I am blessed to be the youngest of three girls born to Boots and Paul Johnson in small town Pennsylvania in the 1950's. The little Johnson girls are middle-aged women now who lost our Mom to a fall three summers ago. Last evening we gathered with our husbands and father to celebrate Dad's 82nd birthday. The occasion was especially sweet following a life-threatening illness a mere six months ago. The courage and determination Dad summoned to survive inspired all of us, even as the effort to regain strength and fullness of life has left us weary. We sustain ourselves and each other by gathering for meals and conversation, spirited games of 'Quiddler' and laughter. The menu changes week to week but camaraderie and abiding love are the constants in this well we draw from with grateful hearts.
