Aug. 24

Hi from the Danielson
Well, here we are in Henderson Harbor, a far cry from Italy. We had a good
(albeit long) 24 hour trip to Englewood. Julie had her appointment moved up and
the Doctor said all her numbers were normal, so he saw no need for additional
treatment. The car was fine, so we closed the condo and headed for Wilmington,
N.C. where Julie's Mother had just celebrated her 94th birthday. After an 11
hour drive, we arrived. We visited with Eleanor Saturday night and took her to
church and dinner on Sunday. We shopped with her and finally, after dinner at
her "home" we went to her room and played three handed bridge until
eight. ("You'll have to leave before they lock the doors at 8!.")
Actually, Eleanor was wonderful. She was so happy to see us, we really had a
nice time. She walked through malls and climbed flights of stairs. The
temperature on the car thermometer was 99 degrees, but she never faultered. We
really had a nice visit; it was difficult to leave.
Next morning we hopped back in the car and thirteen hours later climbed out
at Henderson Harbor. Just as we began to search, in near darkness, for the key,
it began to rain. Fortunately, it was just a few drops; we found the key and
enjoyed a well deserved night's rest. Today was spent scraping and painting.
We enjoyed dinner at our old yacht club. It was wonderful to see old friends
again. Tonight the weather seems to be turning cold. The wind is from the
north. Perhaps, later in the week, we will head for Ashville, only about five
hours from here, where we will enjoy cutting brush in the back yard, repairing
the roof and sidewalk, and doing other odd jobs around the house.
We heard from Dick and Eileen on Triumph, in Italy, that the bridge finally
lifted and that a number of boats left and more came in. Now it is closed for a
long time, perhaps months. Dick and Eileen are touring, doing odd jobs around
their boat, and enjoying Italy. They will return to the States in Mid September.
Steve and Jan have returned to Seattle. It appears that everyone is doing
fine. We are, too. Thank you, everyone, for your support and good wishes. We
will see you all soon.

Your friends, Hank and Julie