Catching Up

Hi All,

Sorry for the delay in posts. Life has been hectic lately, and time seems to get away from us. For starters, Acey, Anthony and Jakey did go to Martha and Mary's Retirement Home to spread some holiday cheer. They were a huge hit with both the staff and residents. They went around from room to room to spend time with the residents and hand out candy canes. Many of the residents told them how they reminded them of their grandchildren and how happy they were that they took the time to visit. I believe this will be something that we'll likely do every year.

I was able to spend a wonderful Christmas with friends and family. The fact that I am able to celebrate Christmas was not taken for granted, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

In January, my mom and Chris were honored by the American Civil Liberties Union of Alaska for leadership. Acey and I went to Anchorage to be with them. It was a beautiful ceremony...

While in Anchorage, Acey went ice fishing in Grandma's backyard. Ironically, while he was fishing, he was interviewed and photographed by a writer from California who was writing a story on ice fishing in Alaska. Being the outgoing person he is, Acey "granted an interview" and explained the finer points of ice fishing. Something he was well versed in since his grandma had just taught him literally half an hour before :) ha....

I met up with some friends while in Anchorage, including my friend since junior high, Teresa. How fun to talk about our teenage years and our lives as adults. Funny how when you get together with old friends all the years melt away and you are taken back to the past with such ease. I love ya girl :)...

This month Doyon had their annual "Dialog with Doyon" meeting in Seattle. More time with family and friends :). Acey met up with his cousin Seth (I grew up with his grandma in Rampart) and they had a blast. Each year he meets another relative and they always seem to hit it off. This year they had a potlatch with moose soup, salmon and all kinds of yummy food from "home." I love the potlatch idea because it's a great opportunity to teach Acey about waiting on the elders and then helping to clean up afterward.

Last weekend we took Acey to see an Ozzy Osbourne concert at the Tacoma Dome. Acey has been begging his dad to take him to an Ozzy concert since he was a tiny little guy. I'm sure Jay will write more about the concert later.

Finally, Monday was Valentine's Day, and we celebrated in style! Jay grilled some great steaks and we had  baked potato, fresh bread and salad. We exchanged cards and a couple small gifts. "Auntie Merd" was over here picking up a couple things, so we invited her to stick around for dinner. Tonka came to dinner, too... all 140 pounds of him! Unfortunately, we didn't get a picture this visit, but we'll post a new one soon. He's one big, squirmy, sweet puppy.

Whewwww.... I believe that catches everyone up on what's been happening in our lives... We love you all very much!