June 10, 2016
The month of May was very busy. Hannah completed her freshman year at NAU and Madison graduated from SFSU! In between driving to Flagstaff and San Francisco, I completed personal goals by running a marathon and an intermediate distance triathlon.
I was amazed by returning to NAU and seeing Hannah and her roommate are "all grown up." They were just out of high school last September, now they move, talk and plan like young adults. The role of dads didn't change since last September: find a close parking spot and begin loading the accumulated clothing and dorm furniture in the car.
Likewise, Madison is so knowledgeable about transportation around SF, plus she has matured into a young woman who moves confidently. My Dad and I moved her out of the dorm at the end of her freshman year and we enjoyed seeing some of her same friends graduating with her.
Over the last few years, as I wasn't needed as a driver, I started running in the afternoons after work. In my 20's I had always wanted to train for and complete a triathlon. As an empty-nester, I added a healthy habit of workouts to my schedule. I am blessed physically to be able to swim, bike and run as a hobby.
I kept Kathie up-to-date with every event that unfolded this month. She and I participated in an outing to an new public market and spent the day strolling around the park ground of Liberty Station. Each milestone completed is celebrated but also we miss Kathie's physical presence at the events. I have moments of loneliness in the midst of large family dinners. With Madison's graduation, Kathie's goal was met. She wanted all her children to have the opportunity of a college education , an opportunity she didn't have. I made sure she knew that goal was once again available to our children.
Last Tuesday, I was back to familiar tasks, like playing assistant to Kathie's hairdresser as we cut and colored her hair. I also touched base with a secretary regarding an doctor's appointment while completing miscellaneous paperwork as my roll as conservator. Wednesday I kissed her hello, reacted with surprise and a slight smile, I asked if it was the kiss or the mustache that caused the smile, then I kissed her again.
Dave & Kathie Jones
I was amazed by returning to NAU and seeing Hannah and her roommate are "all grown up." They were just out of high school last September, now they move, talk and plan like young adults. The role of dads didn't change since last September: find a close parking spot and begin loading the accumulated clothing and dorm furniture in the car.
Likewise, Madison is so knowledgeable about transportation around SF, plus she has matured into a young woman who moves confidently. My Dad and I moved her out of the dorm at the end of her freshman year and we enjoyed seeing some of her same friends graduating with her.
Over the last few years, as I wasn't needed as a driver, I started running in the afternoons after work. In my 20's I had always wanted to train for and complete a triathlon. As an empty-nester, I added a healthy habit of workouts to my schedule. I am blessed physically to be able to swim, bike and run as a hobby.
I kept Kathie up-to-date with every event that unfolded this month. She and I participated in an outing to an new public market and spent the day strolling around the park ground of Liberty Station. Each milestone completed is celebrated but also we miss Kathie's physical presence at the events. I have moments of loneliness in the midst of large family dinners. With Madison's graduation, Kathie's goal was met. She wanted all her children to have the opportunity of a college education , an opportunity she didn't have. I made sure she knew that goal was once again available to our children.
Last Tuesday, I was back to familiar tasks, like playing assistant to Kathie's hairdresser as we cut and colored her hair. I also touched base with a secretary regarding an doctor's appointment while completing miscellaneous paperwork as my roll as conservator. Wednesday I kissed her hello, reacted with surprise and a slight smile, I asked if it was the kiss or the mustache that caused the smile, then I kissed her again.
Dave & Kathie Jones
I'm so sorry I completely forgot to check for the June update. I do enjoy reading them.
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