October

Early in October I did some substitute teaching at Cabrillo and managed to get a "cold" from one young third grader. Little did I know that between the cold, subsequent viral encounters and a grueling work schedule, I would comedown with pneumonia. Fortunately, I had a mild case...I would hate to see what a moderate case was like because while I worked for the first few weeks (not knowing how sick I was) I eventually went to urgent care for the diagnosis. I had to completely stop working and then resumed at a minimal schedule for the next 4 weeks. Everyone was understanding, but it took a good 6 weeks to get my energy back...just in time for the holidays.

In October Dan and I began working with a designer to do some remodeling of our home. Primarily we are focusing on the

kitchen and bathrooms, but will do some minor changes to the rest of the house. The home is a good 60 years old and very dated. Remember the

small aqua tiles of the 50s and 60s? Well, we have it if you need to come see it and reminisce.

I really want to update the kitchen as I love cooking and Dan loves cleaning it! We had to purchase a new dryer, microwave and refrigerator as they were either broken or on their

very last leg, so we went ahead and bought the washer, and stove.

Thank heavens Sears was having a terrific sale. The only appliance we kept was the dishwasher. Now as we remodel, the new appliances are in and we can build around them. The stove is just to die for! Despite the new washer and dryer (which are big enough to launch the house into orbit), I still hate doing laundry. They are very nice and are the low energy/water ones type.

We are working on the plans for the house right now, but will not start the work until August after Jay and Heidi's wedding. Speaking of the wedding, I had the honor of being invited to try on the wedding dress! She made her final selection. Her mom and matron of honor went too and

then we went out to lunch. It was so cool! I'd love to show you a picture of Heidi in her dress, but I have been sworn to secrecy. I can say she looks stunning in the gown.