September 14th in the Bodell House

The kids are back in school, busy as ever...David is rehearsing for "Under the Milkwood" at LTHS for the weekend of Sept. 25th. He just got the lead in "Your a Good Man, Charlie Brown"--he's Charlie--on stage November 21st weekend. Madeline made the sophomore tennis team and has been playing tournaments every weekend. Needless to say, but I am going to say it anyways, I don't see the whites of their eyes 'til about 6pm every day. On the college front, David is applying for early decision at NYU, but also will apply at Yale, Northwestern, Michigan and U of I. Hopefully he will audition there in October if he his application is accepted. Please keep your fingers crossed. He loves New York!

I have been keeping very busy hanging out with friends--going to see bands, (playing the tambourine, occasionally, LOL) and straightening out financial "stuff." I'm using more of my brain than I'd like to, but to find the positive, I am learning alot! I've learned that it takes 15 people to do the job of one in the benefits center. I think I may take up a management career. Common sense doesn't seem to be out there, and I think I could save some companies a hell of a lot of money if they consolidated jobs and became a bit more efficient. But what do I know other than I have about 50 more grey hairs. I also know that the Social Security Dept. likes to make people crazy. Unfortunately I asked them about David saving his SS money for college and they reported me. Now I have to prove that I spent every time they gave us so far on the children's needs or "they want me to send it back!" Can I add another LOL!

The Audi is still in one piece, knock on wood. I'm still having difficulty backing out of parking spaces that slope the front end downwards. It's painful trying not to cream the front end, but I'm sure it's very entertaining to watch. The Corvette is leaving tomorrow to sit at Corvette Mikes in Burr Ridge on consignment. The Audi needs the garage. I can only dust it off so many times a week! Tammy Dobrez taught Madeline how to drive the Audi. Uncle Greg gave her driving tips and she and I have been out a few times for practice. She is doing just fine--like father like daughter.

Tomorrow David turns 18! Wow! I can't believe it! Enjoy the weather. It's fabulous. Keep in touch.
jani