Susan Elsberry. My father, Leo H. Bischof, always had a smile and a piece of wrapped candy in his pocket for kids. Those long elegant fingers he shared with none of his progeny would dip into his pocket and he’d hand out little treasures to children, even to those standing next to him in a traffic crosswalk. Today, children would shrink from him and think Stranger Danger and parents would call the police. He would note throats get dry and a little sweetness helps the day.

I mourn the loss of common civility in modern life and the obvious fact that Plays Well with Others has become a t-shirt slogan rather than a serious notation from a teacher. NHD opening activities and the tribe of participants gave me hope for a return to common manners, care of children and enjoyment in accomplishment. To the great majority of persons met, I offer a piece of candy in the spirit of my father. Throats do get dry and a little sweetness helps the day.

These children are our treasures, let them enjoy their moments of triumph and allow them to learn to live with and overcome disappointment. It is all a learning process and NHD has certainly taught my family a great deal.

FEAR THE CACTUS – GO AZ.