back in the u.s.a.

Big Jim and I survived one of the most tedious Atlantic crossings and driving to the PA Dutch homestead in an ice storm. CDG holds onto its reputation of the armpit of European airports with a computer system failure and a 2-hour departure delay. We have been filling ourselves with bagels and bowls of coffee and generally adjusting to this novelty of central heating. :-) Spent a fabulous weekend in Philadelphia catching up with a few friends. Not enough time, though, to see everyone, so we are planning a second visit there later during our holiday. Heard from the agent this morning about the job in the mystery location (which we hope to reveal soon to all of you who still haven't figured it out). We are now 98.5% sure this is going to happen....the agent called to confirm possible start date and Big Jim's pay rate, which is obviously a very positive sign. :-) Must dash now as we are off to Target and then to visit my grandmother. Will write again soon. Hasta luego, mylifeinspain

on a jet plane

...in just a little while. The house seems so quiet without the pups around. We took them to their hotel for the next three weeks, Kosydale Kennels, this afternoon. The precious Boo was more than happy to be there as Pat and co. spoil the dogs rotten, plus she totally digs the social scene. While she introduced herself to the dogs in the neighboring kennels, Mr. Beebs marked his territory, making their temporary home his own. I dealt with the paperwork while Big Jim wiped the tear from his eye. I am almost completely packed, and the husband is off napping. It has been a busy day of running errands, handing off keys and kitty care instructions, and delivering Christmas gifts to friends in the village. I am excited to see friends and family and eat bagels with reckless abandon. So much has happened to us in the past year...my eye problems, my mother's back surgery, hurricanes, the earthquake, moves, the end of a marriage---I just can't wait to give everyone a big giant hug. Will write more from the US when I get a chance. Now it is time to pack up the laptop and sign off. See you stateside. Hasta luego, mylifeinspain P.S. Still no word on the job interview. The agent believes the hiring company is dragging their feet a little bit until the new year, which is typical. We continue to cross our fingers...and toes.

paper

Yesterday was our wedding anniversary. And Big Jim and I, being nontraditional traditionalists, gave each other the old traditional first anniversary gift of paper.
my anniversary present to Big Jim...an oil painting of his beloved chili papers.
his anniversary present to me...a watercolor from 1903. I love it. Our first year as married people was challenging to say the least, but in the end we find ourselves more in love than ever. And I suppose that is what it's all about. But still we are only at paper, a fragile state that only requires a spark to create a fiery mess. We hug each other tighter, and husband peeks ahead on the anniversary gift chart. And the cheeky bugger's eyes light up when he sees the third-year gift is leather. ;-) hasta pronto, mylifeinspain

happy friday

Just a quick message to say todo esta bien aqui. It has just been another busy week. T minus 6 days until US departure. My editor sent me beaucoup files to do before the holiday, so I am very busy on the work front. No word on the job interview, but that is because the agent went on holiday this week (and neglected to mention this to the interviewees). So there should be news next week. For those who still have not figured out where Big Jim was last week, a clue lies in the flags. :-) I am also giving computer lessons to one of the retired neighbors. This is going to be even more work than I expected, owing to the fact he has zero familiarity with a keyboard. But we did manage to get him to start up the computer on his own, as well as send a few e-mails yesterday. I also made up a few step-by-step cheat sheets for him to follow, but wow....I had almost forgotten how daunting the Internet first seems. Also, Wednesday was Almendena's birthday, so Big Jim and I and R. gave her flowers. And for the first time ever, I was invited into her house for a glass of wine. Spanish houses in these parts are usually off limits except for family, so this was a very big deal. Okay, I must get back to work. Have a nice weekend, everyone! Hasta pronto, mylifeinspain

where in the world

was Big Jim this week, you ask? Well, here are some picture hints. The observant will be able to guess straightaway. :-)
Please note the banner for sushi restaurant. How I miss sushi....
Apologies that the pics are a bit gray....snow was in the forecast.