Been A While, eh?

Just back from an extended weekend; my first back in The Lou since the permanent move south. First off, congrats and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads! Especially mine!
Second, congrats to the new Mr. and Mrs. Kit Norton. For those of you who’ve read “After This…” Kit is that guy I used to weightlift with back at Missouri State, both before and after I lost my sight. He’s remained a close friend for the last dozen-plus years and I was honored to be a groomsman in his wedding yesterday. Congrats, Kit and Gina…many years of happiness and love to you both!

Also, while I was back in my old stomping grounds, I got to catch up with some of my relatives. Specifically, Marvelyne and I went to my grandmother’s home where she presented us with our wedding gift-a hand quilted, well, quilt! My grandmother is an artiste extraordinaire with a thimble and needle when it comes to quilting and this gift was no exception.

I also got to catch up with my favorite nurse, Barb, who’s son, Mark, passed away last week due to an aggressive form of cancer. It made me feel such humility to be in the presence of someone with such strength who has (and is) weathered such a storm. My sympathy and best wishes to Barb and her family.

Finally, today I got back to Orlando and walked in to my first father’s day. True, our wedding isn’t for another two weeks. Until then, I’m not a bona fide stepfather, but close enough for government work, eh? Thanks to Jordan and Maddi for welcoming me in as a parent! And to the rest of the fathers out there, again, congrats!