January 4, 2013 Three more days until school starts again. It hardly seemed like Christmas would arrive, then two weeks are gone...just like that! I spent the time doing a lot of reading- so far 25 books in two weeks. Most of them were two new authors to whom I became acquainted: Debbie McComber and Richard Paul Evans. Their books are simple to read, have no vulgarities and very little indication of violence, just clean, easy reading. I have about 8 more checked out of the library. We'll see how many I get finished before Monday morning. I have spent the vacation writing grants, putting in applications for summer work and for next school year. I really want to work in China for a few years at an international school so I'm praying something works out in that department. If it is meant to be then something will be offered. I am gearing up to attend the Iditarod Winter Conference for Teachers in late February and attend the race start. What an adventure this will be, finally getting to experience the sport in its glory, not just reading about it or viewing someones, not mine, photographs. Who cares if it's 20 degrees below zero? Who cares if the snow is several feet deep (except maybe it won't be!). Anchorage usually trucks in the snow they need for the ceremonial start in downtown Anchorage. 56 days until the race- WAHOO!!! Three days later my kids will get to see the real adventure through my videos and photos!

My Rascal dog is getting older much quicker than I anticipated. He falls so much we have had to bring in indoor-our carpet for the kitchen floor. He is able to walk on it much easier and that's what he needs right now. He is about 14 1/2 years old, has arthritic hips, and possibly doggie dementia. He had a seizure in November and this was an eye opener for me. I take nothing for granted any longer. He enjoys back massages and just being near me. I've never owned a dog this long so everything about his health is new to me. I am seeing each day with him as a gift. Rosie, on the other hand acts more like a puppy! She runs through the house and the yard having a grand old time. She, too, is quite needy at times, however if I was a 16ish year old dog I'd probably be needy too. She's still got lots of pep to her so I am happy to see she is living life well.

I am still taking lots of photos, mostly sunsets, the full moon, and clouds. When it is winter there isn't much astounding color to photograph. I am so looking forward to seeing the auroras in Alaska. What perfectly beautiful photos those will be!