Yesterday we celebrated the upcoming holidays with a staff glass blowing class. Everyone had a turn holding the rod in the oven, turning, adding color, shaping, blowing. And everyone made a glass float or ornament. We were all nervous–this was new to everyone. I mean there was fire and sharp tools and risk. The perfectionists among us couldn’t imagine success. And there was some anxiety about the responsibility of blowing shape into another person’s creation. But with an enthusiastic and practiced teacher, who obviously enjoyed our excitement and our distress, and who was confident about positive outcomes–we left feeling pretty proud of ourselves. It’s a good way to leave our work here at Exchange and the World Forum for a few days, to immerse ourselves in family time and adventures. And a good team experience and memory to bring with us into the new year.

Roger and I are going to Fargo to help his parents celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary at ages 93 and 95. They have supported us in our work and been great cheerleaders. They love mail, so, if you would like to send them a card:

Clara and Hal Neugebauer
225 13th Avenue West, Apartment 2029
West Fargo, ND 58078