One of my favorite books of all time is “The Phantom Tollbooth” by Norton Juster. Sure, it’s a children’s book, but then again – it still speaks to me, so what can I say? There is a section on Milo’s journey when he encounters two cities – Reality and Illusions. Illusions can be seen although it is essentially a mirage. Reality is invisible, but the people don’t seem to notice. They are too busy to look up, and their entire environment has faded away without them being aware. Sound familiar? When I look around, I realize how limited my senses are to things just beyond the realm of human capability.…

So, I was walking Sammy yesterday, and the sun was just coming up. The horizon was lit, but the sky overhead was still dark; a smoky grey. Wisps of clouds streaming across it were lit with beautiful fuchsia and purple. It was surprisingly quiet for a weekday morning. Traffic seemed subdued. Who knows – maybe people had stopped their cars to watch the sunrise? It was truly spectacular. My toes were wet because I was wearing flip-flops and the grass was damp. It was cool and I felt the calmness of nature wash over me. Some of the tension from the past couple of days seemed to slip away. Looking up,…

The lessons you taught – To students, family and others. Your hands were never idle, and neither was your mind. Oh, my Mom! Your life was long and productive, but yet It still seems too short. I am thankful you stood on faith, And with that your life is eternally blessed and beautiful. Today, as I come to terms with the fact you have left this realm, I am enormously grateful for you. You will continue to inspire me for as long as I live. Thank you for all of the lessons you taught me. You, and they will not be forgotten. – Alice Eleanor Garretson, 6-13-1924 – 10-9-2017

I’ve been given the official “green light” by my doctors. It’s funny, because during my Dad’s various health problems my view of doctors was tarnished. It has been restored! Thankfully I’ve had a top-notch team looking after me. Thank God for His direction in this. So, today is Friday – the end of the week; the start of who-knows-what? This new lease on life I’ve been given is very exciting. I intend to make the most of it. Rejoicing. Living life to the hilt. BRING IT. – RG

So, a month ago today was my surgery. It’s been a very interesting road. Things like that make one stop and evaluate – no matter how cavalier you are. Yes. I stopped; and I’m delighted to report I discovered some unexpectedly wonderful things along the way. Here is a tribute to my medical team. I am a Boomer. Sigh. Yes, the years have flown  by and I’m firmly relegated to the AARP set. (Although, in the interest of full disclosure I will never join that organization because I disagree with much of its political leanings. But that is another post…) On August 30th, as I moved to the operating table, I was surround…

Today is back to the doctor…the “dreaded” oncologist. I’ve been told repeatedly that I do not have cancer, but for some reason that very word makes me shudder. It really shouldn’t. It’s just a collection of letters. As I was walking up the stairs with Samantha this morning, I realized, “It’s all ok – it’s all good. God has this and it’s not my burden.” I mean – what I went through less than a month ago makes this look paltry. So, my motto of “Inhale Grace – Exhale Gratitude” is in full swing today. I know He is with me. I know whatever the doctor says today is ok…