Fairbanks, Alaska, 12:44 p.m., Alaska Time~

Dear All~

Howdy from the Far North!  

I hope this finds y'all well.  As for us, we're doing quite well; really can't complain (much), but I AM more than ready for spring to come.  It's in the negative teens here in Fairbanks, but the days ARE starting to get a little longer, which holds promise of warmer weather ahead.  Can't wait!  Tired of being cooped up a good part of the time; my Cajun blood just can't take this cold very well.  Trying to get used to it, but it's so hard!!

Frank and Junior are outside; they are gathering firewood, but I suspect they'll be coming in fairly soon; they've been out for about forty five minutes, and I suspect that one (or both) may be turning into a block of ice about now ... LOL  I did have to get after Junior this morning; he sprung an attitude (he didn't want to get up), but after I threatened to take away his computer privelages, he straightened right up and got out of bed.

Junior is now almost six; he'll be six come November.  As for Maverick, our other son, he is nearly two.  Hard to believe that one is in school and the other will be going to daycare in the fall.  They are both fine, healthy, intelligent boys who make parenting a grand advanture; I can't imagine my world without either one of them!  Frank and I love them both so much!

I do have a bit of sad news: our kitty, "Aurora Borealis of the Far North", died a few weeks ago: I was the one who found him in his basket, cold, limp, and lifeless.  I had gotten him as a little kitten, and now he has died.  I miss him so much!!  Frank knows how much I miss him, so he's been thinking of getting me a new kitten, but sadly, he (or she) will never replace Aurora.  We still have our Husky, Grinnin' Jack, but I do miss our cat.  He was about four; don't know if he picked up a bug or got poisoned or what, but he's dead, and I am absolutely devastated!

Other than that, life has been good: I stay in most of the time, taking care of the kids (and Jack), while Frankie-Dear makes the big bucks and continues to work at his Jeep dealership.  He loves his work, but I do miss him when he's not home.  It can get pretty lonesome up here, so I thank God for the kids; they keep me sane, especially on the days where the weather is bad or if I get depressed or start feeling sorry for myself 'cause I can't get out as easily as Frank or Junior (or most people).  Trying to get around in a wheelchair in snow is next to impossible, so I just stay in and hope I don't go crazy.  LOL

Well, Frank and Junior have come back in and both are frozen solid.  I will have to maek them some hot chocolate and put a fire in the fireplace, so they can thaw out.  I will write in here again soon; until later, this is Kat Hammer saying so long and God bless!  Take care; talk to you another time!

~Love, your friend in Alaska, Kat.  :)