10 years? That's right. It's December once again and believe it or not, I'm exited to welcome you to the 10th annual edition of Steve's 25 Days of Christmas Music, a tradition we share via the TannerWorld Junction discussion forums, as well as here at SteveandAmySly.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Yup, back in 2001, who would have known that I'd still be sharing Christmas songs all tied together with a single theme all these years later. What am I, crazy? Apparently so!

For those who are just joining us, here's what Steve's 25 Days of Christmas Music is all about. Starting December 1 through December 25, I'll be posting new music each day that you can download, no strings attached. It's all FREE, FREE, FREE! Songs will be in MP3 format — so you can listen via any media player or your iPod. It's just like an audio advent calendar, except that you won't have to fight with your dumb sister over who gets to open the next little door!

Continue Reading…

Back in October, we hosted our 5th "Clue Night", where we welcomed 13 friends to join us in playing multiple versions of the boardgame Clue, while enjoying some good food, conversation, and laughter watching the 1985 film of the same name.

Anyone for a game of Clue?

This fall tradition is something we started shortly after getting married, hosting a "beta test" followed by events in 2006, 2007, and 2009.  It was a way to tie into the "mystery" element of the Halloween season in a unique way.  And even though our boardgame affections have strayed heavily towards Ticket to Ride, we still have a warm place in our hearts for Clue.

Continue Reading…

Back in January 2005, we bought a used 2002 Toyota RAV4 for Amy to replace her ailing Honda Civic. We've been really happy with the RAV4, having put it through a lot of road trips and general daily commuting. Since purchase, we've had it serviced at our local Toyota dealer, which despite a higher labor cost, has always done us right.

Our 2002 Toyota RAV4

Continue Reading…

It's Election Day and being our civic duty to uphold the high level of corruption that Chicago is known for, we headed off to the polling place down the street.

Amy holds... a lame piece of paper

Unlike many of the suburbs and other parts of the city, we don't get cool "I Voted" stickers. Nope, our precinct is cheap, handing out these pieces of paper instead.

How Exciting!

I'm trying to hold back the emotion that this piece of paper evokes!