Back in VA

I landed back on Virginian soil about midnight. Now I've got to convince myself to go to bed.

I had a wonderful visit with family and friends at home in Kansas.

The only hard part about the visit (other than trying to talk when I lost my voice) was seeing my Grandpa. He's been on dialysis for years (more than 10?). He's broken both of his hips in recent months, which has made it painful for him to get around and he is using a wheelchair. In recent weeks, he has been experiencing problems with fever and low blood pressure, particularly during dialysis sessions. Without a reason coming from any of his doctors, he's feeling depressed, in addition to his weakened condition.

This is all so hard to see and watch for a man that has always enjoyed being outdoors and sharing his life and energy with others. He took his grandkids on vacations to Colorado and went fishing. He loved to use his wood-working skills to create gifts and practical items. He spent his summers working the land his father gave him.