Settling in for Winter

The Facebook age. For those of you who use that tool, you know what I mean. I have neglected the blog here in place of tending to the task of keeping up on Facebook. And I don't do that well. So, for those of you who are not on Facebook, or prefer something different, I'll update here.

Kenton is napping now, so I have the luxury of typing with both hands, instead of the usual one-handed hunt and peck while he watches the movement on the computer screen. He is now nearly 4 months old, smiles and laughs and puts sounds together that imitate the words "hi" and "mom." He loves to bat at and touch his toys that dangle from various infant play things. Our cozy living room has turned into a cozy play yard with what we call different centers to entertain his little mind. In fact, mom and dad happen to be a center too! Koko is a center as well, and has taken up with (translated tolerated) his new competition. (I found him in Kenton's room one night, even though he tried to sneak out before I saw him.)

I titled this blog "Settling in for Winter," because I have experienced first hand the Alaskan rush to get things done before snow puts a blanket on all outdoor projects. We have just about 3 months up here to get building/gardening/home improvement projects done,while much of the lower 48 has several more "workable" months without cold and freezing to stretch out their "to do" list.

We were blessed to sell my Missouri home this summer! Russ put in a nice garden this summer and it produced the best cauliflower, brocolli and cabbage I've eaten. We have just about finalized the daunting task of completing projects to get the home more energy efficient for the winter. Russ blew in some extra insulation in the attic and put a thick layer of insulfoam around the basement walls. Thanks to my dad, during his visit, we now have a completed deck and back porch as well!

My parents recently enjoyed their first visit to Alaska and together we were able to enjoy the beauty of a sunny and golden-Aspen Fall. A trip to Valdez put us over the top as we witnessed God's spectacular display of glaciers, waterfalls and mountains dusted with white snow. Of course, Kenton was the highlight of their visit.