Australia

The 3 of us went to see the film Australia last night. It was FANTASTIC! Go see it! The cinematography is stunning and the story (based on true events) is entertaining. Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman are sure to get academy award nomination. The little boy, Nalla, who they plucked out of the wilderness, literally, with no acting experience, is amazing. Its long - almost 3 hours - but sooooo worth it.

Yesterday Kristie's Connections program had their holiday open house and talent show from 3 to 5 p.m. I was sort of dreading the whole thing because while it sounds good, it never quite is. But this year, it was surprisingly fun! Kristie sang The Greatest Love of All by Whitney Houston. She brought the house down and lots of people shed some tears...that song is all about love and Kristie's favorite to sing in front of an audience. She does it well.

The Connections program is a program for adults with disabilities. They are only closed on Christmas and New Years Day. Kristie attends Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. SHE LOVES IT. This program is a HUGE part of her life. This is where her friends are and what she talks about the most. And now, because of State budget cuts, it could be on the chopping block. Grrrr. Isn't our most important task in life to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves? That is what this program does; gives the most vulnerable people in society a place to belong.

Speaking of stupid drivers...change of subject...twice in the last few days, I've had stupid drivers literally stop in front of me, in the middle of the road, FOR NO APPARENT REASON, and do stupid things. Its crazy. And weird. Its like I'm in the Twilight Zone.

Update on my foot: two days ago my foot was killing me. But yesterday, after being out and about on it for 12 hours, it was okay. I was inspecting it this morning and the swelling is about 80% gone; I can even get it into my Hafflinger shoe now. Still can't quite walk normally but after two weeks I'm impressed with its progress. Oh, and I got the stiches out last Thursday.

Kristie is doing well, although her blood pressure is still a little high but only at night.

My Dad is healing nicely. Mom said he's about 80% back to normal. Thanks for all your prayers.

Our house is full of holiday cheer...well, the downstairs is anyway. The upstairs - where the big tree is - is not...yet. My job today (besides getting my hair done) is to put the ornaments on the tree. While watching the Grinch who stole Christmas...my holiday tradition.

Have a GREAT Sunday!