Love note from my husband, today, our 20th anniversary:

“Willy Wonka might not have been right. The man who got everything he wantED, might not have lived happily ever after. I know that I have more than I could have ever dreamed of. Everything I have, every adventure we’ve had, every story that people tell about us is because of YOU. My sweet Lorelei. Please forgive me if sometimes I forget that. The best thing I ever did was to go to 45 Cherry Street that night. Always know that you are the reason I smile, the reason I breathe. I can’t imagine what the next 20 years and beyond will bring, but I know it will be wonderful because I’ll spend it with you. I love you.”

Oh, yeah, that’s the man I married!

Me and Joe

We’re all wearing layers, even in the house. The heat pump is working overtime, 24/7 and running our electric bill through the roof. Windows and doors covered either in plastic or with blankets trying to keep the chill out. Kids stuck inside and getting cabin fever. Expected this type of weather when Joe and I lived in Alaska for almost seven years, but no here in North Carolina. Brings back memories. Must say, I’m ready for some 40 degree days again! But, despite the cold, we’re enjoying our time together. Working on crafts, watching movies and cuddling on the couch. I just finished crocheting Meghan a beautiful deep purple hooded scarf. She looks so cute in it. A little Russian baby doll with her red hair! Still working on the afghan for Joe for our 20th anniversary which is this coming Thursday. (I made him an afghan as a wedding gift 20 years ago, so it seemed appropriate.) Topher is working on his first afghan. Meghan continues to practice her knitting skills. And T.J. has been cranking out some woven potholders. James and his friend, Tyler, have been trying to trap the rogue raccoon who killed all our chickens just before Christmas. Work for Joe has been very slow at the surveying company. This is, in general, a slow time of year anyway, but add into that the economy, the snow and the arctic cold, and there are very few crews out in the field. But regardless of the tight purse strings, life in our home, with our family, is wonderful. I am thankful everyday for our children and the life we have.