She's Back!

I thought I'd start writing a few things down again. I still have trouble remembering how to get started but I think I have it now.
Michael, I just read about the surprise visit. The reason those of us who have European genes can't cope with these kind of surprises is, that we need to be in total control. When that isn't possible we panic. I know how you feel. It amazes me too how well things still work our even if we aren't in control. Uta is really good at ad-libbing, or at least it always looks like it. Maybe she is just good at taking control at the moment.
We have had unbelievable cold weather for more than 2 weeks, broke all kinds of records - one day it was even colder than both the North and the South Pole. Yesterday the weather finally broke and we have now minus single digits - at least for most of this week, then back to WINTER. We are getting ready to leave for the South and West at the beginning of February. A few more items to take care of first. Andy had his optometrist visit today - the one for after the cataract surgery. He is getting new glasses and they will be close to "average", according to the sales person. That means no more heavy/thick lenses, just some correction. They will be the lightest weight for him in many years. Once the new glasses arrive ( in 1 to 2 weeks) and we have gone to the doctor for our prescriptions for the next couple of months, we can start packing.
Karin has her own place now, we put up drapes in her living and dining room last week. She has made the place look quite nice and I wish I could report that all is well on that front but unfortunately the amicable separation is turning out less than hoped and it looks like she will have to help a lawyer get rich if Scott doesn't smarten up soon. We are trying to give her as much support as possible. Every other Friday the kids come here for the evening for pizza and a movie (or TV or Computer games) while Karin curls. She is a very busy girl with job, kids, and classes (she is studying for Certified General Accountant - one course at a time).
Curt and Andra are fine. We see them mostly just at soccer games and Andra drops in occasionally for something. Erin now has a job in a teen clothing store - part time after school. Meagan, the jock, spends her time at soccer or training. She now has a personal trainer as well to build up strength and muscle. Andra will again look after our house while we are gone. We have promised to return the favour in April when they are going to Vancouver for a soccer tournament (Curt coaches Meagan's team again)and then Erin will stay with us. She is not interested in soccer and doesn't want to miss school. She is an A+ student and very focused.
That's all for today.