool way to start 2010 on a silly, goofy high note...with our little one who LOVES thrill rides...as evidenced in our trip to Philadelphia.

Enjoy the slide show...and apologies, no music...eh, just decided...no music...hope u r not bored LOL.

Make sure and watch the very short video, for giggles galore...Bella had a AMAZING TIME feeding the ducks! (Actually, we all did - as a family! Something no one can deny us...or take away - sorry, political soapbox appeared briefly and is now...gone.) We had the forethought to actually bring along crumbs to feed...go figure. We didn't know of this place for so long, yet, somehow we knew there were gonna be ducks to feed? LMAO!

Happy Fatherhood Friday!

SPIN over to AMAZING Dad's & Mom's @ DAD-BLOGS.COM...putting their lives out there for you to peek in!

I Wonder...

2010-01-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

OK OK, warning ahead of time...this post has NADA to do with the holidays (except for the pic above). Past or present...just so's ya know. I have been meaning to write this post for over a month now, but something else always seemed to get here first...so, here goes:

Recently, Bella was playing in the family room with the television on in the background. Neither one of us was paying any particular attention to what was on. Bella was happily strolling around with her buggy, or playing with her coloring crayons...talking up a blue streak. Yes, I may have mentioned before, she loves to talk...no idea where she may have gotten that from (GRIN). I was (as usual) cleaning something in the kitchen. Maybe dishes...who knows...when all of a sudden...Bella was eerily quiet.

I looked up and she was standing in front of the television, all toys dropped, arms crossed, staring intently at the screen.

What was she focused on?

A VICTORIA'S SECRET Wonder Bra commercial.

You know the one(s), the very revealing kind!

No clue what the commercial was saying, other than to show a large breasted woman, modeling a large pink bra. (Did I mention she had HUGE boobies?)

She stared for awhile, totally silent...before running out of the room, clutching her chest, SCREAMING:

"Daddy, I don't want Big Chee Chee's...EVER! I want small chee chee's! For EVER!"

Sigh! Who knows what was going through her head....(I was rolling for days after, though)!

Tee Hee!

Holiday Happenings

2009-12-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

We are getting that "good ole fashioned feeling" around these parts. We have had cold weather, lots of neighbors have decorated, lights abounding, Santa's sleighing around...and boy, are we (finally) getting into the holiday spirit!

Spirit? Sounds like one of the ghosts in "A Christmas Carol". Whatever happened to just plain ole Merry Christmas to All? Eh, PC all around too, eh? We don't mind so much.

Bella is more than eager to wish anyone and everyone near her, a 'Happy Holiday', 'Merry Christmas' 'Happy Hanukkah'...yeah yeah, we trained her well :-) But, she loves to add: "And, Happy Easter"...!!

She has a few DVDs featuring 'Peter CoPPontail"...(her Bella Speak is contagious)...and thinks she wants Santa to bring her Easter Eggs under the tree...as well as the too many to mention, toys!

Sigh! She is to the point now that she knows all about Santa...and what he does for good little boys and girls. Heh Heh, I can threaten her with calling Santa if she doesn't lay down for a nap, eat her foods, or in general, be a good girl....I know, Threaten? Well, hell, it works Tee Hee!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Recently

2009-12-11T07:42:00.005-07:00

We had our first contest...and our blog friend PJ Mullen,, from Real Men Drive Minivans was the chosen winner...(and boy does he have the cutest little man...Bella's future ex-husband perhaps? LOL)...

You, our faithful readers elected PJ your "Fan Choice"

Below, feast your eyes on the prize!

Happy Fatherhood Friday! DAD-BLOGS.COM

100th Post!

2009-12-04T08:27:00.013-07:00

Blah Blah Blah, so I lied...this is actually the 101st post to this blog. But, since I was drawing a huge blank last week, I put forth a post that was fast, easy and efficient....

AKA: I Was Lazy!

Anyhoo, here it is...the 100th (101st) post.

When I started this blog, it was because Grandma Tove (who has since passed) wanted constant updates. As she and Grandpa lived in Florida, emails, pictures and phone calls were getting so time consuming. And when you have a small one in the house, time is of the essence...so, I started the blog. Pretty much for friends and family to stay in touch and offer a glimpse into the sometimes chaotic home of two dads and a baby. (oh, and two dogs - certainly another post)!

I was so looking forward to sharing our stories, experiences and yes, even advice, to other dads, stay at home parents and well, pretty much anyone who wanted to listen and read. What I ended up with, is a chronicle of our little ones life...in pictures and stories. I download the blog to DVD regularly, so I can show her, and save for her, when she is old enough to read on her own...(boy is she gonna be embarrassed).

Certainly not what I was going for, or expected to occur...I mean, come one, there are PLENTY of cute blogs out there...highlighting cute kids...cute happenings, cute saying etc...etc...etc...and I did NOT want to be one of them....

SURPRISE! It happened anyway....

BUT, I am OK with it.

Personally, not really in the care mode of how people perceive the blog...or our lives...at least not anymore. There was a time where I was concerned. Concerned with how we would be accepted, or not, in the public arena. There were moments where I considered closing off the blog to the pubic...making it a password only follow-ship...but somehow, it didn't seem fair to those interested...and taking the time to leave great comments.

Eh, who cares. It is my blog. My life...my kid...and my thoughts...mine. I write as I speak...goofy, sometimes illiterate...but always honest. Direct. Just Me. I was never the best at writing...not in school...not for work...(although I was pretty successful in coming up with marketing materials and ad campagins...)...go figure!

We have made some incredible friends because of this blog...some who drop by once in awhile, others who will be lifelong...all in all, I am pretty happy with the outcome...and yeah yeah yeah, there will be some cool changes coming soon...in the new year...perhaps!

Anyway, I hope you do enjoy the blog...the pictures, the stories...it's all me. Take it or leave it....

and...HAPPY FATHERHOOD FRIDAY!

Join us for some cool parents, stories advice columns and more,..,..with super dads and moms.

dad-blogs

Imagine...

2009-11-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

After a rather emotional moment for me last friday, I remembered this post from awhile back...

(printed and edited with owners permission - HA!!)

Close your eyes for a few moments, and imagine.

A world where no person is judged based on the...

color of their skin,
love they possess and for whom they wish to spend eternity,
geographical location,
family and friends they keep,
orientations from which they were born,
home they live in,
car they drive,
job they perform,
clothes worn,
personal choices they make as women, men and as humans,
religious or spiritual beliefs ,

political beliefs,
abilities to parent!

Imagine, and you will share in what I wish for my child. I want Bella to grow up in a world we never had, but can, and will.

Love, David, Vince & Bella

Happy Fatherhood Friday! DAD_BLOGS