Just checking in

I really want to blog.  It's been such a long time since I've done a real update and I imagine that the 6 of you (is that overly optimistic?) who read it would like a real update.  But, the blog holds this priority in my life:  first I have to write about things in my journal, then to my family, and then I can blog about it.  So neither my blog nor my family have gotten much of anything lately.  But slowly I'm recording the most important things in my journal.  It has been a whirl wind of several weeks with all kinds of ups and downs.  Whew.  Anyway, I will write again someday, I promise.

For today I just wanted to say that.  And also to say that a day or two ago I was sending out an email to invite people to my birthday breakfast (that's what I'm doing for a party this year, because it's what I want to do).  As I'd type in a letter and auto-fill would give me options, I would think--I wish I could have that person here.  And that person.  And her too.  Oh, you've all been so very, very important in my life over this past decade and I just wish I could celebrate with you.  But, instead, I focus on being grateful that you've been part of my life.

And finally, while I'm on here I will share one little bit of news.  Today I became an aunt to a nephew!  First nephew.  Fourth niece/nephew.  Laura had a little boy very early this morning.  No name yet (that I know of).  His birthday is 5 days before mine and 12 days before his mama's.  To be honest, it seems surreal, since I haven't even seen Laura pregnant.  But, when I heard the message when I got out of class, I still cried.  The joy was real, even if my imagination can't picture it.     Update: I've heard that his name is McKay (named after my father) and then Laura's maiden name and our family name; he has lots of blond, wavy hair; and his older sister is absolutely delighted with him (as well she ought to be, little brothers are about the best thing I can think of in life).
On a rather random note, my best friend from junior high also just had a baby boy.  He was born yesterday.  Some people my age are actually grown up and old.  :)

And that's all folks.