Lee update ~ new introduction for a wonderful old friend ~

Lee is doing great these days, she is finally back in school and is enjoying her classes very much. She is working less and studying a lot more. She has had a great summer taking time off with our family and riding her horse. Her sisters are happy to see her 'back in the saddle' after such a long absence from doing the one thing she loves the most, riding! I think we can credit one person for encouraging her to 'ride again', and that is her friend Ben! (and it makes me SO happy!)

She, and our entire family, has had the pleasure this summer of reconnecting with our very nice old friend. I was never so happy to look up and see 'my friend Ben', as he is affectionately called, standing in my back yard looking at our puppy pack and laughing! His smile has truly been missed at our house and we are glad to have him hanging out around here again. We all love Ben and I believe the feelings are mutual. He has been greatly missed! (and as you can see, her brother is right there, making sure she is OK!)

Ben is honestly one of the kindest individuals you will ever meet. His nature is to nurture and he is a true gentleman. He loves spending time (again) with the lovely lady Lee and she adores him as well. Ben was here helping our family all through those first difficult days and weeks after Jill's accident. In his usual selfless manor, he took time off from his job and became the chief cook and bottle washer for the family. Lee had her hands full with this crew while Leslie and I were with away with Jill, and Ben stepped in and helped her handle absolutely everything. This is not the first time Ben has 'been there' and helped our family in such a huge way, and we can never thank him enough! He holds an important place in Emily Belle's arrival, (even from two years ago!) He makes us all laugh with his humor and his positive out look on life is good for the soul. He and Lee have nearly everything in common and really enjoy each other's company. He never minds her 'first born princess' attitude and makes her laugh at herself! We have all been happy to see Lee so happy, care free, and enjoying her life once again. For me, Ben is a breath of fresh air around our house! No more cloudy days for our sweet Lee!