A short snippet

We are on phase 2 of our visiting season. Nonna, Grandad, Ronnie and Gerry arrived on Friday the 14th. They had a wonderful trip driving from PA to North Pole. We have many plans while they are here. Anchorage, Seward, Birch Lake...I love having company, it lets me do touristy things.

The past week was kind of crazy. Does any one watch Extreme Makeover...Home Edition? Back in March, there was an ad that said they wanted to come to the Upper One and bless a family. I knew just the family to nominate. (no it wasn't us) The family goes to our church. Betsy, the mom, is raising 7 boys and 1 girl and took in her brother who is on kidney dialysis and his 3 young children. They live(d) in a 900 square foot home. The boys are all involved with wrestling and football. They always have a hug to give away and a smile on their face. Well, last Friday, the 7th, they got the knock on the door. I spent the week volunteering as security while this amazing house was built in 5 days. Needless to say, I didn't get much done at my house that week. It was so worth it to see the faces of the Rogers on Friday night when they got to see their new home. It was great to see our small North Pole community come together and provide for this family.

The next 2 weeks we are going to be busy enjoying family and then I go to Seattle and see my sister. Scott and Michele welcomed Maggie Rose into the world on July 12th at 7:50am. She weighed 8lbs 2oz and was 20.5 inches long. Mom and baby are great. I get to go visit them after I'm done in Seattle. I am very excited about seeingmy Utah family again.

The kids are all staying busy. Kyle is working out at the gym, running and getting ready to start football. He seems to really like it. Andie just said goodbye to her best friend who is moving to Utah. I hope they keep in touch. Ryan is gearing up for Kindergarten. He can't wait.

The summer is going by so quickly. We are waiting on our new carpet to be installed. Matt, Lee and Ronnie are getting the little things done in the house. Dianna and Gerry are making sure the house stays clean. We are heading out for the water on Saturday and cruising to a glacier from Seward. The guys are trying to think of the fun they will have and how to smuggle a fishing pole or 2 onto the boat. I think some King Salmon fishing is going to have to happen soon.

Well, I better get back to work. Jamie, I will try to make these shorter and more frequesnt. Our love to all. Have a great week and God Bless!