As I sit and compose this month’s message, I reflect on this very special day. It is my husband’s birthday today. I won’t say how old, but I will say that he is my hero. My husband has had an unusual year of challenges so far, and he handles those challenges with grace and an innate fortitude. He’s the best reason our family slogan is “Ritters aren’t quitters.”
But this year has been particularly challenging even for him. So far this year, he retired – again – he battled cancer and won, and he took over the day-to-day care and housing of his 92-year-old father. We refer to it as “long-term guest services,” because elder care sounds stodgy. This is just a snapshot of how he cares for his family and those he loves.
Approximately 25 years ago, my office mate, overhearing my numerous phone calls to my spouse, dubbed him “Saint Bob,” and it stuck. Actually, the moniker is more of a reflection on me and my exasperating behavior.
So, whether he is a saint or a hero, we are here to stay. Burnt Store Lakes is our home.
If you see a guy on a bright red Trax bicycle pedaling through the neighborhood, it’s likely him. He rides five days a week, while I cover him with prayers. I tell him to stay safe from AAA. This is my way of telling him to avoid alligators, automobiles and angry humans. It’s a jungle out there, but I sit and smile on my lanai.
