As you read this column, I plan to be back in Hudson. As of today (Monday April 3,) I am not 100% but I am well on my way. I feel well and have no pain. I continue to need physical therapy though at least twice a week and am “learning to walk again” as my physical therapist has said more than once! I used to think I was pretty patient but these weeks have proven not so much with myself! My surgeon says it will be six to eight months before I am completely healed and back to ‘normal’. Who would have guessed?!?!
 
I want to express a huge note of gratitude to Fr. Ron St. Pierre (the other Fr. Ron) for being with you in my absence. I have followed the stream of funerals that have happened while I was away and am thankful we had someone capable and compassionate in that place. I am in hopes that Ron will stay on for a while to help me transition back to full time.
 
As usual at the end of May Fr. Peter will be coming from Ireland for a month and July first will find a new African priest on our doorstep for a couple of months.
 
Today of course is Palm Sunday and as we gather once again after these Lenten weeks, I hope that this journey of Holy Week and the Sacred Triduum leads each of us to the new life of Springtime and the Resurrection on Easter Sunday morning.
 
I am grateful to be returning after all these weeks and especially thankful for all your cards and greetings and gifts of support over that time.