Thus far, Christmas has been a success on all fronts.

Since Karen and I got engaged, my family (Mom & Garrett specifically) seem to have pretty much gotten comfortable with the way I'm living my life.  Which is excellent.  I'm totally happy, and according to a number of people I've seen since arriving in Franklin, it's very obvious.  I think Mom ( Read more... )

Being home, thus far, has been surprisingly low-stress. Mom hasn't nagged at all, or even tried to avoid the subject when Karen comes up. I think she's getting used to the idea. She sees that I'm happy, at any rate, which is good. Although, I still haven't told her I'm not Catholic anymore. That prospect is actually even scarier than telling ( Read more... )

Mom called last night to tell me she and Dad had to have Shady put down. It was, needless to say, a rough night for the McCandless family ( Read more... )

I'm in Vermont! The ride up was a little rough...John had a ton of luggage, as usual, and I was scrunched in the backseat with all of it as we drove really fast (thanks, Dad) on windy roads through the mountains. Ugh. But we arrived all right and I am fully recovered ( Read more... )

I'm still at home, and I'm still alive! Mother has been very well-behaved; I suspect Dad of lecturing her before I arrived. Whatever works.

Things have been slow, but in a good way. Saw Jarred and went to see Batman Begins, which I really enjoyed. I tend to be a fan of those "origin of the hero" type stories. Also hung out with Mary and got ( Read more... )

I'm going home tomorrow. For three weeks. I'm looking forward to it, and nervous at the same time. Mostly about Mom. We get along so well when we're far apart, but I'm afraid as soon as I get home she'll start being all nit-picky again. I'm never thin enough, pretty enough, successful enough...the list goes on ( Read more... )

I'm back from Pennsylvania! Thanksgiving break was wonderful. Mom was on very, very good behavior, Dad was so happy to see me it was downright adorable, I got to bond with my brother, play with my dogs, go see Claire play basketball and see relatives that I hadn't seen in years. AND I saw snow!!! I missed snow!!! All in all, a fantastic four ( Read more... )

A month from today I will be in Russia! ::huge grin ( Read more... )

Well, the Visit of the Mother is not going as terribly as I was worried it might. She did try to pick a fight with me about Bush winning about two minutes after she got off the plane, but I skwelched that as quickly as I could. She's only pestered me a very little bit about my looks and my weight. Seems she's trying hard to stay on good behavior ( Read more... )

This week has been so much better than the last couple. It's been great to have reconnected spiritually and have that strength to lean on again. It makes a world of difference, especially when I'm teaching ( Read more... )