Family Ties and Birthday Time

Well, Ricky returns. Over three weeks have passed since the last rambling and much has happened. I have been to Florida twice. I have turned a year older. I have stopped running unintentionally. And, I thank my Lord for Patrick, Lauren, Ellis, Doris and Pearl. As I age, I see that family is everything. With the prospect of losing half of your family in the near future I am focused totally on them. My mother's health continues to decline and now the ugly side of a death by cancer is emerging. My step-father is really struggling with this process and his health is somewhat at risk as well. I was able to take both Lauren and Patrick to see their grand-parents one last time and both visits went well. Lauren and I really enjoyed our weekend 'on-the-farm' with the Hilyer's. North Florida is wonderful when the weather co-operates and over 20 family and friends stay together! Thanksgiving and Easter in Florida will become a tradition I'm sure.

April 17th, my 59th birthday! What did I do to celebrate? I actually enjoyed spending 24 hours in my Mercedes driving by myself from Stuart, Florida, to Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Driving is my escape. Maybe I should get a CDL and go on the road.
It would be a tough life, but I believe I could enjoy the 'quiet time.' The highlight of the day was meeting my friend of 30+ years, Mike McClelland, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Mike and his wife, Pam, are on an extended motor coach trip around the USA attending various festivals. Their plan is to publish a travel book to share their experiences.

After being away for 12 days it is good to be back home. Sam and Charlotte greeted me warmly. It's funny how pets can take on an almost 'human' element when you live alone. As they say, everybody needs somebody. Praise Him from whom all Blessings flow. Out.