Yes, I'm back.
Back from a refreshing trip to the Catskills and Vermont.
Vermont was one of the few of the continental states that I have not visited. I'm sorry it took so long, because it was beautiful.No wonder so many Hallmark movies end up here.
We visited three towns in Vermont: Bennington, Rutland, and Middlebury. We visited Antique shops, museums, bookstores, and coffee shops. We took in the mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and the colorful autumn foliage.
We also visited my son, daughter-in-law, and our beautiful, brilliant, and energetic four-and-a-half-year-old grandchild.
And something special happened that I have been waiting for years to happen. I had not been able to read to her on previous visits. She wasn't mean, but she was active and would not sit still for it.
The first story I read to her, from the Princess In Black series, she roamed around the room like she usually does, but I knew she was paying attention because she would react to story events and answer when I asked her questions or involved her in the story.
After that, she wanted me to read the stories to her while she sat next to me on the sofa. I read many, many stories to her, several each day.
When we got back from our Vermont excursion and visited with them again, she had gotten a Princess in Black costume, and I read her those stories while she wore that!
Just a reminder that her parents do not want her image on social media, so I understand and respect that. It's not easy for a proud grandpa to exercise that restraint, but I realize this is a crazy world, and I want her to be protected.
This has been a very busy month for me, with the trip, chores, and job responsibilities. I have neglected this blog, and I apoligize. I hope to return to some regular features soon, including columns from Rose Aldridge, political commentary, 100 great science fiction films of the 20th century, more fiction, and meandering musings.
Until next time,
T. M. Strait
AOC '28
Bottoms, Ossof, Talarico, Sayad, et al., '26!
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