Thanksgiving in Decatur, Texas

Decatur, Texas: November 24, 2005



Delton’s youngest brother Tim and his wife Kim were host to our family in their new home just outside of Decatur. Tim recently retired from the Navy and his family moved from California back to Texas. They are really happy about being back to the greatest state in the USA. The house is wonderful with over 3900 square feet, over six acres of land and a swimming pool. In addition, they have a 1500 square foot detached and insulated garage that they call the barn. This is where we have stored most of our belongings.


Delton’s Mom, brothers and their families joined in for the Thanksgiving feast. Brother Max was unable to join us because he was in the middle of stripping cotton. Mom had brought her famous peanut butter fudge which we have enjoyed eating since we were boys. She also made her turkey dressing. It’s better than anything else you will ever eat.


As always, the boys had to watch the Cowboy game. It’s great to see them winning again. We also had a good game of golf on Friday at Lake Kiowa. We fielded two teams and played scramble. After eighteen holes we ended up with a tie. On Saturday, we went back to Tim and Kim’s house for more food and games.

Hurricane Wilma – South Florida

Coral Springs, FL: December 3, 2005

During our stay in the DFW area this fall, Hurricane Wilma made its way through south Florida. Joni’s Mom and Dad live in Coral Springs, Florida, near Fort Lauderdale. Needless to say, they were affected by the storm, as the eye of the hurricane passed over their house.


Damage to their home was minimal. Their backyard screen structure, which completely covers their pool and sitting area, was completely destroyed. They had quite a bit of roof damage, as the solar heat units came loose, banging on the roof, and finally being totally ripped off. They were without electricity for 4 days, but still had running water. Nobody was hurt and the house is basically OK. Mom and Dad were shook a bit, and Mom asked both Joni and her brother, Rich, is come down and help out.


Rich went first and was able to help with the clean up of the all the trees, branches and debris. It was a big mess. Joni went after Rich left and was mainly there to support Mom and Dad and make sure they knew that everything would eventually be back to normal. The streets will have fewer trees, less bushes, and the remaining trees will have fewer branches. That’s all!