Random Commentary On A Grammy Performance

I think Taylor Swift is cute and all, but I don't think she's all that great live.

Help

The earthquake in Haiti is beyond tragic.

Click on any organization's name to donate to:

• the Red Cross
  
• Doctors Without Borders
• the Mercy Corps
  
• UNICEF
• Food for the Hungry
• The Salvation Army

Go. Help. Now!

Dx

My nephew was transferred from Vermont to Mass General late Wednesday night. After extensive testing that lasted all day yesterday, they've finally arrived at a diagnosis. Thankfully, they were able to make the diagnosis without having the perform the double brain biopsy which they'd been planning.

My nephew's undergoing heavy immuno-suppressant therapy to combat the symptoms, but at least his condition is not fatal. The extent of his recovery remains to be seen.

Thank you for your prayers and good wishes.

Am I Sexist?

I used my new GPS the other night (and totally loved it!). As I was heading out, though, it dawned on me very quickly that, although the female voice giving me directions was quite polite, I prefer taking directions from a man. (Really, this is ironic, because I am most definitely the alpha and, in terms of going anywhere, I'm the one in charge. J hates to drive...maybe that's why the preference for a male voice since he's usually my navigator?)

When I got home J and I went through the voice options and we found a lovely male voice with a British accent that I'll be more than happy to have direct me.

ps - The friction mount is awesome!

Five Years!

Today marks Mom's 5th anniversary of being cancer-free. I'm so proud to be her daughter. Below is a letter to the editor of a small local paper written by a member of Mom's choir and published on Christmas Eve. It captures perfectly how amazing Mom truly is and how lucky we are to have her.

*************

To the Editor:

Sometimes when we live among legends it is difficult to identify with their greatness. Legends capture our admiration, our respect, our faith, and our love. But when we see them week to week and share the common threads that are the odyssey of life, the joy of good fortune and new life, the despair of family tragedy and just plain bad luck, the presence of greatness is easily overlooked.

For decades the faith community in the Lakes Region and beyond, in particular St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Tilton, has been blessed with a powerful force of good transcended in the form of music. It exists through the continued development of a wonderful talent for piano and pipe organ, a feel for timing and mood, and an unwavering passion for the ministry of music.

There is one among us who has been there time and again all around the region providing the comfort of music at some of the most important times in people’s lives, has prodded and encouraged and rallied the troops, and helped build confidence in all who love to sing
and make music but are hindered by self-consciousness. And has set an awesome example through a strong sense of faith and dedication to her community. Rejoice, for there is a living legend among us: our very own Nancy Walker.

Kent Finemore
Northfield

Prayers Needed

My nephew is very sick. They still don't know what's going on and he's deteriorating quickly.

Please pray.

Thank you.

You Know You're From New England When...

... you step outside and 26* feels balmy. And, really, in January it is.

Before & After

The Kitchen Before:

And the AMAZING After!

Don't you just love it?!