Lauria and Jim have been very concerned about Jim's position with AOL when AOL announced awhile ago that there would be a huge lay-off. They got through the Christmas holidays. As usual, rumors went around and upper management put out packages hoping to entice employees to leave on their own. Jim and Lauria discussed this at length, decided to take the chance and remain with AOL. Tuesday night when Jim got home from work, he received an email telling him that he was laid off. What a low cowardly way to mess with a family's life. Please keep Lauria, Jim, and the children in your thoughts and prayers as they begin their journey to recovery in this crazy economy.

Our weather: I think we're finally over that hideous cold snap that hit the nation. Yesterday was sunny and temps hit 45 degrees. Never thought that would feel warm! Today should be in the 50's. Schools in this tri-county area have been either closed completely or on 2-hour delays for about a week. Secondary roads freeze at night when the temps drop making driving treacherous for buses. Life is so different here. We went out for breakfast Sunday morning only to find our fireside restaurant closed. In the winter, if people can't safely get down their mountain roads or their long driveways, no one goes out. Many of our businesses are family owned and it's just a way of life people accept when something can't open. Rain is predicted for this weekend and should melt away most of the icy spots......life is good.

Haiti: Such catastrophe and devastation.....make sure your donations go to a reputable organization and pray for the people of Haiti and the rescuers.