Bringing the summer to a close.

It has been a roller coaster summer. That puts it mildly. We have enjoyed amazing travel, pretty good weather, above average rainfall, welcoming our wonderful new pastor, and some fun summer activities. Steve hasn't seen any further effects of his Alaskan hospital visit, however, we are still going around with insurance trying to get all our reimbursement from that back. We had a great 4th of July open house in the garden, so good in fact, that we have been chosen as a garden for the Salina Master Gardeners tour next June. This is quite an honor. This week, however, we get to plan the memorial service for my 2nd cousin who passed away a few weeks ago. His immediate family for a variety of reasons, have chosen not to have a public memorial service for him. I came into contact with this young man often over the last few years in my work at South High School. Dozens of teachers, administrators, paras, etc., put time, effort, and love into this young man over the course of his short life. He always needed individualized attention, and many people tried their best to ensure he led a full life. Our family has had limited contact with him over the years, for again, a variety of reasons, but we still cared deeply for him and took great interest in his future. He touched many lives, and those who watched him grow over the years will have a chance a week from today to say good bye.