Visiting family has a number of requirements. Hugs. Food. Photos. Our 30 day road trip started in Missouri and ended in Missouri but had multiple family visits along the way.

Most family visits end with photos, hugs, and waves, and this visit was no different. Except for the photos.

Historically, I’ve been an inch or so taller than my younger brother. I didn’t notice it until later, but in the photos we took during this visit he was an inch or so taller than me.

What happened?

Well, either he got taller, or I began to shrink, or we both shrank but I shrank more. Let’s go with what’s behind door number three, Monte.

I’m shrinking.

The photos made it obvious. I’ve lost a few inches. Why? How?

Old age brings about some shrinkage, yes, but two or three inches in a year or so—- since the last family visit— seemed extreme. Later I found I could stand up straighter and taller but with much extra effort. The natural inclination was toward a hunched over posture.

Add that sign to the others.