End of January Update

Yes, I have fallen considerably behind in my commitment - primarily to myself - to never let too much time go by before I post to my blog sites, and especially this one. As is usually the case, several wonderful people have reminded me that I am loved and cared for more than I deserve to be (the criterion for judgment in this case being regular communication with those one values the most in life). So, thanks a million for the reminders - Angela, Erin, Chris, Dan, Mike, Alyssa, Brandon and Curt. Below, please find the current generic answers to inquiries about my well-being, as in "How are you doing?" Of course, to respond in such a way only seems to add sin upon sin, dealing with my failure to communicate with you sooner by adding the new failure of giving one generic answer to all of you. As I say, it only *seems* to proceed insensitively, but in reality I am covering this generic stuff here so I can concentrate more on the personal stuff just between you and I in the mail you have already received, hopefully.

I have started a new master's program. "When in doubt, get another degree." The degree will be in education and serve the goal of my becoming more officially qualified to serve in the public school classroom. "Public school!?" you respond, with eyes filled with horror and question marks. If I faired so poorly in the politically charged, bureaucratic environment that spewed me out of its mouth two years ago, how in the world do I expect to survive in the public school system? Really, it is an excellent question. One for which I do not currently have an answer, except to say that I am older now, not necessarily less passionate, but definitely more tired. And the fact is, I was born to teach. Or rather, I was born to preach, but what church would have me? And the young folks in the classrooms - they really are so wonderful, especially when compared to your average adult presbyterian or troll.

Mr. oldest son is prospering in his career, and is now engaged to be married to wonderful person. The person, by the way, is a female, which I suppose needs to be specified these days.

Mr. youngest son is truly the best drummer I have ever heard in my life, and I have heard (and performed with) a lot of good ones. He is about to graduate and absolutely cannot wait to get out of the house. I tried very hard to be the kind of father that would not inspire such eagerness to leave, but I think it goes under the category of things we cannot, or should not try, to control. At least he is graduating from high school, which is two grades further than I was able to stand when I was in his situation.

Mrs. DM remains as hard working, optimistic, gracious, sweet and devoted to love as ever. I am happy to say that, for Christmas, she got a full length, automatic, electrical back massager that lays across the chair. Though this has made me only the second most significant love of her life, I am pleased at how much joy and comfort it provides for her.

Brian Regan, the funniest stand-up comic in the history of stand-up comedy since the Old Testament prophets, is coming to Seattle. We already have tickets, and have played a significant role in the sale of several other tickets. For one of the most memorable evenings of your life, visit www.BrianRegan.com and find out where he's playing near you. It is amazing that someone can be so funny while giving absolutely no reason for any sane earthling to be offended.