Managing Expectations

Ok...on a scale of 1 to 10 my impressions of our first Easter was probably a three or four. Why??? Because everything I read and everyone I spoke to blubbered about the beauty of holiday. I suspect weather had a lot to do about it. It was cold and rainy. Hardly the type of weather you want to douse unsuspecting woman with water I guess!!!

I celebrated Easter with the International Friends group with a traditional Polish Easter meal on the Wednesday. The woman began the meal with a presentation on the holiday traditions. Again, everything about the holiday points to an incredible experience so it was my expectations that need to be reigned in. The food was great (I especially liked the cheesecake and custard) and the Polish woman did an incredible job! The people of Poland truly value their history and are exceedingly proud of their families and history. We should all take notice of that!

Before I forget...I was out for a walk with the dog when I ran into an older woman in a wheelchair who was stroking the head of her pet squirrel. I wish I had a camera!!! I know I did a double take. Yesterday we saw a woman outside walking her cat. I guess the spring-like weather has brought out the best in everyone!!!

It was a beautiful weekend. The restaurants are all starting to build their outside facades! The fountains are all working and the Rynek is getting busier. I can't wait to wander to the Rynek, hole up on a bench, take in the sun and people watch! Ahhhh....what a life I lead!!

We enjoyed a nice weekend! A fellow 3M'er was celebrating his impending "grandpahood" by hosting a bash at a local establishment. About 25 folks joined him in the celebration. (NOTE: We received an e-mail that Carter Cole arrived the next day in Iowa - Congrats to Grandpa Randy)!! Saturday we had a relaxing day enjoying the beautiful weather. Sunday we had some friends over for dinner! Hmmm....guess what we had??? PORK!!!! Craig did a great job with it. I may have to walk a few extra miles today!!

On another note....my baby is legal in all 50 states!!! He celebrated his 21st birthday Friday (and Saturday and Sunday...)!!! Love you Michael!

Oh...another celebratory note!! Erica interviewed for two nursing jobs - and was offered jobs in both - and accepted a position at University of Minnesota hospitals working on the pediatric bone marrow floor. She will be busy over the next few months with graduation in May, studying for the boards and getting in the specialized training she needs for her job. Looks like she will officially be off our payroll June 28th. We couldn't be prouder!

FYI: We sprung ahead in Poland. We are back to the usual time difference. 6 hours in Virginia (Michael), 7 hours in Minnesota/Iowa (too numerous to mention) and 9 hours in California (Dean, Judy and boys)!

Happy springtime!!!! Looking forward to seeing many of you when we return home in May for the big graduation!