Something Good

Things could be worse. Here's holding on to what's good.

Last Tuesday I was at a friend's house watching the inauguration. I came home to this message on my answering machine. "Hey Tom and Betsy, this is Ron. I'm watching the inauguration and just wanted to tell someone I'm proud to be an American. And I'm proud to be a Christian." Pause. Then in an emotional voice. "Yeah, okay...I just wanted to say that. I'll see you in church. ...love you guys."

Amen, we love you too, Ronnie.

Winter Wonderland

Two brown bumps in the white snow...



Heads up!


May as well get up and enjoy the day.


Yeah, it's pretty cold outside, and none too warm inside. But I dare not complain. I get to live in a house with central heat, a fireplace, and fleece blankies galore.

Holiday, Part II

If I wait another few weeks the holiday will be Valentine's Day. So let's wrap up Christmas and get on with it...

Here's my brother's beautiful tree...



My brother Scott and his wife Anne hosted the Bruce Christmas party this year. Their whole house was festive (and filled with people). How can we say thanks? Oh yeah, by taking our respective turn when it rolls around!

Mom and Dad didn't make the trek from Florida, but they sent presents. Christmas is all about the presents, don't you know? (wink, wink) In this picture the tablecloth was a gift that Mom gave all of the girls about 8 or so Christmases ago!


And the sisters...(missing you Kath!)
...the middle sister is the hostess with the mostess -- and what a fabulous job she (and Scott) did of making us all feel welcome and useful!

Kitchen help...


Cousins...


And the grands...

After all that, did anyone get a really good picture???


I'm thinking it's about my turn to host the family gathering next year. I can't wait! Tom and I will order up the snow, but not so much as to make traveling dangerous. The rest of you can make your plans accordingly.