Sue gave me some time off so I'm off to visit family and friends. Had dinner tonight with daughter Asiya. And visited with old Black hills teammate Mike Berg (and with wife Lorna) who showed us all what being a coach was all about. From Mike--Hey Ralph - trust me, your surprise visit yesterday was truly that indeed, a surprise. I can't thank you enough for the sunshine that you brought to one of our dreary winter days, it was great to see you again. That you would make that kind of an effort with no guarantee of even crossing paths says everything about you. Lorna and I were stunned and really enjoyed the short time you were here. I've shared the story with several folks since, all are amazed. Take care, I will certainly stay in touch. (I messaged VJ and told him not to be surprised to see you show up in Abilene someday).

Saw only my second hockey game with the Sioux Falls Stampeed and had a visit from brother Rick.

So there hasn't been much to report for awhile as I've been in Sioux Falls helping Sue get through her bout of shingles. Reed did have a gig which evidently went well. I've been to the docs to check my neuropathy--got some hand exercises. Saw a Skyforce basketball game. And Sue thought she'd be clever.

Lots of family stuff for Gail and Sue as we finish up in Merida and start heading home. Putting a full tank into the rental in Cancun turned out to be more fun than usual as the gas station attendant switched a 500 peso note for a 50. He got me but Gail and Sue both saw him do it. And then there was the cab driver and even the Subway sandwich guy. Cancun is full of vultures, vultures everywhere. (Casablanca reference for you uninitiated.)

Yesterday hit the Mayan Museum in Merida then did lunch and the beach in Progreso with its 5 mile long pier.

I am in and around Merida Mexico and today visiting the Mayan ruins at Uxmal with friends. I am impressed.

So we went to the New Years Eve celebration at the Alhambra Dinner Theater last night as Crescendo Amelia was the main attraction. It was big money but the band played great and Reed was a star. However, one of our tablemates spilled his tea and it did a number on my camera. Consequently, we only have a quick clip of him singing the last song of the night.