August 1-3, 2014

     Over 50 years ago, Richard started his stint in the Marine Corps.  Every once in a while he talks about some of the things he and a few of his buddies did.  Last December, when Richard turned 70, I really wanted to do a surprise party for him and tried to find a few of those guys he'd always talked about.  I couldn't work it out as a surprise, but I was able to locate some of them on the internet.
      We arrived in Houston Friday afternoon.  Richard had already touched base with Melvin Lauder, one of the guys he knew a long time ago.  On Saturday, we went to lunch with Melvin and Linda.  I was a little unsure what to expect, but once we met, I felt like I'd known Linda forever.  They were both easy going and fun to be with.  Tonight (Sunday) I fixed dinner in the bus for them.  We had my babyback ribs, fried potatoes and onions, Georgia cracker salad, green beans, and lemon cake.
     After we had eaten, we visited for a while.  Richard and Mel talked about the good old days, who they remembered, who they had forgotten about.  It was really a great visit.  I hope they come to visit us in Florida some time.  All they have to do is get on Interstate 10 east bound and go until the road ends.  :-)

Linda and Mel.
 Notice Linda is holding one of my books
(Flight to Freedom).

     Making and entertaining new friends is the perfect way to end our Texas trip.  Tomorrow we head east with only a couple of stops before we arrive back in Jacksonville.  I've had a very good time, but I will be so glad to hold my grandchildren in my arms.  I plan to spend my time on the road finishing a partial for a new story. Thanks for taking the trip with us.  Knowing so many of you are following Richard and I, makes me feel like I'm not so far from home.
Until later,
Dolores