Arriving in Maine, I'm always captivated by the scenery and how the trees seem taller and the fields appear vaster as I go further north. And then that first step from the car -- wherever it is, even a rest stop on the turnpike -- into crisp, unequaled Maine air is like no other place I've been, so cool and clear.

Christine was thoroughly pleased and surprised to see me show up unannounced (to her) on her 11th birthday. With Barb and John joining her at a school assembly, Kate and I passed two hours chatting together about much more than I ever could have imagined when playing with her 10 years ago. As she grows older, we share more in common. Mom's side of the family has always talked well and enjoyed simply being together and engaging in pleasant conversation -- as we did when the rest of the family returned later.