The Christmas season was agreeably busy. We hosted another international student from Susan's school. It was a huge let-down from our guest at Thanksgiving. I won't go into all the gory details...let's just say I look forward to a more positive experience at Easter!

While Susan was home we were able to take her to get her driver's permit.  In Iowa you may get one at 14!  I can't believe that she is starting to learn to drive. I always marvel at how fast she (and all the kids) are growing up. It seems like only yesterday that I was holding her gently in my arms soothing her to sleep at night...fond memories! I do see now, however, why parents get gray hairs around this time in their life. She drove 3 1/2 of the 5 hours back down to school! Overall she did very well, only a few moments of "mom fear".  Her comment was that she was so glad that I could relax and not have to drive the entire time....RIGHT! Shear relaxation with Susan behind the wheel!

I had a group of "girls" over Friday night for a Pride and Prejudice Movie Marathon in celebration of my 35th birthday! It was a total blast complete with yummy treats and Tinker Bell tiaras. There is such a great group of ladies at the church and I plan on having more fun little get-togethers in the months to come. Many thanks to my dear husband for taking the kids so that I could have some fun!

Tomorrow I am off to do some shopping for items around the house and for myself! I don't know how much I will get done. Paul will be going away for Symposia this month and wants me to get a day to myself in before he leaves...again, couldn't have asked for a better man to be married to!

Blessings to all of you this New Year!