Forgive this brief departure from my string of narratives you’ve been riveted to each Friday over the past year and more. Well. Maybe not riveted. Hopefully as a reader though, you’ve gleaned a few insights, smiled at a few word-pictures, maybe even grown a little in your visits to the column.

As an Okmulgee ‘native son’ I’m grateful to Patrick Ford and the Okmulgee Times staff for the privilege. Also, to the good folks of the Henryetta Free-Lance – a big-hearted ‘Thanks!’

So, what in heavens name spurred an Oklahoma country kid – twice-survivor to polio – to marry a Montanan and then fly to Africa? As my long-term readers will attest, the answers show up in my published memoir, “Living With A Limp”. I’m humbled by the generous comments finding their way to me from book-lovers of all ages, and for the many thoughtful reviews offered up at Amazon’s site - https://amzn.to/2kuuIFF

And now what?

The final pages of LIMP see a pair of eager but nervous newlyweds roll southward past the Okmulgee Stockyards in their little Pontiac chasing a dream they felt might lead them to another world across the Atlantic. But what then?

So, welcome dear reader. Join in for the ride (the wonder of reading: traversing distant borders, savoring outlandish adventures, all from the comfy setting of a porch swing, a cozy recliner or an arms-reach distance from a bedside lamp). Send me a note or two along the way at the email below. I’d love your thoughts, comments and questions. “Giants In The Rough” commencing next Friday. Memoir available in book form through Amazon - https://amzn.to/2jV3qYO.

And again, Thanks!

© 2019 Jerry Lout

Speaker-Writer Jerry Lout grew up in Okmulgee County. A graduate of Preston High, he completed media training at O.S.U. Okmulgee prior to his San Antonio college years. He and his wife served in Africa. Their three children were born in Kenya. Twice visited by polio, Jerry authored “Living With A Limp.” His “Giants in the Rough” memoir released July 1 spotlights the overseas years. His works are available on Amazon.com and www.jerrylout.com carries his blog posts. Inquiries and invitations can be sent to: jerrylout@gmail.com.