Hello,

Thanks to others posts I feel we should do the same even though we have nothing to report. Instead of talking about my family I think I will give a testimonial on the merits of living by Steve and Rach. These are in no particular order.

1. Handyman stuff. I had a valve on my sprinklers bust, and wasn't sure how to get it off the easiest. Steve of course not only knew to cut through the copper pipes, but had the soddering equipment to reconnect things afterwards. I have yet to see Steve not have a tool that I need to fix something; it's like living by Uncle Bruce without the eyebrows.

2. Hurting Steve. Have you ever notice that Steve will not say Uncle? I'm pretty sure he would let me break a finger before he would say it. Along with that there are typically not a lot of friends who I would feel comfortable wrestling with or goosing. With Steve both come naturally. Every once in a while we will have a massive wrestling match with all the kids which is fun. p.s. Don't make Israel mad.

3. Settlers of Catan: Steve and Rach are exceptional "settlers" players. Despite the fact that we all feel very skilled, Marisa almost always seems to win.

4. Cousins, cousins, cousins. The kids have such a fun time playing together and never seem to fight or get sick of each other. The only trick is figuring out where the kids are hiding in the house or the car when it's time for one family to leave. Of note, the production quality of the kid's various plays/melodramas has improved dramatically over the time that we have been here.

5. Rachel. Rach will do anything to help at any time and for any time period. We try not to abuse the system, but she is literally always ready and willing to help.

6. Redneck Stuff. Steve and I have been buying guns ever since we moved to Colorado. (Okay each of us have only bought 2) We now have the firepower to kill any criter in Colorado. Steve bought a camper, I bought an ATV. All we need to do is start watching NASCAR races and the transition will be complete.

I could go on. Having someone strong enough to crack your back is huge, etc. Sorry to rub it in if some of you don't live close to a sibling. There is a connection that goes deeper than friendships. It really is nice. Steve and family we really feel lucky to live by you guys.

R,M,C,L,B,L,K

P.S.- Steve I need to keep your soddering stuff for another day or two. I found another problem.