Updates and Stuff

Thank you Jadi for your beautiful blog this past weekend. You inspire me!! We know how much special effort you and Spencer are expending in your family these days. I am constantly asked how little Clare is and I have decided that my only answer is that, she is doing great. Although she does not yet sit up, roll over or act as independent as other 10 month old children, she certainly can win my heart with her sweet little smile and occasional giggle. The other night I watched her father bend over her, exert some effort to catch her attention (which is a challenge) then say to her; "Hello my Sweets, how was your day?". Of course it had the expected emotional effect on me and on little Clare; both big smiles.

Last Friday morning, I had an eight year old and a six year old climb up on my knee and just visit for about 1/2 hour. We are blessed with remarkable children who are raising sugar, spice, everything nice, snakes, snails and puppy dog tails and for all that we are so grateful. I liked Mark's comments about the prospect of their having a new addition to their family, he said; "well, we sure like the ones we've got".

The Raymond Project

Things are winding up slowly but surely. Our friend, Wayne Eakett has spent the past 8 - 10 weeks doing finishing work on site. He has become a friend through this project as he has cared deeply about his work. Painters are putting final colors in now, cabinets are starting to go in next week. The exterior needs final stucco and is in the process of getting the rock front. Here are a couple of the latest photos.

As I was driving to Raymond the other day, the fellow who is putting on the rock called me to confirm an appointment. He impressed me when he asked if he could pick me up a hot chocolate or something. This fellow seemed familiar and imagine his surprise when he told me that his name was Josh Prepchuk and I promptly gave him a good, solid punch on the shoulder. (I need to remember that these young guys could probably deck me.) Josh and his folks lived right next door to us when he was running around in diapers. We have very fond memories of Ken, Sandy and their family.

The frustration of building is the inability of sub-trades to meet deadlines and the need to get "in the queue" each time we need something done. Painters have said they will finish this week, we will get the rough cabinetry so that the countertops can be exact. My intent through this whole process is to ensure that the people who are working on our house leave wanting to do business with us once more. I am in need of patience. (On that same note, I hope that Cahoons continue to be as understanding as they appear to be.)

The Plan

It appears that we will be hosting Christmas this year and that we will have a houseful of kids. GREAT. Bring it on!!

Happy Thanksgiving to the south.