Boots on the Ground

Boots on the ground.

(No, I'm not talking about more troops in Afghanistan.)

I'm referring to our foyer where we all take off our shoes and boots each time we come in from outdoors. It's a Michigan tradition. And I suppose a tradition anywhere there is snow and mud and beige carpet!

All the kids have flown back to California. We had them all under one roof until I took them to the airport yesterday at 5 pm. Bittersweet drop off.

They said the airport was very quiet and they did not see evidence of extra security measures as a result of the failed airline attack at Detroit Metro Airport over the holidays.

We had a lot of great family time together while they were here. Surprisingly, we didn't go out to eat at a restaurant one time while everyone was here. And I love going out to restaurants.

We cooked at home every night -- Risotto Fontina with Chicken, Japanese Vegetable Curry, Ginger Fried Rice, and other delicious meals.

Adam was the King of Sangria and we had it by the pitcherful with fresh oranges, lemons and limes. And a few toasts with champagne both for the kids' engagement and to ring in the New Year.

Yesterday we took a long walk through snow covered trails in Milford when it was 10 degrees outside not counting the wind chill factor. The only reason we turned around to come back was our concern over Jamie the border collie's exposed paw pads. At what temperature would they develop frostbite?

(Didn't take Haley on the walk. She's too old and slows us down!)

Gil is on-call this weekend which means he's reading studies from home. I'm going to try to get some exercise by mall-walking with the old folks in a warm and closed environment. It's just too cold outside to get the workout I need today.

Happy New Year to all of you. We could not have asked for a more supportive group of family and friends this past year.

Haiku:

Ten degrees outside

How do the birds survive it?

Must keep bird feeder full.