maybe i was just too thick to realize a good thing when i had it or maybe it wasn't a good thing until it left.  either way, russell is gone and i miss him all of a sudden.  no seriously, this time last year he was working at quiznos and he would tell me what sandwiches to order [that boy has such great taste].  he was also on the Rudy Campaign and he came home with all kinds of great horror stories and political updates.  a few months ago we were precinct walking and phone banking together.  and now he's gone...

what's more, the absence of my second oldest brother has made me feel the absence of my oldest brother much more acutely.  i would say life sucks but i actually learned a new phrase this past year that fits so much better [thnx jared]:

life is beautiful.

Here's to brothers: may their memories out live their mischief.

Compiled by Mary and Deborah York.

i qualified in impromtu.

second place.

final quote: "New Mexico: It grows as it goes"