Many, many thanks

By Paul Fugleberg

Words can't begin to express the appreciation and love that I feel for the astounding support and acknowledgments accorded me June 1.

My apologies for the inability of return handshakes and hugs at the event. What happened, I guess, is that I was a bit over-exuberant after my initial week of cardio rehab sessions, and figured I could move faster than advised. Result: Apparently a couple hyper-extended knees and overworked arms and shoulders. As those present could tell, I was barely able to hobble in and my arms seemed frozen at my sides. An hour or so after the program I was up at St. Joe's again for a couple nights. Nobody's fault but my own. And I apologize. But things are looking up - and I would return those handshakes and hugs now!

Despite the discomfort, the event was certainly a lifetime highlight for me. And I thank you again - and many thanks and hugs to Karen Lewing and Carmine Mowbray for organizing the party.

I don't dare try to mention all the folks for the kind remarks, well wishes and cards and notes - one from as far away as Germany! I'm afraid I would miss some.

But as I tried to say at the end of the program, I would dedicate all that to my family members, and Lorin Jacobson and his wife Shirley and their family, and to our loyal, dependable employees. They were a great team and without them the Flathead Courier couldn't have succeeded. And I appreciate, too, the opportunity in recent years to work with the Lake County Leader folks.

This has been a great learning experience, too. I'll try to be less impatient during this recovery period and not try to do a "personal best" each day. Moderation in all things, you know!

I thank God and feel really blessed to have been able find my niche in life and to be able to have fun, to be somewhat productive, and to live and work in this community.