Of Super Cool Toy Stores

Superman and I decided to put the kids on a tv fast. Not that they really ever watched much - we don't have cable, but we thought it would be good for them to spend ALL their time having Mom read them stories, coloring with Mom, "cleaning" with Mom, cooking with Mom, etc. Let's just say that Mom is a little worn out! So, I compromised - I let them watch ONE show....it's on at 11:30 - right when I am making lunch. Is it terrible if I now adore this show:

That darling little sheep and pig and frog.....they suck my little busy ones in, rendering them quiet and still. "It's a beautiful world!"

We recently borrowed this really super fun board game from our neighbors. After playing with the J-Man and the Diva, we decided to purchase it ourselves. I strapped in the three big kids, leaving the sleeping Pooter with Dad, and headed to Brilliant Sky Toy Store. You must look at see if you have one around because they are truly the most amazing toy store I have ever seen. My kids roam the aisles, PLAYING with the toys...what a novel idea, a toy store that lets you play with the toys. And if I am truly honest, I roam the aisles playing with toys too. I think my little herd would be perfectly happy if I "accidentally" forgot them there. I tried it once, but the really sweet college kid that worked there chased me down. (Kidding. really.)

Back to the super cool game. Apparently, Superman and I really enjoy having our butts KICKED by a four year old. The Diva plays her own little game in her corner of the board, adding an exciting dimension to the game - the board is always in flux because her pieces are laid down(incorrectly) and then removed at will(also incorrect).

Anyway, the game is called Blokus:


And yes, I am serious when I say that the J-Man has beat us, fair and square. The truly maddening bit about it is that he has absolutely NO strategic approach - he just plays the game, blissfully unaware that he is dominating the game. He giggles when he sees us look at each other and roll our eyes in utter frustration. Hmmm....maybe he is just a genius in the making - one of those people who have no clue how smart they really are. I keep telling myself that I am one of those types - I just have no idea the depth and width of my brilliance. Hey, it helps me sleep at night.

But, no, really, it's a fun game.