My brother turns 35 today. And because it's his birthday it is my job as his little sister to inform people of how old he is, even complete strangers. That and to teach his daughter to say "ring of fire" as we light up his cake.

My nephew is now old enough to laugh. Unfortunately I am unable to make him laugh. He just kind of looks at me with a slightly disturbed expression, like his perfectly normal aunt has just turned into a crazy lady. I think eventually I will either figure out what amuses him or he will forever think of me as strange.

Sometimes Matt gives me that look, but it is more of an amused instead of disturbed expression. At those times, I like to smile and remind him, "You married me."

FedEx failed to make a delivery to us the day before yesterday, which bewildered Matt and I because we weren't expecting a package. It turned out to be a big box of protea (Sunrise Protea Farm) sent over from Matt's sister. They are very beautiful, very large, and very alien looking as all protea are. A nice highlight to the week.

During our period of bewilderment, Matt asked me if I ordered anything. I didn't and told him so. Later I discovered on the FedEx notice that the package they were intending to deliver was for him. So why did he think I ordered something? He says, "I thought maybe you bought me a present or something." (With the assumption that I addressed it directly to him.) Maybe I should also inform you that I have never bought him a surprise present without an occasion.

At times like that I think he believes me to be a sweeter, kinder, and much more thoughtful creature than I actually am.

Happy New Year!

At my parents' house the new year starts off with the family cleaning the entire house. Matt (my neat and tidy husband) will be disappointed to find out that is one of the traditions that I did not carry along with me. (Although I'm sure he already knows.) The mouse tank is clean, so at least they get a fresh start.