20# Our travels and sadly your dad's death in 2000.

Time was passing for all of us.  My life traveling back and forth to California was beautiful. We went all over the U. S. to most of the National Parks and had exciting adventures., which I never expected in a million years!  Even though our income was limited - we boldly continued!   In the summer we were able to be home , in our lovely farm home and visit regularly  with all the children.  We even purchased a motor home that we thoroughly enjoyed.  At the Fountain of Youth Spa. we square danced and enjoyed all our friends from every part of the country.
The grandchildren became a great part of our life since we were able to have them at our place every summer for swimming lessons and frequently sleepovers.  As I mentioned before it was great taking them separately to California with us as well!

Sadly, life was not too good for your dear Dad!  He kept his own apartment and worked a little , selling a car now and then and I heard, he even quit drinking!  He seemed at peace with our breakup.  I know he always wanted me to be happy!  As his health deteriorated ;  He lived with Laura for a time, and also with Sherri and Tim.  However,
soon after, he had a stroke: and they too needed help and he was confined to a nursing home.  The children regularly visited with him and I was able to also quite often.  He was always kind to me after the break-up, and seemed genuinely satisfied that I was finally happy.  That relieved some of my guilt, which was always a problem for me.  He had always been a kind, considerate man except when his problems  took over!  I loved him very much, as you children are aware.  In January of 2000 , the Lord took him home and finally he was in peace.  He was only 69 years old! I had flown in from California for the funeral, without Bob.  I thought it was very considerate of my husband to know- I needed to grieve with my children alone.