Rain

 It has rained every day since our arrival two weeks ago. Thankfully no flooding here but a lot of damage just to the east of us. Iowa, Jennings, Lake Arthur, Baton Rouge all affected. That water has receded but clean up continues. People who have lost most everything to the flood do not have the financial resources to rebuild or recover. Sad situation.

 Part of our motivation to travel was to do so while able. You never know what tomorrow might bring. That fact was reinforced sadly this week. Our close friends Dan and Rhonda are facing some tough times. Dan's health is not what we would like it to be. They are trying to make the best of the situation, but it seems the road gets tougher almost daily now. The four of us had plans to return to the Yucatan but that now seems unlikely. In addition this week we learned of more sad news. A friend from Tyler is now under hospice care. Ron was dealing with diabetes for years but suddenly deteriorated with liver failure. Years ago we spent a lot of time with Ron and Kathy. We were young and poor trying to raise our children. Went to church together, helped mediate marital problems. Memories from an important, formative time in our life.

 How do you process information like that? What are the take aways, how does it affect your decisions?

 For us it reinforces our resolve to chase our dreams. Plan for the future but live for today. Our hearts ache for our friends but their situations motivate us even more. We care for others, but somewhat selfishly are going to focus on ourselves, strive to achieve our dreams. Sure, we will rush to their sides and help in anyway possible, have in past and will in future.

  Sorry this travel blog took a somber tone but it has been a tough week emotionally.  Seems trite to complain about the rain...



"...gather ye rosebuds while ye may..."