Subject: A quick hello Sent: 2/22/99 Thought I would just drop you a line since Iım on the computer, and Iıve got some quiet. There isn't much to tell that R hasn't already written, Iım afraid. Our big news is that my mother and my brother Bob have access to email. Iıve been corresponding pretty regularly with Bob, and I feel like a whole new world has opened up. This is the most we've talked in my whole life.It makes me really happy. We just got the package from your parents, and let's just say that Hersheyıs kisses are always welcome. It's a late Christmas arrival, but we were happy to hear from them. we recently received a letter, to which I immediately sent off a reply. To read their letters you would never believe that they are upward in years. They both have such vital minds and vibrant personalities. I feel quite lucky to know them. Rıs been making lists for our trip at the end, and has practically started packing already. Although, he's beginning to drive me mad with the details. "Cotton or synthetic? Fleece or no fleece? Do I bring my hiking boots or get new ones?" I love that he is such an organizer and so detail-oriented about these things; Iıve been drier and more comfortable because of it. However, I tend to be more of a think about it, make a list, lay out the stuff, put it in the bag, take out what doesn't fit, put on the bag, grab the tickets and leave kind of person. We balance well. Iım on vacation this week, but I don't really feel like it. Iım busy working with Jamie and some other people on prep work for a women's day celebration and WID conference in March. We're having an essay contest, an art contest, a take-a-girl-to-work day, culminating in a concert, art show and prize presentation on march 8. Whew. Not to mention Iıve got to get busy organizing things for the March conference - another concert, art show, information tables, and so on. I must admit that overall, I prefer it to teaching. Iım also helping one of my students, Aibek, prepare for an interview in Almaty on March 6. he has a good chance to go to America with a Soros program, and I want to help him have the best shot possible. It's been a great experience so far. Iıve learned a lot about kids here from him, and he's getting more of an idea about America, too. He's a great kid, and if he doesn't get to go I may just haul him home myself. Maybe. We've been talking of where to settle when we get back, and it's still up in the air. We've also been talking about kids - when? if? how many? - and it all seems a bit overwhelming at times. Although, the answers will come. Seattle for a time is looking tempting for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is Rıs desire to be near mountains. My favorite is the midwest, but I'm sure we can reach a deal. We want very much to be near family and friends, so we'll see what happens. As far as children - who knows? I've been thinking about talking to Karen about this and seeing what sort of family planning ideas they've had. And that's about it for now. I hope this finds you well, happy and warm. We've had some balmy weather, but a fierce chill wind is running around now that's got us bundling up like before. Take care, J