April 21, 2010. Double D Ranch, Texas. Karen.

"I have a degree in Literature and Philosophy from George Washington University, and now I am a goat herder", said Karen. She did not look like a goat herder and she did not sound like a goat herder, but what she is is our down the road neighbor, who we have driven past for the past year and now we have finally met. I invited her and Jacques for dinner along with Joyce and Robbie and Jan, but Jacques was busy, so Karen came. She is definitely an asset for our community with her competence, enthusiasm and charm.

They moved here from Long Island and now run their businesses from their ranch. This new world allows a person to locate their business anywhere, if the bulk of your business comes from the Internet. Karen has been in the food business for many years, now ending up selling herbs and seasonings on the Internet. Jacques has made his living for years selling transportation artifacts. Everything connected to transportation is of interest to him. In the olden days, he took his stuff to car shows, which he still does, but now the business is for the most part driven by his web site. He sells art and posters, sculpture and books. Just everything about the transportation industry. It is interesting how people make their living. I am sure John at work has met these folks.

I loved getting to know Karen and will keep in touch. On their ranch they keep goats, donkeys and llamas, also chickens. For dinner we served the same food we served the last time Jan and Robbie and Joyce were here. Ken and I realized just before everyone arrived. We just laughed and told folks as they arrived. Getting to know new friends is such a blessing for me and I am delighted to have gotten to know Karen.