A wild news day

The Federal Reserve makes a historic emergency interest rate cut of 3/4 point.

The Dow opens down 460 points, and is recovered to -100 (or better) by 2pm.

Fred Thompson drops out of the presidential race.

Wow.

Almost a teen

I can hardly believe that my older daughter is about to be a teen. It feels as though it has all happened so quickly. Though we still spend too much time (though not as much) dealing with "drama," she is definitely maturing... in fits and spurts.

She seems to have come through the "physically awkward" stage just fine. She carries herself with a grace that impresses me. Her loyalty to her friends is most admirable. She is a lot of fun, and she even laughs at my humor. (In fact, humor is how I am often able to help her fix a bad mood.)

Is she perfect? Uh, no. Her room is often a MESS! (there's a unique complaint) She wrestles at times with remembering that we (Natalie and I) are the parents (another unique one). I want to inspire and help motivate her to push herself more. I do not want a habit of laziness to take root. All that said...

She is a beautiful young lady, and I love her very much. I am very proud to be her dad.

Is it a recession?

Has the economy started shrinking? What do you think?

If so, what do you think caused it?

Back in the saddle

Happy 2008!

We made it home last Saturday. It was another good (long) trip. Very little traffic. A most interesting difference from other recent trips. Both the girls have small DVD players. Usually they both "zone out" and watch movies the entire trip. This time, Rachel still did that, but Lauren did not. She did not watch a single movie. There were some extended times of "just being," but for much of the trip she talked with us. It was very nice. I really like it when we can just talk, or just be quiet together. Addiction to entertainment (or, addiction to being entertained) is something we all struggle with, I think.

So now it is time to get back to work...

Be a blessing!