Hello, my San Saba loves; it is the week we honor those who served our country. Mom always makes the time to honor and remember her dad, Richard Lieban. He was a Captain in the Merchant Marines and spent the last five years of his life going to Viet Nam. He did not get to spend much time at home during those years, as the war put great demand on merchant ships. He died on Father’s Day, June 15, 1969, on his way home from Viet Nam and was buried at sea. Few people know the dangers civilian ships faced in war waters or the toll war takes on those who help the effort. So yes, mom honors her dad who was only 47 years old, and she, his favorite daughter, only 17.
Well, I think all this rain has waterlogged mom’s brain because she bought a lawn mower and now has a new favorite activity…pretending she is a sheep and eating up grass!! I have often mentioned mom’s proclivity to be overly neat; well evidently she finds tall grass offensive and an eyesore! To tell you the truth, since I am a rather furry, wire-haired dachshund, I am quite surprised she has not taken me to a salon to have my hair straightened to be more aesthetically pleasing!
Speaking of my hair, I caught her looking up whether they have invented personal battery powered vacuums that attach to living beings? Does she actually think I would allow something to Hoover up and down my body all day?? I love tummy rubs, but come on now!!
We have had such great visits lately! Mom’s younger sister, Kathie, is adorable, and meeting her made me wish San Francisco was next door! Kathy and Logan Saucillo spent some time with us, and the lovely Marsha McHorse Hardy got so many hugs from me! Friendship is a priceless thing, and one never knows how much it may be needed on the other side. As for family, all of mom’s live very far away so seeing them is an enormous gift!
Our hearts feel such sorrow for the devastation to our area caused by the recent storms. For mom who grew up close to Galveston, she knows well the ravages of Mother Nature whether it be hurricane, tornado or flood…she has experienced it all. It is about more than losing “things,” it is about losing your sense of security, home, the place your life and heart lives.
We love you, our precious friends, and hope you have a wonderful holiday! Enjoy some chicken bits and think about this crazy dachshund!
Love, Lenny