I have played tennis since the age of ten when my mother suggested I give it a try. I have been hooked since that time. It is perhaps the only way I can get exercise and actually enjoy the “work out”. I have had my right shoulder and my left knee patched together. I don’t know how long I will be able to play tennis but for now it is still a small bit of heaven for me.

We have been taking our cars to Dennis at A-1 Brake & Carburator for many years. Early on, we jokingly asked for the fleet rate as we would pick up one car and drop off another until all the family vehicles had been serviced. I love working with Dennis. He runs a small operation off of Freemont street that provides excellent customer service. He is honest. I have never felt that he was taking advantage of me and often he would make recommendations that were less involved than I might have expected. I have never felt that making money was his motivation in his suggestions involving our vehicles. He is very knowledgeable in his profession and he remembers details about cars and people. Almost always he is the one who answers the phone. He knows me and he knows our cars. I am grateful for his help.

I must post again about Sadie. She is a very sweet dog who has been an important part of our family. She gives love to all and enjoys being part of the daily routine. She joins me when I walk down the street to get the mail. She and Alan chase each other around the house in the evening, with Sadie often jumping over the couch to get away. For a long time it didn’t look like another dog was in the cards, but I am grateful it played out this way.  

Yesterday I was out for lunch and stopped to fill up the car with gas. Despite the rising gas prices and the political concerns over alternative energies, I realized we have it good in this country. Compared to many places in the world, we are a very mobile society. We have cars and trucks and SUVs. Gas is readily available. We have freedom to visit and travel and go where we want. The news is not all bad!

All in one weekend! We had a great visit with Richard over the last couple of days. About an hour before he left, Michael arrived from Oceanside for a visit of his own. It is great to have him here. Michael brings a lot of fun and joy to our home. I am grateful for each of my good sons. (For the record, this photo was allowed by Michelle under protest.)