The Magic Gourd

Today was yet another work day for Daddy, but he did get home a little earlier than usual - just in time for chicken marsala! Mommy has been cooking some wonderful creations as of late. Of course, she always cooks well - it's a feature that many people would be pretty jealous of. But this week has been fun. Of course, tonight was chicken marsala. This is essentially Daddy's favorite food, so very delicious. Earlier this week, Mommy tried out something new: it was talapia, with a coating of salt and vinegar potato chip breading. It was actually pretty creative, very different and really good.

Mommy says Madison is doing great with her letters, and her numbers as well. She's been playing a game lately that teachers letters and shapes, and has been somewhat addicted to it. It's a great diversion, and as long as she's learning it's a win for everyone.

Yesterday we received a movie in the mail for free from Disney Movie Rewards. We ordered it because it was produced in China. It is called "The Secret of the Magic Gourd," or if you want to say it in Chinese: "宝葫芦的秘密." Say that three times fast! It is amazing looking at the scenery in the movie: seeing China again brought back so many happy memories. It was filmed in Hangzhou, China, which looks very picturesque. We all sat down on the couch and munched on popcorn as we had movie night again. Here's a photo of the mystical magic gourd, with his faithful frog sidekick:

The movie itself is cute, and held Madison's attention throughout: a boy finds a magic gourd, who can grant him any wish. Throughout the story, the boy learns the value of hard work - and the gourd learns that really helping people isn't just giving them what they want. I suppose if we have Veggie Tales here, there's no reason why the people in China can't have magical talking gourds.

Madison recognized the land of China, and the people of China as well. She didn't recognize the gourd though. He was a little weird, actually. But still, we enjoyed watching it together.

BY THE WAY, we've been seriously chomping on girl scout cookies this week. Hannah's order came in, and we've demolished a few boxes in no time. It's crush, crumble and chomp! Thin mints don't stand a chance against Daddy.