A brief shower momentarily interrupted Ron and Linda's summer picnic in Blaine, but didn't halt the fun and good times. A delightful stew of family, old friends and new friends enjoyed a gorgeous buffet spread generously over Linda's kitchen bar and table. Out back, son-in-law Erik grilled brats and burgers as his wife, Shana, busied herself with newborn Milla. 
Host Ron, in his trademark short pants, revealed what are arguably the best-looking legs of any ordained Lutheran pastor in the Great Northern parish. He snapped party-goers with his new digital camera, then led a spirited hootenanny with his trusty old guitar. Song selections, out of respect to the predominant demographic, were tilted toward the 60s and were sung Concordia-style, with gusto -- and some harmony.There was no door prize for driving the farthest, but contenders would have been Steve and Nancy, who motored from Mankato and contented themselves with fine plates of picnic fare. Steve admired the progress of the trees he and nephew Steve planted in his sister's back yard, now growing amidst a bright mix of annuals and perennials in a fertile loose mulch.
Virg and Becky joined a group in the garage to admire Linda's bike with fat tires and wide seat, then offered Stan their unused 10-speed as a contribution to his exercise regimen. Comfort vs. speed was debated as raindrops pelted the driveway, canceling a test spin.It was a wonderful social event, well-done, and fun for everyone.
