First, thanks for sticking with me the past few days; it's been such a great exercise for me to be able to review the influences that have shaped the past 49 years. From reading your comments, it appears to have set off some reflections of your own; I hope they have been as happy for you as it's been for me.

In the movie, Mrs. Doubtfire, the lead character tells 'her' TV audience that family comes in all forms. I have been greatly blessed to have a stable, loving family-parents, 1 younger sister, and 2 younger brothers. Mom and Dad always wise, and letting me make my own mistakes and learn from them. Always encouraging and supportive. The younger sibs hopefully learned what NOT to do to avoid the same consequences. They still owe me big time for breaking in the parents :). For a long time, my kids were the only ones within their peer group who grew up in a tradtional family, and hopefully weren't scarred too much when their 'family' dissolved. I can only hope that some of the love and wisdom that was passed to me can be translated to the new generation. I think it has started, every day I am amazed what I can learn from the kids. They are great kids, smart, sensitive to others, inquisitive and loving.

So, I'm eagerly awaiting the challenges and rewards of the next 50 years. Bring it on!