News+from+Steve


 * From Steve: Some sad personal news**

My apologies for the dry spell of blogging. There is a good reason for this.

I learned at the end of our time in Kimberley that my dear grandmother, Marge Copeland, passed away. She had a long, full life of 93 years, and we were lucky to have her as long as we did. Still, it’s hard. She was the matriarch of our family in every sense of the word, and it is so very strange to not have her anymore. Sadly, I will not be able to attend her funeral. My mom gave me her blessing to not return, as she understands my gigantic responsibility to you the parents regarding the safety and well-being of your sons. (Huge KSB points for Mrs. Fisher!) What makes my absence especially difficult is that one of my grandmother’s dying wishes was to have me give her eulogy. It’s heartbreaking for me not to be there in person, not to mention the “Catholic guilt.” But I have taken the last several days to write it. As you can imagine, juggling the rigors of tour and the emotional journey of writing a eulogy has been challenging, but it is finally done. My brother will deliver it on my behalf. (this was last Friday, July 15th...AEV)

Now, catch up time on our most excellent South African adventure….

I believe Anne has been keeping up with pictures, so you’ll have to match my writing with her and Laurie’s wonderful postings. Thanks to both of them for their work.