Way too long... still alive
No excuses. After starting the new job in early January and then coordinating the family move back home to Carlisle, PA, I did not take any time away to write. Lots has gone on, but most of it was logistical. The new baby has started to make its presence quite known by way of the bulge in Stephanie's shirts. ET continues to develop at a rapid pace. She nearly counts to seven now, though I think conceptually she only grasps the concept of two, which comes blurting out when there is more than one of any similar object. She's also signing the ABCs. Amazing.
I like the new house. The basement private space isn't as appealing as our old house -- it is unfinished -- and I only spend time down there running on the treadmill. But the amount of space in the rest of the house more than compensates for the lack of a basement. Elaina settled in much easier than we feared. And she likes the new chores of trying to grwo some foliage, too.
Being closer to family has been a mixed bag. We definitely see more of them, but it has not been too smothering yet. The downside is we're expected at most events now.
The job is coming along. Our business unit, acquired by JPMorgan Chase about 12 months ago, is still in transition, figuring out the new mission. The people are really bright, much more than I think they realize, at least in the context of my experience. I like the challenge of trying to keep up. After five months, I'm still not there yet, but I suppose that's always a work-in-progress.
I will try to be more disciplined about writing now.