May proved to be a month of transitions. Andrew was feted as the incoming Director of Bands at Cloverleaf High School (he will remain teaching band at the middle school also) at the final concert directed by his predecessor, Gerald Carasea).

The sudden, shocking death of the Rev. Wayne L. Smith, Bob's closest friend, in mid-month was an occasion of great sadness for us both, but it did give us impetus to head to Vermont for a quick visit celebrating Mom's 98th birthday, and even managed an overnight visit with Penney's sister and her husband (Mark and Susan Holden) in Delaware..

Fr. Wayne was my neighbor during our early years in Greendale, Wisconsin. He quickly became a mentor and friend; I learned quickly that I could trust implicitly his "take" on Church affairs. We roomed together during Clergy Conferences and retreats for many years and he was somehow able always to make laughter a source of holiness.

Wayne was one of several people whose intervention on my disease of alcoholism saved my life; without his involvement, the intervention might well have failed to achieve its desired result. His availability that day was a true miracle.

A self-proclaimed "poor kid from the coal mines of Pennsylvania," Wayne served several prestigious parishes but spent his retirement ministering to poor, struggling parishes, where he was greatly loved. I miss him every day.

The "welcome cake" (actually a blueberry pie!) for Andrew at Gerald Carasea's farewell reception. A similar pie said "Good Luck Mr. C."

I have no idea what was going through Penney's mind when this picture was taken (at Mom's 98th birthday party), but it's good of Mom!

Birthday Dinner for Louise!