Hi there.  It's been almost a month since I last wrote an entry, so I thought I would do a quick update today.  The kids are home with me today; it's the end of the semester.  Marisa went to a movie with a friend and Dom & Nat went to the Madison Heights Nature Center with me.  It was really nice, there is snow today - it's bitter cold, but we still had a good time.  The center is a large log cabin.  We went on a hike and then returned to thaw in front of the fireplace.  It was so nice to just be quiet, peaceful and enjoy nature.  Last week I wore the 24 hr holter monitor for the second time.  I'll visit Dr. Kovach at U of M on February 6th.  She'll let me know if I need a pacemaker and also do tests to check the status of my valve.  I am eager for the appt; it's been a while since a doctor has seen me.  I feel like I've been on my own for a while...it's comforting to have a doctor tell you all is well.

Last week we learned some sad news.  Our dog Reggie (13 1/2 yrs) is very ill.  We got Reggie right after we married, and she has been a big part of the family.   We found out she has a tumor on her liver and severe arthritis which causes her back legs to give out.  We are doing everything we can to make her days happy.  We are faced with the decision of her quality of life.  Please pray for us, and for her.  It is not easy to let go of a pet you love so dearly.

Other things in life are good.  I've been feeling all right, experiencing the occasional heart palpitation.  I continue on the treadmill daily, and have begun attending a body sculpt class with a friend on Saturdays.  Dave is doing great.  He's busy with work and organizing our February trip to Florida to see Grandpa & Grandma Haight and visit Disney.   The kids are fabulous.  They are all doing very well in school and enjoying their other activities.  Marisa is busy with Girl Scouts and our mother/daughter book club, Dominic loves his weekly parks & rec hockey games and Natalie is active with her monthly nature class and Daisies troop meetings.  All three are excited that American Idol is back on TV ---- yikes. 

Well, my wishes are of peace and warmth to you.  May your days be filled with laughter and love.  God bless, Michelle