Fall 2009

So it's almost Thanksgiving! Since last post, we've been busy buttoning everything up for winter. The generator got a shakedown run last week, when we had a power outtage for a few hours. It was definitely worth the investment to have the fridge and water heater stay on, as well as the heating system and some lights. C'mon, ice storms - make my day!

Olivia was a black cat for Halloween. Daddy painted a kitty face on her. Not really professional, but you get the idea - She went to the neighborhood parade given by the Fire Department, and then trick or treating. (These days, it's only "treating" - When we were kids, seems we had as many "tricks" as treats)! Anyway, we're just finishing up the mountain of candy loot she scored. I never thought I'd say this, but I'd be happy not to see chocolate for a while!

Our little girl is going to be seven in a few days. Seems impossible! She had her party last Saturday. It was at the bowling alley, believe it or not. It actually was a pretty clever idea, since keeping 14 little girls all more or less in one place and occupied for two hours can be a challenge, not to mention the "collateral damage" to the house, if you are crazy enough to have the party at home. It worked out well. There was pizza, cake, balloons and everyone had a great time. It was amusing to see the little peanuts trying to heft and fling the ball down the alley. Then again, a couple of them broke 100, which is better than I can do at times. LOL!

Andrea and Olivia are taking piano lessons. After looking at several "real" pianos, we decided to get a nice digital one. It looks somewhat like a piece of furniture, but isn't as big and heavy as an acoustic piano. By this time next year, the two girls in the house will have assumed the mantle of "musician" from Tom, who is happily "retired" from playing music.