Indeed, Karen Mooney turned 67 on February 8th. Whether you say it in English, Spanish, or Roman numerals–it is still a very good age. First of all–the digits add to 13, what could be luckier. I think in most ways Karen has led a charmed life, two great daughters, Hank her grandson, two granddaughters on the way, many friends, a sense of humor, and a fine golf swing. I always have appreciated her obvious  lack of judgement in living with me for forty five years. Karen is a world class person and Hank loves her the most–join me in wishing Karen a Happy Birthday.

Are you familiar with sugar pops? Hank loves them. This week we picked him up from school and he told us that pops start with corn that is grown right here in the USA.  The outer shell is removed and the kernel is cracked in half. Each half is simply popped to give it a unique shape. An irresistible touch of sweetness is added. Finally Hank explained that it is boxed up waiting for our enjoyment. How lucky that Hank has parents who read to him and he appears to have quite a memory.  It is so important to read to young children – hope we can keep up the focus on school readiness for all kids in Idaho.

On this Friday, if you were in the right geographical location you could experience a trifecta of Astronomical events. An eclipse, comet, and a full moon. A “penumbra” lunar eclipse will occur during the full “snow” moon as well as the flyby of a comet. The eclipse is created by the outer shadow of the earth blocking some but not all of the sun’s rays from reaching the moon, making the moon appear slightly darker. As required, the moon must be full for an eclipse to occur and this moon is nicknamed the “snow moon”.  Farmer’s Almanac claims the full moon names date back to Native Americans in the northern and eastern US.  February is the US’s snowiest month. The February moon was also called the hunger moon as the weather conditions made hunting difficult. Enjoy each unique day.

I am trusting Ralph Waldo Emerson who said “once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.”  It might take a bit of hard work, collaboration and luck as well.  Decide to make a difference today. Mike