We spent a wonderful weekend in Duluth and I was reminded of how much richer our lives are with family. When I was younger I didn't consider this as important, and now, with more perspective, it has become paramount in my life. We spent many wonderful hours talking, reminiscing and hiking (and eating!) with Tim, Kathy, Sue, Brad, Tom, Jamie and Jeffrey, and Rebecca was able to have breakfast with Lindsay in Minneapolis. It makes me wish all the more that my children all develop close relationships with one another as they get older.
And then coming home on my birthday to a custom-selected meal and an office full of balloons, each with a heart-warming message or memory from family--was wonderful. What a thoughtful and terrific gift.
One small observation on the impact of Facebook. We walked into the Duluth Ward on Sunday morning and both Darnell Nelson and Jamie (formerly Milbridge) came up to me and wished me a happy birthday. Darnell is an old friend, but other than on Facebook we've hardly stayed in touch, and Jamie friended me even though I hardly know her. So their greetings seemed very strange to me, although certainly welcome.
