95th Post

Hello Friends,

Last post, about 97 days ago, seems like for-gosh-sakes-ever.

Loved that modern ranch in the city woods
So much that, like a lover, it wrung us out
Took our love, drained our wallet, but gave us warmth.

When we finally parted,
Leaves overflowed the lip of your gutters
Pecker holes in your walls
Right there, for all to see.
But clean. You know Susan!!

Sure everything worked and you never looked better
But we're not quitters, we just outgrew each other.
We went our ways, but you kept yours.
We're gone, you're not. Guess we just "un-grew" you,
But as all know, that wasn't all.

Weren't mad when we stripped your walls, moved your innards
Packed the tools that groomed your gardens and trimmed your beard.
Carefully we removed roomy trappings; little remained.
Take-carers - 16 years; we handed over the keys to strangers.
They'll soon be gracing your doors honored by your beauty and grace.

We may have left you naked, blinds closed and closed doors.
Before we gave over they keys that opened to your heart
The painters and strippers flocked to you. Let us in!
They made you new, polished you up; took you shopping.
New lights, some new hardware, and you were ready to go.

The new guys in town loved you before they saw you,
Were excited before they knew you. Dreamed the dreams
Of life amidst the security and beauty you bring.
We told them a few secrets and let them know your alarm
Really wasn't meant to key people out - really to keep them in!

Shine on old buddy. We do miss you while we're on our journey.
So shelter those who will light your fires and warm your rooms.
Hold them close and be the home base of their joy for years ahead.


Sarah is good, as good as can be, isolated in God's care in Michigan
In Mom's loving arms. We're trying something new and buying time.
You tried but more healing and recovery was needed away from the Hoosiers.
No more a paradise in Carmel for us; we know you tried; you were home.

So farewell good buddy. No, really, our memory will not be erased!
Soon I'll join them, seeking warm loving arms. It won't be the same.

You were our rock!