Chazari posted a photo:

A rare family portrait on OP’s first train ride.

Chazari posted a photo:

I should explain. As a joke (long story) we call the baby Optimus Prime while it’s in the womb. So um, as part of the joke we…um…yeah. I have too much time on my hands.

My mom had a friend in college named Bob. They lost touch as all college friends tend to do, but after dad died the found each other again and it was like no time had passed. He was (and still is) a good friend of hers and he’s someone I consider family.

Before I continue, I will admit that I’m writing this note with tears in my eyes. I just got an email from Bob, with whom I’m still in loose contact.

****************************
Liz,
I just found this picture and wanted to mail it to you.

A friend of mine in Miami has had a florist business and was an orchid / flower freak that did wonderful work and did hybrids.

He showed this one to me that he had come up with himself and had not named it.

It was named “Ruth-Ellen Rose” after your Mom, of course, by me …. and I think of it now and then.

Thought you might like to see it…

Bob
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I’m touched and honored. I believe she would have loved it.

Here’s her rose. It is beautiful.

The Husband ran a completely insane race yesterday–a snowshoe race. He claims it was worse than the adventure race. The snow shoes were too wide so he constantly hit his shins and the width made running on the narrow landscape difficult. At least he got free pancakes after.

Anyway, they put out a video and the Husband shows up around 5:33. So check him out!

View directly on YouTube…