This just in from Connie. Her email has been acting up, destroying all of her addys even after saving, so I had to send her one, last night, so she'd have mine, again. Anyhow, news from the fellahs and from Connie:

Bill sends regards to all. Tues after leaving Rick's they traveled to Niagara Falls stayed on the Canadian side; among other things toured the Ripleys Believe It or Not Museum. Ian rested while Sam and Bill "walked to the U.S."

They were able to view "the illumination of the Falls" and enjoyed it.

They all arrived safe and sound last night in time for a barbecue...western BBQ ribs, Brats (from the local Bremen meat shop Rheinschield family...so they are rather German in taste); macaroni salad, cole slaw, kraut, potato chips and corn chips. As it was our youngest son's birthday we had birthday cake for him and an early birthday for Spaw.

They will be traveling to Strougsburg, Pennsylvania in a few minutes...about a 7 hour drive. Then tomorrow they will view the Martin guitar factory. Then they will cross to Sea Bright, New Jersey -- Annamill's.

All are still well.

We listened to wonderful music until 1:30 a.m. Our son said that it was the very BEST birthday that he has ever had.

Bill reports that the best US tea is awful. So Ian treated us to some Yorkshire tea...Bill was quite right!!! YUM!

For breakfast, they had rice grits, our variation on the "famous Southern staple". I will have to trust a true Southerner to the honor of serving them the real thing on another visit.

We have had a wonderful visit and of course we would like for them to stay longer.

As yet we have no word on how Pat is doing with his"total rehab". Karen always calls us and lets us know how he has come through procedures and surgeries. I will post to you as soon as I know.

Love to All! and thanks to Kat for posting this to the mudcatters. Connie

To Sam's and Ian's parents:

Your son's are delightful! They have been so kind and polite, genuine, easy to please, and eager to experience our area of the country's food. They are thoughtful, pleasant young men...and all of that in addition to such musical talent and skill. They so graciously explained to our sons how to play the piano accordion and melodion as well as the differences in them. They even helped our sons to play a little bit. This totally "made their day".

We are so honored to have the wonderful opportunity to spend time with Bill, Sam, and Ian...and have the chance to get to know them a bit.

Thank you for loaning them to us. I am at a loss for words to describe how pleasant our last few hours have been...it has been like a vacation...the music has been good for the soul.

Bill is taking good care of them, and teaching them the American nuances, as well as serving as an interpreter as necessary.

We hope to some day meet you all.
Until then~
Connie

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