Been a long time

Hello all,

It has been a long time since I last wrote to you all and a lot has happened in my life and the lives of those in my family. As you all know, my dad has been ill for the past several months. In September, I prayed that he would be able to see my sister Danna get married. Then I prayed that he would be there for Thanksgiving. Christmas was the next major holiday which he watched come and go.

I spent Christmas day in Iowa with my family. Actually, it was a combination of my family and Jen's family since her mother, Diane, came along. Dad is now in hospice care and is unable to get out of bed. His room is right off of the living room which is easy access for everyone to go in and sit with him. I helped him with his lunch and also massaged his back for a while. I try not to cry while in his room. Dad doesn't need to see me doing that. When I feel a tear coming on, I turn my head away and try to fight it off. I won't lie to you, a few tears have fallen despite my best efforts.

I was so proud of both Ali and Zac. They both did great with Dad. Ali was originally unsure about Dad's oxygen machine, but with some help from Jen, she warmed up to it quickly. By the middle of the afternoon, she was sitting on the corner of his bed looking at the screen saver pictures on the computer. Both Ali and Zac brought a lot of laughter into a house that needed some Holiday cheer.

At this time I want to recognize my sisters for being so strong. We have all leaned on each since Dad was diagnosed. It has been said that times of great struggle bring a family closer. Whoever penned that phrase was correct. These are the times that show you what a family is made of.

Mom - I love you. What you do every day for dad is a testament to the love you and dad share. I love you so much.

- Bill's Son
Andy

What a week

Hell all,

I won't bore you with all of the details, but this week has really been a bad one for myself as well as my team. The SODS application installed a major software release on Sunday night. By Monday afternoon, our system clients were beginning to see abnormal behavior on the system. I left the office at 6:15 and was back on a call by 7:00. I worked from home on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday while working the late shift ( 9 AM - end of day ). It has really put some strain on myself and the family. I'm looking forward to Ali's birthday party tomorrow. Hopefully, the last change I made last night will allow the dust to settle and my life to get back to normal.

-Andy

BeutiControl Open House

Hello all,

Today Jen has her first annual BeautiControl open house. I think it was a success. Jen had six orders placed yesterday which is a good thing. The signs that Jen and I made Saturday didn't last very long in with the strong North wind that was blowing today. It would have been nice to have someone show up that had not RSVP'd, but I was happy to see everyone that came by to say hello.

After the party, Jen and I started to compile a list of inventory still on hand after today's party. It is nice to order more supplies. It is a sign that her business is growing.

OK, off to bed.

-Andy

Making Gingerbread houses with the kids

Hello all,

Today was construction day here in Kansas City. Yep, it was time to build ginger bread homes at HY-VEE. Both Alexandria and Zachary built a very special home. The homes were built from a milk carton and then covered with white icing and then various candies were placed on the four sides and the rooftop. The kids really had a lot of fun. Here are some pictures of the event.







I hope you liked the pictures. It was a lot of fun.

Good night!

-Andy

Great night with family

Hello all,

Tonight Jen's dad, Larry Thompson, came up to go to dinner with Jen, Ali, Zac and myself. We went across the street to Zona Rosa and ate at an Italian restaurant named Bravo. It was great food. Zac had his typical chicken strips while Ali had pepperoni pizza. Jen tried the chicken marsalla while Larry had the pasta Bravo. I, of course, had the lasagna. Dinner was fantastic. I think everyone had a good time.

After dinner, we walked around Zona Rosa with Larry to show him the sites. We had to run into a few stores to pick up a Christmas present or two for people who have been good this year. :) After a brisk walk, we drove back to our house for a little bit before Larry had to head home. It was great to see you last night Larry. I hope we see you more often.

Once Pap Pap left, it was time to get the kids into their pajamas and start settling them down for the night. Jen watched some TV that she had taped while we were out while I cleaned up the kitchen and read the mail. It was a great night to be out.

Good night,

-Andy

Time for play

Hello all,

Tonight was a night for playing with the kids. Jen and I pulled some of the kids toys out of the toy box played with the kids on the living room floor tonight. It was a much needed break from everything that both Jennifer and I have been dealing with recently. The sound of a child's laugh is infectious. Zac and Ali played so well with each other tonight I didn't want the night to end.

Zac was playing with the Discovery Toys stacking cups while Ali was singing her ABC's with Jen and I. Zac joined in where he could sing along. Most of the time he danced along with the song. It is truly a magical period in all of our lives. The glow of the Christmas lights on the living room walls makes the house warm.

Look out, I may just put out some Christmas decorations outside.

Good night!

-Andy

What a week

Hello all,

My last entry stated that I hope something would happen in my life because I needed some excitement. Well, with a wish like that, something was bound to happen. Last Thursday I received a call from my mother. My Grandmother Brand has passed away in her sleep Wednesday night. I took the call while at work. My supervisor, Kevin, was sympathetic and agreed that I should go home and prepare for a trip to Iowa.

The time I spent in Iowa was needed. I was able to spend quality time with my mom, dad and sisters. My dad was in good spirits some of the time. While mom, Jen and I were in Sharpsburge, my aunt Kathy came down to spend the afternoon with my dad.

Dad is doing ok. He is still able to get up and walk around the house when he wants. He spends most of his time in his room. Mom has brought some of his keep sakes home from the bank. They are set up around the room and bring color to the room.

Jen and I came home today. We are both very tired and have enjoyed playing with the kids.

Good night!

-Andy

Nothing good on TV tonight

Hello all,

I don't have a lot to write about tonight. Jen and I had pork chops for dinner and paid bills tonight. Talk about excitement! After the highlight of the night was over, we watched the movie Phone Booth on HBO. I walked for an hour on the gazelle while watching the movie.

It is just too exciting to keep my eyes open. I hope I have more exciting things to write about tomorrow night.

-Andy