We awoke to blue skies and sunshine in Chicago yesterday. In fact we flew through blue skies across the country until we reached the state of Washington. Our landing in Seattle sent up great sprays of water from the downpour. The cab ride home was an adventure. However, we are home!

It was an interesting and pleasing trip. Spending a day in the Art Institute of Chicago is always a treat.

My good friend, Doug, from college was as entertaining as ever with his never-ending supply of stories.

Jean and Doug Aong the Apes

Visiting family in Janesville and Madison was great. It was too long since I had seen my aunts and cousins and we had too little time with each other. However, we made the most of it.

Aunt Joyce an Ruh Roh

Sarah, Paul and Aunt Betsy

It was unbelievable to reconnect with my little brother after 40 years. Steve and I remembered many of our adventures together. I believe he remembered more than I did, but after all he is a good deal younger!

And we thoroughly enjoyed our time with Don and Sandy in their woodland retreat. Although the week brought some sadness with Spiky’s death, their hospitality and friendship is beyond compare.

Don Michels

Sandy takes Spiky for a last walk along the road with Honey leading the way.

Now we must finish unpacking and get back into the Seattle rhythm of life. Today I have Ukestra Seattle rehearsal. Tomorrow I plan to get into my studio and work on some paintings I left on the easels. I don’t know when our next travels will be, but we will be writing about them.

Paul