The year 2007 is ending with one more snow storm. There is some symbolism with a storm coming because 2007 was somewhat unsettled.
This year was one of hope. The Packers are heading to the playoffs for the first time in 4 years and maybe a Super Bowl Championship. The Milwaukee Brewers were in the pennant chase until the last few days of the season. The Badgers football team had a good season and are unbeaten at home in the last two years.
The term "housing bubble" took us by storm. Foreclosures are occurring at record rates and the incompetence of the banking system is seen in full bloom.
We have accepted $3 per gallon for gasoline as standard and my prediction is that prices will only go higher.
Grasshopper No.1 endured a rare heart procedure (operation) and she has a normal "thumpety, thumpety, thumpety" heartbeart. Her gift is that her ordeal lets her understand and appreciate the important things in life.
Grasshopper No.2 gives new meaning to the name "Dear Abby". Through her exercise regimen (encouraged and paid for by her employer), she has developed her own abdomen "six-pack" hence the nickname "Abby". Her gift is that exercise and diet makes her feel good.
Grasshopper No.3 changed his life by moving to a house in the suburbs. It all comes with landscaping projects, painting rooms and replacing furnaces. His gift is that he seems to be in a good place in his life (exploding piston heads in his boat and all).
Grasshopper No.4 proved that anybody can "coach" a youth football team to a championship. As one of his coaches said at the end of the year, "so few times in your life do you experience a championship situation, you should savor the special moments". They did! He did! His gift is that he has learned the meaning of earning more and spending less.
Grasshopper No.5 seems to be developing the passion in life. Her pictures show more innovation, color, black and white contrast and detail. Her gift is that she can see things through her own special lens. Damn, camera equipment is expensive.
Your Mom continues to strive for the perfect balance through self discovery including diet, excercise and nutrition. She is succeeding. I think Yoga is entering the mix.
And me? "Little Chuckie" from Plymouth, who married Shelby Jean from up on the hill, I lost 20 pounds of ugly fat (no I didn't cut off my head). I do feel better especially when coupled with steady exercise.
So my wish to all is a healthy and prosperous 2008. My prediction is that "something good will happen to you"!
Love,
Dad