Well, it has been a spell since I scrawled out a few lines, so will see what I remember about January of 24. We actually had some snow that accumulated in the city. Basically the first recorded snowfall since we arrived along time ago. It isn’t that pretty except in parks where there is something besides concrete and asphalt and vehicles that make it a mess. The daylight hours are increasing and some warming trends show signs of winter losing it’s grip.

We took a side trip up to Newport, RI to visit a old car collection museum, it is owned by and older gentleman who has a love for cars and a bank account to fund it. Think there was 95 cars of various models and makes. All were impressive in their original state. Valued from thousands to millions, depending on the availability of each one. There was a couple that I would like to have in my shed!

We also visited the summer home of the Vanderbilt family, a wealthy businessman from NYC. They made their money from the train industry. Have a beautiful 70 room mansion on the shore of Atlantic ocean.

Our company volume was down somewhat, though we enjoyed the ones who did come. Was great to meet Zach’s family from Alberta, really enjoy meeting the boys families.

Layne has left us and has started his re-entry into normal Kansas life again. We listened to his report last night, always interesting what impresses them while they are here. I try to keep somewhat in touch with the boys when they leave. Cade Koehn, one of our boys that was here is in Michigan for boys prep class starting tonight.

Our new boy, Max Nikkel from Ward, SD is another fine young man to join the unit. Seems to be adjusting to city life well. Always happy when the initiation process is over.

We have company each weekend in February, some boys families and some of their friends. Keeps everyone cheered up and gets us around town, some new and some places we been several times.

We are taking our mid term break from March 1-16, will be going to MI. Will be different not staying in our house, since it rented out. Hoping all the children and grands will make it home while we are there.

Hope all is well with you all, and plan to see some friends and catch up with your life.