I LOVE it. You did a wonderful job of 'tying up' AND extending the story with wonderful writing to boot. Very nicely done.

On a personal note I have just decided to skip a visit to the Generals when I leave here tomorrow. I had seriously considered Sequoia National Forest as my first stop. A huge part of the decision is the heat here in the Southwest. My plan is to ride to high cool country ASAP. That would give me back to back hot days. I'm getting to be such a slacker in my old age...

Thanks for a great addition to the family story. You really did do well.