THE
YEAR
BEHIND US

2001: Murillo Dixie

Murillo Dixie, the Felland Family Band, came into existence in 2001 and became a focal point of family activity, especially when Brian and Andrew of B & A Building and Installation Service were home. We did find time for vacations to Mississippi and to Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, with some type of performance in each state. We were especially happy to perform our Dixieland music in Wilmot at my dad's church and in Wooster for the Forbes dinner.

Robin and I are beginning to feel empty nest syndrome with Brian and Andrew gone during the week. The five of us eagerly anticipate their returns for weekends. Below are some highlights for each of us.

Dad: helped with school; planted trees in Georgia in winter and Minnesota in spring and fall; completed root/storm cellar with help of family; replaced head gasket on Suburban engine with help from family and friends; web master for http://yahuah.org; and practiced banjo as an aspiring player for Murillo Dixie.

Mom: Ran the household; taught the children; enjoyed camping out with the family for a week at a tree-planting site in Georgia; learned clarinet to perform in Murillo Dixie; and sewed costumes for the band.

Brian: Master of Ceremonies and trombonist for Murillo Dixie; as partner in B & A Building and Installation Service; work this year included building log vacation home and traveling throughout the southeastern US and Texas laying restaurant flooring as crew leader and contractor to W&W Distributing; invested in welder, tools, vehicles, etc.; contributed to web site.

Andrew: Completing senior year; eagerly read Youth Editor for local homeschool newsletter; trumpeter for Murillo Dixie; partner with his brother in B & A Building and Installation Service; invested in welder, tools, vehicles, etc.; Andrew is fun to be with, helpful, and quite the businessman.

Lydia: In 10th grade; progressed nicely in algebra, classical piano, and homemaking skills; Co-editor for "Frum the Boonies;" taught three piano students and gave a very professional recital; keyboard player for Murillo Dixie; enjoyed, with the family, monthly folk dancing with area homeschoolers.

Joel: In 6th grade; drummer for Murillo Dixie; improved the chicken house.

Daniel: In 4th grade; learned to play full size double bass for Murillo Dixie; half-way up the climbing rope without using his feet...; Daniel and the rest of us enjoy a growing sense of community.

May YHWH be praised!

The C. M. Fellands