I know I've already said it, but it remains true that hanging with Kirsten was one of the highlights of my time at the Freedom Summit. Her blog is a regular stop, too -- she's one of the genuine pro-freedom femmes in the family (as she likes to put it). I hope you have a splendiferous day, sis- -- uh, cuz -- uhhh, hmmm ... I'm not sure I'm able to continue the familial metaphor without possibly giving offense, so I'll just leave it with, "Happy birthday Kirsten, and best wishes for many more!"

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Yesterday afternoon, I was startled by a herd of elephants stampeding through our living room. Well, that's what it sounded like. Turns out it was just two of the teenagers (all three are here now, as the one who lives with his mother is visiting for the holidays). Upon inquiring I received, amid gasps for breath and less clear exclamations, an explanation that centered on "climbing the school!" and "totally awesome!" and "ninja monkeys".

Peeking in from time to time, as the stampings and heavy breathing varied with changes in activity, I observed that they were diligently engaged in a serious training regimen. The focus yesterday seemed to be primarily on working one's legs ... but it was a kick-ass, general aerobic workout that addressed both strength and flexibility. Both of them sweetly invited me to participate -- either immediately or joining them some other day. As I was up to my shoulders in cooking -- Purple Potato Beef Stew, Peppermint Princess Cake (which bears no resemblance to the delightful Swedish dessert -- the "princess" part was purely to please my daughter, and it worked big-time), popovers, and biscuits -- I declined, protesting that I'm too old and out of shape to keep up with such young men. They countered with all sorts of very good arguments, including that exercising with others helps with motivation and incentive.

They're right, of course; and I do need to get more exercise. But the lure of primo ice cream and a good video is more tempting to me now than it used to be. Not to mention purple potato beef stew and peppermint princess cake ... As I watched the ninja-monkeys in training, for the first time that I recall, I felt sad twinges for my long-gone youth.

[I am also wondering if I can sneakily start their workout in the privacy of my bedroom, and once I'm no longer embarrassing myself, join them. Just don't call me a ninja snake-monkey!]