More of My Life

De: Donald E. Betts

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

Donald E. Betts was born on the barrier island of Longboat Key, Florida in 1932. That barely inhabited island was both a home and a paradise for him until he left to join the Navy. He spent those early days hunting, fishing (when every wave showed the presence of fish), boating, and swimming both in the Gulf waters a few hundred yards to the west or in Sarasota Bay just a few less yards to the east.

During his first 30 years, "Old Florida" was alive and well. Changes were slow and measured, until the 1970s. He has told many of those stories in his five previous books. This one concentrates on his answers to many questions that his family submitted by way of a diary-type book.

As his long-time editor, publisher, and friend, I took that and organized it into the first section of this book. Then I got the idea of adding another section with many photos of Don and Judy, his wife, and their family and friends. Finally, I collected some of his entertaining poetry for the last section.

In their “golden years,” they both have serious health issues. Once enthusiastic travelers – from Italy to Alaska and Hawaii (and especially Sedona, AZ) – today they are car-less and housebound. But their Christian faith and their great love for each other keep them looking forward. And they are a blessing to anyone fortunate enough to know them.

-- Stan Paregien, Editor - Bradenton, Florida - Sept. 23, 2025.