THE DEAR JOHN LETTERS PART III

The first page of the journal: our bon voyage message amid postage stickers (and two stray donuts).

And last but certainly not least, here’s the third of three “Dear John” letters to coach John Topliss, as explained in my April 29 blog post. Team member Mo Lewington describes a trip with John and Jean to Disney’s Epcot theme park. It was unforgettable – but not in the way you’d imagine.
Leah Rewolinski, Editor 

All Spaced Out
Twenty years ago, Jean and John made a decision to purchase a second home in The Villages, thus affording them many years of retreat from the UK weather. Little did they know the long-lasting effect this move would have on others.
 
As my extended athletic career was winding down, Peter and I came to The Villages to visit Jean and John and experience the “lifestyle.” On our first trip to the USA, we were the guests of Jean and John. Peter quite enjoyed the abundant golf privileges and sunshine, while I was more interested in training on the track and running in Senior Games.

We were so impressed with The Villages community we returned bi-annually until Peter’s passing in 2015. I thought I had made my last trip to TV but, deep in my heart, I knew Peter would want me to make new memories in the place we so enjoyed together. My friendship with Jean and John made the decision much easier and, even now, I try to return once or twice a year.
 
One of my favorite memories is that of a trip the four of us took to Epcot. After a long wait in line for the Space Mission attraction, we were finally secured in our seatbelts and lifted off on our journey to the moon. We had no idea how weightlessness and G forces could affect the human body. One hour after returning to Earth, the two fittest astronauts, John and myself, sat SILENTLY on opposite ends of a nearby bench, trying to recover from our plight (or flight) of nausea. Can you imagine John NOT SPEAKING for one full hour? Meanwhile, Jean and Peter continued with the day’s agenda and tour of the park.
 
I can’t thank Jean and John enough for introducing Peter and myself to The Villages lifestyle and for sharing a wonderfully warm friendship over many years. While you are sadly saying good-bye to your Villages experiences, colleagues, and friends, I am happy to say, “You are stuck with me!” I'll be awaiting your return to the UK.
 
Yours in sport,
Mo Lewington