Hello ruby in the dust!

I only have six channels or so, and three of them are broadcasting tributes to Tim Russert. Believe me, I'm bummed too. He is (was) such a good interviewer. I will certainly miss his pointedness.

I'm in a real Neil Young phase. Sorry, but he's a genius.

Anna will be home tomorrow. I can't wait to see her.

I've never had risotto in a restaurant. I've tried to make it myself, but I have no earthly idea how it's supposed to look or taste. I don't even think I've been to a restaurant that serves risotto. I'm sure I'd love it because I love rice and cheese and Italian food, so I'm hoping for a chance to try it someday.

Back from the Russell reunion. It was a lovely time, as always. It's so good for my kids to catch up with their Russell aunts and uncles and cousins. We found an awesome swimming hole with 30 foot cliffs around it. Darren jumped off the highest cliff and Anna and Conor jumped off several lower ones. That was probably the best part...

We had to get Anna to the plane in Albuquerque for her trip to Washington D.C. yesterday evening, so we tore across Arizona to get her there on time.

Poor kid, she had to fly all night to get there. She landed in D.C. at 6:30 or so our time. I miss her terribly already. I hope she has a great time.

It was so nice to connect with my niece and nephews. I'm finally sort of cool in Ben's eyes because I can answer 95% of his Star Wars questions. I love his hugs. His sister is so different than Anna. It's nice to have a counterpoint. I'm so lucky to have them in my life.

My niece's dance recital was amazing. I seriously had tears in my eyes at least three times, and I'm not an overly emotional person.

And it was so nice to get home! Darren gave me a dozen roses. The kids did laundry.

This weekend is the Russell family reunion. I dread going, but I know I will have a ball.