Leonard J. Robare

This gentleman is my Uncle Len, my mother Dorothy's youngest brother.  At 89, he is my last surviving relation from that generation.  He served during the Korean war and completed night school (there's an old term) at Lawrence Tech in the 50's.  Married his wife Alice and had two handsome boys.  He went on to a successful career in engineering at Chrysler, retired from there
 

and went to form 2 successful auto related business in Michigan.  I write all this because he and I spoke yesterday.  His father died at 52 and he wanted to live longer, making fitness a priority in his life.  I remember in my twenties him passing me by during the Oak Apple Run in Royal Oak like I was standing still.  I still have that image stuck in my head.  

Alice needed care he could no longer provide and she is in assisted living.  His oldest son Don recently retired from GM and youngest Dennis is still working in architecture.  Len now lives north of me.  His dwelling is on a 7 acre plot that he takes care of mowing the grounds in a tractor.  He still has a daily fitness routine involving a treadmill.  I love talking to this guy.  He gives me some inspiration for my future.  I consider our conversations a gift to be cherished. At 89 he still has a lot to offer and prospective to teach.

Do you love the illustration above?  This along with this and my ugly blue rubber crocs are the current metaphors for my my life.  My daughter Katey abhors them but they provide comfort and simplicity. 

I usually don't comment on books.  This volume that comes out tomorrow is a New York City story about two dogs, owners and the friendship of women and Mah Jong.  It was the subject of a report on CBS Sunday Morning.  I like my dog and dogs in general but this is the ultimate story for the obsessed dog lover.  I admit to being quite moved by the story and the author's explanation.  Might be one to consider.

We viewed historical drama based on reality called The Dig on Netflix about the discovery of a burial ship under a mound from the Anglo-Saxon era.  Both of the lead actor deliver masterful performances with a great supporting cast.  This one is a definite find for a lockdown frenzied program search you might be stuck in.

(do you love the visual aids?)

all for now

stay safe