According to the Polar Express book (and movie) by Chris Van Allsburg, Santa Claus does not exist. Or does he?   In the book, for one doubting boy, an astonishing event occurs. Late on Christmas Eve night, he lies in bed hoping to hear the sound of reindeer bells from Santa’s sleigh. When to his surprise, [...]

Meredith and I did our usual Trick or Treating in downtown Lisle with Connie and Alysha.  However, it was a little different because the downtown area is completely under construction and there were fewer kids out and about.  Also, about halfway through, Alysha decided that she was done trick or treating.  She was tired and [...]

She had a great time, and the trip was no problem.  Here’s her trip report.   Boy, was it quiet while she was gone.  I did get the entry way painted (without help), though.  The dogs missed her.  Shortly before we left for the airport to pick her up, I told the dogs that I was [...]

After doing some research online, I have found several references to “Skeeter Syndrome”.  Seems to fit Mere’s reactions to mosquito bites.  Here’s a current photo of Mere’s arm.  It’s the worst reaction since she was hospitalized in Alabama.  Poor Kid.
Some links:

Mosquito Allergy
Reactions to Mosquito
Mosquito bite pathogenesis in necrotic skin reactors

Diamonds were this girl’s best friend
Lisle resident recalls her days with women’s baseball league
March 28, 2008
By Eva McKendrick

Just ask Lois Balchunas, who in 1949 played for the Chicago Colleens, an exhibition team with the All American Girls Professional Baseball League. Sliding into base is no big deal for your average ballplayer. [...]

Mere and her 2nd grade class have been writing stories. Here’s Mere’s:
Don’t eat Daly!
Hmm. What’s the date? Nov 6!! Oh No!! That means Thanksgiving is near. I am going to be eaten. Whaa! Whaa! Ok! I’m going to tell you 6 reasons why [...]

Meredith, as a Veternarian. The school Halloween party went fine. The kids had a great time. They played “jingo” or Halloween Bingo, ate junk food, made a photo frame craft and showed off their costume in a parade. I took photos of all the kids so they had a photo [...]

  This is how I begin and end my day.  Dot lounges on top with Mere and Dashy sprawled on my lap.