An Update from the bad blogger...

Yes, I'm aware that I said that I would keep the blog up while I was in Ohio. Yes, I'm also aware I haven't been doing it. And the funny thing is, even the people I see here are missing it! So no pictures this morning because I don't want to dig out my camera at the moment, but I thought I'd post an update of sorts to fill everyone in on what's been going on. I will *try* to put pictures up tonight but no promises ;-)

First off; IT'S COLD!!! Last night driving home from Toledo, the big thermometer on the bank said it was -4 and with the wind chill it's easily in the -20's. COLD!!! My poor little car has icicles on it. We have discovered that it has an amazing heater, though. Never had to use that before... Friday morning we saw a bit of snow but a ton of ice. No school here for Scott and no leaving the house for anyone. The majority of the roads are fine now, but our alley and out front could still use some major salt and a plow.

Scott turned 14 on Wednesday and we celebrated with an ice cream cake and the Muppets Christmas special. Hard to believe that he's 14 already - I was there when he was born. I always want to roll my eyes when people say things like that to me (and in my head the smart alack comment of "So was I" usually echoes loudly) but dang, if you saw the kid you'd understand what I mean. He is literally a human garbage disposal. Grant, if you're reading this, we need to find a good short term investment with a large amount of growth if we're planning on feeding him for 2 weeks this summer... The other night the kid ate 3 whoppers, 3 spicy chicken sandwiches and a large french fry and an hour later was looking for more!

We unfortunately haven't gotten to see too much of Shellie (stupid work) but headed into Toledo yesterday for lunch with Aunt Mary, Rebecca and Adam (wait 'til you see the pictures of the really cool truck Noah got!) at the Neighbors where Shell works. (If you're in the area, go check it out. Weird name, great french fries! Killer ranch dressing :-p) It was good to catch up for awhile and "have Christmas" Then took Mom & Dad to bowling, hung out at Shell's for awhile, picked them up from bowling and got to see Papa and Uncle Tom, and DD'd home.

The doggies, for anyone wondering, are behaving gloriously. We might have a little snit or snarl every once in awhile, but for the most part they are very chill and respectful towards each other. Two years ago when we were here, Bella got a doggie (edible) Christmas card in her stocking and accidently left in here. Since then Tipper has protected it and whenever she feels distressed finds it and moves it around the house. The other night, she laid down in the middle of the living room and ate it! It was so crazy, like she had finally gotten permission from Bella. So overall, very happy with how the doggies are behaving.

Grant's going to probably never let me take Noah anywhere again... The kid has some "war wounds" that he's managed to afflict on himself. He was taking a snooze the other day and when I got him up he had a large scratch on his forehead. Apparently he scratched himself while he was sleeping. He kind of looks like a combat fighter.... I promise he's OK, babe.

Otherwise he's been spoiled rotten. There is always someone around to play with or pick him up, which he hates ;-) Sarah has been able to be here alot and they are bestest buddies. She's taught him how to give high fives (sometimes) and she is also the master diaper changer ;-)

Alright, that should tide everyone over for at least a few more hours I hope. I have to say that it absolutely DELIGHTS me to hear how many friends and family are keeping up with the blog. In some strange way it makes me feel not quite so far away. Feel free to leave comments, become a follower, or you can always send me an email at KristiGatchel@gmail.com I will try my hardest to post pictures tonight as I think we'll be around. And then I will definitely post pictures on Wednesday from the arrival of Grant and our trip to the Lights Before Christmas tomorrow. Hope that everyone reading this is warm and toasty out of the cold, or cool out of the heat. More later tonight!!!