Dear family and friends
After a month of silence, I thought I had better get back with some updates. A few hours on a flight this morning seemed to be a good time to relieve my guilt and hit the keyboard.
2013 has started off with a busy bang and things have not let up! My work has been busy with extra responsibilities. It appears that several special assignments may be coming to an end, but one is never sure. As much as the long hours are not my favorite thing, these special assignments are alays interesting and challenging – something I always enjoy. Now I need to get back to my “regular job” which has not had my full attention lately. Thank goodness I have a wonderful team of managers to keep things running smoothly while I’m otherwise distracted!
Grayson has been doing well. He continues to have his ups and downs in terms of cognition, but he has been healthy – except for the runny nose that has been bugging him for weeks. He and Maria (his care giver) are doing a lot of walking these days as the sun has been out a lot and it isn’t too hot. These walks are good for him and Maria has been exploring areas in the canyon that they can go to see new things. I’m happy to see him using his legs as that bodes well for his skiing – and it looks like we’ll have the opportunity to have two more long trips this season. Grayson and I are looking forward to that!
I know that you all heard about Austin and Xixi’s engagement. They are starting to plan, but a date is not yet been picked – and they are not in a big hurry. Enjoying the planning process and doing it right is much more important to them. That is a good thing!
Having Lauren back in town is certainly a blessing. Regina and Lauren have spent a lot of time together lately and they talk all the time. Having an adult daughter is sure a treat – and having her close by is wonderful.
Regina’s father has had some health issues and was recently placed in a skilled nursing facility for some rehabilitation. He appears to be getting stronger and may be released back to home in a few weeks. We are praying for his strength and are hoping that he can get back in his own home as soon as he is able. It is a challenge when your loved ones in need are so far away.
To catch you up on the bathroom reconstruction – things are almost complete. Wall color and the shower enclosure are all we are waiting for. The bathroom (other than the shower) is functional and we have moved back in. Most of the construction dust is done, and with new pipes, the leaks are gone for another 30 years or so!
I’ll be touching down in Seattle in an hour – and I was just here last week! I think I will be able to stay away for a few weeks. Phoenix in the summer and Seattle in the winter – I sure know how to plan travel!
Pax!
Brant
