Gaastra Update

Just time for a quick update.  I played golf this morning at a course connected to the casino in Watersmeet. I'm in the lobby where there is a free Internet connection.  I't certainly been a happy/sad time for me.  Last night I attended a Yooper concert, and met a lot of people who knew Gwen.  It's been wonderful being able to spend time with Gwen's sister, Patti.  As I though I might, I have this overwhelming sense of Gwen's presence--in a good way.  I've been jotting down notes about various places and events that bring back memories of things Gwen and I shared.  Just sitting in this hotel lobby saddens me; the last time we were here was a festive time with her family.  All the while I was playing golf this morning I had this feeling that she was back at the hotel waiting for me.  I so wanted her to be sitting on the golf cart with me.  She would be happy that I have no interest in the casino itself.

There's so much more to write about.  I found the motel in Crystal Falls where we spent our wedding night.  It is now abandoned and a sorry sight.  I took some pictures and plan to do a posting about it.

Tonight I'll attend a social fundraiser with more of Gwen's friends.  In a way, it might be a mistake to be doing this--I feel as though I'm "eavesdropping" on a life Gwen had before we knew each other.  However, I do feel a sense of obligation to thank her friends for the care and concern they showed during Gwen's illness as well as after her death.  Not surprisingly, everyone I've met speaks with such respect and admiration about Gwen and tells me what a sweet, wonderful person she was.   But, I knew that all along. . . .

It has been wonderful being able to feel your presence here, Dear, especially as I am reminded of places and things we did that only we knew about.  It is comforting to realize over and over again how genuine love doesn't die.