THE ST CHARLES TOWNSENDS returned to school today. Their bus driver was late, but that didn't spoil their day. They like their new teachers and are looking forward to a successful year.

Kathleen, Grace, and John

"What's in that box, John?"

Today is Grace's first day of kindergarten.

Last Friday we took our dear friend Frannie to Bloomington to meet Quentin Ryder who would take her to Stockton for her brother's 86th birthday party. Jerry and Quentin grew up in rural Stockton and had not seen each other in many years. They renewed their friendship and got caught up on their careers and lives.

Frannie has recently written and published her memoirs. Born on February 17, 1917, she was the third of four children. She graduated from the University of Illinois in 1938. Quite a fete for a young woman of that time period! She became a teacher, married her soldier husband, Edmund Thomas, and raised three children. Tommy and Frannie farmed in the Woodbine area.

Four generations - Frannie with daughter, Ann, granddaughter, Emily, and great granddaughter, Fia.

Last Sunday, Will and Claire had to show us how they could ride their bikes.

Click arrow to watch them ride.


Will now rides without his training wheels, but always with his helmet. He likes to ride around the neighborhood with his dad.

The Gateway Regional Water Company Open House was held on Tuesday. This project was one that Jerry worked on prior to his retirement. Gateway is composed of 12 partner members, including 6 communities and 6 water companies. Gateway received $20 million in grants and loans and took approximately 15 years to complete the project.

Gateway's Chief Operator, Jack Hendrick, explains the operation to Jerry.

The water for Gateway is drawn from Lake Carlyle, 9 miles to the west. The water is treated in two large tanks in the plant.





Enroute to the Gateway event Jerry and I had lunch at the Firefly Grill in Effingham. They grow some of their produce and herbs on site. The building is constructed of reclaimed barn wood. We ate on the screened in porch overlooking the pond, and the food was wonderful!

View of the Rosebud Theatre from the deck.