Chris and I set out for Toledo, Ohio, on Wednesday, June 22, 2016, to visit relatives and friends. However, this was not an ordinary trip. This trip was special. You ask, "What's special in Toledo other than the Mudhens?" Ron Langhals and Jack Park!!! I had arranged in advance to meet up with Ron and Sandy and with Jack and Harry for dinner at an area restaurant on Thursday evening. Ron and Sandy offered Chris and me their comfortable guest bedroom for 3 nights. Jack and Harry joined us for cocktails at Ron's house on Thursday late afternoon and from there we all went to Bravo Ristorante for delicious Italian fare. The cuisine was delectable, the atmosphere was friendly, and we shared many laughs.
This was the first time that I had met up with Jack since we each left the Josephinum during our Theology studies. As we shared our life journeys, I discovered that both Jack and I had been doing social work in Toledo during a similar period of time early in our careers; yet, we never located each other. When Jack and Harry walked onto the enclosed porch of Ron's house, Jack gave me one of his big "bear" hugs and I reciprocated. What a joy it was to be with Jack and to meet his partner Harry Tennery. What a pleasure it was to get acquainted with Harry. There is no question that we all soon felt like "family," that we all felt like "brothers and sisters."
In confirmation of our renewed friendships, Ron and Sandy invited Jack and Harry back to their house for dinner on Friday evening. I was thrilled to learn this. Courtesy of Ron's grilling, we enjoyed sumptuous ribs, with multiple sides, around Ron and Sandy's dining room table. Another memorable evening together with Ron, Sandy, Jack, and Harry.
Chris and I shout out again our gratitude for these treasured moments.
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