A ride on the lake

So, recently Judy and I went to Kensington Metropark for a boat ride supposedly with Shannon's group at New Gateways.  It was a stunning sunny day and we arrived a little early at Kent Lake and were shocked at the size of it and that we had never seen the place before; These are some of the shots as we arrived and were wandering around.

As it turns out, Shannon's team was not there today and since we made the trip, (quickly because I-96 was without construction). The staff invited us to stay and go on the boat ride

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anyway.  We did, with the lovely day.  This group has a variety of disabilities, mental and physical.  They are all adults most of which were happy to be there enjoying the day.  Judy got on and was seated on one of the bench seats next to Chris, a man with physical and cognitive challenges.  He was a big, slim guy about 5'11". I sat on the other side.  We shoved off and he had my hands in a death grip,  but seemed happy to be there.  At times his face was so close to mine and he was starring at me putting me ill at ease.

But as the trip wore on, he calmed and I got to listen to the guide talk about the park a the lake and the names of the small islands in the middle.  It was a lovely ride and I grew to appreciate how challenging it would be to care for a man such as this.  He is always moving and strong, doing his best to figure out the world.  While Shannon's mobility is limited, her personality is easy to communicate

with and always cheerful. Anyway, it was a good day.

Later that day, I spent some time with Frank (my dog buddy) on the back patio at Katy's house.  He is always thrilled to see me and despite his size and level of energy, we are best buds.

I won't be writing for a while.  My little guys from Middleville will be visiting from today thru Thursday.  Looking forward to seeing them and finding out what their summer has been thus far.

It breaks my heart that Stephen was canceled.  We have been watching him since the beginning for 10 years and before on the Colbert Report. He will land somewhere and we will be there to greet him warmly.

thats it