This morning, I thought I would share an exerpt from my new book, "54th Journey Around the Sun (Chronicles of the Life and Times of a Preachers Boy)."
PROLOGUE
19,724 or 54th Journey Around the Sun
"As dawn broke over the Nishna Valley in America's heartland, there were just a few vapor trails streaking across America's otherwise clear morning sky. I was standing atop Atlantic, Iowa's tallest building, the Heritage House, I could feel the sun begin to warm my face as it rose above the treeline. Misty early morning fog hugged the ground blotting out streets and most of the houses and other buildings. Missing on the horizon were the majestic mountain ranges I had become so accustomed to in Alaska. Still, few things I have witnessed that are as beautiful. "It's my birthday, the 9th of October, and today marks my 54th journey around the sun," I thought. Aloud I said, "I wonder how many sunrises that is?" 19,724.
As though someone were using a TV remote flipping through the channels, bits and pieces of my life, tragedies and triumph alike, washed across my clear blue mind. I closed my eyes, trying to focus on certain events, from the earliest recollections as a child, to the events leading to this very moment. Milestones some. Regrets? Yes, I have a few regrets. Adventure? Oh yes, a lifetime of adventure. "There has been a lot of living crammed in these 54 years," I thought. Then, it occurred to me that if there were to be any kind of record, or account of my life, I had to put pen to paper, as it were. It may be of little importance to most, however, rather than leave many particulars of my life to speculatation, myths, non-truths or even outright lies, I give you a candid, honest and permanent record of this short and humble existence. Not for me, but for my posterity..."
Copyright © 2008 D. Doc Derry
All Rights Reserved.
Trust me when I say this is one of the most difficult endeavours I have ever undertaken. Yet, I find it is one of the most rewarding. The chronicles have begun, and I have completed several chapters. This book will also contain many photos and The Life and Times of the Derry Family in America since 1752.
I do not have a finish date as yet, but when it is done, I will be sure to let you all know.
Peace!D. Doc Derry
2 comments:
Doc! As you well know, I can be "thrown for a loop!" as per our first meeting that fateful September day (ca. 2008) at the Farmer's Kitchen in Atlantic! Now, here you have done it a second time...another loop! What a vast undertaking you have ahead of you, tracking the Derry Family, but if anyone has the determination and the talent, you do, Doc! I love the way you have begun your historical journey...you will make Atlantic, Iowa, famous in a way that I could never do! (Doc...I am laughing as I write this! but I am not kidding...) In my previous posting, I noted that I spelled "unbelievable" incorrectly...and should have used the pronoun "we" rather than "us" in one of the sentences, and I trust you will learn from my transgressions! One or two valid Derry family members will see that and remark..."oh, well, she only "married" into the Derry Family...") Doc...I want a First Edition copy, autographed with a special inscription to Moi, when OUR BOOK is published...now, get busy and write the good stuff as only you can!
Doc, I live in Council Bluffs, IA and would love to meet you in person. I am descended from Jacob Derry, and his son Peter, who came here in 1752. I'm also curious as to the connection with the PA Derrys.
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