"New Wheels"

So the dad surprised me with the KIA today. I'm driving home from School (O.F.L.E.) and he calls up and says he needs a ride to Uncle T's. He says (on the way) that Uncle T. needs help with some stuff, and that we should go raid the pantry. As I'm walking to the door, he calls me back and tells me to close my eyes, and voilà, there are the keys to the car! It's got AWD (if needed), a nice stereo (with iPOD plugin mind you), power window/doors, faux wool seats, and a roof rack. I'd wanted a SUV for practical fishing purposes (like parking off 152)  or driving in the snow (if needed). It's also got some zip, a nice heater, and runs well.

Not a bad graduation present at all!
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Congrats to la favorita prima

So last night my little Austria (aka the favorite cousin) graduated from HS! Went to the fairgrounds, and also saw the foreign exchange student Matteo (who stayed w/ Auntie Alice and Jesse) graduate as well (although he later relayed that Italy doesn't honor it as a diploma, just a certificate for English [or something like that]).

But yeah, then went to the "Court" where we always go and some solid Chinese food. Ashley, KK, and Tiffany came down w/ Gary too...and Gary gave Auss no less than a check for 250!

Anyway, had a good time, and congrats to everybody (including Andrea O.) for graduating!!!