In an effort to try to get things back to normal, I decided to go ahead with the Hike that Justin and I had planned. We continued our sectional hiking of the AT by going from Standing Indian Mtn to Wayah Bald, around 35 miles in 2 1/2 days. The trip was tremendous for me, probably because I felt pretty good the whole time and it allowed me to think and walk for awhile. The fall colors were outstanding, not sure the cameras picked up the true beauty of our surroundings. We had a couple good animal sightings also. We met a small boar walking the opposite way on the trail the first day and within a mile of our destination I saw my first black bear on the trail. Moments like these tend to return me to a child like state. The weather was amazing and we met some great people on the trail that hopefully we will see again some day. Yep, hiking helped me out a lot. I am glad Justin was able to come back to Charlotte for a little post birthday celebrations also. It just dawned on me, I didn't get any cake. I don't think a birthday is over until you have cake.

FYI, if you plan a hike or trip of any sort, don't forget your shoes under the table when you leave. I was able to buy some more, but my blistered feet didn't seem to agree with them.

As many of you know, my mother passed away this last Monday. It was a moment in time that I had long prepared myself for, but there still was a shock to it all. I am glad she didn't suffer any more by having an extended stay in the hospital or anything like that. but selfishly I wish I could have hugged her once last time. We talked on Saturday as we often did. I asked her how she was doing and she gave me the line that she did every time I asked, "about the same". Then she always proceeded to ask about Nicole and Cooper, and like ever so often about James. The focus was always about how everyone else was doing and never about her. Our conversations over the years became more brief, but they always had an impact on me. She taught me so much just by persevering all these years and by keeping the focus on others. You'll be missed mom, but I know you are walking again right now.

Thanks to everyone that checked in on us over the last week and to everyone that showed up in Paris. Your thoughts and care for our family has been greatly appreciated. Thanks to everyone that sacrificed a little bit of their lives to make ours a little more comfortable. I am so proud to have the family, friends, and the future wife that I do.

The below picture was taken at Busch Stadium during her last ballgame in September. Even though we weren't there for that game, it will always be one of my favorite pictures of her.

Judy Speight

Dec. 8th, 1951 - Oct. 12th, 2009