I'm Still Here

Hangin' at Pete's

It feels a bit surreal that my stay in Florida continues. I am so accustomed to just beginning to unwind when it's time to pack up and head home. This time it is different. Instead, Sedona and I are here for nearly two more weeks.

Speaking of Miss Sedona, since our arrival in Florida last Monday, she has enjoyed her trips to the beach and doggie paddling in the Gulf of Mexico. She's also become a regular visitor to my dad's favorite haunt, Pete's Time Out down at Time Square.

Swimming at the dog beach

It is a rich blessing to spend this much time with my parents. We talk, our stories looking back, looking forward, looking at now -- at each other. They, my parents, are tremendous examples for my siblings and me. Their marriage (59 yrs/7+ mos) a testimony to the indefatigability of love. Thank you, Lord.

Ephesians 4:2 -- ...with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Merry Christmas to all of my family and friends -- those in Ohio and across the U.S. Sedona and I are enjoying Christmas this year with my mom and dad in Fort Myers Beach, FL. Hate to complain, but it's only going to be a high of 70 today and overcast... :)

Andrew with a very happy Sedona!

My nephew Andrew joined us for a one-way ride down; he flies home on Sunday while I will continue to be here for a longer stretch. What a gift to spend such time with a nephew. And, equally wonderful will be the extended time I will enjoy with my parents.



No gift under the tree is more valuable than the family and friends I have in my life.

The Bayside Babes celebrating Christmas Eve at friend Betty's.
 My mom is in the foreground to the right.