It has been a busy year for a retired person.
In May, my sis and I went to England and France (just Paris) for two weeks; which, of course, was not long enough. We did a literary tour of places we had read about or had seen on TV or in the movies. My favorite event was evensong in Gloucester Cathedral. My favorite place was Paris, I suppose because I thought I would never get there.
But the big event of the year was the arrival of my first grandchild, Leslie Marie Helbley. I am in California for a year to help with Leslie while Jennifer teaches chemistry at La Sierra. Kieth is working for a company that makes sensors--mainly for oil companies.
Neal and Jenny are both working for La Sierra University. Neal is interim network chief--not official work title--and Jenny is secretary for the art department. She is enjoying talking Photoshop classes.
I drove my Mini out to California in June. It has run flat tires so is a hard ride, but not uncomfortable. I was able to stay overnight at my cousins in Grand Junction. We had a very nice visit. I wouldn't mind living in Grand Junction.
There are not many Mini's out here. California tends to buy Japanese. I guess there would be more Mini's on the east coast. I try to buy local so I don't have to drive the freeways. But Keith and Jennifer, and Neal and Jenny have taken me to IKEA. Truly an experience. Also have been to the San Diego Zoo.
Christmas is strange without snow and cold......but I am not missing the zero weather back in South Dakota.
I have started painting again and have managed to finish four acrylics of various sizes.
