Cue the music...

In the first communication I've had from my sister, in weeks, (many weeks) I realized we'd recently been passengers on the same train of thought.

It will sound odd, no doubt, but we'd both been thinking about - me!  More accurately about the variety of experiences and accomplishments I've had in the last several years.

To me, it's an interesting list, but you're welcome to tune out at this point.  Some of these were mutual recollections for Valerie and me, some are included simply because they  are significant to me.
2003 saw the move to Nebraska.  Frankly, I'm surprised we're still here.  Since then, I've become quite comfortable making the 9+ hour drive to the Cities to visit the Kahls. How about the cross country drive to Connecticut, picking up Kate in Dubuque, so she could join Jacob after his basic training.  There have been hikes in the mountains.  (Tim talked me into making the last effort to reach Black Lake, when I thought I was finished.  I appreciate his knack for knowing when to "push" and when to respect my decisions.)  (I also appreciate that he has done all the mowing this season) Let's mention a job I always wanted, and a blog! I've canoed in and camped at the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area.  There was a half-marathon, undertaken and completed with my sister.  I've become a college student.  I got a dog, for pete's sake!    Who knows what lies ahead?  These challenges have given me confidence, preparing the way for new adventures....