News From the North

Our activities of late have included:Trying not to freeze.

Selling the trusty old Taurus and buying a van. This car was my Grandpa's, and has been ours for four years. It has moved with us from Chicago, to LA, and to Minnesota. We brought both of our boys home from the hospital in this car. The addition of our baby, however, means three car seats. Three car seats means a van. Or a station wagon. Or some such large vehicle. And so, we bid the Taurus goodbye. Having three kids, though, has made my transportation life so difficult that I am overjoyed to own a minivan. Never thought it would come to this. But, it is so. much. easier. And . . . get this . . . there is a remote starter on this van. Yup, on those sub-zero days, I can start the van from the warmth of my house, and scoot through the cold to our garage, where I find it humming away, all heated up and ready to go. So sweet.

Celebrating our anniversary with dinner and a movie. Made possible by the visit of my parents. We also celebrated on the actual day by taking the kids for doughnuts and a trip to a local indoor park. This place was *wonderful* and will now be a winter destination for our family. Things to climb. Houses in which to bounce. Energy evaporated.

Due to the grandparental visit, we had a lot more time for relaxing and reading the paper. Sigh. Will be looking forward to the next time.

Watching the little guy grow, and wondering if he is the largest 4 month old in the world. He smiles nonstop, unless he is sleeping. He plays with his toes, makes all kinds of fun noises, and is transfixed by his sister's antics and attempts to entertain him.