People

There were many memorable moments during Pat's and my celebratory trip to the East. The best part, though, was people. So here are a few photos. I start with Pat and me. It occurred to me that we were together everyday, all day, and never ceased enjoying each other. I think this marriage will work out!
From GSMNP we went to West Virginia; first to the Kanawha Valley to visit my brother and sister-in-law and then to the Greenbrier Valley to visit my mother. The visit with my brother, Mike, was great. I always am edified hearing Mike preach at his church (this time from 2Thessalonians 3). Mike asked me to share my testimony in the evening service and I asked him if he wanted the short or long version. (Mike is usually known as the talker and I'm known as the quiet one except when given the opportunity to tell what God has done in my life.) So I spoke for 20 minutes or so. It was neat to be in church with Carl Parsons, an elderly gentleman who, in his childhood, knew my Poppy Hager (whom I never met.) General Charles R. Fox played a part in my testimony and there were several people there who knew General Fox and had their own stories about him.

Here are Pat, Jeanne, Mike, and me at probably the only Mexican restaurant in the Kanawha Valley! It was pretty good, actually!
Then we went to Lewisburg, in the beautiful Greenbrier Valley, to see my mother--step mother actually--who is 89. We had a wonderful time with Mother and were able to help her do some things around the house. She was a major blessing to us...a strong lady who loves the Lord Jesus Christ. We also had a great time visiting her best friend, Dean. Pat is on the couch with Dean. My mother is in the photo between Pat and me.

No, we didn't take any of our kids along with us, but Ilana house sat while we were gone. She watered the garden, fed the dogs, and headed up the team that painted our music room while we were gone! Thanks to Nat who helped with the music room as well!