Snow tires and life changes

On this morning where every window view looks like a magical snow globe, I was happy to think about the note I received from my daughter-in-law last night.

She bought snow tires yesterday, maybe the first she's ever purchased.

She did so on the advice of our neighbor Sherry who lives down on Forest Siding Road. Debbie and Sherry have gotten acquainted through cyberspace, and, if all goes well, she and Sherry could be working together on a common goal. I'll keep that under wraps for now, just cuz it's bad luck to tell too much when you're keeping your fingers crossed.

Debbie will be driving up this way from Boise Thursday, staying overnight in Spokane with a friend, going to a job interview, and then coming to Sandpoint for the weekend. Then, she and Willie, who will be on vacation for two weeks, will drive back to Boise to spend Christmas with Debbie's family.

After Christmas, they'll fill a U-Haul with their personal belongings and head back up this way. Willie will drive the U-Haul, and Debbie, her car with those new snow tires and with the doggies in the back. They'll move into a lovely rental home south of town and on the lake, thanks to information about the house's availabilty from my much respected colleague and friend Cheryl Klein who lives next door to the house.

A little help from some of the family "outlaws," Mike and Corky, helped this situation along also. We all appreciate these folks for their aid in putting together a great living situation for Willie, Debbie and the grandpuppies. I'm truly excited about the day when I can stand in their new home here up north, and say, "Welcome home, Love's, welcome home."

And, we'll be looking forward to visits from Debbie's family as the kids settle into a new life here. Our neighbor Sherry gave Debbie some good advice about purchasing those snow tires, and we're hoping they'll keep her safe and sound as she takes on the daily challenge of dealing with weather conditions while driving to work.

As I walked into the house this morning from getting the paper, Willie was starting his car. I told him he was gonna have to purchase some boots. He agreed. Boots, snow tires, ski passes, wood for heat---all big changes for these kids as they make the transition from life in Boise where spring comes early to life in Sandpoint where winter seems endless.

I can't help but believe, however, that this move is one of the adventures of their lives, just as it is for us Loves here in Selle. We never imagined this happening and are still pinching ourselves in disbelief.

The term "giddy"could easily be included in the discussion too, as the anticipation of seeing them more often and having more get togethers with the grandpuppies and their Sandpoint canine friends is just downright exciting.

And, to the folks and our friends in Sandpoint, I'm anxious for all of you to meet and get to know Debbie. She's a keeper, and we feel so fortunate to have her in our family.

So, snow tires, do your thing and keep our lovely daughter-in-law safe as she travels the next leg of her life's journey.