What the...?

This has been a bizarre week.

My mother went into the hospital last Thursday to reattach things... she had surgery for diverticulitis in October and had some of her intestines and her colon removed. This surgery lasted for 2 hours longer than it was meant to, and her immediate recovery was not progressing as quickly as the doctors hoped.

She was in the hospital for about a week, and things seem to be going well now. I'm happy to announce that she is home now and doing well.

My niece was born on Tuesday. My sister-in-law had a really difficult labor and ended up having a c-section. She is doing okay now (physically) and will be released from the hospital on Sunday.

My niece, however, is still struggling with some medical issues. I don't know details (my brother and his wife are being very private about this), but she is in the ICU and is dealing with some serious problems.

I am amazed, being an aunt for the first time, how worried I am about her, and how much love I have for this child I have never met. I am hopeful her doctors will be able to help her (and her parents) and she will be able to go home soon.

In addition to family hospital drama this week, LOOK WHAT HAPPENED IN SEATTLE YESTERDAY...

That's right, my friends, that is snow.

Am I repulsed? You betcha.

In other news...

I'm happy to announce today is the day my hedge will finally be shorn. My dear friend Tamara has organized a hedge chopping posse... because my arm is still (and chronically?) busted, she gathered a group of folks to come to my house and help me with yard work. Being that I am absolutely incapable of asking for help, I welcome the posse and am very thankful for Tamara's kindness!

And, yes, they will be working in the snow...