Wow, it has been 6 years since I have done a blog entry! 

A lot has happened. I fully retired, have been on many trips, including some overseas, have lost relatives and friends that I dearly loved, and have been taking it easy. 

Retirement has allowed me to fully explore my genealogy. I have found many secrets and surprises hidden in my family. My mother's family has roots among the Mayflower Pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians. Amazing! I continue to explore. 

I have lost both of my parents. Both lived into their 90's, for which I am grateful. The family had them for such a long time. 

I have lost two very good friends, both from college, and with whom I communicated frequently. That was very hard. One passed from complications of prostate cancer and the other passed from complications of surgery and COPD. I recently also realized that a fellow microbiology student friend from college had passed when I tried to send him a message on LinkedIn. He apparently had some form of dementia and spent the last years of his life in managed care.  

I have been contemplating my own mortality and wondering if I am ready. I don't feel ready. I have so much more that I want to do!

I will try to continue my writing in describing my college years. Next time!