I've been pretty busy lately. I'm sorry I haven't supported others here, as I usually like. With so much to do, that's about all I can really manage. At times I feel like I freeze, if you know what I mean. Sending hugs to all, in the meantime.

I hope things will slow down later next week. On Monday and Tuesday we're hosting my husband's sister, adult nephew, long-time childhood friend, and her adult son. Actually, they won't be sleeping at our house (thank goodness), but we'll spend most of the time with them. They're staying nearby in an inn. We already ordered a huge platter of open-faced sandwiches to have upon their arrival in the afternoon. We'll eat out for the rest of the meals (restaurants are now open). I did order a nice chocolate cake to have for them. I will also be making (homemade) what is called "Bishop's Bread". That is a loaf cake made with lots of egg whites, as well as chocolate chunks, roasted chopped hazelnuts, and lemon zest. It's my mother-in-law's recipe, so it will be popular. We'll have our house and property looking very nice for their arrival, but unfortunately the weather forecast is kind of lousy, with some rain expected. Oh well! Unlike what the poor folks in places like Portland, Seattle, and British Colombia are experiencing, the temps where I am are suddenly lower than normal. Today's high is only 69 F (21 C), with the upcoming days only barely higher, until next Wednesday. The low evening temp tomorrow will be only around 53 F (12 C). How weird the world's climate is nowadays!