Update

Mom's doing better - she's been out of the hospital almost two weeks, and except for a new annoyance (bursitis in her right hip) she's recovering nicely. We're hopeful that she'll be back to work in a week or two. Keep sending get-well-vibes her way!

Last weekend, I took a time-out from mommy-care and joined Maggie on a quick jaunt to Milwaukee. We spent some time with Maggie's dad, attended the wedding of two of her college friends, and enjoyed several of Milwaukee's excellent museums. Sure, it was cold, but the coffee was plenty hot and plentiful to boot. You can see pictures of our visit here.

After Milwaukee I went back to New Jersey, where Panda and Sophie had learned how to play with each other. Cousins Sandi and Jacob came over to help me take down Plasticville and the trains. Nick cooked us dinner, and I made a successful spinach mushroom quiche. Finally, on Saturday, I headed back to Somerville. Allison had been planning on coming to visit, so Panda and I were able to ride with her, which was delightful. 

Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and Maggie had off from work. We joined our across-the-street neighbors Alyssa and Talya for an adventure: a trip to the Middlesex Fells!

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Our hike through the snow-covered terrain took us all the way around the South Reservoir, with views of the Middle Reservoir. 

Here are Talya (with Panda), Alyssa (lounging), and Maggie on the bridge that separates the South and Middle Reservoirs. 

It would be an understatement to say that Panda had the time of her life. She alternated between running way ahead of us, then sprinting back to where we were and beyond. 

She dashed over the frozen reservoir, played with other dogs she met, sniffed at the cross-country skiers, and exhausted herself thoroughly. The following video encapsulates most of that. We can't wait to go back!

Tomorrow evening, Maggie and I leave for a week in Florida, visiting family and taking a break from the bone-chilling temperatures of Milwaukee, South Jersey and Boston. I look forward to sharing more pictures, videos, and stories when we get back!