#515, Day 772 – Fri Oct 12, 2018 – ErikaLeigh and I had a wonderful call for almost two hours just before I called you. It was a joy to speak to one of our kids and I desire to do so with others, including our younger kids. She said she is shipping my copy of her book plus the others for friends next week. This will obviously be a moment for a pleased dad to share our daughter’s book with others, and point out to them the author’s signature.

Many years ago I watched with my dad some of the launches of the Gemini and later the Apollo missions. While I was around for the Mercury missions, I was actually too young. It was a joy to be with George one day and we went to the space center in Huntsville, but it was clear that there wasn’t the same enthusiasm. My interest is limited but still remains and I watched a bit of the preparation for the launch of the latest Soyuz to take two to the International Space Station. However, something happened during launch and the escape system engaged to return the astronauts back to earth safely. What I saw later was the two astronauts returning to an airport and being greeted by their wives. The embraces they received stood out to me. Moments later the Russian commentator stated “you can just imagine how those hugs felt.” Yes I can. I so desire that for us. My willingness remains.

Dorothy-Jane, I love you!