I love to write, but you would never know it by this sad, neglected blog!  It has been nearly two years since I last wrote--a LOT has happened since then!  Charlie and I did get to go on an Alaskan cruise in August 2012.  I went on a mission trip to Ethiopia in October of 2012, and after that, our world pretty much came crashing down!  Charlie had to go on an extended medical leave from his job in November 2012, and had major back surgery in January 2013.  We lost my Uncle Dave in a bizarre accident on Good Friday 2013 (he fell out of a small plane that he had bought--he was with an instructor, getting certified when it happened).   We had to put our 17 year old dogs to sleep in July 2013.  In August 2013, Charlie had to take early retirement due to ongoing health issues, and Laura broke up with her boyfriend which profoundly affected her.  Philip moved out in October 2013, which freed up a room that I promptly took over as my new stamp room! 
One of the best things that happened was when we got our new, sweet dog.  Less than a week after Rocky and Scooby crossed the Rainbow Bridge I couldn't bear the sad quietness of the house and we went to a rescue organization to "just look".  Needless to say, as soon as they brought Venus in to the meet and greet room, she wormed her way right into the empty area of our hearts, and she came home with us that day.  She was only 9 months old, and not quite housebroken, so it was a bit of a rocky start, but her funny, playful, loving attitude made up for it!