[phuloi]

Simply...GREAT!

Tom and Kath called and gave me directions from where I was in Spokane,Wa to Kath`s uncle and aunts house in Cour d`Alene,Idaho where they were visiting and making preparations for a big family Christmas celebration.I was welcomed into their home withopened arms and tidings of cheer.

Uncle Ray(86 yrs young)needed to go and check on his son`s logging show,so Tom drove us three somewhere out in the back country on theEast side of Fourth of July Pass where we found ourselves four-wheeling on and about the logging job.The old boy wanted to be sure of the boundries.Amazing man.After meeting young(our age)Ray and his crew,we headed back to town where we were all treated to dinner at a local Chinese joint.

After dinner Tom,Kath and I headed off the main road about 10 miles around Lake Cour d`Alene to their Condo,and folks.....It is magnificent! A more beautiful,picturesque setting has yet to be created.I had a wonderful visit with Tom and his lovely wife,not unlike every other time we have been together.As if all this warm hospitality and brotherhood weren`t enough,they surprised me with a gift that I will forever cherish;a beautifully crafted scrapbook commemorating our Summer Salmon Bash in Sequim.BTW,Kati loved it too-she got to see a picture of her heart-throb,Sid`s bro,Ray.The LOVE that went into the making of that gift created a sandstorm and a tear has been shed each time I have opened it since.Thank you.I love you.

Gotta go look at my book,again.