Lees in France

Yes indeed I am now 50. I had several celebrations to mark the occasion. Some friends in Montpellier took me out to a fancy restaurant to celebrate the milestone. Other friends had me over for pizza and ice cream. Family and friends from the US and Africa sent cards, emails, texts, packages, and flowers.

Here in France Cody joined me on a hike around a turquoise lake.

The family went wildflower picking for flower arrangements. Randy planned a stop at a local poppy field. We also had an incredibly tasty Italian meal in a neighboring village.

I was humbled by all the thought and care people showed by their shared memories, kind words and gestures. It takes a village to raise children, and accomplish things, and yet this same village of friends knows how to love a friend indeed.