“We’ve had 38 wonderful years together.” Doc simply summed up a myriad of life experiences he and Dee have created since they shared a mint julep at that Kentucky Derby watch party. When I think of my parents, that simple two-syllable word doesn’t do them justice. They are staples of our family and strong staples of our community. From service to our public school system, to Elon University and as far back as the Tom Sawyer-Huck Finn Tennis Tourney, my parents have created community wherever they stepped foot, and have made community a stronghold.

Dee physically demonstrated her strength this afternoon when she walked 10 steps with minimal assistance from her bed to the recliner for her occupational therapy session. She then impressed me talking more clearly than ever during speech therapy, telling Pam, Doc and me that “she loved today because it’s my anniversary.” AND she greeted Nana and friends coming to see her, calling them all clearly by name.

The crispness of her voice today matched the crispness of the October air. I’m very excited to see her continued progress through the holidays - Dee’s favorite time of the year!

Happy Anniversary Doc and Dee!

~Ross