2023 - Trial Run at Empty Nesting

 

Season’s Greetings!!

 

Todd is still flying for Delta and volunteering at “second work” – Gold Coast Vets. Kelly is still working swim meets and volunteering with the “dog squad” at the local animal shelter.  Amanda is interning at the Cincinnati Zoo and about to start a new internship at the Kentucky Reptile Zoo.  Julia is working as a cardiac care nurse and living in Long Beach.  Allison, also living in Long Beach, graduated from college and is working for California Fish & Wildlife in Seal Beach. Matthew graduated from high school and started his college career at CSU Fullerton.  We did some epic hikes, Kelly FINALLY made it to New Mexico, we visited Italy, and for the first time in 26 years we have a mostly quiet house.  It’s very weird, and a lot cleaner.  As always, here are a few “special memories” from the year.

 

Amanda – Graduated (again) from EATM, interning at Cincinnati Zoo, next up … Kentucky Reptile Zoo

Amanda just realized this year that “Amish” is more than just wanting to live an “old-time lifestyle.”

If there were a show called Kitchen Cooking Disasters, Amanda would be the star. 

Was tasked with buying a Mother’s Day card.  Instead purchased a lovely condolence card.  She had ONE JOB!

Julia – Registered Nurse @ Long Beach Memorial, Cardiac Monitor Unit

It’s not unusual that Julia thought our investment guy was … TOM JONES.

Julia’s deep thoughts: Do cows have friends? Are cows smart? What flavor is Dr Pepper?

Is still having nightmares that she is late for school. 

Has trouble differentiating between earthquakes and the upstairs neighbors. 

 

Allison – Scientific Aid, California Department of Fish & Wildlife

Graduated from CSU Long Beach with ZERO pictures. 

Admitted that she’s never really cared that there is a difference between nails and screws. 

Has the nightmares of a 93-year-old (i.e. being double-billed for insurance co-pays).

Snorkels in 2 feet of water.  It looks as weird as it sounds. 

Matthew – College Freshman, CSU-Fullerton

"I’ll be mouth crippled.” – Matthew on getting his wisdom teeth removed.

Decided that pantyhose should instead be referred to as “sock pants.”

Has decided to attempt the sport of fencing next semester.  (“The one with swords.”)

Happy Holidays – Happy New Year !

Todd, Kelly , Amanda, Julia, Allison, and Matthew