When I decided to leave my old golf course (because of a dispute, more or less), and play another, two of my friends joined me. I've mentioned Pastor Ed before. Now it's time for the other.

Leroy is two years older than I, originally from Southern Kentucky, but a Hoosier for his adult life. His education stopped at the 6th grade! His language is probably the worst in the world--ain'ts and gits and fers (get and for). And it's not a golf course, it's a golf "court". But I'm so used to the way he talks, I don't think anything (at least as much) about it. To hear him talk at first, you'd think he was a real dumb hick.

However, Leroy is very intelligent. He can talk your leg off about politics (he's a Democrat) or news events. He can be pretty opinionated. He's also an agnostic (although he goes to Ed's church with his wife). Rhonda is a nurse and college graduate (13 yrs younger and a Christian). He was an iron worker, walking steel girders, before retirement. Leroy loves to walk and is in good shape. He likes camping, too.

For the third day in a row this week, I'm golfing with Leroy later today. We never run out of things to talk about as we both walk the 6 miles together. (I'm the far better golfer.)
I really appreciate his commitment to leave our old course. He says he left because he was tired of playing the same old "court". His former one mile drive is now 15 miles! That says something.

I greatly value our continuing relationship and friendship. He (and Ed) made my transfer to the unknown (golf setting) less stressful. I am very grateful for his support. Thank you Leroy Valentine!