First and foremost I must apologize for not posting to the blog during the months of December and January.  It's not because I haven't thought of things to tell you, or had things going on here in the Northwoods to share with you - in honesty it's because I haven't had the heart to do it. 

If you got our current brochure, with holiday letter last month - you know my father was diagnosed with cancer a year ago.  His battle ended peacefully at his home surrounded by loved ones (me included) on January 19th.  I spent much time throughout December and January traveling back and forth to Mankato to spend time with him.   I am grateful for the time I was able to spend with him.

I am also grateful for the support so many of you have shown me during this time.  As so many that go through this type of experience have told me, it really makes you re-evaluate your values.  I have found that by far - time with family, time with friends, love, appreciation, smiles, shared memories are infinately more important than things: bigger cars, a bigger house or deck, the newest cell phone, tv, computer etc.  Hopefully I am teaching my children the right lessons and I will not forget it anyime myself soon.  

So here's to renewed values and renewed energy and hopefully a great 2010!!  Hope you'll join us sometime soon! -  Shari