Alex and I are recovering from a nasty case of the flu (we’re incredibly lucky we’re vaccinated!), and the sweats make me wish for another snow day. Here in Atlanta, snow is rare but we were blessed with two winter storms that made me feel like we were suddenly in Michigan.
Linley and I certainly missed this snow, but what made the first snow day extra special was spending it with Alex. The three of us have never had a fun-filled day in winter wonderland before, and we hope to have many more!
Media taken Friday, January 10, 2025 ❄️
Traveling with the Traceys 
Cate! You’re back! So much has changed since the last time I posted a comment on your blog. Here’s what has happened since my last comment. First and foremost, I think it’s really cool that you got to experience a winter wonderland in Atlanta. Here in Vermont, it looks like Narnia. It was fun at first, but now Amelia and I are looking forward to spring, as it has been painfully cold outside.
So what’s new with me: my wife, Amelia, and I married as friends, and the romance part of our relationship never developed, so we’re going back to being married friends. I have successfully sold my childhood home in NYC, which is amazing because it’s the last remaining part of my late fathers estate, and as such I will be free from his legacy and control (finally)!
Amelia and I are looking to buy a second place in Erie, PA, because as much as Vermont is wonderful, nothing happens in Vermont. Ever. Erie has it all, so we have decided that we will simply set up base camp here at the farm in Vermont, but have a second place in Erie to go and check out whenever we crave adventure and excitement. You’re both welcome anytime, of course.
Finally, and this is huge. Since I’m no longer going to be under the control of my fathers estate, I am legally changing my name back to Emily. Emily is what I’m deciding to go by from now on. I was born female anyway, but my father decided that he had a son, regardless of biology, and he made the ultimate decision to name me Thomas. So things are finally looking up. 🙂
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EMILY!!! Wow, it’s so great to hear from you and yes… I’m back! Haha WOW where to begin?!
First and foremost: I love the name change! Thank you for sharing and I’m so excited for you! A name change is huge and I’m actually going to be changing my legal name after Alex and I are married, so I love the “newness” and empowerment you’re feeling! Ahhh I’m so pumped for you, Emily! 🤩🤗
I’m also excited and relieved to hear about the freedom from your late father’s control and estate. I can’t imagine what that must feel like, but my only comparison is growing up in a family where my “great” was never quite good enough. I’m super excited for you and this new chapter! I also love the term “married friends” because sometimes that’s simply the best way to put it. You and Amelia are lucky to have each other as partners and friends, Emily. Truly! I hope both you and Amelia have peace in this situation and I’m really happy for the two of you!
Alex and I would love to visit at some point! (Linley too, of course, haha!) Erie, PA sounds wonderful! We’re hoping to make it to this year’s summer reunion in upstate NY, so maybe a visit on the way up or down is in store? 🤗
I hope you’re enjoying Narnia aka Vermont haha, and it’s wonderful to hear from you! I hope things get warmer soon, too!
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