New Toy

We are not sure where the time seems to go, but it definitely has not slowed down with retirement. Finally winter has passed, and we are looking forward to spring activities, at least temporarily? Spring break without skiing this year seemed strange, but the girls came for a short time which is always fast and furious. Dean's new toy, a side by side ATV, better known by the girls as the "fun mobile" provides fun for all. A trip to the shack for picnicking, fishing, and running all around releases lots of energy.

One of our favorite remarks recently from Peri regards the deer head in the shack. After pointing to the head and identifying the deer, she announced "he needs to go outside"! No prompting from Leslie.

Cate, the chef, loves to cook, and she has become pretty proficient. She measures accurately, and breakfast would not be complete without her making "panny cakes"from scratch. Then of course there were valentine cookies, baked, and decorated for grandparents, aunts, and uncles with a few left over for eating.

We have moved my medical care to OKC to save Leslie some running, and it doesn't hurt that we get to see them a little more often! As I go into a new treatment plan, we appreciate the notes, visits, warm thoughts and prayers. We are blessed that I continue to feel good, and have supportive family, friends, and faith. We plan to be around all summer so stop in Okemah, and you may be fortunate enough to have a trip to the "shack" complete with a ride in the fun mobile.

Christmas Present and Past

The month of December was a whirlwind, and now back to winter in Oklahoma. After the relaxing time with kids in Mexico, we returned to Christmas activities with friends and family. Leslie, Sean, and girls arrived in time to take over. Chef Sean planned a delicious Christmas Eve dinner (as usual), and I left the kitchen. He even cooked the turkey, dressing, and herbed mashed potatoes for Christmas dinner. Love these young men! We are blessed to have Mom and Dad next door, and my brothers and family all arrived to celebrate. Mom was thrilled to have five (under age of 5)of her great grandchildren present. It was lively. Santa arrived at our house right on time, and the girls were a joy to watch. We have aspiring performers for sure.

Then Leslie and Sean surprised me with a girls trip to New York the day after Christmas...just Leslie, Cate, and me. What a trip. We attended "Little Mermaid", shopped Dylan's Candy Store, and American Girl among other shops. Cate skated at Rockefeller Center, and we met up with an old friend of Leslie's from Camp Egan days. The guys and Peri held down the fort in Okemah, and I think they enjoyed watching ballgames uninterrupted. They reported Peri was perfect? Of course if eveything goes your way, it may be easy to be perfect. They did a great job on the house. I think I may plan another get-a-way. We hope everyone had a joyous Holiday Season and wish you a Wonderful New Year.