Dear Friends: I checked the numbers for the site since I've been off and they've taken a nice jump. So, South Dakota Blog Watch Man has obviously done a good job. Heck, you obviously don't need me. <grin>

There are several things to report.  First, we had our first family therapy session with our daughter.  It went very well but after 2 and 1/2 hours, I felt like I'd been through a week of soccer practices.  Wow, very draining.  But I think Sarah has an excellent therapist and we are all working on healing our family and our daughter.

Second, as I expected, I didn't get the job with the state Democratic Party as press secretary/communications director.  I had a nice call from Chairperson Judy Duhamel. 

With this rebuff, for the foreseeable future, my Democratic activist days are done.  Someone else can wail about the need to radically change the party structure and attitudes.  Someone else can go after Sen. John Thune.  I will assist friends of mine who run for office and help my clients in political-type situations, but the days of carrying water for the donkey are done for the time being.

Further, once I make it to the courthouse in Canton, I'll be changing my voter registration from Democrat to Independent.  That probably suits my renegade ways better.

Meanwhile, I'm still between being and becoming in the next stage of my life.

On a happier note, the Harrisburg High School girls soccer team has lots of talent.  We've had two days of tryouts, with two more this week.  With hard work and constant improvement and a little luck, I think we can contend for the State B Title.  Obviously Huron, Belle Fourche, Lead/Deadwood, West Central, and Groton will also have a thing or two to say about it.  I am pleased to have a number of other parents and friends helping me manage and coach the team, including Marlon Mollet, Amy McCuen, Tony Oehlerking, and Pam and Mark Sechser.  It's great to be out on the pitch.  Life is focused and fun on the field with a bunch of kids.

Lastly, good wishes and prayers continue to come to me from many of you.  It is touching, gratifying, and strengthening.

And by the way, remind SDBWM that the boss is just away for a bit and that he shouldn't get TOO comfortable in the Big Blogging Chair.  <grin>  WM, thanks again for all your help--and keep the numbers coming!

Best regards,

Todd Epp