I'm sitting in the alcove at Tom's house looking out at just a little bit of snow on the ground. When I arrived on Thursday, it was a 50 degree high that day with no snow. On Friday, Tracey, Hayden, Danica and I walked down to the park and Hayden had a ball playing with the kids that just got out of school. However, Friday night it started raining and then turned to snow overnight and it is back to typical Cleveland weather. On Friday night we went out to Kirtland to the new Joseph Smith movie...the same one that is showing in Salt Lake City. It is a very good movie...as usual, very well done.

Saturday we went to the zoo...they have several indoor venues...a rain forest which is very well done and then an aquarium and primate exhibit. Then they have a nice cozy bus to drive you around. It's very smart for a zoo in such a cold winter climate. Then we came home to watch the Seahawks game (Yea, Seahawks!) We also watched the New England/Broncos game--not quite as exciting since we didn't have as personal an interest. Yesterday we went to church and then over to the DeBaltzo's for dinner. They are such a fun family to spend time with. We hardley see Hayden at all while we are there since he enjoys the boys so much. We got home at about 1 pm after a rousing game of scrabble...with Tom complaining all the time about our choice of "words".

This morning Tom and Tracey took Danica to get some hip x-rays which are routine since she was breech and was in such an odd position. All is well with her hips. Not sure what we're doing today. Tom has the day off for MLK day.

Brooke and Mike, my heart certainly goes out to you but I feel a very peaceful feeling that everything will work out well and with this additional therapy Ellyn will be able to catch up. You are such conscientious parents to have her checked at this point. I'm afraid I would have waited longer just thinking that she is a late bloomer. Whatever the situation this therapy will help her out immensely starting so early. She is such a cutie...and will be a delight for them to work with.

Brent, I am so excited about your job and that they will let you train in LA. That makes such a significant difference to how long you and Buffy will be separated. We're looking forward, however, to having you around the house for a while. What a treat we have in having so much family close...and the ability to visit those who are far away!!

We need to hear from some of the quiet ones...Kim and Treven..how is school going? Marnie...how is sunny San Diego? Mike...keep us up on the non-happenings or happenings in Korea? of course, Tom and Tracey are a bit behind...but I just gave all their news. Remember, it doesn't need to be earthshattering news to be interesting!!

Thanks to Dave and Adina and Brooke for keeping Dad happy and occupied and watching after Gramma. The first is probably fairly easy but I know well that the other can be a bit difficult and frustrating. I appreciate the opportunity to come out here and to have a break.

Love you all,

Mom