Our May 2008 gathering in Seneca, SC at Jack and Jo Simpson's was by far the best of all excluding the first in Norfolk, Oct 2003. We had no fancy conference rooms or plans other than a get together at the host’s train yard to marvel at the Seneca & Chetola Lines and to have a memorable fellowshipping. This we did not once but twice with all the loud, boisterous, happy, caring picking of days of old. Last year I visited with Jack and Jo and saw the trains in their back-yard but I really was not ready for all Jack had accomplished since then. All I can say is wow, those of you who did not come missed out because the pictures in this site do not do it justice.  Thanks to everyone for pitching in when ever it was need for what ever was needed.  

   My bride wanted to be with us but was in the Philippines visiting her family. I told Betty I would do my best to make arrangements for her to talk to a few of her ole friends and young’uns. Saturday when everyone was together at the Seneca & Chetola station I mentioned to Ann Chisenhall I was going to call Betty. She offered her cell phone for the call. Ann put it on speaker so we could all hear and have a few laughs; the biggest was Betty calling me a “dirty old man”, she should know. Thank you so much Ann 

   We also had two afternoon/evening gatherings at our impromptu meeting area in the hotel parking lot. I know it sounds like an odd place to gather but you were there you would understand. When ya can feel comfortable that no one is offended by the lack of pomp then you know you are with your family. Our whole weekend was exactly that, hummmmm, well maybe Wild Bill didn’t have a recliner in his room but no matter, I DID! haha 

   Sunday, 11 of us went to a tiny little Methodist church with Jack and Jo. We came close to outnumbering the normal congregation. I never knew Jo was such an accomplished piano player. I am impressed. Jo has put together a little history of the church here.   

   Thank you Jo, for putting up with “raised in a barn” me for a whole week.

   I am truly blessed to have each of you as my part of my family, especially “my kids” and you know who you are. 

Fair Winds and Following Seas,

God Bless, Ron