Friends,
I recently posted a photo of the family sitting on the front steps of our home in Todd.  Figuring what was good for the goose was good for the gander I made a similar photo my profile pic on Facebook.  I got many comments on that photo so I thought I would add it to my blog.

The crazy Rielly Family

I realized after I posted this photo that it is missing a very important family member.  Helen's daughter Elise was visiting us but had to leave just hours before Sean, Paige and Tanner.  So here is a photo of my wonderful step daughter Elise.

Elise is currently working on beautiful Block Island which she refers to as "my island".  If you ever get a chance to go there you will not be sorry.  Be sure to stop by the Oar Restaurant and say hello to Elise.

I have been feeling very well lately although sometimes I feel tired.  In case some of you might be worried that I am sick and in bed you should know that I am getting around just fine.  In fact, today I am playing golf with my good friend Gary from Cary.  He owns a wonderful mountain home on the North Fork of the New River.  I met him when he hired me to stain the cabin and Helen and I have been good friends of the Marchecks ever since.  Here is a photo that Helen took last time he was in town.

Ever since I was diagnosed with melanoma I have been telling Helen that I should write a book titled "The Great Thing About Having Cancer Is....." which may seem a bit crazy but really isn't.  As I have mentioned before, I have been at the receiving end of so many blessings that it just amazes me.  Not the least of these blessings are folks who have added me to their church prayer lists.  I know for certain that numerous churches representing at least four different religions have raised their voices in my behalf.  Although I am not as religious a person as some, I want everyone to know that I take their prayers very seriously and that they give me strength and confidence as a look down the road ahead.

J