Where shall I begin? Thyroid Imbalance - Back to normal (whatever normal is)...never want to repeat that month. Edema, joint pain, depression, weight loss, it was not a pretty picture, but I can say, I am back to exercising (in moderation) and thankful that I have my health back. Lice - Well the little "buggers" came back again, so off came the hair on both of the boys! It wasn't a battle at all, so I plugged in the clippers and hacked away! Nice to see their eyes again and oh, the savings on shampoo! June Flights - Purchased! We land in Charlotte, NC on June 11th and will spend several days in Hickory with my folks. The boys will stay the week with Poppy and Choppy as Mike and I take advantage of their generous offer to watch the kids as we head to Chicago to 'set up house'. Yes, for all of you that don't know our news - we are moving back to the Chicago area. May Flight - Purchased! I will be flying back to Chicago for a whirlwind four day trip to look at rental homes, interview in the city and check out schools and summer programs for the boys. I'll have to buy an 'interview outfit', as I'm sure my camo shorts, tank top and three year old croc sandals won't fit the bill. Fence Building and Hole Digging - Trying desperately to complete the fence around our land in San Luis so we can plant our trees that Mike bought several weeks ago at a local nursery. Raul and Mike are working together but the hole digging is all manual, using heavy, old equipment - it is not for the weak! So, we packed up the kids last weekend and spent a 'work' day at the farm - I helped to dig holes up the driveway (of course, the rockiest part of the land) and am now suffering from my mistake of not wearing gloves :( The kids worked with the machete and saw as Mike and I concentrated on the holes. A couple more to go and then we'll be able to get the fruit trees in the ground. They say, May is the time to plant as the rains are sure to start. Our plan is to have our land mature while we are back in the states, and one day, build a small cabin to spend vacations and perhaps even return for another international experience in the future.

Birthday Parties and Soccer - The kids are enjoying soccer and have enjoyed the soccer outfits I have picked up at the American Clothing store in Santa Elena - The celebrated a friends 7th birthday with a soccer game ag Casem, a scavenger hunt and pinata! Happy Boys!

I am focused on the transition home and am eager to start back to work. It is time to clean house and start a 'give away' pile. Hopeful that anything we will not be taking state-side will find good homes. The school has hired a new Director and is in the process of interviewing for some new positions. Certainly a time of transition for all! For those of you who have contributed to the financial aid program at the school - we are close to making our goal and we thank you so much for your generosity. In an effort, to get this post on the blog, I will close here, know that we are looking forward to seeing you all and reconnecting with you. Peace, Signed: S