What is YOUR views?

I have noticed lately, just because someone views something differently than you do, they'll actually fight over it. I don't understand how people can be so sat in their views, they would literally fight with someone that disagrees with them. For instants, witnesses to an auto accident, whether it be the drivers or by-standers. Literally fist fights have broken out. Each person sees the accident differently and are passionate that they were right. Let the police figure it out who is right and who is wrong. 

Now days it is politics. Sure not everyone will agree with politicians, no matter which party they are from, or the politician's laws or statements. So many topics are so controversial and many people have strong feelings and views about them.  It goes from politics, to religion, to the odd acting neighbors, to the flavor of ice cream. We ALL have different likes and dislikes, but none are worth arguing over, or fighting with someone who disagrees.

Another topic is  our Secretary of Health who is advocating no vaccinations and certain foods like non-pasteurized or foods that have preservatives added. Is he going to change the entire population that has eaten those foods since birth? No. I will admit,  Americans are heavier than we need to be, and we may not eat as many healthy foods as we should, but does any other country's population? I doubt it, so eat what you love and see your family doctor regularly. 

When I hear someone talk about a ridiculous thing like not getting their children vaccinated or something else stupid, I just roll my eyes, take a deep breath, and smile. Why should I get into a heated discussion which I will never change that person's mind or thinking. I may mumble under my breath, but never voice my criticism of their opinion. I trust science, years of history, and proofed facts, not insane fake information spread by people who have no idea what is right and would much rather believe lies.

But I will admit, there are somethings I WILL fight for. No necessarily physically fight for, but a calm adult type discussion. I will fight/discuss for our country and our democracy. And eventho the bible has been translated decades after the fact and by many people over the centuries, I will still defend it. And of course, I will fight for my family and my friends. I stand up for the right reasons and the right things. I am not perfect, but I DO know right from wrong.

I believe everyone should be more acceptance in other people's views and believes. Not judgmental or critical just because they don't believe the way you do. You don't have to go along with their believes, but just accept and agree to disagree, and walk away knowing you voiced your factual based opinion, without swing a fist or any harsh words. Take pride in that.

Nancy and I will be gone for a few weeks taking another international trip the the Serengeti region of Tanzania Africa. So until I get back, take care, and stay safe.

Camping (again) at 8,000 feet

 We all need to get away from time to time. And  we are the same. After buying a used travel trailer a few months ago, and not using it, it was time to pull it out and tryout that rig. What we found out was, yes it was nice to get away to somewhere fairly remote from people, and just join with mother nature and relax. 

Our Daughter and son-n-law have some property in Nutrioso (new-tree-o-so), a small development in northeastern Arizona close (12 miles) to the NM and AZ border. On top of a plateau covered with tall pines, a beautiful view on a good size lots. The only drawbacks is it takes 5 hours to get there and the weather got hotter. The breezy wind helped.

Some good friends joined us and in their 4X4, we went exploring the local dirt roads and back country. Not much blacktop under those tires. Time spent catching up about family and other friends, tales about each others' travels, sharing meals and drinks, and just day dreaming and relaxing. Nothing better than that.

But after a week without the internet, cell phones and TV, it was sort-of good to get back to reality of civilization life, unfortunately. And then I realized, " We don't do this enough." But after the last few months of surgery, chemo treatments, and doctor visits, you can understand why it was good to just get away. The clean air, the clambering of the wildlife around us, no traffic noise, and fresh mountain breezes, refreshes the soul and your mind. 

But then this next week, two doctor visits, with tests I am sure, and hopefully good news about getting rid of the 'IV port' planted in my chest, for good. That would mean I am in remission. At least for now.

Anyway, I am making this short so I can go visit with one of our self-adopted grandkids (she adopted us, but we would have adopted her too) in the hospital. Painful story.

So until the next edition, get out of town, go camping or take a nice long drive into the wilderness/countryside and breath deep with your eyes closed and clear your minds, and just relax under a big shady tree. Enjoy!

It is NOT over yet.

It all started last November, or maybe before that, I am not really sure. A simple procedure to make sure things were good and OK, that turned my thought process around forever. Both of my parents died from different forms of cancer, but I never thought I would have cancer too. Eventho my cancer was not as bad as many people thought, it was still cancer. And cancer is a thing, I believe, never really goes away. In my case,  it may be because of my own neglect that the doctor found cancer. Maybe if I had not been stubborn and had my normally scheduled colonoscopy, I may not have to go through a colon/bladder surgery and the following chemo treatments. But history can not be reversed or turned around. Maybe it was meant to be as a message to pay attention to your body and treat it well by get things checked when the doctors tell you. Who knows.

Now, after a few months going through the chemo infusions and the sleepless night in my recliner, I still feel I escaped the worse cancer had instore for me if I had not acted quickly, and did not get some great medical caregivers.

Thursday evening at a 'Boy's Night' gathering of retired firefighters, I sat next to a firefighter who went through pure hell with his cancer ordeal. His was related to the job and had to fight to get it recognized as a Workman's Comp case. Then, several surgeries, radiation and chemo treatments, more surgeries and excruciating pain, along with many months in the hospital. As the night ended and our discussions ended, I felt I had been blessed to not even come close to what he endured. As I have said many times, "There is always someone who has it worse than you". And he definitely did.

My side-effect inconveniences I experienced were exactly that, inconveniences. But as the title reads, 'It is NOT over yet'. I still have blood tests and Cat-Scans to go through to make sure nothing was missed and the cancer cells did not move somewhere else to do their dirty work. And if they did, well, we'll deal with that like I did before. There is not 'quitting' when dealing with cancer. You just find another way to defeat it, or slow it down, or remove it.

Until the tests are completed, I do what I always did, enjoy my family, travel and restore vintage cars. And even if the tests are not what I wanted to hear, I will continue to do what I like in life as long as possible.

Next week, Nancy and I along with our youngest grandson are going camping for a week in a cooler place in Arizona. We will be gone over the 4th of July for the tall pines of northeastern Arizona at nearly 8,000 feet, so I will not be posting a blog next Sunday, but relaxing and hanging out with friends and family.

So until the next blog, take care, stay safe and don't be crazy with fireworks. HAPPY 4th everyone! 

 

Losing someone you love and look-up to is tough.

 I suppose my childhood was not the TV version of the best, but it wasn't the worse either. We did not have a lot of money, or live in a house, mostly small unattractive apartments in some questionable neighborhoods but I did not care. I was with my loving parents. At least one was, my mother. My father had just gotten discharged from the Navy after WWll and was still young and wild, like most were then. He came to Cincinnati to stay with his older brother and look for a job. My mother was born in Alabama and moved to Cincinnati for work in a factory during the war. After they met, I was born the following year in 1946. I never asked them how they met, and when I was old enough to think about that, they were gone. They both came from the 'Great Generation' who never really discussed things like that.

At age 7, I was shipped off to my mother's parents farm in Alabama. For the next year I lived in an old farm house with no electric or indoor plumbing. I went to school there, and actually got the best grades ever, and I worked in the fields along side of my two uncles (mom's younger brothers) and grandparents. I picked cotton by hand, carried iced water to my grandfather as he plowed the fields behind a horse, took baths in a big wash tub, and fought with my uncles throwing mud hardened corn cobs at each other. Boy did they hurt. When they finally got electricity and water in doors, along with a telephone, I'd talk to my mother back in Cincinnati. My dad never called, or at least I don't remember him calling. He did came by and picked me up to go stay in a moldy old cabin next to a big dam. It was the worse time for a week. I got a bad sunburn cause he said I was too pale and needed to get a tan. No 'Coppertone' tan lotion back then.

When my mom finally came and got me, we lived in these small apartments for years. As a 5th grader, we moved 5 times and I was in 5 different schools in some rough neighborhoods where I learned to street fight to save my pale body and chubby appearance. My mother worked in a department store running elevators, eventually becoming the elevator girl for the owner of the store. She always worked and always was loving and we always had what we needed to survive, food, presentable clothing and a roof over our heads. But she needed a loving partner. To me, it seemed like she could not find the right guy. It wasn't until I was 12 years old she found a guy she would marry. Carl was his name and he become my step-father until he died. My father and I did finally reunited years later but it was a stand-offish manner. He never was the lovey-dovey type.  I wanted that relationship, but he just accepted it and went along.

Fast forward to many years later, my dad got skin cancer which was the cause of his death. We did talk in his last days and he told me he was sorry and loved me. First I remember him saying that. My mother passed in the same hospital building we both were born in. Her in 1924 and me in 1946. But I did not mean to bore you with my life story.

To my title point, when my dad passed, I was not at lose as I was when my mother died. Maybe because I felt my dad did not love me like my mother had. When I asked my dad to help with anything, it was with a long deep exhale and an reluctant "OK". My mother was always happy to help me. But she was never ready wanted to discuss my thoughts and dreams for my future. Maybe that was the way of that generation. Never really discuss or talk about personal thoughts and feelings with your kids. I missed not talking to them about my feelings on life in general. But now they are gone.  I have changed that in our family. We talk about ANYTHING the grand kids want to talk about. And we clear our schedule anytime they want help. 

It is hard to lose your parents because sometimes you feel like an orphan, but you're not. Your parents can not be replaced and part of them lives in you, like old photos, memories they cause you to remember, some things you do emulate them. But this is not just about parents, but anyone that means a lot to you. Siblings, friends, aunts and uncles, co-workers, anyone you cared for. You can never fill that void or their shoes. You have to remember the good times and times you spent with them. Cherish friends and relatives NOW before it is too late, even if you don't see eye-to-eye. And if you are lucky enough to still have your parents, ask them those hard questions now before...

Today is Father's Day and I miss both of my parents. They may not have been perfect parents but I am sure somewhere deep down they loved you as much as they could, and in their own way. Respect that and take comfort as you look through those old family photos and films. 

Take care and stay safe.

Good news

This last Wednesday, I received some good news from my Oncologist at the Infusion/Cancer Center. Week before last was, to me, was the week from HELL. I had no, NO energy, my mouth felt like a mouth full of needles, I lost most of the feeling in my fingers and toes, some of my hair started to fall out (which I expected that since I am going bald anyway), and I was becoming irritable and short tempered, which I never wanted to do. The Doctor said, "That is what I wanted to hear." I replied, "You did, and why." "That means you hit your max so now we can stop the Chemo."  I was surprised and glad. I said, "Why didn't you tell me that" "Because I knew you were a tough guy (me 'tough'?) and wanted to go until you could not stand any more, so when you said 'the week from Hell, I knew we hit your stop time."  

Now that does not mean I am in remission. That will still be testing for remains of the cancer. If there are none then I am good, but if there are, we continue with some more chemo.  And then there is a CT Scan in July too. I asked him about the infusion port removal. I guess we'll get that taken out after Nancy and I get back from Africa in late August. It does not bother me anyway.

Typically when you stop the treatments, it is semi-customary to go up to the nurse's station and ring a brass bell to tell the other patients and world you are done. But I did not do that. I just wanted to hugs the great nurses that was SO caring to me and the other patients that come in there. I could not do their job and watch some of the patient dwindle away. Especially the kids. I may have shed a tear or two as I exited the center. Let me admit it, Cancer really sucks and no damn fun, and I feel I had the light version. The nurses and the great staff made my time bearable sitting there for 3 hours while being infused with chemicals that basically kill your immune system and in return give you pain and and plenty of 'inconveniences'. God bless the more serious patients and their journey. And God bless the nurses that hold your hand and treat you like family while you endure it all. They are angels. Truly.

Now I can almost get back to a semi-normal life, as long as I get rid of the brain-fog and needles in my hands and mouth. I maybe able to feel a nut or bolt and get my taste back and feel the pleasure of cold ice cream and iced tea soon. We'll see.

Until then, you can have some as my alter ego and tell me how it was. So take it easy, stay safe and comment and follow me. 

Memorial Day - What are you planning?

 Recently, my daughter and I visited one of Phoenix's oldest cemetery, Greenwood. Five years ago, one of our self-adopted children passed and being from a very Chinese family, they adhere to traditional customs. When we first visited Greenwood a year after his passing, we were appalled there was no headstone or ever a marker for his grave. two years later I visited it again and still not markings. On this visit, we saw his family finally had a very nice headstone placed on his grave. My daughter and I broke down. She was a good friend of his since high school and Nancy and I love this goofy Chinese kid that no home life but enjoyed joining our family on any occasion we had.

Memorial Day is not only for remembering veterans, but anyone that means anything to you and that no longer with us. I am especially proud that our citizens rally around veterans, active and non-active, to pay tribute to their service and sacrifices they made to keep our country safe and free.

During the Viet Nam conflict when I entered the military, veterans were not appreciated. We were spit on and cussed at for servicing. That is why, unless I had to, I did not travel in uniform, and ever today don't wear any veteran attire like t-shirts or caps. My first airplane ride was to boot camp in Amarillo Texas.

Again during the Viet Nam era, killed soldiers' families were notified with just a telegram delivered by mail or a taxi, until a wife of an Army Colonel was so upset and rallied the families together to make it more personal and caring. Afterwards, families were notified by military personal, in uniform to not only notify the family, but to help comfort them from the shock of losing their relative. Organizations like the VFW , and the American Legion also try to comfort the families  during those times. It hasn't been until 9-11 that our country has paid so much attention to veterans, first responders for their service. We thank you for that. It has been a long time coming, because I am both, a vet and retired first responder. I sometime get embarrassed when someone says, "Thank you for your service.". I served because that is what you should do, not because of the attention. I am proud I was able and I believe most Vets and first responders would say the same. Anyway, every, EVERY male on my father's side served in the military from 1776 up to myself, and we are proud to have done that.

So Memorial Day and the weekend is not just about grilling some hot dogs and hamburgers, and going to a lake and boating, but to pay tribute to the one gone with a visit, maybe flowers or just to say their names in honor and gratitude.

Next time you see a uniformed service member or a police offer or a firefighter, or a nurse/doctor in scrubs, maybe pay for their lunch or coffee and just say, "Thank you." They will get it and appreciate you understanding what they are doing and continue doing for ALL of us. But also remember your relatives too. They ALL should never be forgotten by us. Take care and stay safe.

Do you have To-Do-List or a Bucket list?

 The answer is, Yes I do! I believe everyone does and probably half of them never get finished. I have some things for years and maybe decades. Eventho we built this house 27 years ago and Nancy and I designed it, we were here every step of the way during construction. I even helped the constructor as one of the carpenter laborers swing hammers and laid tile, plumbing, so we could save money. And I learned alot. But now after building it 27 years ago, we see some things differently and want to change things, which we can't do or don't want to do. So we are going to call in the professionals and let them do the heavy lifting. 

After Nancy came home from Cornwall England yesterday from her 60 mile in 5 days of hiking, she said she had plenty of time to think about things, and one thing she wanted to re-do our master bathroom. I said, "OK, and how much will that cost?" So I had to do some research and it isn't going to be cheap but affordable, because I AM NOT GOING TO MOVE ANYMORE! Anyway, more on that later when we have a idea of what we're going to do.

Back to Nancy's hiking trip. Her, and a dear friend, are planning to do overseas hiking trips in several countries. So far they have done Spain, Scotland and now Cornwall England, on the farthest southern coast of England. Next is another section of the Appalachian Trail in New York state. That will be number 6 out of 12 states. She typically does 1,000 miles hiking a year, which includes the shorter hikes (4 to 10 miles) around our house and the state. Crazy hiker. Meanwhile I just work in my shop on cars. Crazy car builder. 

So we have a "To-do list" for the house and camping and now (which we have had for a while) a "Bucket list" for countries we have not been to. Not to brag, but we have hit all but one continent accept Australia and or New Zealand. Those are on the list now. Covid stopped our New Zealand trip but I think that will be within the next year. Tanzania Africa is coming in August, with quick layovers in Kenya and Qatar. Another LONG flight. "Sigh" But we love Africa.

Not that I think of myself as a famous person in any means, but do want to finish a book I started many years ago about a (not another fire department book) green eyed boy being raised my a divorced single mother in Cincinnati in the 50s and 60s. Guess who? And some of the plans he had about life and moved around so much and finally found his focus in life. AND, fell on his face MANY, MANY times before he did. 

I am going to make this short today. Hope you comment about your 'To-Dos' or trips. I'd love to hear about them and how you all are doing in this mixed up world. But here are some of the photos Nancy sent me from the UK on her hike last week. Take care and stay safe.

Yep, BIG boulders to climb over. And wild horses too.

Beautiful sea shores and more boulders.

And two lovely, hearty ladies living their dreams. Proud of them both, but mostly Nancy.

Day 3.

I have SO many questions.

First I want to say, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there. And to thank them for their love, strength, and sensibility while raising children, and putting up with us husbands  and dads.

OK, now to my questions. I know you have had questions that some may laugh at, but go ahead and ask them. A teacher I had many, MANY years ago once said, " Some people think if someone ask a question, you are questioning that person knowledge or intelligence." It is not that at all. Of course it maybe the case for President Trump. But he does not like to be questioned, AT ALL!

I have always been curious about a lot of things and topics. They may seem ridiculous to some, but I want to know 'why'. And I still have quite a few more. 

• Why are the people who teach our children (K-12) paid less than college instructors?
• Why can't we treat each other with respect, no matter what the situation?
• Why are we SO bombarded with ads? From looking up something on Google to sides of buses, to more than half of our mail, to so many TV and movie commercials to everywhere.
• Why do people have to have 24 news? 7 to 9 AM, noon until 1 PM, 4 until 7 PM and again at 10 or 11 PM. And mostly it is the same as the previous reports. And mostly what the media focuses on is crime and horror. And it seems movies and TV series do the same. I figure, if it is something I need to know, I'll get the message sooner or later. People must love killers, blood and drama. I do too, but not all the time.
• Why do girls (young and old) scream at movies, concerts, celebrations. Yelling I understand, but screaming, especially in my ear? I mean just blasting from the feet to their vocal chords. As I clap at those times, they are screaming and looking at me, like to say, "Why aren't you screaming too?" I am a guy and only scream when I close my fingers in the car door. And it is usually bad words anyway. Like 'darn' or 'heck'. OK, maybe not.
• And here is the 'BIGGY' Why does Trump think the President has ALL the power in the world and can sidestep the law, courts to do whatever he dislikes or disagrees with? The law IS THE LAW FOR EVERYONE.  Is it, 1.) that he just does not care or 2.)  he just stupid and being feed bad info, or 3.) does not care about the small people like us? I think it is all three, especially No. 3. "Kids don't need 30 dolls, they would be fine with 3."  Quote unquote. Out of his mouth.  That is not his choice as President. Just because he had 30 dolls as a child, does not mean other kids can't.

These are just some of my unanswered questions. Silly as they may seem, I wonder about them. Maybe not really. 

For those of you wanting to know how I feel. I am doing well, or as expected. Some side effects, most inconveniences, but good. I like this statement, "My diagnosis does not define me." One more treatment on this coming Wednesday and then test to see how the chemo performed. I have faith this position of my life journey will be concluded. 

If you are like most, you have seen we have a new Pope "Bob'. Oops, I probably should call him Pope Leo, the first American Pope since the, well, forever. And I believe one that will tell Trump he is wrong is all of his stupid moves. I am not catholic, but I respect those who are.

So until the next time, Take care, stay safe and follow this blog, oh and leave your comments.

5 down and hopefully, 1 more to go.

 Actually, the 5 infusions I have had went fairly fast and discounting the few inconveniences, it wasn't all that bad. I have seen some other patients come in looking like they just about to pass now. Older people, middle aged, but the heartbreakers are the very young and teens. They have SO much to live for. But fortunately the medical community has advanced so quickly today, more and more are not only surviving cancer, but live to a elderly age.

Yeah, I have had some inconveniences like wearing a pump on my belt two days after the infusion with a another chemo drug contently going to my veins.  A little hair loss, pins and needles in my fingers every time I reach into the refrigerator to get the milk, slight loss of feeling in my fingers, some lack of energy, and sleeping in my recliner for two nights while I wear the pump. But you know, it's all OK because I believe all will be fine in a couple months, all these things will eventually go away. I do hope the hair grows back . LOL! What the hell, it is only hair, right?

Wearing a pump has caused me to do things much more mythical than I use to do things. Well one is I wear out faster working on cars, and I have to think how and where I am moving around things so I don't catch the tubing going into my upper chest does not get pulled out or tangled or crimped. Getting dressed in the morning is always fun figuring where and how to route the tubing for that days activity, which usually means crawling under, in, or around a car which has things that would love to grab the tubing. It's interesting for sure. SO many other cancer patients have it far worse than I do. I still feel I am lucky. The simple things you take for granite become more complicated and frustrating. So far I have not simply flipped out over it all, and keep my wits about me, and NEVER took it out on Nancy and anyone else. 

Oh, Nancy, my dream wife. I really hit the jackpot with her. No pity, none of this, "OH Honey how are you feeling today?" Always encouragement, positive thoughts and no complaining about my grumbling, just a smile and a nod of the head like, "You'll get it." She has been SO great, and has for 48 years now. I ask myself, how did she put up with me this long?

I know I have told you this story about a young lieutenant in the Civil War what he wrote to his young wife after he had his leg amputated from a wound. He thought he was so bad off with one leg and believed he would be nothing more a crunch dependent cripple, until a man was laid on the cot next to him who no legs at all, who eventually would die laying there. There is ALWAYS someone worse off than you. Our fire department, and many, many more departments have lost so many members from cancer. I feel SO lucky to be just one of the lucky.

If you know someone who is suffering with any type of serious medical issue, support them through encouragement, visits with jokes and helping them to do fun things in getting their mind off the negatives and onto the positives. Our department has done so much for us retirees with their support to all of us. We should all the do same, as much as you can. We are all in the same race, the HUMAN RACE. 

Thank you again for reading my simple babblings. I really appreciate and love your comments and send you all love and hope for this country. Follow my simple writings, take care and stay safe.

The photo below is something I saw on the corner and it made me smile.

Have we totally lost our sense of direction?

 I know, what you are about to read is old news. You have heard it in the TV news, newspapers, even social media for weeks. But, I don't believe the majority has actually realized the score of what has happened in the first 100 days of the Trump administration.

Since before Donald Trump took office, he said he was going to 'strip the federal government and reduce the budget and make it more efficient running and good for all.' Well, as they say, "What do think of me now?"  Trump now has the LOWEST approval rating than any president in the history of the United States. 55,000 confirmed cuts, more that 76,000 employee buyouts, and 145,000 other planned reductions still coming. This 34 felon convicted president has cut off people from agencies, closed federal departments, cut off funding for vaccines to child and elderly, cut funds to people starving in other countries and basically closed the door to the entire world like we the citizens of the USA are all alone with no friends. 

He and his clones, like Elon Musk, who are billionaires, think they can slim down what we have busted our butts to build one of the strongest countries in the world, now are a shadow of what we were and possibly weaker that the other two great powers. And believe or not, those billionaires are making money while we, the people, suffer with with the coming higher prices and empty shelves and no trade from other countries that we depend on.. Big box stores like Target and Walmart bring in a lot of foods grown in other countries and goods that will skyrocket with the 100 to 200% tariffs that Trump imposed and says it will make us grow financially. Ask ANY economist how tariffs work and they will tell you they kill the imposing country and hurt the economy and sometime throw the country, and the rest of the world into a recession.  Global trade is an international machine, not for just the USA, we are not alone in this world. We all benefit from global trade.  No one likes to see almost everything coming from China, but the manufactures did that to them self after the American employees refused to do some jobs and ask for higher wages. 

Thousands of USA citizens will suffer from the cuts and defunding the following cuts the Trump administration has made: 

- cuts in the Department of Medicare and Medicaid
- Dept. education
- World Health Agency

- USAid

- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

- parts of the Defense Dept.

- parts the Federal Aviation Admin.

- parts of the I.R.S.

- National institution of Health

- National Ocean and Atmosphere Admin.

- parts of the Treasury Dept.

- International Development

- support to states for free school lunches

- support for agencies that help the homeless

- support for meals for seniors

- Government Oversite Agencies

- and almost anything that are cutting down on our impact on the environment. Instead he says "DRILL BABY DRILL" and dig more coal.

This is truly NOT a president for the people, but who has taken the advice of his billionaire buddies that see a profit off our backs as the people who supply the nation.

Many people see Trump as a savior, but in reality he is a false God (which he would probably like to be called that) and a president who tearing down our democracy, dismantling our government and splitting our country so that rich will rule and we are forced to have the leftovers. 

The ONLY way Trump and his administration will continue is to say nothing, OR tell the courts and your representatives in Washington to block him, and Musk and any of his administration to stop their destruction and listen to the educated people who built this country, and understand the world economy and how it works. Legally allow those immigrates in who are willing to work in the fields, build our homes and do the jobs believe are below them for minimum wages. Maybe then factories will return to the USA and we can again produce our goods instead of China and their off shoots in Asian countries. IT'S A GLOBAL ECONOMY WORLD Mr. President, not USA stands alone. 

Contact your representatives and let your voice be heard. WE ARE THE PEOPLE, not the billionaires. Trump loves to in command, praise and will never admit he is wrong, so don't cross him. He hates people who disagree and will hurt you if he can. 

I am sorry for my rant. Maybe if we all do this, it will be heard in Washington. Take care and be safe. BTW, I am doing with chemo. Thanks for your thoughts and comments.

How old is OLD?

Occasionally I think of myself as being 'OLD'. But, I don't believe I do that very much. Yeah, I am 78 and yeah I have things that make me feel old, but am I suppose to slow down and act old? Hell no!! I had a bad shoulder, got that fixed. I had a little foot problems, got that fixed. I had a back problem, got that fixed too.  I had a heart thing, well, that is a on going fix. And then there is that Cancer thing, OK,  that I am dealing with that too.  Getting old does mean you start having more aches and pains than you did at 20 or 25 years old. But it does not you have to roll over and wait for death to come knocking. It does come with consequences as time marches on. I never thought I'd join AARP or get Social Security when I was 25. Or a lifetime membership to Silver Slippers gym card, but like other seniors, I did.

Now I see my children getting into their 50s, WHAT HAPPENED THERE? Now my daughter is dying her hair so she does not look old. But my grandkids want to grow faster and get to that age where their parents don't have the command over them. I remember that too. And when I was on my own, I called home and ask how to start a checking account and should I get a credit card  or "Can I come home a stay a few days" because I was home sick. I did not do that, but I did ask for advice from not only my parents but other OLD PEOPLE.

Get out on you own is a nature thing that even animals do and want.. Our nearest genetic evolutionary  relative, the Chimpanzee, does that too. Until the parent gets tried of them and literally boots them out of the home tree or nest. But coming back for a visit is also what they do. Did your kids come home and stayed for a while after they left? And when they see their old room was turned into a workout room or home office they got mad. "Does this mean this is not my room anymore Mom?" As Mom and Dad looks at each other and shrug their shoulders, with a smile. I remember when our late son moving out,  then in a months moved back in and we told him, :"You remember our rules, right?" He looked at us and replied, "But I am over 18 now." Yes, but it IS our house and those are the rules."  A month or so, he moved out again after finding his own house, which we gracefully helped him find.

Getting old is NOT what some commercials crack it up to be. "AGE IS JUST A NUMBER" Retirement is good, but, not like being young and physically fit with no pain as you roll out of bed in the morning. Going out most nights with friends partying until 1 or 2 AM, as now you are in bed by 9:30 PM, and falling  asleep at 7.I always crack-up when I hear the phrase, "The Golden Years"  Right? The retirement years are good, but I would much rather crawl under cars at age 20 years old than at 78 years old, eventho I still do it. The good thing about retirement is I don't have to answer to a boss, well, maybe the wife, and the dog is starting to get that way too. But I can come and go, without dragging the kids around, or start work when I want, stop to get a smoothie without asking for an advance on my allowance. Nancy and I do follow the fire house rules of  if she cooks, I wash the dishes. And If I cook, I wash the dishes. Did I get that right? Well anyway, I have a dish washer.

I do love retirement and I except aging and getting old. There are benefits like people getting up to offer their seats, people smile and greet you differently, and there is the AARP discount at a lot of restaurants if you go earlier than 6 PM.  Either way, aging isn't all that bad. I do stop by a firehouse to see how many people don't remember me anymore and tell them how it was when I joined the department. But they just smile respectfully, think I just came in to get my blood pressure taken as a senior citizen.

I read today in 2034, seniors on Social Security will surpass the number of 16 years old. Doesn't matter, I'll be gone by then anyway. JOKE!  JOKE!

Have a painless day, take care and stay safe. Follow me and leave your description of getting old, or not, but leave comments. I WILL answer, if you leave your name.

Another week, another treatment.

When I was still working a real job (on the fire department), all of my time was scheduled around when I worked and when I was off. Now it is around my chemo treatments. I guess that would normal for most people, but it is a little strange how we schedule our activities around our work schedules, or other events. Maybe not but you know, as Nancy always says, " You always notice things other people would never notice." I think she is right. 

Like last Wednesday while I sat there and they plugged me in to the 3rd chemo treatment,  my eyes wandered around looking at the other 10 or so people getting the same things I am getting (I guess their are), I wondered how did we get this thing called cancer? Was it through our occupations, like firefighters, or was passed down through family genes, or just bad health practices? Who knows. I guess they can tell that from research, someone can do the chemistry or 'geneo' thing to find the origin of the cancer cells to find where it came from. I am not that smart. I have not heard or know how I got it, but I do know I consider myself lucky in a sense because I was told it was found in the early stage.  I was never afraid of getting cancer nor am I afraid of dying. But I don't believe either was or is something I should be concerned about at this stage. I DO feel for some of the people in that room with me that are suffering with this ugly horrible disease. 

As I sit there for about 3 hour getting the chemo, that basically kills my immune system, or at least slows its reactivity. I look around at the  other patients. Some look, like sorta me (older) but look really bad, some that are middle aged and look vibrant and health, and then there are the teenagers and adolescences that break my heart. I feel for ALL of them, but the young kids really get to me. I feel I have had a pretty great life and experienced alot, but those kids have alot more living to do before their time comes. But I am not the one who determines that. I believe that is God's job. 

My mind wanders as I sit there watching people come in, get plugged in and how they react to the treatments. Some get warm blankets because it does make you cold, some take a nap for 3 hours, some play on their phone or tables just to kill the time. I have movies on my table that I watch but occasionally glance up to see what everyone is doing, like patients and the great nurses we have. They bring snacks and drinks around, and sometimes if it is not really busy, they'll stop and chat with you about just about anything. of course they want to know about side-affects I am having or if I feel like I need some hydration (IV fluids). I usually tell them "No I am good"

My side affects are minimal as I know. My sensitivity to cold definitely increased. just getting into the refrigerator or getting a milk jug out makes my finger feeling like pins and needles. I wear an extra shirt mostly, and have an extra blanket on my side of the bed at night. These are small inconveniences but can but irritating to some people. I figure if I am going to get through this there has to be some stuff I just have to endure. I NEVER want to make anyone else upset just because I don't feel good. What is the sense in that?

I know since I retired, firefighters have found that they were not as well protected with our equipment as they thought over the years. Our department, like others, have been hit with many MANY cases of cancer due to the carcinogenic agents we were exposed in our normal shifts which have increased in past years. Our department, along with others have joined with cancer researchers  to find out what we did not do to protect our members better and what we can do to prevent future cases. 

Our Union Local 493 has teamed up with some media people to produce a video about the journey of one very brave firefighter who is fighting his unbelievable battle with cancer and the extreme agony he has endured. I hope, if you have not already seen this, would watch this and understand what we as firefighters do to keep you safe. But also understand what people with cancer have to go through. 

Go to Youtube.com, "Dying to save you". Have some tissues.

Thanks for read this blog. And please follow my journey and leave your name so I know who to answer to in the comments. Take care and stay safe.

How is your life? Is it what you expected to be?

 When I was a kid, I mean in my teens, I had great dreams of what I wanted to be, do and see in my future. I dreamed of being an artist and marrying a pretty blonde lady ,and having two blonde headed, blue eyed children, having a loft studio and becoming a stable middle class family, and enjoying seeing our children grow to become professionals in the community. As I grew up and reality sat in, that dream slowly eroded into joining the military during Viet Nam before I got drafted, find a good paying job and travel the world to experience it ALL. Well, that did not quite go the way I planned either.  I did join the Air Force, I did find the pretty blonde and we had one child, and I did travel the world. But my artistry aspirations did not make that punch list. The marriage lasted about 7 years and I decided the child would better staying with his mother instead of following a guy who had no clue what would come next.  She did a great job, BTW. I moved west to Arizona with (at that time) a good female friend, who eventually became my wife.  And now, we will be celebrating our 48th year of marriage next month. Not what I thought it would be, but VERY grateful for how it turned out. My son is a successful family and business  father of three amazing children and married a lovely and also successful business and loving wife/mother. With my marriage 48 years ago, I gained another son and a daughter I always wanted. Later came four grand children which are also awesome and smart. So I consider myself a VERY, VERY blessed man. No, my adolescent dream did not come totally true, but I am glad it turned out better in so many ways.

Ok, so Harrold, what is your point? Well, "Always be afraid of what you wish for, because life and God has their own path they want you to take."  And there MANY different factors along the way that will cause your path to detour in a sometimes rough road. Mine was rough at times. Sometimes like a rural rocky narrow mountain pass, but the view at the top was amazing. 

So now I get to the 'Geist' of this article. I believe our day by day things we take for granted will change  slowly but drastically in the coming months and the next years. This has grown over the last few years in America and it scares the hell out of me. I see a person who is slowly tearing the moral structure of this great country apart piece by piece. If someone disagrees, he penalizes them  or fires them. He has no caring for the rest of the world. He has surround himself with like billionaires that love power at any cost. He will do whatever it takes (even if it is against the Constitution) to get his way no matter who suffers or dies. He continuously speaks of  misinformation, denial, skepticism, bias, discrimination and hate. And all of that has divided our country in a way that is slowly killing the moral fabric of our nation and is spilling over into the world by way of distrust with our neighboring countries and worldwide allies. He wants to take over a sovereign country merely for their resources, and another country by making them the 51st state of the USA. It seems to me, he just wants to rule the world. Isn't that what Hitler wanted also?

I can't believe people are so blind to what this man (people voted for him) do not see through his evil and fringing on unconstitutional ways. Power and his believe is all he wants. Maybe, just maybe they will open their eyes when everything, I mean everything, soars up so high in price to the point of average people can not afford to eat, drive, buy a home, get a job, go on vacations, OR ANYTHING!! Your news will be restricted, your media will be restricted, soup lines of the depression will return, Social Security will be gone for millions, food banks will not be able to keep up with demand and our country will fold.

I know, I sound like it is the end of the world is coming. I hope I am wrong. I just see things I have read in history books about dictators who did the same things before a a nationwide revolve of the people, and many, many people shed their blood with needless and power hungry egoistic rulers.

Like the late Reverend Martin Lewis King, in his "I have a dream" speech, I have a dream also, that the people will demand their representatives in both houses,, to stop this crazy sledgehammer wrecking of our country and government  That all starts with you, the citizens and voters. I am not the chicken crying 'the sky is falling', but a very concerned veteran who is afraid it may fall.  If you still want to follow me, please click "FOLLOW". Then I can reply to your comments and/or criticisms. Take care, stay safe and make your voice heard in non-violent way.

My changes

 Before I type anymore, I want to tell you it is nothing bad, but yet the describe more about this journey which I am traveling and how you play a part it.

After being delayed a week with my treatment of chemo, because of a low platelet count, last Wednesday the count was up to where they should be...well barely. So another 3 hour sit, watch a movie on my tablet and come home with a pump on my hip for 48 hours. Still no much in symptoms except cold sensitivity, and maybe a slight lose of feeling to touch in my fingertips. Now a week off and go through the whole thing again, and again until this thing is gone. I got this.

But there are other changes going on too. Since I am leary of being away from home too long, doing things I never thought twice about, like suddenly becoming fatigued or wobbly or just out of sores. But still I go on. None of this scares me, but afraid to be embarrassed in front of people, or embarrass them. I think, "This is crazy Harrold, just do it. Cancer is NOT a death diagnosis. I Will get through these times and life WILL get back to my normal." I don't look for sympathy or pity or coddling. I just want to be understood life throws all kinds of speed bumper at you  during your time on earth, and you, I must deal with them as strong as you can and keep on going. My father never wanted me to cry, and it very hard for me even today. But I must admit I do get chocked up at times about certain types and occasionally leak a tear or two. I believe it is perfectly fair to release those emotions, whether they are in a sad or happy times. But not in anger.

I have experienced several changes in my physical body, my emotions, my thoughts and my reflections of life in general, past and present. Maybe it is just I have found my inner consciousness that has come to me finally. I don't know. I DO know I am more aware of things, people and the world more now than I did before. Or it  just I have more spare time to think. Maybe all of the above.

There are some things I really enjoy and cherish. I love to see a new babies, their tiny little feet and hands. It beings a smile to my face. I love it when I talk to my dog and he stares in my eyes as if he is reading my mind. It is calming to me and I believe my dog too. I love it when I see a friend as they hold out their hand to be shaken and it develops into a hug. I love when my grandkids ask me for advise, or help on something that is very special to them. I really like people that do not react to something that is totally ridiculousness, without proof or truth checking it first.  And unfortunately there are many people out there that DO react in a radical way. Those types I try VERY HARD to stay away from. Everyone has options, whether the meet with my standards or not, they are theirs. And be respected as such without an argument erupting. 

I also absolutely love that you read my babblings about all sorts of stuff I am going through, thoughts and obversions in my life. I honestly did not intend this blog to go in this direction. I initially intended to tell  and show you about our trips and family, but you know one thing turns into another so here we are. I WILL continue posting photos, and stories about our trips and fun things but sometimes I get the urge to inject something I feel very strong about. Excuse me for that.

Again I truly appreciate your readership and comments you leave. Thank you. I get absolutely nothing for your readership except you listen and sometimes appreciate the things I write

 For now, Take care, spread love not hate and stay safe.

I had a MINOR set back...I hope.

 This last Wednesday I drove to Scottsdale for my scheduled infusion of Chemo. As usual, the nurse attending me drew blood to check my levels to see how things were doing. Having only one treatment, I did not think there would be much change. While I waited her return, as I began to settle in for the 3 hour infusion process, I notice she was talking to another person at the nurse's station. When she came back, I got ready by pulling my shirt down so she could plug into my port. Then she said, "Your platelets are low, So, the P.A. who is filling in for your doctor (who is on vacation) did not want you to get more chemo this week. Your body is not producing the platelets as fast as we hoped." I asked, "Can't you give me a transfusion of platelets?"  She replied " No, not until your doctor returns to the office."  Feeling a little down and wondering if this was going to be the norm, and does this give the cancer a bigger head start. I felt there should be a bigger rush to get ahead of the cancer before it spread. I don't know. I was really bummed like a dog with his tail between his legs after no one would play with him. I wondered how could I help or do or eat to boost the production of my platelets faster.

When I got home, I immediately got on the internet to see what I could do to speed up the platelet production. I don't always believe what I read, see or hear from the internet, but respected sources, I do. Apparently be taking certain vitamins and eating certain foods will increase the power of your bone marrow to produce platelet faster or at least lean a helping hand to the production. But, the amount you have to take or eat was A LOT! So I guess I have to just resolve myself to wait for the doctor to get back. 

Medicine and government both move at the speed of a slow snail. So I had to focus on something other than my cancer treatments. That is when I go to my shop and work on a car to change my thoughts and get out of the mind-set. By the next day, I was OK but still occasionally thinking about it, but not as much. I guess I always thought of Cancer as this wild fire disease spreading rapidly that was a battle to stay ahead of it quickly to stop it from going other places. But since my cancer was found in the part of my colon that was cut out, and the surgeon stated he thought he had seen clear margins of the parts still there, all of this is just precautionary? I am good with that, but please Lord, let's just getting going before it does spread farther. Not panicking, just a little anxious. I am not the typical worry-wart but want to know all the facts from a respected and authentic source.  Not that the nurses or P.A. are not. Just want more info from my oncologist/hematologist doctor. I really hate waiting. 

OK, it sort of sound like I am a worry-wart but to me, this is really serious, right? But we have other things to really worry about in this country and that is the present President and clone buddy Elon Musk. Our representatives need to take their heads out of the sand and see what these two (along with their other cronies are doing to our USA, our government employees, our Park Service and (I believe) our democracy. by limiting medias like the Associated Press (AP) NBC, CBS and PBS. By closing worldwide departments like USAID, Radio Free America, National Fire Academy, that he believes the nation is getting better and the Department of Education. And then Trump basically does a Telsa commercial of the lawn of the White House. The stock market has dropped any advancement made for the last 10 years in just a few weeks due to the Trump and Musk debacles and eliminations, firing and lay-offs. But yet, Trump says the nation is improving?  Who is feeding him such lies that he believes the nation is getting better?  PLEASE, do the right thing, contact your senators and representatives and tell them the people are not happy and want them to stand up against Trump and Musk. Until they do, it is going to get worse and WE THE PEOPLE will suffer with inflation and unemployment, state struggling to reproduce what the federal government use to do. Again, I am sorry. 

I am a 'DOG DAD'

 Yeah, I have a dog. Actually Nancy and I have had several dogs. From five Dalmatians (Toby, Tasha, Calle, Dreyfus, Sasha, over a 3 decade period), to a small Miniature Schnauzer named Scooter, which bonded to me for 11 years. All had different personalities, but loved to be with us. Some would love to take hikes, a few were very protective of the kids, some wanted to be with you 24-7, and a couple would just come over, give you a lick and look then walk away. Our now grown kids loved having dogs, and so did we  Of course they can be a pain with shedding and grooming and being sick or watching them fade away in their latter years. It's heartbreaking. But I loved them all and always will. I can probably tell you all of their little quirks, but I don't want to bore you.

Now, after several years without a dog, Nancy wanted a dog to go hiking with. She had a couple requirements. It must be a medium size, fuzzy, non-shedding and very smart. At the time we found just about all those requirements in a puppy. A client brought me a car he wanted to restore which just so happened to own a K-9 dog training company for VERY well trained personal security dogs. I told him, "Here's my deal. I will work on your car if you train my dog and us, hour for hour." He said, "OK." Things went well for the year it took me to finish the car.  Today Cooper is  2 1/2 years old, fuzzy, medium size, non-shedding so he needs to be groomed and some times a pain in the ass.  He listens to me, especially when I rise me voice, and some times to Nancy, but she is Mom and he knows her buttons. The thing I love about Cooper is he is gentle with us and visitors. He is not a biter, but a licker. EVERYTHING needs to be licked. I tell people, "He can't keep his licker under control." Of course he is a Golden Doodle. A mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and they both LOVE to play, ALL DAY LONG.

If Cooper wants to play on a windy, cold or rainy day, he'll sat in front of the back French Door and stare out while occasionally turning to look at you. When ANYONE comes in the door, he meets them with one of his more than a dozen soft, dirty old toys and a wagging cable like tail. "Let's play!"  On those seldom nasty days, we love to watch him slip and slide around our tile floors cutting corners as he chases after a toy we have thrown for him to retrieve. But that is not his best characteristic, he senses our moods and feelings so well. 

Cooper bonded with Nancy from the day we got him. If she is not around he comes to me for reinsurance and be his scratch friend.

Eventho I have not had any major side affects from the Chemo yet, last night I had a bit of something stomach related. I had to sleep in my "healing chair' (my Lazy Boy recliner) . With night of restless sleep, I awake to this.

Cooper was sitting there patiently and quietly watching me sleep. Our dog knows something is just not right. Sometimes when I sit on the floor with him, he'll come over, sit SO close, stare at me with head turned and with his extremely long tongue give me a giant slow juicy lick, as if he is saying, "I am here for you Dad." 

As I come home from my second round of Chemo treatment on Wednesday, other than Nancy, Cooper will greet me at the door with a toy in his mouth squeezing the annoying squeezer inside the toy, sniff me and give me his signature lick saying, "I am glad you are home Dad."

Yep, I am a DOG DAD and happy to be one. Take care and stay safe out there.

What does being rich mean?

 Thanks for all the nice comments and encouraging words on my journey. It is greatly appreciated. And in saying that, YES, I do believe I am rich, but not monetarily but rather, with friends, former co-workers, loved ones and my believe in Jesus. I think the belief your are rich comes from within, not what you have in the bank. I take your comments graciously for your caring and well wishes. Thank you!!!

I was always taught to treat people with respect and kindness. Never judge people by their color, race, religion where the live or the car they drive. My Dad told me many years ago, "Never start a fight, but you make damn sure you end it." And that is my plan.

Tomorrow I get a 'port' inserted in my upper chest so they don't have to start a new IV every time I come in for my Chemo treatment. Those who have gone through this know exactly what I mean. And on Wednesday, my first treatment will begin. Plus I go home with a 'belt pump' which pumps more in for 48 hours. OH JOY!  And then Friday I go back to have the pump taken off. This will be repeated every two weeks for three months, be re-evaluated and maybe another three months, or until they see no more cancer. The doctor prescribed me three medicines for nausea, so I guess I'll see how that goes. I guess I should load up some movies on my tablet to watch while they shoot the juice to me for hours.

From what the doctor told me, he believes we caught it early. I think it is easier to kick some butt early in the game than to try to beat a bad-ass. I am hoping that is the case.

I have seen way too many firefighters, relatives and friends battle cancer in one form or another. While some have survived and other have been consumed by cancer, it took its toll on, not only them but their loved ones and their friends and relatives. I don't plan on being a burden on anyone and keeping a smile on my face as long as possible. From what I have been told, I will have good days and bad days. I think I can handle that. I think all have that normally. I DON'T plan on going down easily without a good fight. As they say, "I GOT THIS."

"The function on man is to live, not to merely exist" 

A quote taken from the last James Bond movie.

The next step/s.

 The last time, I sort of mentioned I was diagnosed with some cancer. No one want to hear they have the big 'C' word because a lot of people think it is their death statement, but it is not. Research and hard working caring doctors and nurses have made great strides in the treatment over the past few years. The treatment is usually less painful, and the side effects are many time less too. You don't always lose your hair, but you may have good and bad days as far as energy goes, but usually you can continue your daily activities as normal. Except for more doctors appointments. 

I feel I am a positive thinking person and have faith in medical advancements and the caregivers that will treat me. I definitely will not give up build and restoring cars and trucks. This battle (if you want to call it that) will be on my terms, and I will call the shots. I do not give up easily.

This last week, I met with two oncologists with basically the same game plan. They both are well respected and have had a great track record with cancer patients, and physicians I know personally. After one of them said, "We want nothing more than to make you comfortable with the location and your care."  I really liked that. 

After I chose the oncology physician, I also chose to start with treatment as soon as I could. He scheduled a 'port' to be planted under my skin for access to a large vessel to infuse the Chemotherapy. The chemo is pacifically formulated for that particular type of cancer. So saying all that, the game plan is to get that done with a week, and then start the chemo infusions bi-weekly. This regiment will go for 3 months, be re-evaluated and possibly go for another 3 months until my indicators show no noticeable cancer. 

For those of you who saw your family members or friends go through this, I am sure this is not new to you. Since both my parent died from different forms of cancer, in the back of my mind, I guess, I always thought it might happen to me too. After have multiple minor skin cancers and then prostate cancer years ago, that thought became a more realistic story of my future. Some may think, how could be so complacent about this? I am not the type who would curl-up and cry over this. I would much rather fight this crap as long as I can. No for me, but for my wife, my kids and my grandkids so that I can enjoy them longer, as long as God gives me.

I realize there will be rough times ahead, a I will muscle through them as best as I can and making sure I don't spoil any ones day in doing so. i have always told my family, "Just because you feel bad, does not mean you should other feel bad."

So if you are willing follow alone with this journey with me, I would love for you to come along. So let's go, for better or worse. I will post photos, if not too graphic. Love to you all and take care.

Stories about a person locks in their legacy, or not.

We all have stories about a fawn people we knew. Whether it be a spouse, family member, or a dear friend, acquaintance, or even a celebrity. There was something that made them stand out in a crowd. I guess our hopes are that we each will be remembered in love and as an unique individual that was kind, loving, life of the party, witty, smart, talented, caring, and will be missed forever, but not forgotten. I am sure that is what we all hope. My recent experience gave me LOTS of time the think about how people (and myself ) would be remembered after I am gone. Not that I am planning the leave soon. I hope not anyway. 

On January 6th, Nancy took me to the ER and then I was transferred to a bigger hospital for a scheduled surgery, which was suddenly sped-up to the following Thursday. The surgery went well, as predicted, but then I was told there was something else. I won't go into the gory particulars, but, the part they cut out had cancer. Cancer, yep a hated word. No one wants to hear they have any type of cancer. Unfortunately, over the past years, I have had a few encounters with that "C" word personally.  I won't go into that either. BUT, I have not gone through the rigorous treatments some of my fellow firefighters have gone through. But this time I think my dodging bullets has caught up to me. 

I have not met with any Oncologist yet, but I do have an appointment  soon. I was told he is really good. I do hope so, but I think a second option will be in order too.

Now I thought about talking about this publicly, but I really did not think I wanted to call you all individually so this seemed OK at this time.

Over the past few months, I (our department) have lost from cancer many firefighters that I worked with and knew personally. I begins this cancer thing home hard. At this point I don't know if if was caused from firefighting or not, and I don't care. All I know is that I WILL fight as long as I can. BUT, I also know when a fight is lost. I have Jesus and God in my corner.

I want you all to know, I did not write this for pity or sorrow. This is my journey, and I would love you to travel with me, IF it does not cause you any pain or heartache. For some it may make you remember someone you lost and be too painful. I understand. I love you all. 

I have learned many 'Life Lessons'.

When I was very young I was told "Watching too much TV will turn you brain into mush." Well that maybe true, but I can't hear any sloshing around in there yet. You see, I watch TV not only for entertainment but for life lessons and education. I am not talking about 'Sesame Street' or 'Sponge Bob Square Pants' or the kids shows. A week or so ago, I watched more 'Andy Griffith' and 'MASH' than I ever watched at the fire station.  And during that time, I had LOTS of time to think and reminisce over things I had totally forgotten about. Yes I read, and took  many naps. I entertained several workers that opened up to me about their lives, families and the state of the country. I got so sick of laying there with people waiting on my every need, that I resisted the pain and slide off the bed on to my feet and began doing laps up and down the  short runway of hall myself and the few other rooms had. One day I totaled up nearly a half of a mile in those laps, all in sock feet. I WAS BORED STIFF!

By now you can realize, I was in a hospital as a patient recouping from a surgery. If you have even been in a hospital, and had serious surgery, you know the feeling of lost time, being stuck, poked asked the same questions over, and over, and OVER again. Then followed by more questions which you were asked by another doctor or nurse or therapist or someone from the hospital staff. I could not talk any of their names or what they did today. It was like a blur of faces, smiles and clipboards coming into my room both day and all hours of the night. I wanted to yell out, "LET GET SOME SLEEP so I have enough strength and energy to run out of the place!"  With the weak promises of, "Maybe we can release you tomorrow or the day after."  

So finally, after nine days in the hospital, I was released and wanted to celebrate with a double cheese burger and a huge strawberry shake, but no I was told, "You are on this special diet for a couple weeks" until you pass gas and other personal stuff happens I won't mention. Don't ask.

Now as I sort of walking like a feeble old man in very loose clothing, my diet has slowly changed and I have most of the skin tearing adhesives off of the tender spots, I am feeling more human and working my way back to the guy I was, or what I remembered.

But back to the life lessons. I learned as a patient in a hospital, you have no dignity. None. All of your privacy is tossed out the window. You are open to any doctor, nurse or anyone who wants to get a cut out of the insurance policy. Well, maybe not everyone, not housekeeping.

Oh the book? It is titled "Let Them" by Mel Robbins. A lady who hit bottom in so many different ways, and realized she was stressing over things she could not control. That is the main gist of the book. 'Let Them' means if you get cut off by a bad driver, you can't control that so you should just 'Let Them' be a jerk. If you try the control how your children dress, just Let Them figure it out themselves. It's like stopping an ice cube from melting. Sooner or later it will melt. If your neighbor gets mad because you use a leaf blower, Let Them. 

Yes we all should be respectful, courteous and nice to each other, but get stressed over every little thing. As another author said, 'Shit Happens' no matter what you do. Sometimes you have to relax, take things that are coming,(without your control) and say Ah-h-h. Just LET THEM.

I will say the stay in  the hospital was eye opening to a guy who is active and gets bored easy, other than watching Andy and Opie, and I have gained even more respect for our nurses, doctors, hospital staff and what they go through on a daily basis. They are truly heroes in my book.

Now I want to say, take care of these bodies we have been entrusted, take care and stay safe. Please pray for the LA fire survivors and all they are going through.