9/27/2007It was a beautiful day out today. I went to the local hiking trail overlooking the Missouri River and had a nice walk. When I tired, I took a little break but it wasn't as much a problem now that the temperature is down. the scenery was simply spectacular.In about a week my wife and I are going to visit my oldest son at college. He has been very busy what with his classes and his part time job and attending local churches. He does that at their invitation to speak to young people about the horrors of drugs and alcohol. It's a subject he knows too well from his wild days...which weren't that long ago. His wasted youth is the reason he's a 29 year old freshman. I wonder how much of the past decade he remembers? He does seem determined to succeed this time. He has turned in several papers already ,his grades are great, and he has a disciplined approach to his work. In fact, he has been asked to speak with the "young" freshmen about developing a work ethic. His current girl friend is also an older student (if one can call mid 20's older) She is studying to be a nurse and has helped keep tommy focused. I hope he never disappoints her. So far though, it's a major success story. He has so much going for him. I think he finally realizes it. I'm very proud of the way he is battling his problems and of his hard work.Be well,tom