As I left Ursuline college and headed south on I-271 and 71, I noted their dedication, The Vietnam Veterans Memorial. [I-39 that I drive in WI to visit my parents and brother is dedicated, The Korean Veterans Memorial.] I also realized these interstates were the ones Annie and I traveled in July 1999 as we went to and from Canton, OH during our 20th anniversary trip. In Canton, we had visited the Pro Football Hall of Fame for the 3rd or 4th time during our marriage. As I approached the exit for the Hall of Fame, I decided to exit and had a short visit there, recalling many fond past memories, but some sad ones too....  In July of ‘99, Walter Payton was very thin, struggling with a rare liver ailment and awaiting a transplant. His uniform was on display on a "stick" mannequin. I noted and felt the irony of that display....  A few months later, it was revealed Payton’s ailment had evolved to include a form of liver cancer and he died in early November 1999. It was so shocking and really unexpected; I was to experience an much more shocking and unexpected personal loss less than three months later....

After buying a few souvenirs, I drove on towards Burr Oak State Park. My route lead me into Zanesville after sunset, trying to find US-93 south -- I don’t want to ever drive into Zanesville at night again! Errr, make that, Period! Finally I maneuvered my way through there and down to Burr Oak State Park, taking one unintended detour within the park itself, but at least I got to see a beautiful deer alongside the road!

After dining, we gathered in an elevated living room in the lodge to chat. Soon Chrissy and  Karen had me laughing so hard tears were rolling down my cheeks! :D   My sides and chest muscles were aching from laughing so much! I want to meet Chrissy’s Dad... I think!  ROFL  It was a wonderful, special, warm evening filled with camaraderie, joy and laughter!