First off, a big THANK YOU to all my readers!!! Sometimes there are two of you and sometimes there are 30 to 40 of you! It’s really pretty amazing. I didn’t expect anyone to want to follow the Exploits of Diana and Cliff, so I really, really do appreciate you.

Thanksgiving ….. for me, it was always a time for family, friends, food, and special time together, and it was one of my mom’s favorite holidays (even though she worked her butt off to feed us!). I probably should have taken over for her a long time ago, but she was a really good cook, so I became the best sous chef to help where I could. Most of you know that we lost her last year before the holidays. I tried to pull off Thanksgiving for the family last year, but it just felt empty and I cried through the whole cooking ordeal. I was very grateful that I brought a good friend who would hug me and tell me to suck it up – and I got through. This year, I decided not to go to Vegas (where part of my family lives), and my kids are off doing their own thing, so for only the second time in my life, I am away from all my family for the holidays. It’s odd, but OK.

I AM with my good friend Jim in Daphne, Alabama (Yes, there are gaps in my travel stories, but I will finish getting you caught up soon).

He’s been feeding me a ton and we haven’t even had our Feast yet! We did take some time out to tour Daphne – it’s a nice place and very near the Gulf – and I finally got to check out Gulf Shores!

You are right Dave – it’s a beautiful beach and I can totally imagine hundreds of volleyball players out here. It was amazing how many people were on the beach and in the water and it was November 27th!!! I am certainly not in Colorado anymore – brrrrr!!!

Oh, I almost forgot, November 27th – HAPPY BIRTHDAY LARRY!!!! #60 WOO HOO!

That’s all for now. I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy writing this and how much I appreciate you, and I love hearing back from you. I miss many of you, but especially my family (and Mom) this week. I love you guys!

Cliff and I will be back soon.

Tip for life – Tell the people you care about how you feel, and tell them often. You never know when it might be too late. Don’t let life pass you by.