A few non-baby items...

Well, it seems unbelievable to me, but there are other aspects of our life not entirely related to darling Madeleine. And I thought I'd share:

First, on the 26th, Marc got his Board exam scores back! Let's just say that he's happy and we're happy and everything is happy! He studied SO diligently and it really paid off. We are SO proud of him! Now he's started his rotations in Internal Medicine at Abington. He really likes interacting with the doctors and says he prefers "compliant patients" (who doesn't?). Madeleine has one smart Daddy-o! Congrats, Marc!!!

Second, we bought... (insert ominous music here) dun-dun! A minivan. Oy chow vey (as we used to say in the MTC). I really can't believe I am driving a minivan. It's not like one little baby requires such a large upgrade. Marc and I had PLENTY of squabbles about the issue, too. I fought it like nothing else - I'm talking about really fought it, with some not so nice words, too. But in the end, I caved, and... surprise! (like most things that Marc eventually gets his way on) I am happy! We bought the Wilkins' old van and so we keep up the tradition of passing on "family-friendly" vehicles in the ward.

Third, I got a scholarship! Finally something came through. It's not the full-shebang with a stipend, but it is a full coverage of tuition for BOTH years! Yay! I'm really grateful to all the faculty and staff who supported me and pushed and sought for funding for me. It's such a blessing! So, I am on track to start the PhD in the fall! Now the nerve-racking worry of trying to find someone to watch Madeleine for a few hours a week while I'm in class. Eio. Breaks my little heart!

The other news kind of is related to Madeleine. My parents are visiting! Of course, they came to see their little grand-daughter - the first grandchild! But we have been so grateful to have them here. It's so fun! And SO helpful. My goodness my parents are industrious people! They can't sit still! They always have to be accomplishing something! Well... actually, they do manage to sit still and adore and watch Madeleine for hours at a time. But in between baby-gazing, they have helped us so much! We love having them here!