Yesterday John had his hernia surgery. He’s still not back to his old self, but doing darned good. We’re preparing to leave Tuesday a.m. (He goes to his doctor Monday to get the go-ahead.)

He’s restricted to lifting only 10 lbs. so he really can’t pack or get us ready to go so it will be my responsibility. I’ll do it.

I’m anxious to get down there. I miss Mom and I think we’ll have a great time down there. This will be the first time we’ve ever been able to go without extra distracting “baggage.” (The last time we stayed with my mother’s husband’s (Hoagie’s) daughter for over a month and when she left, she took much more than she was entitled to.) Before that, our place was really depressingly dirty and we lived in the guest room. This time it’s been renovated and we have the whole place so we can just relax and have a good time.

I haven’t mentioned “Comfort Keepers,” the caregiver service I’ve hired. I’m really pleased with the lady who is helping with Mom in my absence. I pay her for three hours of care five days a week. It sounds like Mom’s doing much better with the extra stimulation of someone who is there for her.

We’ve talked with our buddy, Bob, who also returns to Florida this Thursday. My good friend and neighbor, Loretta, is looking forward to our visit. So when we arrive we will have friends to spend time with and a comfortable place to call “home.”

I hope we get there Thursday in time for Rockin’ Rondevous from 4:00-7:00. Can’t think of a better way to say “we’re here!”