2008

So another year is ending. How the times flies! This year has been pretty eventful. At the beginning, we had Karen’s nephew Ethan Cook living with us while he went to Clark College here in Vancouver. He left in June.

Karen went to New York for her cousin Marjorie’s funeral in February, then came home with pneumonia. She was also in physical therapy for her weak ankles for a few months. J

In March and April, Ethan and Todd took a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training course with the local firefighters.

In May, Karen’s mom, Alice, died after suffering several strokes and 12 days later Todd’s dad, Don, died from liver and kidney failure. After making it through two quick funerals, a few days later Karen’s gall bladder was removed.

Things seemed to even out a little in July. Karen’s father, Lowell, lived with us for a month. We went camping at our usual location up by Puget Sound with fun activities such as crabbing, clamming, and oyster harvesting. Fun was had by all!

Eric started Kindergarten this year and Elizabeth started the 2nd Grade. Eric was so happy to get to ride the bus! Elizabeth likes being the older sister and we often hear how they get to play together at recess.

Karen took a Food Preservation class offered through the Washington Extension Office during May and June. This has lead to many volunteer hours answering food preservation questions from people all over the Northwest. She has also spent many hours teaching others how to can and preserve food.

Todd is happily working with U-Haul as the Regional Computer Support Specialist for the Pacific Northwest Region. He travels up and down the I-5 corridor. He loves to play World of Warcraft in his spare time.

Karen works with U-Haul as a Customer Service Agent. She also spends her spare time volunteering in Eric’s classroom, taking local religion classes, and canning.

We hope all is well with you and your family. Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!