Dear Children , Grandchildren, and Friends: Thanks again for this machine. Children, you introduced us to “E”. I am still amazed as I sit and write.

Again I greet you speaking about my body and Spirit. I am approaching the middle of my 88th year on this wonderful planet. Carol is 84. I've had an amazing body. I've never broken any bones. Your grandmother Carol has fed me nutritiously. She’s a great cook. We've eaten balanced diets, accenting fruit and vegetables and legumes except for those hundreds of ‘Baptist Potlucks” over 65 years of pasturing. Sugars and sweets are kept at a minimum. Now we eat like Kings and Queens; always dressing up for the evening meal. We've had wonderful bodies and good genes as we compare our abilities with our fellow classmates.

Carol is very active in the leadership and programs here. A planned Garden Club Luncheon and Fall Bulb Exchange, she will expedite in September.

Walking, running, and climbing our two hills has been my forte. Twice a week I walk with a group along the Seashore or Bay. Carol often joins us after an early morning shower. I also enjoy our fully equipped Gym. Most evenings I love to read books out loud to Carol while she sews. We both listen to The British News and Jim Lehrer 6:30 to 8pm. We read two or three books a month. For our Book Club we're half through Ken Follett’s “Pillar of Fire.”

I did have a drug reaction or small stroke a few weeks ago. Fortunately Carol and Susan noticed that my speech was slurring and I fell down when walking. I had 4 tests at the hospital and wore a catheter for a few weeks for an enlarged prostate. I still attend everything , dance on Mondays and play horseshoes etc. I am amazed at the healing power of the body.

Life here is everything Carol and I could want. We have plays, concerts, classes and a busy schedule every week. Susan’s Church has become our place of worship . I attend a Forum Sundays at 9 a.m. in a nearby Church. I have no complaints and continue to be thrilled with this chapter of life. You are in my thoughts and visualization .

Love and Shalom,

Caleb Elroy Shikles 8/4/00