The old year is fast fading, and the new year steps into view. We are all healthy and learning, involved in projects and plans, thinking of how to make our world a better place. And hoping that the insanity of war and competition among nations will someday end. We know people who are going to Iraq, who would have been leaving military service within the year if not for the war. Our hearts will go with them, though we won't share the struggles -- just as our thoughts are with the people in the many nations that are trying to survive the hardships of war and deprivation that have followed.
On a happier note, the garden looks pretty good right now, even in the middle of winter. The heathers are blooming and brighten up the driveway and parking area considerably. The pink tea camellias are also blooming, and the pansies are trying, though the slugs think they exist just for dessert.
The children are growing and happy -- Matthew is playing his trumpet in a local kids' orchestra, Grant is taking horseback riding lessons, Buffy is practicing "cat naps for dogs..." diligently.
And I am working on getting out holiday notes responding to letters, cleaning the house and staying one step ahead of the kids' learning curves. That last one is harder and harder to do...
And my Tom is as wonderful as ever -- think of Mr. Rogers' personality in Pierce Brosnan's body. Va-voom!!