The days of sun might still not be long, but my work hours certainly have. Don't worry, I am taking care of myself. I have always been accomplishing a lot. Which feels good.

First good news, I passed the "Proposal Defense" stage of the Ph.D. process. That means my research proposal has been officially approved. I am not in the "Comprehensive Examination" phase. That will last all semester. Then it is off to do my research.

Meanwhile, I am also taking one class and teaching another. The class I am taking is "Constructing America" with Ellen Lewin (also on my PhD Committee). The class I am a teaching assistant in is "Anthropology and Contemporary World Problems." Only problem is that I have a section at 7:30 AM on Wednesdays! So, my sleep schedule has had to be adjusted pretty early to be able to pull that one off.

My book projects are moving along. _Looking Queer_ is past the copyediting stage (finally!) and I am now approving things like book announcements etc. The Journal of Lesbian Studies collection/book , _Lesbian Sex Scandals_ is at the publishers. I am currently working with authors on rewrites for the Journal of Homosexuality collection, _Trans/Formations_ and the _Queer & Disabled_ collection.

We got to go to the concert of one of our favorite groups the other night -- Six Mile Bridge (Celtic band). We took Rowan as always. He loves them. They also stayed with us while in town. It was a fabulous evening.

Rowan talks more and more every day. He is also somewhat of a "neat" one. At only 20 months, he puts things away better than either of his fathers. He is still very outgoing and stubborn (that delightful Taurus/Gemini mix). I took him to Walmart for one of their portrait specials lately -- what a ham! His favorite toy is still the train set and books, but he also loves the nerf ball we got him.

Lon has a job again. He is doing data entry for ACT -- entering financial aid form information. Boring work but pay is decent.

We are planning to go out to dinner with friends for my birthday. Since Feb. 13 falls on a Friday, it will be particularly fun. We are planning to make it a "fancy dress" dinner. I will wear my tux w/tails, tophat and new cape. I turn 36. What is odd about that for me is that is the age my dad was when he had his accident. It makes me realize just how young he really was.

Well, that's it for now. I will write when I have something new to add. Hope all is well with you.

Love,
Dawn