I’m in my PJs and robe and chilling out in my unofficial “office,” which is a dining table in my basement “rumpus room.” We also have a full bathroom with a jetted tub, a small fridge, an assortment of board games, an old school stereo receiver and wired speakers – and of course, full laundry facilities!

And I’m tuning in virtually – watching a live stream – of my niece’s college graduation at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, MI. She has had an impressive four-year run both athletically – as an accomplished cross-country skiier and cross-country runner – and academically, studying environmental science.

It was not in the cards for me to be there in person and sitting in a cramped seat in an ice arena. There are only a certain number of tickets allowed per graduate, and well – someone has to look after my parents’ cats while they are out of town, after all!

Congratulations to Anabel, and best wishes for your future adventures! It’s been a delight watching you grow up!