Dear Parents,

I feel very lucky to be writing this from my parents' lake cabin in eastern Washington. It's nearing the end of 2007 and we've been here for 5 days so far. Each day has brought more snow and it is now between one and two feet deep, making the cabin not only a snug fit for the eight of us, but very cozy as well. There's no television here, we only get an occasional telephone call, and even the radio is kept quiet. We've been entertaining ourselves with card games, snowshoe hikes, a bit of skiing, walking the dogs, creating snow and ice sculptures, reading, jig saw puzzles, conversation, listening to a Slim Whitman record album, and of course lots of laughter. I couldn't ask for a more relaxing way to spend time with my family as we all take the chance to reconnect with one another.

I have to admit however that, as much as I am enjoying my time with my family, I am also looking forward to getting back to Swan School and reconnecting with all of the children, parents, and staff. Perhaps we won't have 2 feet of snow on the playground and we won't huddle around a card table for hours, but I know that we will all cherish the time we will spend together, learning and laughing.

2008 is just around the corner and I'm sure it will be filled with interesting and fun activities, a few puzzles to solve, and many chances to wonder at the things that make our school and community so special. I hope that you and your family have a wonderful rest of your winter break and that we all have a terrific 2008.

Russ