I have something in common with my eight year old first cousin once removed and my twelve year old first cousin-in-law. We each got a Playstation 2 for Christmas this year.

Maybe I should be embarrassed about this fact, but I'm not, because it's really fun to play video games. I was right when I suspected that it would be nice to play on the nice TV while sitting on the couch with a dog or two.

Of course, now I have to go buy more stuff. A memory card, a second controller in case I have a play buddy visit, and a few games. I'd also like to make some changes in our home network arrangement so I can install an Ethernet drop or two in the living room. My Playstation 2 has the network expansion unit so I can play online against the other kids.

Julie points out that Sony must be proud to have designed a product with such wide appeal that requires so many supplemental purchases.

I respond with "maybe I should also get an Xbox..."