Chess is the game of choice around here lately. A couple of weeks ago they convinced me to give up the table that I had sitting beside our coziest chair so that they could have a place to leave their games set up. As much as I didn't want to give up my table, it was a hard request to deny. I'm not sure if they are really good or if I'm just that bad, but Sam had me in check mate in seven minutes the other day. Travis challenged me next and I did last a little bit longer than seven minutes but after being whipped so badly by Sam I had decided to really concentrate and try to do well. He also may or may not have shown me a little mercy a few times... They are sweet boys who genuinely like it when I'll sit at their table and play with them, but their ultimate challenge is Daddy and they both eagerly await the day when they can best him. And secretly I think he kind of looks forward to that day, too.

Their own little chess club joy...