tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-280640572024-03-13T17:06:46.432-04:00Baseball Babies and BeerMorrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.comBlogger205125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-4693275302782084302012-09-02T10:30:00.002-04:002012-09-02T10:38:20.511-04:00Stage 2 - Delayed<div>Woke up this morning and got the kids all ready to go. We ate a hearty breakfast of Coffee, Honey Combs and Chocolate Dyno Bites. I loaded the bikes up on the rack again... and it started to rain. We're currently sitting in a rain delay while the boys play Minecraft downstairs and the girls watch Edgar & Ellen on Netflix. Here is a picture of James cleaning his bike on Friday night, preparing for the weekend:</div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0lW5OthRRDlHTT6gPl5RWtebvAUoeAi9OxtuAcjg6kEBCAxvw3KCK4ZvG41kzjzBVL0-dFYqTBctnpDg1QzrwX6xwM72BZfSPZJddJjlj69i6WXh6xrZhiJid7MbCgZvcoxWuA/s1600/photo.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0lW5OthRRDlHTT6gPl5RWtebvAUoeAi9OxtuAcjg6kEBCAxvw3KCK4ZvG41kzjzBVL0-dFYqTBctnpDg1QzrwX6xwM72BZfSPZJddJjlj69i6WXh6xrZhiJid7MbCgZvcoxWuA/s400/photo.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5783588551221571522" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-4457314951844056362012-09-01T19:44:00.001-04:002012-09-01T19:44:04.196-04:00Stage 1 - Ridley Creek ParkThis morning we loaded up the car and headed to Ridley Creek State Park. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/01/2417.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/01/s_2417.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Some may think this is obnoxious but it is simply how we have to travel when we bring friends along with us. I'm just glad it worked. Sammy's friend, Matt, came along with us. <br /><br />Ella was a champ. She was cruising down hills when we first got there. I actually had to tell her to slow down - which is something I've never had to say to her before. Then she crashed. <br /><br />I was quite surprised, actually. She normally moves at a snails pace and if she topples over she quits. She did neither today. She was upset for a bit, understandably, but got right back on and was cruising at top speeds by the end of the day. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/01/2418.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/01/s_2418.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />That's a picture of the girls walking up a huge hill. I knew it was there but didn't realize just how big it was. Once over the top it was a 3.5 mile gradual downhill the rest of the way. <br /><br />The start:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/01/2419.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/01/s_2419.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The end:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/09/01/2420.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/09/01/s_2420.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-6701896270265636922012-08-31T10:33:00.001-04:002012-08-31T10:33:32.002-04:00Tour de Five Kids (and friends)This Labor Day weekend we will be having a bike extravaganza at the Morris household. (I really have one singular purpose - which is to get Ella off her damn training wheels before the summer is officially over.) But it also will be a fun filled, ride packed weekend with various destinations including Ridley Creek State Park, Pennypack Park, Forbidden Drive and possibly Valley Forge. (The kids, i.e. Ella, may kill me by the end of the weekend - OR she will be forever grateful to be able to finally ride on two wheels. We will see.) <br /> <br />Tonight will be spent cleaning bikes, filling tires, getting bike racks on the car (yes plural), and maybe taking a quick spin to the neighborhood cemetery before turning in for the night.<br /> <br />Truth be told - I think that the kids are going to have a blast this weekend if we keep it fun, easy, and explore some fun places. Look for posts (and pics) all weekend long...<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-53255003306062776252012-03-12T12:17:00.001-04:002012-03-12T12:17:18.435-04:00Greetings from Camp Sombrero - Day 1<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/03/12/1588.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/03/12/s_1588.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We aren't actually staying at Camp Sombrero, but after seeing this sign, that's what I'm calling our place now. The real Camp Sombrero is a mile or two down the street. We have not met anyone from Camp Sombrero but it is on the to do list. It is just past the shooting range... also on the to do list. <br /><br />I got the bike yesterday from Brian at <a target="_blank" href="cactusadventures.com">Cactus Adventures</a>. It's going to be a fun week. The roads are beautiful here and they are generally flat. When there is a climb it's pretty steady and consistent.<br /><br />The views are stunning.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/03/12/1589.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/03/12/s_1589.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='130' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Now we are off to figure out what game to see today!<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=W%20Capistrano%20Ave,Phoenix,United%20States%4033.350739%2C-112.093519&z=10'>W Capistrano Ave,Phoenix,United States</a></p>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-1244584709675919752012-03-10T10:43:00.001-05:002012-03-10T10:43:11.535-05:00Space TravelerI'm heading to Phoenix tomorrow with a few friends for some biking, spring training games, and March Madness watching (on tv by the pool). <br /><br />On Thursday, Ella was all teary-eyed and said, "Dad - have fun on your vacation. But can you please be careful when you are on Venus?"<br /><br />I think the poor girl had been stressing for days that Daddy was going to outer space and she wasn't quite sure how to handle that. Poor kid. I will bring her a Space Cactus back to put her at ease. :)<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-56298532201731375852012-02-23T22:26:00.001-05:002012-02-23T22:37:12.267-05:00Valuable LessonsI learned today that my recent hobby is, inevitably, going to kill me - or at least kick my ass. I'm clumsy by nature, those who know me will attest to this fact. Those who know me will also testify as to my propensity for bad luck. Particularly recently. (I was just in the ER earlier this month with fractured ribs from falling off of my bike.) I'm also notorious for putting myself in bad situations - like hiking though Hyde Park in Chicago in my highlighter pink polo shirt. But hey - this is me. This is what I do. <br />
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So today - I was meeting an old friend for lunch at a great little restaurant in Chinatown. I decided to bike it from the office (I rode in today - it was 60 degrees in February). I got to the restaurant with no problems. It was when I was getting ready to lock up the bike, and I was trying to jar my lock from its holder, that I ran into trouble. <br />
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As I was yanking with all of my might - the lock broke free from the holder and my hand swiftly thrusted downward, meeting the greasy teeth of the chainring. I think that's what it's called. It's the round metal thing with the sharp pointy teeth and grit and grime all over it that holds your bike chain. Yeah. My hand hit that thing... and my hand lost. <br />
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A swift trip to the most ghetto hospital ever created was in order. It was turning out to be quiet a fun day - and was about to get even better. I dropped my bike at the office (scarfed down the Beef Chow Fun take out that I wisely ordered) and headed to Hanehman Hospital just North of City Hall in Philly.<br />
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Seriously - the lobby looked like a homeless shelter. I shit you not. Everybody was dirty and passed out. I was almost ready to leave, but before I could, the lovely cross-eyed woman from behind the bullet proof glass at the registration desk called me over using her microphone from 1992, "ccsshhhh - Mister Morris - cccssshhhh." I immediately stepped out of the soup line and walked over to her window to move the process forward. I told her that the glass wasn't necessary - and that I had left my gun with my bicycle. <br />
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Triage was great. The nurse was pleasant and clearly she was enjoying her day. This may sound sarcastic - but I assure you it is not intended to be. She took my blood pressure, asked about medical history, and we laughed about my day's mishap - all with a smile on her face. This was the most pleasant triage nurse I had ever met. (ER triage is a field where I may be considered an expert in some parts of the country). I even told her about the great Chinese take out I had eaten. I felt like we became instant BFFs. It was about this time that I realized why she was so happy. She walked back to the ER and actually said to me, "We don't get many 'normal' patients here. So the residents are gonna fight over you." After that - I over heard her telling them that she took my blood sugar reading and that it was high. THEN - I actually had, AND TOOK, some insulin. This was revolutionary for these folks, apparently. <br />
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Fast forward to the end result because this post is getting a bit long and there was nothing funny or particularly interesting about getting the stitches. Here is what they looked like...<br />
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<center><a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/23/2859.jpg"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/23/s_2859.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a></center><br />
Glue and steri strips for the middle finger. Three stitches on the ring. One on the pinky. No matter how much they tried - the grease wouldn't come off. <br />
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So I guess I've learned several things today. <br />
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1. Biking is gonna kill me or contribute, in some way, to my inevitable death. <br />
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2. Avoid North Philly trauma hospitals, if possible.<br />
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3. Beef Chow Fun from Sang Kee Duck house on 9th & Vine is absolutely incredible.<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneMorrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-90546911847256305572012-02-18T22:07:00.000-05:002012-02-18T22:07:56.400-05:00Beautiful Day Riding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took the kids to FDR Park today to ride our bikes in the beautiful weather. I quickly learned that Ella still has some work to do on the whole "enjoying" part of riding our bikes together.</div>
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It's so hard because, at times, she loves it. However - if she falls once then she freaks out and biking is something that was created by the devil. She will have nothing to do with it. Then that snowballs into the other kids. See - if Ella refuses to get on her bike then none of us are going anywhere - and the other kids know it. Fortunately peer pressure usually wins out and Ella climbs on her bike and woefully trudges ahead until she forgets all about the bad parts and is loving it again... for the moment. <br />
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We stopped by the skate park at FDR park at about 1:00 and it was early enough that there were some other kids there that were our age. We mainly watched from the sidelines but Robby was particularly intrigued. <br />
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I think that the awesomest thing about today was Sammy - and how he helped out his little sister. As I mentioned, Ella doesn't like riding bikes. Sammy knows this and immediately volunteered to stay with her all day. "Dad - you can ride up with Robby and James and make sure that they don't go too far ahead. I'll stay back with Ella." I thought he was full of it, but other than a few minutes at the skate park he was, literally, at her side all day long. When she fell a few times, he helped her up. He helped her walk her bike across the road at one point. He guided her through some puddles. He really impressed me today. He's a great kid...</div>
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James and Anna both agreed, I think, that lunch was the best part of their day. They both ride well, and enjoy riding, but when got our Cheesesteaks from Tony Luke's the smiles lit up their little faces. I don't have any pics of them devouring the steaks because I was doing the same thing to my steak at that time.</div>
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It isn't easy getting out with all of the kids, their bikes, and my bike too - but we did it. This was the first time that we were able to get all of the bikes on the rack and also my bike broken down and put into the back of the SUV. Now that we've done it once... I think we're in trouble because I know I can do it over and over again, now. Woo hoo!</div>
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<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-9396001188860890752012-02-17T23:11:00.001-05:002012-02-17T23:11:03.732-05:00Tomorrow... Bike Adventure With The Kiddos<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/17/3120.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/17/s_3120.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Stay tuned...<br /><br />(since I wasn't posting - I will try to throw some recent pics up that I've taken.)<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-34543058932058196512012-02-12T13:56:00.001-05:002012-02-12T13:56:53.888-05:00Winter Cycling... Part 1?<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/12/1902.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/12/s_1902.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />As I've alluded to, I recently started biking a lot. I picked it up again late in the summer and haven't stopped since. I biked quite a bit in college until my bike was stolen - and I had better stuff to do than get a new one. Finding myself with more "free time" these days, I figured now was a good time to pick it up again (and - hey - there are worse vices to have, right?) One day with nothing to do, I borrowed my Dad's bike, and went off for a ride and fell in love again. So fifteen years later I start riding again, the bike hasn't been stolen yet, and so here we are. <br /><br />It's been an extremely mild winter in Philadelphia which has proven pretty awesome for the bike riding habit. However, I have not really had the opportunity to bike in the snow. Until today... <br /><br />I'm in Pittsburgh this weekend and brought my bike, knowing that some snow was expected. Dude - biking in the snow is freakin' tough. I mean, the roads are okay but I went biking on the Yough Trail (part of the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.atatrail.org/">Great Allegheny Passage.</a>) Who knew that cutting through unpacked snow is significantly tougher than riding on a paved street? So I abandoned the trail pretty quickly and hit the roads. Guess what - the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dannychew.com/PG%20DD%20Map.gif">hills in Pittsburgh are no joke either.</a> I had a couple of tough climbs (none on the linked map, though) and then got to ride the downhill, completely terrified of crashing on the slushy and icy country roads. Pure perfection. All said, I didn't really go too far today - but I tried it. I need some new gear to cover my frosted feet, but other than that I think it's something I can tackle.<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=West%20Newton,%20PA%4040.210514%2C-79.766514&z=10'>West Newton, PA</a></p>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-61936890847940457502012-02-11T14:51:00.001-05:002012-02-11T14:51:29.964-05:00Tales from the First Ever Valentine's DanceThe build up was incredible. Imagine the two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl and multiply that by 10. That was the hype generated in the Morris house for this year's first annual Father Daughter Valentine's Dance. Ella, in particular, has been talking about it for weeks., <br /><br />"Dad - do you think we can go? What if it's Mommy's weekend?!?!" <br /><br />"What on earth are we gonna wear?"<br /><br />"What if they don't let you bring BOTH daughters as dates? Will you pick me?"<br /><br />The questions clearly swirled through their youthful minds with thoughts of princess dresses and thirty of their bffs screaming and dancing to Justin Beiber.<br /><br />After we got the go ahead from Mommy (it was her weekend) we started planning. The girls had picked out Christmas dresses that they weren't able to wear at Christmas time - and they were perfect. Red. All we needed now were some accoutrements to make them look glamorous. Mommy let us borrow some dress shoes and tights and the outfits were set. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/11/2003.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/11/s_2003.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We put on some of Grandma's make up (thanks mom) and we were ready to roll. (I wore a red dress shirt, pink satin tie, and a black suit - no picture - sorry guys.) We were off...<br /><br />The evening started with waiting in line for pictures before we could dance... ... ...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/11/2004.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/11/s_2004.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Ella pointed out, EVERYONE is inside but us...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/11/2005.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/11/s_2005.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />After a brutal 15 minute wait we were in. They danced like fools, ignored their dad, and had an awesome time. I appreciated the hummus and pita and the Italian hoagies. A fun night was had by all...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/11/2006.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/11/s_2006.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-45543187894803154402012-02-10T20:03:00.001-05:002012-02-10T20:03:31.209-05:00Live Blog From Valentines Dance!!Here is my attempt at a live blog...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/10/2742.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/10/s_2742.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Justin Beiber and Maroon 5 ROCK!!!!<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-6763874387312263612012-02-09T23:16:00.001-05:002012-02-09T23:20:18.485-05:00Why I Am The Luckiest Guy On EarthSo tomorrow night I'm taking the girls to the school's first ever "Father Daughter Valentine's Dance." Now listen - I was never a fan of school dances when I was younger. I was always the awkward goofy kid trying to show off but really making a total ass out of myself... But I'm super psyched for this one. Here is why:<br />
<br />
1. I have two dates. <br />
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2. I'm the dad, so I have the freedom to be a total dork. (I'm wearing a bright red dress shirt, black suit, and a pink satin tie.)<br />
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3. There need not be any more items on this list. Numbers 1 and 2 are sufficiently awesome. <br />
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Pictures will follow tomorrow, I'm sure. Hey - I may even live blog from the dance... if only to show off and make a total ass of myself. <br />
Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0Drexel Hill Drexel Hill39.951075 -75.284956tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-2992909759769627272012-02-06T13:52:00.001-05:002012-02-06T13:52:39.141-05:00A New Hobby<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/06/1808.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/06/s_1808.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We started biking.<br /><br />Ok... I started biking and have encouraged (forced) the kids to follow suit. We started in the summer and all but "the skinch" has taken to riding so far. (At autumn's end she was so close to coming off of the training wheels but stubbornly refused. It's a confidence thing - not an inability to do it.) I'm hoping that she makes it off the training wheels by May so that we have the whole summer to ride together. We shall see...<br /><br />In October, the boys and I went on a 10 mile organized ride called the <a target="_blank" href="http://camphillchallenge.org">Camphill Challenge</a>. It was on some quiet roads out in Chester county. I'd be lying if I told you that there were no complaints from them. At about mile 6 we had a HUGE hill to climb and, as we walked our bikes to the top of the hill, I was sure that I was going to get lynched by the crew. To their credit - they plowed ahead after some water and snacks and finished the ride. They were also the youngest participants in attendance, by far. When we finally finished the ride - you could see the sense of accomplishment on the boys' faces. That was the moment that I knew that this was just the first of many future biking adventures for us. I can't wait for spring!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/02/06/1809.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/02/06/s_1809.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-63392307032800316902012-02-05T12:13:00.002-05:002012-02-05T12:13:33.261-05:00I'm Back...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EAif-G-jdbXZtIbkbphCJ_3PpcXrS_VHVhm0MBEiYM6122WV3IbH1GGHtAXVkVLbC6PURx4CtmSJIU1qORTRZZL5drH3IvEJTg0ZSgtOKL1Qbdm8Qc1dBjQz-Ugy5EdETuPAuw/s1600/IMG_2528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EAif-G-jdbXZtIbkbphCJ_3PpcXrS_VHVhm0MBEiYM6122WV3IbH1GGHtAXVkVLbC6PURx4CtmSJIU1qORTRZZL5drH3IvEJTg0ZSgtOKL1Qbdm8Qc1dBjQz-Ugy5EdETuPAuw/s320/IMG_2528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I took some time off from this blog and I'm a bit regretful that I have. See - it has been difficult for me to post anything for the past two years or so because I tend to write about whatever I'm thinking or feeling. I didn't feel like this was a forum that I wanted to use...<br />
<br />
Geana & I separated in March of 2011 and are currently working through the process of a divorce. It is sad. It's not how I wanted my children to grow up - being carted from here to there and then back again. It's sad but it's also what is best for the two of us and, ultimately, our children. In a lot of ways I feel like I'm simply becoming a statistic, adding to the high divorce rate of parents of high-order multiples.<br />
<br />
I've been grappling with what to do with regards to this blog. Should I shut it down? Should I just never post again? What? I was reflecting the other day and realized that I created this blog to be a catalogue, or diary, of my thoughts and experiences with my kids. This is for them and, ultimately, will be a gift to them that they can read through whenever they like. Because of that I'm going to continue to post. However - before I can do that, I feel like I have to acknowledge this huge change to our lives before I can put into context any of our future adventures.<br />
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We'll see how frequently that happens. My intent is to catalogue our time together - whatever mischief we come across...Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-35343180391015873732011-02-26T20:05:00.001-05:002011-02-26T20:05:12.132-05:00Give Us Your Lunch Money<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/02/26/3303.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/02/26/s_3303.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-36689009782587577702011-02-26T12:24:00.001-05:002011-02-26T12:24:55.822-05:00Toys I got an iPhone and now I can blog from anywhere. Maybe sometime I'll post something of substance... don't count on it though. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/02/26/1788.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/02/26/s_1788.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='143' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Miss%20Patty's%20All%20Star%20Dancers%4039.945878%2C-75.321687&z=10'>Miss Patty's All Star Dancers</a></p>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-74038134708503395292011-02-25T20:26:00.001-05:002011-02-25T20:26:46.487-05:00We're Having Pizza For Dinner?!?!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/02/25/2661.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/02/25/s_2661.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-49250855318017395472010-12-15T20:36:00.004-05:002010-12-15T21:25:30.394-05:00Baseball<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/TQltYxhwtAI/AAAAAAAAAdk/wb9nEBg2KQ0/s1600/Photo%2B95.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/TQltYxhwtAI/AAAAAAAAAdk/wb9nEBg2KQ0/s400/Photo%2B95.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551088288090076162" border="0" /></a>"Did they have backsies back then?"<br /><br />This was one of Robby's many questions while we're watching the long lost broadcast of the 1960 World Series Game 7. <br /><br />Some of our conversation:<br /><br /><blockquote>Robby: So that's Roberto Clemente? (I always call Robby "Roberto.")<br /><br />Me: Yep.<br /><br />Robby: Wow. (we watch for a few minutes) Dad - I asked Santa for a Clemente Jersey for Christmas. I really hope he brings me one.<br /><br />Me: I'm sure he will. (getting online now to order)<br /></blockquote><br />He wouldn't stop with the questions. Everything from backsies to, "Is this game in New York or Pittsburgh?" to "Who are the Phillies four great pitchers now, Dad?" "Are they better than the Pirates from back then?" It is one of those slivers in time where you feel like you are above the room, just looking down at the conversation, and say to yourself, "Don't ever forget this."<br /><blockquote><br />Robby: Is Roberto still alive?<br /><br />Me: No, buddy. He's not.<br /><br />Robby: How did he die?<br /><br />Me: Well... he was delivering food and clothing to poor people in Puerto Rico, where he grew up, and his plane crashed. He died while he was still playing baseball and it was really sad. He had exactly 3000 hits, which is kind of a big deal."<br /><br />Robby: Oh... did the poor people get their food?<br /><br />Me: I'm not sure, kiddo. I don't know if he was flying there or flying back but I'm sure that someone made sure that they got some food.<br /><br />Robby: Well that's good. Making sure they got their food is a big deal, too, right?<br /></blockquote>At around this time Sammy came down from upstairs (Sammy who has just been to the Baseball Hall of Fame and is becoming a pretty big baseball fan) and Robby immediately says:<br /><br /><blockquote>Robby: Sam - do you know how Roberto Clemente died?<br /><br />Sammy: No.<br /><br />Robby: He died in a plane crash giving food to the poor. <br /><br />Sammy: (Not really caring) Really.<br /><br />Robby: No - you don't understand Sam - it was reeeeally sad!<br /></blockquote>It was about this time that Sammy realized what was on TV. I need to disclose that - despite my best efforts - Sammy is a bigger Yankee fan than Pirates fan. I can't really blame him. The Pirates have sucked since I was slightly older than he is now (MOMENT OF REALIZATION...) Holy shit. I'm old. Holy shit. The Pirates have been horrible forever. Anyway - my only saving grace is that Sammy is a fan of the OLD Yankees - not the current Yankees. He could care less about A-Rod or Jeter - his heroes are Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle.<br /><br /><blockquote>Bob Prince: Next up to the plate Roger Maris<br /><br />Sammy: ROGER MARIS!?<br /><br />Me: Yup - he was on the Yankees during this game. What's so special about Roger Maris, Sam?<br /><br />Sammy: Ummm... he broke Babe Ruth's record, Dad. C'mon!<br /><br />Bob Prince: (A few minutes later) Coming to the plate... Yogi Berra.<br /><br />Sammy: This is AWESOME!</blockquote>I'm a total dork, but Sammy is right - this is awesome!<br /><br />It seems that baseball does get passed along from father to son and on and on down the line. Just before this broadcast I called my dad and asked him a few questions about the 1960 Buccos.<br /><br />Spring training is only 2 1/2 months away.Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-26373365392086620042010-12-15T08:02:00.001-05:002010-12-15T08:02:00.261-05:00"Hollywood" by Anna Morris<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwTy1vJLvbUW70PeP6BAOaCF5d9_JHDt9mDaYtT3ZCP5A9T3LYbUBBVm4weHtigz0vmOXdGi-mHGYY' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-22278928643958091782010-12-14T11:35:00.003-05:002010-12-14T11:53:37.532-05:00Music-o-ramaSome of you may be aware that I kinda like listening to, and discovering, new musicians and their stuff. I used to do a <a href="http://quadcast.mevio.com/">podcast</a>, but have fallen off of the wagon with that endeavor.<br /><br />I'm going to link some pretty awesome sites below that you should check out if you are interested/bored/care.<br /><br />1. <a href="http://www.thesixtyone.com/">The Sixty One</a> - This is probably my favorite music site. I listen to this at work. There are quests and you can earn hearts and reputation points by completing the various quests (listening to specific types of music, etc.) You are then able to spend those hearts and points on artists you enjoy and make them more popular. It's quite a fun experiment. Check it out!<br /><br />2. <a href="http://www.8tracks.com">8 Tracks</a> - I have not created any play lists on this site, but I have found a bunch of great ones. I'm listening to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.8tracks.com/jas2kc/stop-thinking">this one</a> right now called, "Stop Thinking." "Turn off your brain and let these ten tracks remove you from the real world for a little bit. You could use the break from life anyway." Surf around - find something you love!<br /><br />3. <a href="http://www.pandora.com">Pandora </a>- This is an old favorite that I just had to include. If you don't know about Pandora yet, you either live in a cave - or... well... you live in a cave.Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-70482664609066425792010-12-12T09:30:00.000-05:002010-12-12T09:30:00.554-05:00"Snowflakes" By Ella Morris<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwMc8trQ81Oz-3lzmSzFyWoxzYSqpzYDa2tAt-0ctFzQkCkh9XSY2inhFjb2MsKFjGbyonpwTs8kww' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-87421272442065747392010-12-11T20:48:00.004-05:002010-12-11T21:05:02.949-05:00Dancing School... it's Enough to Bring you to Drinkin'<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/TQQtTbYmPqI/AAAAAAAAAdc/p7_QSM7ruBw/s1600/brewworks-holiday-ads-mcall.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 94px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/TQQtTbYmPqI/AAAAAAAAAdc/p7_QSM7ruBw/s200/brewworks-holiday-ads-mcall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549610452618985122" border="0" /></a><br />Ok - the girl's have dancing school every Saturday morning at 11:15am sharp. The dancing school is part of a shopping center that has, among other things, a Grocery Store, a CVS, and a Beer Distributor. Every week the parking lot is jammed full, I'm navigating a 12 passenger van, and I succumb to parking in the easiest spot - which is about 3 and 1/2 miles from the actual school. We've never been hit by a car while playing frogger to get to class - but it's been darn close.<br /><br />Today was different. Today - I didn't feel like walking those 3 1/2 miles. Today - I also didn't feel like surfing around the lot until I found someone who was leaving. Today - I decided to take advantage of a small loophole that I've noticed every week but have failed to capitalize on... until now. (This was all being done for the children's safety I must add.) You see - the dancing school's neighbor is the beer distributor. The beer guys have, wisely, put a huge sign out in front of their establishment that says, "BEER PARKING ONLY!" Me, also being a wise individual, decided that I should take advantage of this loophole by parking in the spot, purchasing a case of the finest Belgian Christmas Ale (Rude Elves Reserve), and then walking the kids into the school. Sheer genius!<br /><br />Mind you, this has increased the cost of the girl's dance tuition by approximately $40 per week, which is a bit of a problem financially, but it's important for the children's safety and continued enjoyment of the performing arts. A small price to pay.<br /><br />I'm actively taking suggestions for next week's parking case.Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-80098847343406176412010-12-04T10:11:00.001-05:002010-12-04T10:11:45.790-05:00Saturday Morning Donut Draft<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/12/04/1018.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/12/04/s_1018.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The kids woke up this morning, fully prepared. They learned their draft position last night. They stayed up all night playing out all of the possible scenarios in their 6 and 8 year old brains. Anna and Ella even went to CVS and got a draft guide. Months of preparation came down to five lightning quick minutes and a two round snake draft at 8:30 am. This is not a keeper league. <br /><br />The first pick was daddy's and I selected the illusive Boston Creme. Apparently - this was a bad pick and the ridicule from the kids, I expect, will last all season. (I do have to say the I got the French Krueller with the final pick of the draft and still think that my squad is the best in the league). <br /><br />The next two donuts to go were the two "Red Icing with Green Spinkles Holiday Specials" (leave it to Ella and Anna to go with this season's trendy picks... so predictable.)<br /><br />The glazed donut lasted way longer than it should have. James took it at the of top of the second round but the run on white sprinkles happened just where I expected. <br /><br />All said a fun time was had by all and the rest of the morning was spent trash talking (with our mouths stuffed full, of course) and staring at the draft board, everyone thinking they have the best squad. The draft went as follows:<br /><br />Round 1:<br />Daddy: Boston Creme<br />Ella: Holiday special<br />Anna: Holiday Special<br />Sammy: Chocolate frosted with white stripes<br />Robby: Boston Creme<br />James: Pink sprinkles<br /><br />Round 2:<br />James: Glazed<br />Robby: White sprinkles<br />Sammy: White Sprinkles <br />Anna: Chocolate Glazed<br />Ella: Pink Sprinkles<br />Daddy: French Krueller<br /><br />*The lack of jelly donuts in this year's draft was deliberate and also unfortunate.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Derwyn%20Rd,Drexel%20Hill,United%20States%4039.953658%2C-75.288030&z=10'>Derwyn Rd,Drexel Hill,United States</a></p>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-6599835736770817352010-03-18T13:42:00.003-04:002010-03-18T13:51:39.527-04:00The Worst E-mail A Parent Can Get<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/S6Jnul3F9JI/AAAAAAAAAdE/YRXPOXDzEew/s1600-h/yankees.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/S6Jnul3F9JI/AAAAAAAAAdE/YRXPOXDzEew/s200/yankees.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450032549206553746" border="0" /></a><br /><div class="Section1"> <p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal">So I got that e-mail that all parents dread, today. That e-mail that you hope against hope that you never receive about YOUR son. It's the e-mail that you wish you could do something about but you just can't. Your hands are tied. The next 4 months of your life are ruined - at least the weekends. I got this e-mail (the names have been changed to protect the innocent):<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><blockquote><p class="MsoNormal">Good evening,<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My name is Steve, and I will be your son’s baseball coach in The Farm B Division. <span style="font-weight: bold;">We are the Yankees.</span> Our first practice will be Sunday afternoon at 1pm, at The Local Elementary School on Main Street. My home phone number is ***-***-****. You can also contact me via email: <span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 153);">icantbelievemysonisontheyankees@bullshit.com</span>. I have 4 small children, so please call before 8pm. You can email any time. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I look forward to working with your sons and meeting you. Have a great end of the week, and please let me know if you have any questions.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Best,<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Steve</p></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal">THE YANKEES?!?!?!?! REALLY? Ugh.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div>Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28064057.post-80905870075729299112010-03-17T12:08:00.006-04:002010-03-17T12:33:59.754-04:00The Front Window<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/S6EBYjE_BiI/AAAAAAAAAc8/U3o67lZcvds/s1600-h/DSC05653.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KF4kKyT30dQ/S6EBYjE_BiI/AAAAAAAAAc8/U3o67lZcvds/s400/DSC05653.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449638545339647522" border="0" /></a><br />It's official. I'm old.<br /><br />You see - growing up, I used to love sitting at my grandparents kitchen table. The thing was smack up against a big bay window and you could just sit and stare outside all day long. We'd listen to Pirate games at that table, we'd sit there while Gram cooked us some lunch or loaded the dishwasher. The pitchers of beer kept being replenished by us kids and the adults would just sit at the table and shoot the shit while life happened outside. As an adult I recently sat there with Pap and smoked a cigar and listened to some jazz on the radio. (Even as a grown man, I still was the one who made the trip to the basement to fill up the pitcher. Some things never get old!)<br /><br />This past weekend, I set up our dining room table to be up against our big front window. (I'm not sure that Geana is sold on the idea, but she's given me the leeway to try it.) I've spent hours here since then, just putzing around on line and staring out to the world. I find it really calming and enjoyable. Life seems to slow down as you hear the whir of the cars pass by and the occasional ambulance going to or from the hospital around the corner.<br /><br />You may think that the picture above was staged, but it was not. This is how the kids left their toy outside and what I've gotten to look at all day. :)Morrisquadshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06979800420814663545noreply@blogger.com0