Happy Birthday to Peter!

Well, Elisabeth really went over the top this year for my birthday. I know, it was a few weeks ago, but I still wanted everyone to know all of the great stuff she gave me. First and foremost was an espresso machine!!! Elisabeth is well aware of my undying devotion to java (and the physical necessity that it is to me) so she purchased a machine from our local Starbucks.



The machine is just the first step; without the accessories, the machine is just a coffee maker! Roman helped Elisabeth pick out just the right things to make the present perfect! There was a steamer pitcher with thermometer, shot classes, and measuring spoons. Almost perfect...


Elisabeth got a great deal on a grinder to go with (our old one is on the fritz). There were also a few flavored syrup samples to go with, and a few other coffee accessories.



Little did I know, Elisabeth had corroborated with some of her people to make my birthday present really exquisite. Aunt Joyce found me the most amazing espresso cups...



and Mom Renander gave me the ever desired French press! Coffee from a French press is sooooooooooooooooooooo good!



More java was needed so a few extra pounds were purchased.



And in order to use the machine to its fullest potential, Elisabeth purchased a recipe book. It has some great drinks, especially summer ones! Now all I have to do is build that patio so I can enjoy some iced coffee on it! Thanks for a great birthday everyone!!! My wife knows just what to get me!

Fact or Fiction?

Is this real or not? I saw it on a pitbull forum I am a part of and I thought it was pretty interesting. Any votes?

Scary dog? Whatever, scary lady...

I just got back from a quick walk with Roman, and I'm still a little perturbed at this lady we went past on our walk. I've been training Roman on a Flexi leash and he has been getting better. When we are in a busy area, Roman knows to stay about 6 ft or less ahead of me. If not, I lock the leash and give him a stern reprimand. It only took a few times before he got the picture (yeah, he's pretty bright).

We were walking down a street with some stores and doctor's offices. A lady in her early 60's came around a huge conversion van and stopped like she hit a wall! I was looking in a shop window and Roman was about 5 ft in front of me. I heard her gasp so I looked over just in time to see her cover her heart, scamper away, and mutter "scary dog!" I was offended. Roman hadn't moved! Actually his tail was going bonkers and he had actually tilted his head with his best and most famous "Pit Bull curiosity" look. As the lady scurried off, Roman looked back at me like, "What? I wanted to play; what's her deal?" That's what I want to know! What's her deal? If she thinks Roman looks scary then I think she looks scary!

Does this look like a scary dog to you?