First, the HELLO! to the Cougars of Central Elementary in Olathe. We had a terrific visit on Wednesday. Central, which opened in 1883, is the oldest school in Olathe. No, I did not do a weather assembly on that first day. Smart aleck. They are rightly proud of their illustrious history but are always moving forward! The students had great questions and the staff was full of fun. My only complaint: Did the teacher escorting me around the building, Brandie Carlson, really have to point out to everyone we met: "I remember watching Joel when I was a kid."? Anyway, thanks for the great time and cool Cougar T-shirt. Have a terrific Spring break.

Speaking of Spring break, that brings the GOODBYE...for awhile. (Sorry to get your hopes up.) Over the years, I've always tried to take the week my kids have off for Spring break as a vacation. We don't usually do anything too spectacular. Yesterday I asked the kids where their friends were going for break. Here are just a few of the mentioned destinations: Jordan. Jerusalem. New York City. Florida. California. Branson. Dominican Republic. Pluto. Okay, not Pluto. Tourism on Pluto really took a hit when they were demoted from full planet status. Anyway, a lot of folks go a lot of places. So, if you are among them, have safe travels.

You are also getting a break from this bloggerania for the next several days. It is going on holiday...getting a breather...being granted a furlough...at liberty. AWOL! Absent Without Lowdown.

Have a great St. Patrick's Day and a wonderful Easter.