Finally

What is it about spring that when it finally comes, it is so new and joyous, as if it doesn't happen each year, round about the same time?  Today, the temperature reached 70, and we did a little yard work, cut some grass, cleaned the porches and planted some marigolds (in trays, inside still, but getting ready.)  We've even seen the groundhogs.  They're getting ready for our new garden.

Dan was here for the night, as he joined us to attend cousin Peter's 60th birthday party.  It was a surprise party, and he was surprised.  Many cousins and two Collins aunts were there, as well as many of the next generation, and the one after that.  Nice family, that knows fun.

Soon, I'll know fun again, as I can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel for this spring's classes.  Today was the first day in weeks that I did  not spend the first hours on the computer writing.  A month ago, when we went to Washington, I couldn't see a way to the end.  Now I am closing in on completing three projects: a book proposal on history and memory in the Foreign Service, a national registry nomination for the mill next to our house and an exhibit on Pittsfield in the Civil War, for Arrowhead Museum.  Let's hope something comes out of each of those besides a class assignment.

Last weekend, Mary and I went to Ottawa for five days!  The national public history conference this year was in Ottawa, too big a temptation to forego.  And, we stayed in our old house, thanks to the Nealons, friends who joined the Foreign Service at the same time as us, and he is now the DCM.  And, another couple also from our class, the Dickmeyers, came up from Toronto where he is Consul General.  Time flew by.  The photo is in the backyard of our old house.

Speaking of flying (don't you just love the transitions?), Joe is flying to India this week, as he accompanies a delegation going to the Asian Development Bank meeting.  He has been uber-busy with preparations for that meeting.  Margaret too has been busy at work, as it is getting close to summer when all the Fulbright orientations she;s been working on take place.  And, Annie flew too, to Malaysia, to get her China visa renewed.   

Big news from Florida, as John and Marilyn bought a house, their winter escape in Daytona.  Looks nice; they got a great deal and have extended their trip south for an extra week, to get it ready.  

We talked to David, who was on his way to Albany, and then this week went to New York City.  He had some business, but he and Paula were hoping to go see a play.

Mary has been busy with one last class to renew her certification for teaching.  She's hoping something comes up this summer.  She had a swim meet yesterday, in southern Vermont.  In one race, it turned out she was going to be swimming by herself.  When she threatened to back out, the two coaches, both champions swam with her.  Go team.  

May starts this week.  Hope returns.  Love from over here.