First of all, before I give a “news in brief”, I want to let you know that this blog is often a joint effort between Michael and me.  I throw all of the words and thoughts into a mumbo-jumbo on the screen, and then Michael comes along behind and patiently cleans up my post, adding margins and links where necessary.

But if you look at my last post, you’ll see that he just might have gone a little too far in editing!  Check out some of the links by clicking on the blue words. And I don’t know how he did it, but he crossed out one of my words at the end and changed it!  I guess that’s what I get for being married to a computer genius. 

OK, now on to our regularly-scheduled program…

The past week has been exciting!  One week ago today (Tuesday) we had the biggest snowstorm of the season.  State Farm closed again, so Michael got some more time home with the family.  It got so windy and snowy here that even the city buses were pulled from service.   The next morning things were still a bit hairy, so schools were closed for a second snow day and State Farm employees had until noon to get to work.  Our street still hadn’t been plowed, so it was an effort for Michael to get to work even by noon!

Last Friday my sister (Joyce) and I, along with my sister-in-law and her daughter (Mary & Naomi), headed to a ladies retreat put on by our church.  It was at Grand Bear Lodge at Starved Rock.  We had a fantastic time, complete with encouraging meetings, a fun time in the indoor waterpark, great food, and staying up way too late.  The best part of it all was when I got home and Michael said, “Well, Honey, once again I really appreciate all you do here on a daily basis.”  Then he said, “You should go away more often so I can be reminded of what you do.”  I didn’t even hesitate in answering, “OK!”

Other than those two things, life is just going on its merry way.  Laura is working hard on her music, practicing both viola and piano daily.  Luke is working hard on becoming a better reader.  Amelia keeps us all smiling and wondering when she got so grown up.  Laura and I are still making jewelry and really enjoying all that we’re learning.  Laura made her own turquoise & silver necklace and earrings that are strikingly beautiful!

Yesterday I took the three older boys for haircuts.  Miguel came home with purple spikes in his hair, and Luke had orange spikes.  Isaac was the stodgy one of the group and declined anything fun or colorful.

So now you’re all caught up on what’s happening here.  The adventure continues!