Family Reunion – 6/22/2024

For every even year since I was born and for many more before that, the Meiners-Hodes family reunion has been going on in Kansas City. There are over 4000 living descendants of Katherine Hodes and Henry Meiners.  This newspaper clipping is from the KC Times 6/29/1970 to put this event in perspective. Since I got … Continue reading “Family Reunion – 6/22/2024”

SOAR and Sonora – 6/2/2024

Sonora has enrolled at Missouri State University. Way back in 1996 when I was a freshman at Missouri State, I had to attend a one day program called SOAR. It stands for Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration. Fast forward 28 years and SOAR is still required for incoming freshmen. Instead of a single day program, … Continue reading “SOAR and Sonora – 6/2/2024”

The Longest Johns – 5/21/2024

My favorite musical group, The Longest Johns, was on tour in the USA. They are a UK based group that performs sea shanties and other folk music. Like many people, I heard “The Wellerman” shanty during COVID times and got interested in this music. Next thing I know, I have a Pandora station focused around … Continue reading “The Longest Johns – 5/21/2024”

Sonora’s High School Graduation – 5/18/2024

The day is finally here and Sonora is at her final official high school activity as a student. She invited lots of family, but being out of town only a few showed up. Her friend Tania showed up and they rode together to the ceremony! We arrived at St. Louis University’s arena and found or … Continue reading “Sonora’s High School Graduation – 5/18/2024”

Ozark Mountain Challenge – 5/4/2024

The Ozark’s Mountain Challenge is a 7,980’ elevation (The height of Mt. Olympus) challenge. The goal is to hike up Mudlick Moutain trail in Sam A Baker state park 9 times. After going up, you are driven back down the mountain where you start your ascent again. It is approximately 17 miles of hiking to … Continue reading “Ozark Mountain Challenge – 5/4/2024”