Cool thoughts . . . (Gigi)

Hello,

Temperatures are flaring. Thank goodness for air conditioning, and lots of it!

I've enjoyed reading your letters and decided to sit a spell and contribute something.

We have news! For those of you who have not heard, Marty moved his family. We are enjoying the extra room, front porch, swing set and slide, basketball hoop, and much more. Our new address is 6005 South 159 Circle, Omaha, NE 68135 (phone number stays the same). If any of you are in the area of Millard Oaks {off 156th between Harrison and Q Street in Millard} please drop by. We'd love to show you our new digs.

Our latest hobby . . . minor home projects and cleaning in preparation to sell Walnut Grove home. The work is okay but I'm enjoying the extra time spent working alongside Marty. He is as particular about detail as I am, so I'm discovering. Our goal is to sell it in better condition than when we moved in over 17 years ago. That has not been a small feat. It was virtually spotless then -- with a little sweat and blood it is again (with the exception of the garage ... but we will get there too).

Oh, by the way, we have first-hand knowledge of Joe's fine lawn mowing skills. He's been doing a fantastic job for us just until we are down to only one lawn maintenance. Joe's commercial mower probably works in half the time it would take most homeowners. What a blessing. He is a fine businessman and owner.

Like her cousins, Erika is looking forward to becoming a Millard West Wildcat. This week is softball camp. Next week it's basketball camp. Opportunities for meeting other girls before the start of school is a good thing.

Maria enjoys reading in her very own room. Her calendar is kept open for whimscal plans with friends. She's been swimming, attended a day camp for one week, and likes playing kick ball with the new neighborhood kids.

Shaylee keeps us all hopping. She usually gets what she wants from one of us. Does it bother us that she does? No. Monsters are a huge element for her. Her imaginary Panda bear fends the monsters off in her defense. When the scene becomes to stressful, Mom or Dad are beckoned. Bugs and spiders make her squirm, but not enough to leave them alone. Fireworks made her tremble with fear for the first time. She reacted the opposite last year, much to our surprise. Maybe next year she'll enjoy them once again.

As I write, it appears a thunderstorm is brewing. I should wrap this up. Shaylee is expecting me for a safe return home from daycare.

Stay cool ladies.

Regards,

Gigi