Well, once again we headed for Fort Worth, but this time with a real purpose. In just one day I lost two very precious items: the first was my childhood comic book collection and the second was my middle daughter. (Boy, I sure do miss those comics! -- kidding!!!!) It was all set up ahead of time and it was a secret engagement party for Erica. She thought it was a birthday party for Andrew's aunt. She even had me pick up a bottle of wine as a birthday gift for her. So, of course, it was a bit of a surprise when Andrew took her aside and proposed just before the gathering.
Also true is that I did haul up about 2000 comic books to sell my collection to Buddy Saunders at Lone Star Comics in Arlington, TX. I found out that Buddy owned the largest business in the world for buying and selling rare comic books. It was an impressive outfit. Although parting with comics that I had for over 50 years was difficult (goodbye, Amazing Fantasy #15) , getting older also showed me that nothing lasts forever and it was less painful than I thought it would be.
Once again, Janet was the perfect host. She cooked an incredible variety of dishes that included something for everyone. Yes. Dessert was included. Champagne, scotch and watermelon margaritas were freely flowing.
We were joined by family members on Andrew's side including his brother, Uncle and Aunt. He really seems to have a terrific family.
Before the feast started, there was a round of toasting by several of the participants all wishing the best for the happy couple. Of course, Connie was remembered and would have loved the occasion. Her daughters were everything to her.
The next day, we went by Lone Star Comics to finalize the deal. Not only did Buddy meet my offer, but he said I was too low in my estimate and generously gave me about 25% more than I asked for. He really made the end of the trip even sweeter. We all met in Dallas at a chic restaurant close to SMU where we shared the money for the comics and said our goodbyes. Andrew and Erica were taking off for a family lake house in Missouri for an annual family gathering and we headed home to San Antonio. 
We did get to stop at the Czech Bakery in West, TX and everyone got a little bit of their favorite stuff.
As usual, we had a great time and we're already looking forward to next year when we get together for the wedding.