I apologize for not writing any posts here since mid-September. It's like I mean to post something, yet for some reason I cannot bear myself to do so. Many times, it's because I am so tired when I should be in good condition to write on this blog. Anyway, here's what's been happening to me of late:
Work at Enterprise has been going well. It gets hectic at times, but generally all works out in the end and my work in automotive detailing is appreciated by my colleagues.
Life with Julie is still going strong. Our dates in recent weeks have included late season St. Louis CITY SC matches, Band Together concerts in October and December, Garden Glow at Missouri Botanical Garden, and meals at various restaurants in the area.
I had two medical procedures in September. First, I had a colonoscopy, which found a polyp that the doctor said was caught in time. I'm fine now with another colonoscopy recommended in five years. Then, I had an echocardiogram done on my heart. It showed a bit of a heart murmur, but the doctor assured me that it is normal for my age and no real concern. I also got my eyes examined and new glasses.
In October, I ran in the CITY Spring 5K run in St. Louis. It started just est of Energizer Park, went to Downtown St. Louis and back to Downtown West and ended inside Energizer Park. I completed the run in 32:05, a 10:19 per mile pace. It was quite impressive considering I didn't do all that much preparation for the run.
In late September I made a weekend visit to Charleston, South Carolina, where I visited my mom in the senior living facility there. She was not much responsive, due to a a stroke earlier this year, but we did recognize me. I stayed with Rick and his wife Melissa, and they all appreciated my coming down for the visit.
Just under a month later, Mom died peacefully in her sleep at age 85. Her body was cremated and her ashes brought here to St. Louis this month. A memorial service for her was held on 7 December. My brothers, their spouses, and a few of their kids came in town for it. Julie was also present as were other family friends. The next day, her remains were interred next to that of my dad (who died in 2014) at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
It was sad that Mom passed away, although I am glad it came peacefully for her and that she is in a better place.
Last November, I began a two-year term as Director of Local Chapters for IPMS/USA, having stood unopposed in the e-board election this year. It's keeping me busy, especially now with chapters renewing their charters for 2026. I did finish a couple of models last month for IPMS/Gateway's contest, so that was good
Now to get ready for Christmas. I still need to send out greetings and get presents. It will be a crunch, but I think I can do it.
Later.
