On A Lighter Note . . .

This year, Rachel, our 10-year old daughter, is in 5th grade. She is especially having a great time this year, because this is the year they give students the opportunity to start learning how to play a musical instrument. We didn't even have to encourage her. She wanted to, no question. After a few weeks of mouthpiece testing with the band teacher, Rachel seems best suited for playing the french horn. Luckily, the school loaned us a french horn for her to use. So Rachel carries her french horn case to and from school most days. It's great to see her so excited. She seems to have the drive and motivation to really excel with it, like everything else in school.

This is one of those reflective moments for me. You know, when your kids get old enough and go through some similar experiences you went through when you were their age, etc. I can't help but think back to when I got my trumpet (thanks, Mom). I was in sixth grade in Prosser, Washington (Housel Middle School). That was the beginning of a very enjoyable school music "career". Carmichael Middle School and Richland High School in Richland, Washington, and lastly Mountain Crest High School in Hyrum, Utah. Concert Band, Pep Band, Marching Band, Jazz Band, School Musical Pits. Fun times, great memories.

Good luck, Rachel! Have a wonderful time! :)

Back to the Drawing Board

I was just informed today that the Weather Service position I applied for in Lincoln, Illinois has been awarded to a different applicant. We had our hearts set on this location SO MUCH, that it's difficult to not be pretty down about it. They ended up hiring from within their own office.

This sets us back at least a few months from where we thought we'd be by now in the promotion/moving process.

In the meantime, we shift our sights westward as I have applied for positions in Cheyenne, Wyoming and Spokane, Washington. Possible interviews for these locations could happen by mid October, but as we have learned the hard way: we shouldn't count our chickens before they've hatched.

Wish us luck.

Our Summer Vacation to Utah (see the photo album)

This past July we took our summer vacation to Utah to visit family and friends (including many of you who read my blog). I want to thank you all for your hospitality. It was great to see all of you again. I've set up a photo album showing our vacation over on the right side of my blog. Click on it, have a look at the pictures, comment, and keep in touch!

On the way driving back home to Kansas, the last hour was terrible! I had to resort to slapping my face and bitting my fingers to keep me awake. Now there's a crazy picture in your mind! Rachel woke up for a short time and wondered if she was having a wierd dream. Can anyone relate? The rest of the family was asleep in the car. I dared not stop and catch a nap, because the kids would wake up. I just had to drive on through.