A Mixed Bag

First, I would like to introduce you to the newest member of my husband's son's family, Zach. Because our family is so close he will, of course, end up being a big part of all our lives. He is being held by Emily.

Next: Laurie, Don't MAKE Me Get My Flying Monkeys, has nominated me for a Thinking Blogger Award. My first reaction was "who, me?" but I am very touched and honored. Like many, I don't handle complements very well but am always very pleased to receive them.

I am now supposed to nominate five bloggers from my blog roll for this honor. However, after much thought, I find I cannot choose. I have kept my blogging community small since typing is difficult and commenting important to me, and I like to take the time to know each person and savor these new relationships. The people who's blogs I visit have all touched me deeply with their intelligence, humor, insight and vision. They have all become part of my life and help me to stay strong and positive.

To Tammy, The Daily Warrior, my dear friend and fellow warrior against ALS, I say thanks for introducing me to blogging and encouraging me to set up a site. And to Laurie, my fellow conservationist and new friend, Thank you for the nomination.

Finally: My friend, Carol, who dislikes our Pres and the vice pres as much as I do, gave me a "Backward Bush." It is a credit card size clock with a picture of Bush, looking stupid, on it and the clock in the corner counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds until we are free of them and all they stand for. I love it but worry when I see how much time they have left.