Riggins Family Christmas 2021

Three years ago a young woman came into our lives. With giveaway nonchalance, Dan asked if we'd like to meet her at an Ethiopian restaurant. As veteran parents we knew: this was significant. And so it is. Dan and that woman have gotten married, bought a house and now the piece de la resistance, expect their first child in May. Lauren and Daniel Hall Riggins, I know I speak for Donna, Larry and Linda when I say we could not possibly be happier about all of it. Dan finished his residency in pediatrics and now practices at Cook County Hospital in Chicago while pursuing a masters in public health/data at Northwestern. Lauren has nearly completed her PhD in education/public policy.

(Click on the images to see them in larger formatting.)

Laura, Sam, Theo and Rory are, as Sam often says, “Livin' the dream.” Though at the customary cost of the grinding fatigue known only to parents of young children, they lead a blessed life. I know I speak for Cindy, David and Linda when I say we could not possibly be more grateful for it. Three and a half year-old Theo loves the Solar System, vehicles and playing pretend with his stuffed animals and Grandma Linda. Fourteen month-old Rory shows a certain flair for comedy. Her imitations of others and sense of timing would make Gilda Radnor proud. (If you don't know who that is, shame on you and we'll wait for you to do a YouTube search.)

 Rory's baptism brought together many from both sides of her family.

Halloween as the Solar System

 

And as an old lady.
 

Last summer, Linda's parents Betty and Jerry made it all the way to their summer home in Wisconsin, to Dan and Lauren's wedding in Indianapolis, and Up North again for the rest of the season. Jerry presented an original poem at the wedding. He walked up in obvious pain, placed his notes on the lectern, and delivered his profound and hilarious work in a clear voice. Blew the room away. My mom Dotti continues to serve as a terrific example of positive determination in the face of the vicissitudes of aging. We do not get to pick our parents. How did we get to have the ones we do? 

 

My mom with her great-granddaughter, our great-niece, Matilda

Dalioanna (Lauren's protege), Dotti and niece Lanie, Thanksgiving in our Terre Haute home.

As for Linda and I, we truly feel thankful for the life we have. If our bodies have gotten a bit more reluctant we nevertheless enjoy good health and virtually no limitations. Our two daily dog walks are chances not just to exercise, but times to catch up, check signals and process any issues we may face elsewhere in our lives. Speaking of the big picture, last June we celebrated our 40^th wedding anniversary and our 46^th year of being together. Now that's pretty significant, if you ask us. Thanks be to God.