the requisite argument

Dave and I never argue. Well, OK, possibly rarely argue. I don't know if that's good or bad, but I'm super happy and he says he is as well. Today, I heard a story on Garrison Keillor's show (normally I would be very embarrassed to admit to listening, BUT--see earlier posts about how there is only one radio station -- NPR -- in the suburban DC area hence my great consternation) about how he was friends with a couple who never fought, until one day, much like a little league baseball game,* they had a really raucous argument, and things unravelled quickly from there.

So, he said, naturally, most wise couples instead have the 'requisite' argument. A common argument, that never gets resolved that usually is about something trivial. It comes up from time to time instead of actual communication.

* these games go along smoothly until one player makes a spectacular error, and then the game spirals quickly downward--apparently this is observable and predictable. I wouldn't know! I guess I'll soon find out :)

As a preventative measure, Dave and I are trying to decide on the subject matter for our requisite argument. Possibilities include: (um...)

In other news, Isaac is climbing--on the stairs! Of course, with very close supervision. He can easily go up the stairs. Down is a bigger challenge. He still hasn't connected that it's really bad to go face first. I've been trying to get him to shimmy down backwards, but he still wants to just lead with his head.

He also has pink eye. It's illness #3, in a quick succession that began as soon as he started to put things in his mouth--around March 1st.

Dave is doing really well. He had a review recently which resulted in a bonus and a raise! And some comment about 98 of 100% performance rating. Wow! Go Dave!

In other Dave news, they had a Moot Court competition at his school. Of 350 1Ls (one-ells = first year law students), Dave presented oral arguements at a {very seriously scary} courthouse downtown {where they had only law enforcement vehicles and parking for "expert witnesses" YIKES!}, and he was one of 140 to go to the second round, one of 50 to go to the 3rd round, and we're waiting to hear if he's one of 16 to continue to the final round. Go Dave!! Nice job.

As far as my career accomplishments, I now know the difference between cleaning and disinfecting. I am very close to resolving my paper backlog, and I'm learning more about plumbing and home maintenance than anyone would ever care to know. NOTE: baby wipes are the best dust cloths, and they're great on stainless appliances. All a far cry from the glamourous life I was leading before, but there is nothing to compare to spending time with Isaac and the puppies all day :)

I still enjoy every single second of my time with Isaac. He is really sweet and wonderful and it's fun to watch his world come to life. He likes laughing, he HATES bananas, and he loves the doggies. It's all very sweet.

I am so looking forward to taking Isaac to the baby pool in our neighborhood. Dave also wants to buy a little one for our deck. The only bad thing is the wind gusts here somethin' crazy--and who wants to be outside with that going on?!!

I joined a mom's group--and then, I met lots of ladies who suggested I join their groups. So--I joined a second one, and am considering a third! Despite knowing a lot of friends and family here, it can't hurt to make new friends.

We miss you--and we have TONS of photos--and I'm waiting for Dave to finish school to post them--more soon!

Email us at schleiferkin@gmail.com. :)