The snow is gone, now we want the sun

The snow has finally melted away completely and so has the ensuing slop that follows it. But, we're still waiting for the sun to show up and to stay. So far, the sun has remained hidden behind clouds. It's still cold and today it's windy from the north. The farmer's almanac predicts more snow before spring, but hey, it's just a book!

The boys are well and getting stir crazy from being indoors all the time. So are Mare and I for that matter. So much needs done and I'm waiting on a little bit better weather to begin my tasks.

I finished my taxes. I'm entered in a talent show with another guy set for Sat. Feb. 27th. School is rolling along at a quick pace.

Leo is so close to crawling. He can stand next to the bed and play since he can hold on to it. Jack is just getting crazy. He' s little mister personality. Leo's personality is coming out and I can see what he's going to look like and act like. It looks like he's going to be quite handsome and sweet. Of course!

Mare is doing well. She was a little ill Sat. and Sunday, little bit of stomach issues that came and went. I'm doing fine and seems to be getting busier as we go along. We're all concerned what will happen here at the school as far as jobs go. Kansas is cutting education funding more and more. But I must continue doing my best and hope that is enough to keep me around.

It's been a long winter. Hopefully, the groundhog will let us know we've had enough in couple weeks.

Love to everyone,

cb

A good birthday

I turned 35 yesterday. A milestone of sorts, though just an abstract milepost. It was a good day. Just before school started I received a phone call. Jack had called to say happy birthday and I love you. I liked that phone call.

I had walked to work yesterday just to make the day a little more memorable for me. So, after the 45 minute walk home in the 12 degree cold, trundling over snow and ice, it was a pleasant surprise to find the house all spotless (it's never "dirty", just takes an extra push to put the polish on it) fragrant candles burning, a couple of banners saying Happy birthday (one homemade decorated by Jack and Leo), a homemade heart shaped card with the outlines of Jack and Leo's hands, and a homemade chocolate on chocolate cake complete with candles waiting for me. After the cold, the warmth and inviting ambiance was welcome.

We were treated to dinner at Poncho's from Clarie (thanks, sis). Then, at home I opened some gifts and ate a slice of the cake. I talked to both my grandmas, mom and dad, and Clarie. I also talked to aunt Betty ( a really great aunt!)

It was the first day back to school from break and both students and teachers were a little confused as to what the heck we were all doing there and how to proceed. Of course, it all came back to us and we managed.

There is still a foot of snow on the ground here and forecasts call for 2-6 more inches today and tonight. I know what the students and teachers are all wishing for . . .

Holiday Wrap-up

Hello everyone. Today I am 35 years old. You should all take a moment to congratulate yourselves (or sympathize) on making me who I am. Each of you had a part in it. I hope to be just half as good of people as each one of you are. To make it a memorable day of sorts, I opted to walk to school today. It's kind of a selfish thing to do as it allows me about 90 minutes of solitude. I underestimated the difficulty of walking over and through snow, but I easily kept warm.

Snow blanketed everything over the holidays, and continues to do so. We were happily snowed-in for three or four days over Christmas, with full cupboards and refrigerator.

Santa made an appearance at mom and dad's house. He was a big hit.

Mare and I made it to 12:30 new year's eve. There was a big full moon that night, mom said it was a blue moon because it was the second full moon of the month.

I must say I'm blessed with a warm house, loving family, and full tummy. Really, is there more important things to be found in life?

My wish and prayer for all the people I know, and for my friends and family of course, and even for my enemies, is this: I wish you all abundant, overflowing, heaped-up blessings of prosperity and well-being, everyday.

Let's make it a good year!