Christmas 2004

24 Dec 2004

Hello everyone,

The big news this year is Frank was laid off from his job at UL after 24 years. Not a bad deal actually, as there was a severance package, including health insurance, and with all the experience and training UL provided over the years, Frank decided to set up his own consulting business, and so far, so good. He’s kept busy with clients, and has had enough money to remodel the garage as an office and lab. Details are at www.obcompman.com. Staples and Home Depot are now Frank’s favorite stores. Who would have thought?

Dian had some pain in your right arm, and after having numerous X-Rays and MRI’s we were told by the specialists that her C6 and C7 vertebras in her neck were squeezing the nerve that exits out the side to her arm. She decided on an operation, which involved a 2 inch long cut into the back of her neck. It seems to have been a success. We suspect they also reattached the brain stem.

Molly, our cat, has brought home a couple of snakes and a mouse or 2, but nothing bigger yet. She seems to have reached a detente with the local squirrels, but I don’t think the birds trust her. We also have some opossums, ground hogs, and skunks in the neighborhood.

We made it to Ireland in April, before the layoff. We’ll probably do it again this year. We also visited Dian’s brother Brian in NC. Next up will be a reunion of sorts with old world friends at Hilton Head in July.

Frank’s Uncle Bob died last week, and is partially why our cards are a bit late. He passed peacefully after a battle with cancer. Frank also lost Uncle Bill in November who also passed peacefully.

Last but not least, the 22nd Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Gathering will be at Cobblestone’s, in Lowell, just like last year. There’s the Doubletree hotel within walking distance. The date will be Sat, 12 March. Details will be posted at, http://dianfrank.home.comcast.net. We hope to see everyone there.

Have a Happy New Year!