Festivus was a complete success. We laughed. We cried. There were feats of strength both mental and physical, and in the end, Marty was the winner. Although he lost as part of the "Girl's Team" in Trivial Pursuit (see The World According to Gnarliness for key TP questions) he did beat me in Thumb Wrestling in a best of 3 series, and, most importantly, he took home the pot in a game of Texas Hold'em. I got bumped at 4th place with pocket 7s to his pair of 8s. Brutal. You better believe that was a Grievance that was loudly Aired.

A great present to the family this year was the announcement that my brother and his wife are pregnant. I think it's going to be awesome to be an uncle and yes drums and an archery set sound like great presents!

Almost done with 06 and here's a little recap of the year via Ropeadope from some of their favorite musicians. Check it out.