February 22nd Jo Wrote

Hi this is Jo. Alan says it’s my turn to write this time. So here goes.

First off I would like to thank everyone for taking the time to write their newsletter because I really enjoy getting them and hearing what everyone is up to between times when I actually see you.

A lot has gone on in my family since the start of 2005. Some of it good and some of it not as good. My parents are in Florida for the winter and at the end of January my Dad had a TIA (mini-stroke) that temporarily left him unable to speak clearly and swallow properly. He spent the night in the hospital and they did various tests and everything came up okay so they still aren’t sure exactly how it happened and what caused it. However he is still having trouble swallowing so all his fluids even water have to be thickened. Since he is supposed to drink as much as possible because of his kidney function (because of rejection drugs) it is kind of a catch 22. He is also starting therapy this week to try to strengthen the throat muscles. Hopefully it will get a little better at least. On a happier note, our niece Toni is having a baby and due the end of August. She also just last week got a teaching sub job thru the end of the school year. She has been subbing for multiple districts and has been busy thru these winter months but now is guaranteed a job every day till the end of school. My sister Jill is getting married in June and has been very very happy.

Now on to my little family of three. Yes we are a full time family of three again and it has been great for the most part. We still haven’t found room for all Jeff’s stuff and there is still some in Mass. so I feel like we are bursting at the seams sometimes. I am trying to be of the mindset that if Jeff’s stuff is not spilling out into the hall I should be happy. But oh how I wish he would straighten out his room. I have decided that I have too much stuff myself and was going to tell people if they needed anything to ask me first because I might have one to give away but then I decided that if word got out Jo was giving away her belongings people may start to wonder what’s up. I am actually parting with quite a few books believe it or not. I think it has been more of an adjustment for me to have Jeff back home again than it was to adjust to his leaving 4 ½ years ago. I guess it was easier to adjust to less wash and less cooking than more. But it is great having him here and hopefully he will get a job soon and then have a regular schedule. He is filling out lots of applications and has had a few phone interviews but nothing has gone farther yet. Alan is still busy as ever at work but he has been doing a lot less work at home on nights and week ends so that’s been great! We also have a great new bathroom that some of you have seen. Sometimes I stand in it and can’t believe it’s in my house, it is fantastic! Come see it!! I might even be giving away stuff while you’re here.

Love to all,

Jo