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Julie Carney's avatar

Beautiful, moving story, so well told. Big gulp at the end there, for me. Many of us know Pete from The Black Duck and also his fabulous pontoon boat which was the location of two wonderful 'celebrations at sea' I attended. Pete knows more about the shoreline in the area than anyone I've ever met. He knows who lives in which $10 million homes, tells stories about the development of the area, even specific houses have stories. We drank champagne, made toasts, laughed, meditated at sea (yup), and Pete sat at the helm, taking our cues and enjoying our joy, I think. But...he didn't let me drive that boat. I asked, pleaded, told him I knew how to drive a boat, only wanted to putter for a bit...but nope. The gentle giant might be gentle, but he is firm! It was a new boat then. Maybe I'll ask again this year :) Thanks for sharing--I so look forward to each post of yours

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Christine Merser's avatar

Did you go on one of Sue Baxter's jaunts? I introduced them. I will send you more of the story... He's a gentle giant but was one of the most renowned power boat racers in the land. Amazing man.. steady as he goes.

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Nancy Hardy's avatar

I love this and that you have a brother. Did your mom get to meet him before she died? Whether she did or did not, I hope she had peace. Beautifully written. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

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Christine Merser's avatar

She did, but by then the lung cancer had moved to her brain so she was there but a little slow. I think she had a little peace, but perhaps more importantly, he got to meet her. Thanks for reading my columns. Christine

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Leslie Grossman's avatar

Thanks for sharing. What a moving story. I wonder what secrets about my family I will never know. Wish I did. Glad you do now. Great theme for a book!

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Christine Merser's avatar

do ancestry.com... I'm telling you people are finding relatives that no one knew about!!!

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