[rev_slider blog]
  • BLOG 402—” How are You?”

     ✨KITTING AROUND✨
    BLOG 402—” How are You?”
    This blog is shorter and happier!
    Read every word — things have changed. 
    Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
    Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
    The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
    This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
    By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
    Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS 

    PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
    Keep smiling. Keep growing.
    Keep believing in yourself.
    YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
                 
    MY STORY, IN A NUTSHELL! 🤹‍♂️
    (and I’m allergic to nuts!)
    Once upon a time, I was a world-class juggler.
    Making the impossible look possible!
    Keeping 7 clubs flying above my head.
    A world record, and I was just getting started.
    Performing worldwide and loving it.
    Then life threw me what I couldn’t juggle.
    A truck! I spent 37 days in a coma.
    Fighting for my life. When I finally awakened,
    I had to relearn how to walk,
    talk, and rebuild my entire world.

    My life has been filled with unexpected challenges, but MY STORY DIDN’T END WITH TRAGEDY! I turned adversity into opportunity, obstacles into stepping stones, and setbacks into determination. Today, instead of juggling clubs, I juggle words—hoping to inspire YOU to discover your potential and create an extraordinary life!

    I DIDN’T JUST COME BACK TO LIFE. ❤️
    I CAME BACK TO HELP YOU LIVE YOURS BETTER!

    Lately, I’ve wondered whether my words are making a difference or simply disappearing into cyberspace. I rarely hear from readers, and sometimes that silence makes me question why I keep writing. But then someone sends a few kind words, reminding me that even one life touched makes it all worthwhile. IF SOMETHING I WRITE HELPS YOU, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. YOUR WORDS MATTER, TOO!

    I don’t write for applause. I WRITE TO INSPIRE! If one person finds hope, overcomes adversity, smiles more, or discovers a better way to live, I’ve succeeded. MY GOAL ISN’T TO REACH EVERYONE—IT’S TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE!

    Have you noticed my blogs are getting shorter? Fewer words, stronger messages! I’ve written about love, family, life, death, and everything in between. Think I’ve run out of things to say? NOT A CHANCE! As long as I’m breathing, learning, laughing, and occasionally getting into trouble, I’ll have something worth sharing!

    I’M NOT FINISHED LIVING—
    AND I’M CERTAINLY NOT FINISHED
    HELPING OTHERS LIVE BETTER!

    So, what do you think of my shorter blogs? My goal isn’t to fill pages with words—IT’S TO FILL YOUR LIFE WITH INSPIRATION, ENCOURAGEMENT, LAUGHTER, LOVE, AND IDEAS FOR SUCCESS!
    And remember, YOU STILL MATTER! ❤️

    LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO WASTE WORDS—
    BUT NEVER TOO SHORT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

    ===================
    PART 1) “HOW ARE YOU?”
    DON’T JUST SAY HELLO—MAKE SOMEONE SMILE!

    One thing that really bothers me is how automatically people ask, “How are you?” without giving those three little words a second thought—or even listening to the answer! It’s become such a routine greeting that people barely realize what they’re saying. Most of the time, they’re not really asking a question; they’re simply repeating words they’ve said thousands of times. WORDS COME OUT, BUT THE THINKING NEVER BEGINS! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if people actually meant what they said and cared enough to listen?

    I’ve even tried a little experiment. I’ll walk up to someone without saying a single word, and they’ll immediately say, “Fine, and you?” WAIT A MINUTE! I HADN’T EVEN ASKED HOW THEY WERE! 😂 Apparently, we’ve become so programmed to exchange these meaningless greetings that we can have an entire conversation without anyone actually starting one! 

    I can’t help but laugh, but it also makes me wonder: WHAT IF WE STOPPED TALKING ON AUTOPILOT AND STARTED MAKING REAL CONNECTIONS? A thoughtful question, a genuine smile, or a few unexpected words might turn an ordinary greeting into something extraordinary! 

    When someone asks, “How are you?” You reply, “Fine, thanks. How are you?” They answer, “Fine,” and you both move on. They exchanged words, but shared nothing meaningful. No laughter, no discovery, no genuine connection. Don’t you see it as a waste of time and effort? What, exactly, does “fine” mean, anyway?

    TWO HUMAN BEINGS HAD A CHANCE TO BRIGHTEN EACH OTHER’S DAY—
    THEN THEY LET IT SLIP AWAY—EACH SAID NOTHING!
    WHAT A WASTED OPPORTUNITY!
    YOUR WORDS HAVE POWER—USE THEM TO CONNECT,
    ENCOURAGE, AND MAKE THE WORLD A LITTLE BETTER!

    Think about it. How many times have you asked someone how they’re doing without actually wanting to hear the answer? And how often have you answered, “Fine,” when you were feeling like shit? We’ve turned what could be a meaningful exchange into an automatic response, almost like two r-o-b-o-t-s exchanging information. COME ON, PEOPLE! WE CAN DO BETTER THAN THAT!

    If someone asks me, How are you?” I simply say,
    “I don’t know, how am I?” And leave it there. After all — 

    IF YOU CAN MAKE SOMEONE SMILE,
    YOU’VE ALREADY MADE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE!
    DON’T JUST START A CONVERSATION—MAKE A CONNECTION!
    MAKE SOMEONE SMILE!
    DON’T JUST OPEN YOUR MOUTH—
    OPEN YOUR MIND AND YOUR HEART!
    A FEW THOUGHTFUL WORDS CAN TURN AN ORDINARY
    MOMENT INTO SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY! 💛

    ===================
    PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
    Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!

    Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, my friend! Wherever you are, I’m delighted you’re here! Inspiration doesn’t wear a watch—it arrives through a smile, a loving hug, a joyful thought, or three wonderful ideas to juggle! 🤹‍♂️ INSPIRATION IS ALWAYS RIGHT ON TIME!

    YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
    WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! ✨
    ==================================
    OCTOBER 31 — BOO! Did I scare you?
    Happy Halloween!
    I hope you had a wonderful, colorful Halloween celebration.
    Here are a few things I found >> 

    • The Festival: Halloween started over 2,000 years ago with the Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
    • New Year: It marked November 1 as the Celtic New Year, the end of the harvest, and the start of cold, dark winter.
    • Spirits: People believed the boundary between the living and the dead blurred on October 31, allowing ghosts to return.
    • Protection: To stay safe, the Celts lit big bonfires and wore animal skins or masks to confuse or scare away wandering spirits.
    • Costumes: Disguises evolved from Celtic spirit-hiding to Scottish “guising,” where children performed songs or jokes for food. 
    • Jack-o’-lanterns: Irish immigrants brought a legend about “Stingy Jack” and carved scary faces into turnips. In America, they switched to large native pumpkins. 
    • Trick-or-Treating: In the 20th century, communities shaped the practice as a fun, safe way for kids to get candy instead of playing holiday pranks.

    TRICK OR TREAT! 🎃 Oops! Am I too late—or 364 days early for Halloween 2027? Either way, I’m ready for some fun! I didn’t attend any Halloween festivities, but who needs a holiday to celebrate laughter, happiness, and a little silliness? 

    Life is sweeter when we sprinkle a little magic into EVERY day! And remember, the greatest treat you can give someone doesn’t come in a wrapper—IT’S A SMILE, A KIND WORD, AND A LITTLE JOY THAT LASTS LONG AFTER THE CANDY IS GONE! 😄💛
                 
    At 5:30 this morning, several staff members were talking loudly in the hallway, making far too much noise. It didn’t bother me personally; I’d already been awake for hours. But I thought about the other residents who were still trying to sleep. 

    So I stepped out of my room in only my undies (you should have seen me) and politely but firmly asked them to keep it down. They got the message!
    SOMETIMES, STANDING UP FOR OTHERS IS AS SIMPLE AS SPEAKING UP.
    A LITTLE CONSIDERATION CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE!

             
    It’s barely 9 a.m. on Saturday, and I’ve already finished most of next week’s blog! Not bad for someone who supposedly has nothing to do! Of course, I can’t write about tomorrow’s adventures until they happen—and knowing my life, another surprise is always waiting around the corner! Sometimes I wonder if I should become a writer. 

    HA! AFTER WRITING 15 BOOKS AND HUNDREDS OF BLOGS, I MIGHT ALREADY BE QUALIFIED AS AN AUTHOR! 😂 Writing has become one of my greatest pleasures. It lets me share my experiences, express my thoughts, make people laugh, and maybe inspire someone to see life from a completely different perspective.

    The wonderful thing about writing is that LIFE NEVER RUNS OUT OF STORIES TO TELL! Every day brings new experiences, unexpected challenges, valuable lessons, and opportunities to discover something wonderful. Even an ordinary Saturday morning can become the beginning of an extraordinary story! 

    I’ve lived through enough adventures to fill a library, yet I believe some of my best chapters are still waiting to be written. And that’s what makes life so exciting! As long as I’m breathing, thinking, learning, laughing, and finding ways to improve, I’ll have something worth sharing. 

    MY LIFE IS STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS—
    AND I INTEND TO MAKE EVERY CHAPTER BETTER THAN THE LAST!

    I DON’T JUST WRITE ABOUT LIFE—I LIVE IT FIRST!
    AND THE BEST CHAPTER OF MY LIFE? I HAVEN’T WRITTEN IT YET! 

    =================
    NOVEMBER 1
    I’M GETTING OLDER—NOT DEAD! 😂❤️

    HAPPY CELTIC NEW YEAR!
    LIFE IS SHORT—SO MAKE EVERY MOMENT COUNT!

    Weekends here at Legacy move at a snail’s pace. Between writing my blog and watching videos, I do my best to stay entertained. Last night, I watched Young Frankenstein, one of my favorite 1970s comedies. Afterward, I discovered that all the principal cast members had passed away. What a sobering reminder that even the funniest people eventually take their final bow!

    LIFE DOESN’T LAST FOREVER—SO MAKE YOURS EXTRAORDINARY!
    BETTER YET, MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR SOMEONE ELSE!

    Speaking of enjoying life, every now and then I like to check whether everything still works. And guess what? IT DOES! You see, I’m a master of bation! 😂 Even at my age, some things haven’t retired—AND NEITHER HAVE I!

    Masturbation is natural, healthy for most people, enjoyable, costs nothing, and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF! It’s a normal part of being human, whether you’re young, middle-aged, or enjoying the adventure of growing older. 

    Why treat something so natural like a terrible secret? Our bodies are capable of pleasure, and there’s nothing wrong with appreciating that gift. LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE EMBARRASSED ABOUT BEING HUMAN!

    In fact, self-pleasure can remain a healthy, enjoyable part of life as we age. My curiosity, enthusiasm, sense of humor, and appreciation for life’s pleasures haven’t disappeared simply because I’ve celebrated a few more birthdays. PLEASURE DOESN’T HAVE AN EXPIRATION DATE!

    NOW, TELL ME—DO YOU EVER? 😂

    Of course, life offers far more than physical pleasure. There’s laughter, adventure, affection, friendship, romance, and the wonderful feeling of being loved. I refuse to let a calendar date determine how much happiness I can experience. I’M GETTING OLDER—NOT DEAD!

    While I treasure my independence and have learned to enjoy life’s adventures on my own, there’s something even more wonderful—SHARING THOSE ADVENTURES WITH SOMEONE SPECIAL! 

    I miss the warmth of affection, the joy of companionship, the comfort of holding hands, and the wonderful feeling of being in love. Life is filled with beautiful moments, but wouldn’t they be even better with someone beside you to share them? 

    I STILL HAVE SO MUCH LOVE TO GIVE,
    LAUGHTER TO SHARE, AND LIFE TO LIVE! ❤️
    ONLY 35 MORE YEARS—naww. 

     

    I SAW THIS PRETTY LADY
    AND HAD TO USE HER. 
    I fully intend to live at least another 35 years, and I certainly don’t want to spend all those years alone! I’m still young at heart, curious about the world, and eager for new adventures. So, if there’s a wonderful woman reading this who enjoys romance, affection, spontaneous adventures, and a man with a mischievous sense of humor, 

    PERHAPS WE SHOULD TALK! And if you happen to know someone who might enjoy sharing life’s journey with me, WHY NOT INTRODUCE US? After all, LOVE DOESN’T HAVE AN EXPIRATION DATE—AND NEITHER DOES MY HEART! ❤️

    Unfortunately, meeting someone here at Legacy isn’t easy, especially on weekends. Most residents are considerably older than I am, and our weekends revolve around three thrilling events: breakfast at 8, lunch at noon, and dinner at 5—WOW! WHAT AN EXCITING SOCIAL CALENDAR! 😂

    Instead of complaining about the lack of excitement, I’m considering organizing games, competitions, and activities to bring people together. Why sit around waiting for something wonderful to happen when we can MAKE SOMETHING WONDERFUL HAPPEN? After all, happiness doesn’t always knock on your door. Sometimes you have to get up, open that door, and invite it inside!

    But thinking about companionship made me think of something chilling. WHAT IF I DIED TOMORROW? My daughters would eventually be notified, but what about YOU, my readers? My weekly blog would suddenly stop. No explanation. No farewell. Just silence. Days or weeks might pass before anyone realized I was gone.

    WOULD YOU MISS ME?
    WOULD YOU MISS MY BLOG? 

    Would you miss my stories, humor, crazy ideas, and occasional mischief? I rarely hear from readers, and sometimes I wonder whether my words make a difference. A few people do reach out, and their messages mean more than they may realize. Perhaps I’ve touched more lives than I’ll ever know. But wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear about it while I’m still here to appreciate it?
    That brings me to something I hope you’ll remember:

    DON’T WAIT UNTIL SOMEONE IS GONE TO
    TELL THEM THEY MATTER! TELL THEM TODAY!

    Tell people you love them. ❤️
    Tell them you appreciate them.
    Tell them how they’ve made your life better.
    A few heartfelt words today can mean more than a thousand spoken tomorrow.
    LOVE IS MEANT TO BE SHARED WHILE WE’RE ALIVE—NOT SAVED FOR WHEN WE’RE GONE! 

    Enough of those gloomy thoughts! I’m still here, still laughing, and, more importantly, STILL HUNGRY! At lunchtime, I headed downstairs to discover today’s culinary adventure. The surprise? Pasta with stew on top. Without my lower teeth, eating it was more challenging than enjoyable. WHO KNEW LUNCH COULD BECOME AN OBSTACLE COURSE? At least I survived another meal!

    That reminded me of something I truly miss. For years, I enjoyed a fresh salad EVERY DAY AT 3 P.M.! It was a delicious, healthy habit I looked forward to. Now, without my lower teeth, I can’t chew lettuce and such. Funny how we take life’s simplest pleasures for granted until they’re gone. Instead of dwelling on what I’ve lost, I’ll find another way to enjoy nutritious food.

    LIFE ISN’T ABOUT WHAT WE CAN NO LONGER DO—
    IT’S ABOUT DISCOVERING WHAT WE STILL CAN!

    And speaking of things I CAN do, look how much I’ve written already! It’s only afternoon, and the words have been flowing effortlessly. I love writing, sharing experiences, making people laugh, and finding new ways to inspire others. Sometimes I make you think, sometimes I make you smile, and occasionally I might even make you blush. THAT’S LIFE—AND I INTEND TO KEEP LIVING IT!

    After writing 15 books and hundreds of blog posts.
    Maybe I should consider becoming a writer.
    HA! MAYBE I’M ALREADY QUALIFIED! 😂

    But there’s a deeper reason I continue putting words together. I’ve survived devastating accidents, a 37-day coma, heartbreak, and challenges that could have ended my dreams. I’ve rebuilt my life more than once. Yet here I am, still writing, still laughing, still hoping, and still searching for ways to make tomorrow better than today.

    Those experiences taught me one of life’s greatest lessons:
    WE CANNOT ALWAYS CONTROL WHAT HAPPENS TO US,
    BUT WE CAN CHOOSE WHAT WE DO NEXT!

    I didn’t survive everything I’ve been through simply to sit around waiting for life to end. I survived to LIVE! To explore new possibilities, share what I’ve learned, help others overcome adversity, and remind people that their best days don’t necessarily have to be behind them.

    That’s why I write this blog. Not to impress you, but to inspire you. If one sentence gives you hope, brings a smile, encourages you to overcome an obstacle, or helps you appreciate another beautiful day, then every word has been worthwhile. And if something I’ve written has helped you, please tell me. Your words might inspire me just as much as mine inspire you!

    I DON’T WRITE JUST TO FILL PAGES.
    I WRITE TO AWAKEN MINDS, TOUCH HEARTS,
    CREATE SMILES, AND INSPIRE BETTER LIVING!

    So, my friend, whatever your age, circumstances, or challenges, don’t surrender your enthusiasm for living. Keep learning. Keep laughing. Keep loving. Discover new pleasures, create new friendships, and find something wonderful to look forward to every single day.

    PLEASURE DOESN’T HAVE AN EXPIRATION DATE!
    LOVE DOESN’T HAVE AN AGE LIMIT!
    AND LIFE IS MEANT TO BE ENJOYED—NOT MERELY ENDURED!

    I’m still here, still curious, still mischievous, and still looking forward to falling in love again. I’ve got places to go, people to inspire, adventures to experience, and perhaps a few more people to make blush! And neither are you! Don’t wait for the perfect moment, opportunity, or person to start enjoying your life. MAKE TODAY COUNT! MAKE SOMEONE SMILE! MAKE YOUR LIFE MATTER!

    MY LIFE IS STILL BEING WRITTEN—AND SO IS YOURS!
    LET’S MAKE THE NEXT CHAPTER SO EXTRAORDINARY
    THAT NEITHER OF US WILL WANT TO PUT THE BOOK DOWN! ❤️

    ================
    NOVEMBER 2 —
    My fingers are still smoking from all that writing yesterday! I practically wore out my keyboard, and I’m surprised the letters haven’t started begging for mercy! 😂 The words just kept flowing, one thought leading to another, until I had written far more than I expected. Sometimes, I amaze myself with how easily the words come together. 

    And now, here I am, beginning another day, wondering what new ideas, adventures, and surprises might find their way onto these pages. Will today be even more productive than yesterday? WHO KNOWS? That’s the wonderful thing about life—every morning brings another opportunity to create something meaningful, share some laughter, and inspire someone along the way. 

    AS LONG AS MY MIND KEEPS THINKING AND MY FINGERS KEEP MOVING,
    I’LL NEVER RUN OUT OF THINGS TO SAY! ❤️

    Today, I don’t expect nearly as many words to come flying from my fingers as yesterday. Perhaps my brain deserves a little vacation, and my fingers have earned some time off! Whether you thank me for writing less or complain that you wanted more, I’ll leave that entirely up to you. 😂

    Either way, the world will keep turning, the sun will rise again, and life will go on. AT LEAST, I THINK SO! Of course, with the way things are going these days, who knows what tomorrow might bring? But one thing is certain: AS LONG AS I’M BREATHING, I’LL KEEP FINDING SOMETHING TO WRITE ABOUT! ❤️

    Trudy really knows what she’s doing as a physical therapist! Today, she had me step, move, and challenge my body in ways that made me WORK! I could feel my muscles being pushed, and my asthma even reminded me that I was getting a serious workout. Later, my muscles were still telling me how hard they had worked. 

    THAT’S THE KIND OF PHYSICAL THERAPY I WANT—ONE THAT CHALLENGES ME AND HELPS ME IMPROVE! Thank you, Trudy, for your dedication, encouragement, and willingness to push me toward becoming stronger. I’M NOT HERE JUST TO GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS—I’M HERE TO GET BETTER! ❤️

    I just finished working with a speech therapist named Reshmi. She is from India and asked me some high-level questions. I was genuinely surprised by how poorly I answered some of your questions. She went beyond the surface, asking thoughtful questions that made me look deeper into myself, and I struggled to respond. 

    That doesn’t happen very often! Usually, I have plenty to say, but you caught me off guard and gave me some things to think about. Perhaps that’s a good thing. AFTER ALL, LIFE IS ABOUT CONTINUALLY LEARNING, GROWING, AND DISCOVERING MORE ABOUT OURSELVES.    
    ================
    NOVEMBER 3 —
    Today, I climbed out of bed around 5 a.m., which is actually sleeping late for me! While most people were still dreaming, I was already thinking about how to make the day worthwhile. Every morning brings another opportunity to improve my strength, health, and happiness. I MAY BE GETTING OLDER, BUT I’M CERTAINLY NOT READY TO SLOW DOWN!

    And today, slowing down wasn’t an option! Physical therapy with Tracy, Trudy, and Corin turned into quite a workout. They challenged my strength, balance, and endurance, and my asthma decided to join the fun—UNINVITED! 

    Despite some breathing difficulties, I pushed through what I could and appreciated the challenge. I DON’T WANT EASY—I WANT IMPROVEMENT! My goal isn’t simply to grow older, but to grow stronger!

    Of course, physical strength is only part of the challenge. We also worked on my memory, and that proved far more frustrating than the physical exercises. They asked me questions about things I had written in my most recent blog, and to my disappointment, I couldn’t remember some of the details. Imagine that! I spend hours putting my thoughts into words, yet when someone asks me about those very words, parts of them seem to disappear from my mind!

    I have to admit, THAT MADE ME SAD. Writing is such an important part of my life, and it’s difficult to accept how much my memory still struggles. But disappointment alone won’t improve anything. I’ve overcome enormous challenges before, and I intend to keep working on this one, too. MY MEMORY MAY NOT BE WHERE I WANT IT TO BE, BUT MY DETERMINATION IS STILL STRONG! I can’t always control what I remember, but I can control my willingness to keep trying.

    One of my therapists had my blog open on her phone today, and I was pleasantly surprised by how good it looked on such a small screen. I usually see my writing on my laptop computer, so seeing it on a phone gave me a completely different perspective. HEY, MY BLOG LOOKS PRETTY GOOD IN YOUR POCKET! 😂

    Then she asked me to find something I had written in the blog. You would think the guy who wrote the thing could find his own words—but apparently not! I searched for a while and had a surprisingly difficult time locating it. It reminded me that my memory still needs work, but that only gives me another reason to keep challenging myself. 

    IF SOMETHING IS DIFFICULT,
    THAT JUST GIVES ME SOMETHING ELSE TO IMPROVE!

    Fortunately, the day offered another opportunity to put that determination to good use—this time by helping someone else. My friend Lin wanted to join the group for a shopping trip, but he said he wasn’t going because being in a wheelchair made it hard to get what he wanted. I didn’t like the thought of him missing out simply because he needed a little assistance, so I volunteered to go along as his cart-pusher and shopping assistant.

    After all, what good is being able to walk if I can’t use my legs to help someone else? It was a small gesture, but it meant Lin could enjoy the outing instead of staying behind. SOMETIMES, THE SMALLEST ACTS OF KINDNESS MAKE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE! And the wonderful thing about helping others is that it makes MY life better, too!

    Speaking of wheelchairs, I witnessed something rather amusing later in the day. From my desk, I have a wonderful view through the window overlooking the walkway that circles our building, about 400 meters around. I enjoy watching people pass by because you never know what interesting things might happen right outside your window!

    Today, I spotted someone pushing a man in a wheelchair, and I couldn’t believe my eyes—the man was sound asleep! There he was, enjoying a leisurely ride without even knowing where he was going. NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL TRAVELING IN STYLE! 😂 I suppose there’s nothing wrong with getting some fresh air while catching up on your dreams. Talk about multitasking!

    Watching people come and go also reminded me of something I’ve been thinking about lately. Nothing was scheduled for this afternoon, leaving me with another stretch of empty hours and the same nagging question: WHAT THE HELL AM I DOING HERE? 

    I’ve spent my life traveling, performing, teaching, creating, and turning challenges into opportunities. Sitting around waiting for something interesting to happen simply isn’t who I am. I’M GETTING OLDER, BUT I’M NOT FINISHED LIVING!

    And perhaps that’s the most important lesson of today’s adventures. If I want excitement, purpose, friendship, and new experiences, I can’t always wait for someone else to provide them. Sometimes, I have to create those opportunities myself. After all, I’ve overcome far greater obstacles than an empty afternoon! 

    CHANGE DOESN’T HAPPEN JUST BECAUSE WE WISH FOR IT—
    IT HAPPENS WHEN WE DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

    So, instead of wondering what life has planned for me next, maybe it’s time to start making my own plans. I’ve still got people to inspire, lessons to learn, laughter to share, and adventures waiting to happen.

    I’M NOT HERE JUST TO PASS THE TIME.
    I’M HERE TO MAKE MY TIME COUNT!
    MY LIFE ISN’T OVER—AND NEITHER ARE MY ADVENTURES!
    YOU WILL SEE… ❤️
    =============
    NOVEMBER 4 —
    Watch out, a lot of writing for today.
    Boy, I wrote a lot yesterday! I have no idea where they all came from. One thought sparked another, and suddenly my fingers were flying across the keyboard! Sentences became paragraphs, and before I knew it, an entire story had appeared. I wasn’t searching for inspiration—it seemed to find me! SOMETIMES THE BEST WRITING HAPPENS WHEN YOU SIMPLY LET YOUR THOUGHTS FLOW!
    JUGGLING vs WRITING
    Come to think of it, writing isn’t so different from juggling. When I performed around the world, one throw naturally led to another, creating patterns that seemed to flow effortlessly through the air. Now, instead of tossing clubs, I’m tossing ideas onto a page! One word leads to another, just as one throw leads to the next. 

    ONCE I STRUGGLED TO FIND MY WORDS—
    TODAY, I CAN HARDLY KEEP UP WITH THEM!

    That journey—from struggling to speak to having so much to share—is exactly why I keep writing for YOU! I’ve come close to losing my life, and I know how precious every day really is. I hope my experiences help you discover courage, laughter, love, and new possibilities in your own life. Knowing I’ve made even one person’s day brighter means more than you might imagine. 

    I DIDN’T SURVIVE ALL THOSE CHALLENGES
    JUST TO GROW OLD—I’M HERE TO KEEP LIVING,
    LOVING, LEARNING, AND HELPING OTHERS
    LIVE BETTER! AND THAT INCLUDES YOU! 

    It’s only 5:52 a.m., and I’ve already written this many words today! While many people are still dreaming, I’m busy turning my thoughts into sentences. Are you ready for another adventure through my wandering mind, or have I already given you more than enough to read? DON’T WORRY—MY FINGERS MAY GET TIRED, BUT MY IDEAS NEVER SEEM TO RUN OUT! 😂❤️
                 
    Lately, I’ve been thinking about death more often. At 67, I’ve reached an age when many of my longtime friends are growing older, and some may be approaching their final days. That realization troubles me. I wonder where they are today. Are they happy? Are they healthy? Do they ever think about the adventures we shared?
    DEATH?
    I’ve met thousands of wonderful people throughout my life, yet so many have quietly disappeared. Some friendships lasted decades, while others were brief but unforgettable. I DON’T WANT THOSE FRIENDSHIPS TO BECOME NOTHING MORE THAN MEMORIES!

    My life has taken me down some extraordinary roads. From performing as a young juggler in San Diego to touring Europe, headlining at Bally’s in Atlantic City, and teaching at Ringling Bros. Clown College, I’ve crossed paths with countless remarkable people.
    ATLANTIC CITY
    Later, while traveling to every national park in America, I met even more fascinating people. I remember faces, laughter, performances, and adventures from decades ago. But I often wonder what became of those who shared those experiences with me. WHERE DID ALL THOSE WONDERFUL YEARS—AND PEOPLE—GO?

    In 1982, I was struck by a truck. Years later, another truck hit me, and my life took an unexpected turn again. I’ve learned firsthand how quickly everything we take for granted can disappear. Yet here I am, still writing, still juggling when I can, and still determined to enjoy life. I’VE BEEN GIVEN MORE CHANCES AT LIFE THAN MANY PEOPLE EVER RECEIVE!

    One person who comes to mind is my longtime friend Steve Mills. I first met Steve in 1977, when juggling was such a huge part of both our lives. Steve wasn’t simply another performer. He understood the dedication, frustration, excitement, and wonderful satisfaction of mastering something that once seemed impossible.
    STEVE MILLS
    Steve created the famous Mills Mess, a juggling pattern that continues to inspire jugglers worldwide. I admired his creativity, his remarkable abilities, and everything he contributed to the art we both loved. For nearly half a century, Steve was part of my life’s story.

    And now Steve is gone. He died by suicide, and that brings a sadness I find difficult to describe. I wonder what he was going through and whether he wanted someone to understand. I wish we could sit together again, remember our younger days, and share one more laugh.

    I don’t know whether another conversation would have changed anything, and I won’t pretend that it could have rewritten the past. But I do know how much I would treasure those moments today—the chance to hear their voices, share a few laughs, exchange memories, and simply enjoy being together again. Sometimes, it’s not about changing what happened. IT’S ABOUT APPRECIATING THE MOMENTS WE CAN NEVER GET BACK. ❤️ 

    I DON’T JUST MISS THE JUGGLER STEVE MILLS.
    I MISS THE FRIEND WHO WAS PART OF MY LIFE. ❤️

    Losing Steve has made me think differently about the people who are still here. Every friendship contains memories that can never be duplicated. Some people knew me as a young performer chasing impossible juggling tricks. Others knew me before my accident, when I thought I had my entire future figured out.

    Still others helped me rebuild after everything changed. Each person holds a little piece of my history, just as I hold a piece of theirs. WHEN WE LOSE SOMEONE, WE ALSO LOSE THE CHANCE TO SHARE THOSE MEMORIES TOGETHER.
    LEGACY
    These days, living at Legacy, I have plenty of time to reflect on the past, the present, and whatever adventures remain ahead. I see people much older than I am, some in wheelchairs, others struggling with the challenges of aging. Their lives remind me that time keeps moving, whether we’re ready or not.

    Sometimes I wonder what I’m doing here, surrounded by people whose lives are so different from the one I still want to live. I have books to finish, stories to tell, friendships to enjoy, and adventures I haven’t even imagined yet. GETTING OLDER DOESN’T MEAN MY LIFE IS OVER—IT MEANS EVERY DAY HAS BECOME MORE PRECIOUS!

    Perhaps I’ll begin making a list of people I haven’t spoken with in years. Old juggling friends, childhood companions, former neighbors, and people who once brought happiness into my life. Not because I expect them to die tomorrow, but because they mattered yesterday and still matter today.

    I wonder how many would be surprised to hear from me. Perhaps we’d discover that, despite the passing decades, we still have plenty to laugh about. Maybe we’d remember stories that neither of us has thought about in years. THE YEARS MAY SEPARATE US, BUT THEY DON’T HAVE TO ERASE THE FRIENDSHIP!
    FRIENDS DYING
    And that brings me to YOU, the person reading these words. Have we known each other for years? Did we meet through juggling, one of my performances, a workshop, my travels, or somewhere along life’s unpredictable journey? Perhaps we haven’t spoken in decades.

    Well, I’m still here! I’m still laughing, still dreaming, still writing, and still hoping to make tomorrow better than today. I’d love to know where life has taken you and what wonderful things you’ve discovered along the way. DON’T WAIT FOR MY OBITUARY TO REMEMBER THAT WE WERE FRIENDS! I’d much rather share a laugh with you today.

    I’ve survived a coma, two encounters with trucks, the loss of people I’ve loved, and more unexpected turns than I could ever have imagined. Yet through it all, I’ve learned that life’s greatest treasures aren’t possessions, accomplishments, or even the places we’ve visited.

    THEY’RE THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE TOUCHED OUR HEARTS ALONG THE WAY. I can’t go back and relive those wonderful years, but I can appreciate the people who helped make them wonderful. And there’s still plenty of room in my life for new friendships, new experiences, and new memories!
    CONNECTIONS
    If I’m one of those people from your past, please write to me at kitsummers@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you. Perhaps we can bring a few forgotten memories back to life—and create some wonderful new ones!

    LIFE ISN’T JUST ABOUT HOW MANY YEARS WE LIVE.
    IT’S ABOUT HOW MUCH LOVE, LAUGHTER, KINDNESS, AND HAPPINESS WE BRING INTO THOSE YEARS. I’M NOT FINISHED LIVING, LOVING, LAUGHING, OR MAKING NEW MEMORIES—AND I HOPE YOU AREN’T EITHER! ❤️

    Today in physical therapy, I worked with Tracy and Corin. I tried to bring some humor into our session, but they seemed determined to keep everything serious. COME ON, LIFE IS TOO SHORT NOT TO HAVE SOME FUN!
    PHYSICAL THERAPY (PT)
    I’ve always believed that laughter and enjoyment should be part of everything we do, even when we’re working hard. Unfortunately, my attempts to joke around didn’t seem to get much of a response. I GUESS MY SENSE OF HUMOR DIDN’T GET MUCH OF A WORKOUT TODAY!

    At one point, they handed me two five-pound weights. Wanting a bigger challenge, I asked to use ten-pound weights instead, but they wouldn’t allow it. I understand they have safety concerns, but I also want to push myself and see real improvement! I’ve spent my life challenging my limits, and I don’t intend to stop now. 

    I WANT TO GET STRONGER, NOT JUST GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS! 

    Perhaps next time we can find a better balance between working hard and having fun—pushing myself vs. being to seriness.
    AFTER ALL, EXERCISING YOUR MUSCLES IS IMPORTANT,
    BUT EXERCISING YOUR SMILE SHOULD BE PART OF THE PROGRAM, TOO! 😂💪❤️

    Later, we walked out to the pond, where our resident alligator decided to make an appearance! Seeing him reminded me of an adventure from my years traveling around the country. One day, in southern Florida, I pulled up beside a pond where a whole group of alligators was relaxing.
    AGULATORS
    As soon as I opened my van door, those enormous lizards started scrambling back into the water! Naturally, being Kit, I couldn’t resist a little adventure. I actually grabbed one by the tail and held on for a while! JUST A LITTLE KIT FUN—MY IDEA OF AN EXCITING DAY! 😂

    Of course, when I told Tracy and Corin about my alligator adventure, they weren’t nearly as amused as I was! Apparently, grabbing an alligator by the tail isn’t everyone’s idea of entertainment. IMAGINE THAT! 😂 I thought it was a wonderful adventure, but judging by their reactions, they thought I was completely nuts! I guess I could have been gator lunch? 

    Then again, I’ve never been one to live an ordinary life.
    SOMETIMES THE BEST STORIES COME FROM DOING THE UNEXPECTED—
    ALTHOUGH I WOULDN’T RECOMMEND TRYING
    THIS ONE WITH THE GATOR YOURSELF! 🐊

    Looking back, I realize how dangerous that little stunt was, and I certainly wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. Still, I’ve always enjoyed finding adventure in unexpected places. LIFE IS FULL OF SURPRISES—BUT SOME OF THEM HAVE VERY SHARP TEETH! 🐊😂

    The therapists talked with me about my future, thinking I’ll probably be living here for quite some time. I sincerely appreciate their help and the effort they put into improving my life, but I still don’t feel as though I belong here.
    STAYING AT LEGACY?
    I miss the freedom of traveling across the country, living in my van, waking up somewhere new, and deciding where my next adventure would take me. Here, I feel like the youngster in the crowd, surrounded by people in their 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond. I’M NOT READY TO SETTLE DOWN AND SIMPLY WATCH LIFE PASS ME BY! 

    My dream is to find a woman to travel and explore with.
    We would share all costs and have a wonderful life together.
    Discovering the world and the beauty of life and travel.
    So, are you ready to join me?  

    What troubles me most is not knowing exactly what comes next. How will I eventually leave Legacy, and what kind of life will I build when I do? I don’t want to spend my remaining years sitting in a room, watching television, and waiting for another meal (although they do have great food here).
    WHAT’S NEXT?
    I do know I will be with what’s-her-name.
    I do hope I find her soon.
    We could make pizza together.
    We could travel together.
    We could make love together.
    Is she reading this now?
    You know how to contact me. 

    I want to regain my strength, improve my balance, overcome my physical limitations, and become independent enough to live on my own again. I’ve overcome enormous obstacles before, including surviving a 37-day coma and learning to walk and speak all over again. I’VE REBUILT MY LIFE BEFORE, AND I BELIEVE I CAN DO IT AGAIN!

    One of my greatest dreams is to regain the freedom I enjoyed while traveling across America in my van. I miss waking up somewhere new, exploring national parks, meeting fascinating people, and deciding for myself where tomorrow might take me. I miss being able to go where and when I want.
    THE UNICYCLE
    I want to ride a bicycle again (and unicycle!), take long walks through beautiful places, juggle regularly, and perhaps return to life on the open road. There is still so much of this extraordinary world I want to experience! I don’t need a mansion, expensive possessions, or a complicated lifestyle. 

    GIVE ME MY HEALTH, MY FREEDOM,
    SOMEONE TO LOVE,
    AND AN OPEN ROAD—
    THEN I’LL FIND MY HAPPINESS!

    ================
    NOVEMBER 5 —
    Awoke at about 1am and thought I was up for the day.
    I returned to slumber by 3am and felt good to be back.

    Looking ahead, beyond travel, important dreams and unfinished projects call to me. I want to finish publishing my five-book Beyond Your Potential series, see my life story become a movie, and return to motivational speaking. I want to stand before audiences again and share what I’ve learned about overcoming adversity and building a successful Life. 

    I also want to keep teaching juggling and help others discover abilities they never knew they had. And perhaps, somewhere along this journey, I’ll meet a wonderful woman who wants to share love, laughter, companionship, and new adventures. 

    I STILL HAVE BOOKS TO WRITE, PEOPLE TO INSPIRE,
    PLACES TO EXPLORE, AND LOVE TO GIVE! WHAT’S LEFT?

    Of course, dreaming about a better future isn’t enough. I must take action to make those dreams possible, beginning right here, right now. That means working harder to improve my health, strengthen my body, rebuild my independence, and make connections that could open new doors. 

    I may not know exactly when I’ll leave Legacy or where life will take me afterward, but I refuse to believe my greatest adventures are behind me. I’m only 67 years young, and if I reach my goal of living beyond 100, I still have more than 30 years to make something extraordinary happen. 

    MY FUTURE WON’T CREATE ITSELF—
    I HAVE TO CREATE IT!
    AND WHO KNOWS?
    THE MOST WONDERFUL CHAPTER OF
    MY LIFE MAY STILL BE WAITING TO BEGIN! 

    Looking out my window at Legacy, I often watch residents traveling along the walkway that circles the building. Some walk independently, others use walkers, and several are pushed in wheelchairs or ride in motorized chairs. Watching this daily parade makes me wonder whether some residents could benefit from moving more on their own. After all, our bodies were designed for movement, not simply transportation! THE LESS WE USE OUR BODIES, THE MORE ABILITY WE RISK LOSING!

    🌟 THE TOUR 🌟
    Sometimes I see residents enjoy the entire trip without moving much beyond their heads! It makes me wonder whether physically capable people might benefit from pushing their own wheelchairs or walking with assistance. Even small movements can help maintain muscle strength, improve circulation, and encourage independence. Of course, I don’t know everyone’s physical limitations, but I believe we should encourage people to do whatever they safely can. WHY LET SOMEONE ELSE DO WHAT YOUR OWN BODY MIGHT STILL BE CAPABLE OF DOING?

    Naturally, I understand that some residents genuinely need assistance, and wheelchairs and motorized chairs provide them with valuable freedom. Without these devices, some people might never get outside to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and beautiful surroundings. And I certainly can’t determine someone’s physical abilities simply by watching from my window! What looks like an easy ride to me might be the only way another person can enjoy the outdoors. INDEPENDENCE ISN’T ABOUT HOW WE MOVE—IT’S ABOUT HAVING THE FREEDOM TO KEEP MOVING THROUGH LIFE!

    Still, I believe we should encourage safe physical activity whenever possible, according to each person’s abilities. Whether it’s walking ten steps, pushing a wheelchair, stretching from a seated position, or taking a few extra steps each day, EVERY EFFORT COUNTS! I want to keep challenging my own body, too, because growing older doesn’t mean we should stop trying to improve. THE GOAL ISN’T SIMPLY TO MAKE ANOTHER LAP AROUND THE BUILDING—IT’S TO KEEP OUR BODIES STRONG, OUR SPIRITS ALIVE, AND OUR INDEPENDENCE FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE! ❤️
    ================
    NOVEMBER 6 —
    HELP! 😂❤️ OPERATION KIT FREEDOM!
    I’ve escaped a 37-day coma, survived being hit by trucks, traveled across America in my van, traveled the world, and rebuilt my life more than once. Surely, I can find a way to move beyond assisted living!
    But this escape requires more than opening a door. I need a PLAN!

    1. REBUILD MY STRENGTH!
      Work with my therapists and doctors to improve my balance, memory, breathing, and independence.
    2. FIND MY NEXT HOME!
      Explore independent living, a small apartment, or another arrangement where I can safely take care of myself.
    3. RETURN TO SPEAKING!
      Get back onstage and inspire audiences with my stories of overcoming adversity.
    4. KEEP WRITING!
      Finish my books, expand my blog, and put my life story on screen.
    5. FIND ADVENTURE AGAIN!
      Travel, explore, meet interesting people, and perhaps even find someone special to share the journey.

    My first step? Ask my care team exactly what I would need to accomplish to live independently (should be fine there, though), what support I would still need, and whether a trial of greater independence is possible. Or how to find “her,” if that is what I’m looking for. 

    I DON’T WANT TO ESCAPE FROM LIFE HERE JUST TO SIT SOMEWHERE ELSE.
    I WANT TO ESCAPE INTO A LIFE FILLED WITH PURPOSE,
    FREEDOM, ADVENTURE, AND LOVE!

    After all, I’ve already made some remarkable comebacks. WHY NOT ONE MORE?
    And if anyone knows where they keep the keys to freedom, PLEASE LET ME KNOW! 😂❤️
    I’M NOT LOOKING FOR AN EXIT FROM LIFE.
    I’M LOOKING FOR THE ENTRANCE TO MY NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE!

    Sometimes, I feel trapped here at Legacy. Of course, none of us knows what the future holds, but I certainly hope mine includes more freedom, adventure, and opportunities to enjoy life on my own terms. Writing this blog has become one of my greatest pleasures. I enjoy sharing my experiences, thoughts, and ideas with you, hoping my words improve your life as much as writing them improves mine. AFTER ALL, LIFE IS MEANT TO BE LIVED, NOT SIMPLY WATCHED AS IT PASSES BY!

    Sometimes, living here feels almost like being in jail. I know that’s a strong comparison, and I appreciate the people who care for me, but I miss having control over my daily activities, my schedule, and where I can go. After years of traveling across America in my van, exploring national parks, and deciding each morning where my next adventure might take me, this restricted lifestyle hasn’t been easy to adjust to. I MAY LIVE AT LEGACY, BUT MY SPIRIT STILL WANTS TO ROAM FREE!

    This morning, although I wasn’t scheduled for physical therapy, I still showed up at the therapy room. I WANT TO IMPROVE! Unfortunately, the room is always crowded. Imagine a space approximately ten feet by ten feet, with as many as eight therapists and eight participants trying to work together! 

    That’s sixteen people sharing a very small area. It’s difficult to move freely, concentrate, or receive the individual attention needed to make meaningful progress. PHYSICAL THERAPY SHOULD BE ABOUT IMPROVING OUR ABILITIES, NOT COMPETING FOR A LITTLE FLOOR SPACE!

    I also discovered that physical therapy isn’t offered on Friday afternoons. Do all the therapists go home early? I don’t know, but with limited space, crowded schedules, and so many residents needing attention, I can’t help wondering whether things could be organized more effectively. 

    My insurance covers my stay here, but that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t care about how the facility operates. Having run my own successful business, I know that THERE IS ALMOST ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT!

    Another frustration is that I often work with different therapists, each with their own approach and expectations. Just when I get comfortable with one person’s methods, someone else takes over, and I have to adjust all over again. 

    Throughout my sessions, I feel like every movement is being watched, and if I do something they don’t approve of, they correct me immediately. I understand that safety matters, especially when working on balance and strength, but I don’t enjoy feeling constantly restricted. I’M HERE TO IMPROVE MY ABILITIES, NOT TO FEEL AS THOUGH I’M BEING KEPT IN LINE!

    I’ve spent much of my life pushing myself to accomplish things others thought impossible. After spending 37 days in a coma, I had to learn to walk and speak all over again. I know the importance of rehabilitation, determination, and challenging myself. 

    I appreciate the therapists’ efforts, but I also want to feel that we’re working together toward my goals. I DON’T EXPECT THERAPY TO BE EASY—I EXPECT IT TO HELP ME GET BETTER! A little more communication, consistency, and freedom to challenge myself safely would make a tremendous difference.

    Having run successful businesses myself, I naturally notice opportunities for improvement. If I were in charge, I’d look for ways to use the available space, staff, and time better. I’M NOT INTERESTED IN COMPLAINING JUST TO COMPLAIN—I WANT TO HELP MAKE THINGS BETTER! ❤️

    WELCOME, MY FRIEND!
    DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
    YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!

    Today, around 11 a.m., five of us headed out for lunch at LongHorn Steakhouse in Lutz, Florida, with Brianna driving. What a pleasure it was to get away from Legacy for a while! As much as I appreciate having a comfortable place to live. 

    I miss the freedom of traveling, exploring new places, and deciding where my next adventure will take me. For years, I could simply climb into my van and head wherever I wanted. SOMETIMES EVEN A SHORT TRIP CAN BRING BACK THAT WONDERFUL FEELING OF FREEDOM!

    The restaurant was a welcome change from our usual surroundings, and it felt good to be out enjoying life beyond Legacy. The food was delicious, everyone seemed happy, and I thoroughly enjoyed the company. 

    I’ve spent much of my life seeking adventures, from performing around the world to exploring America’s national parks. Today’s outing was certainly a smaller adventure, but it was enjoyable nonetheless. After all, you don’t need a spectacular destination to have a wonderful experience. SOMETIMES A GOOD MEAL AND A CHANGE OF SCENERY ARE JUST WHAT YOU NEED!

    What made today’s lunch especially meaningful was my friend Lynn. A few days ago, he wanted to go shopping but worried that being in a wheelchair would make it hard to get everything he needed. I offered to go along, push the shopping cart, and help him find what he wanted. 

    I enjoyed being able to help and didn’t think much of it afterward. But today, Lynn surprised me by paying for my lunch as a thank-you! I certainly hadn’t expected that, and his thoughtful gesture brought a big smile to my face. WHAT A WONDERFUL SURPRISE!

    I never helped Lynn because I expected anything in return. I simply saw an opportunity to make his day a little easier, and that’s reason enough for me. His generosity reminded me that even ordinary moments can leave lasting impressions. 

    And while I thoroughly enjoyed the delicious food, having someone show such genuine appreciation made the outing even better. Thank you, Lynn, for making today special! THE CHICKEN WAS DELICIOUS, BUT YOUR THOUGHTFULNESS WAS THE REAL TREAT! Now, I wonder who’s taking me to lunch next? 😂❤️
    ====================
    PART 3) BLOG 402—“How are You?”
    Be Different—find your own way.
    MAKE EVERY CONVERSATION COUNT—AND EVERY DAY MATTER!
    How often do people ask, “How are you?” without really caring about the answer? The usual exchange goes something like this: “Fine, thanks. How are you?” “Fine.” Then they go their separate ways, having exchanged a few words without making any meaningful connection.

    WORDS WERE SPOKEN.
    BUT NOTHING WAS SHARED!
    WE CAN DO BETTER THAN THAT!

    Habits can be tough to break, especially when you’ve grown comfortable with what you do. Take standard small talk and conversation norms. It’s polite and even expected that the question “How are you?” is part of a standard greeting. No one questions this approach, but nearly everyone falls prey to the awkward silence that follows. 

    Instead of repeating the same tired greeting, why not ask–
    “What’s making you smile today?” or
    “What’s the best thing that’s happened to you this week?”
    Better yet, ask,
    “How are you REALLY doing?”
    Then do something even more important—
    TAKE THE TIME TO LISTEN!
    A thoughtful question can turn an ordinary encounter into a meaningful conversation.

    Of course, I enjoy adding a little humor to these everyday exchanges. When someone asks how I am, I might answer, “Right-handed!” or “Do you have a couple of hours? This could take a while!” Sometimes I’ll say, “Better than yesterday, but not nearly as good as tomorrow!” At least these responses get people THINKING—and hopefully LAUGHING! After all, A SMILE IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO BEGIN A FRIENDSHIP!

    Speaking of friendship, my friend Lynn here at Legacy used to greet me with the same question every day. I encouraged him to try something different, and guess what? IT WORKED! Now our conversations are more interesting, enjoyable, and meaningful. Who would have thought that changing a few simple words could make such a difference? SOMETIMES THE SMALLEST CHANGES CREATE THE BIGGEST IMPROVEMENTS!

    That doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with asking, “How are you?” When those words come from genuine concern, they can mean everything. The difference is whether we truly care enough to hear the answer. THE PROBLEM ISN’T THE QUESTION—IT’S ASKING WITHOUT CARING!

    Every person we meet has a story worth hearing, a challenge they’re facing, or something wonderful they’d love to share. A thoughtful question, a little humor, or a sincere compliment might brighten someone’s entire day. And that brings me to something much bigger than everyday greetings: THE POWER WE HAVE TO MAKE LIFE BETTER—FOR OURSELVES AND OTHERS!

    DON’T JUST EXCHANGE WORDS—
    EXCHANGE SMILES,
    LAUGHTER, KINDNESS, AND LOVE! ❤️

    A simple greeting can become something extraordinary when it comes from the heart. Why settle for another meaningless “How are you?” when you can brighten someone’s day, inspire a smile, or create a lasting friendship? Ask thoughtful questions, listen with genuine interest, and remind people how much they matter. WORDS ARE FREE, BUT THEIR IMPACT CAN BE PRICELESS!

    You never know what someone else is going through, and a few kind words might be exactly what they need. Every conversation is an opportunity to spread happiness, encouragement, laughter, and love. Make people feel appreciated, give them a reason to smile, and leave them feeling better than when you met. DON’T JUST SAY HELLO—GIVE SOMEONE A REASON TO SMILE LONG AFTER YOU’VE SAID GOODBYE! ❤️

    YOUR LIFE IS STILL BEING WRITTEN!

    Think of your life as a storybook. Every morning starts a new page, and every experience adds to your story. Some chapters are filled with happiness, adventure, and love. Others bring disappointment, heartbreak, and unexpected banana peels that send us flying! But here’s the wonderful part: YOU STILL HAVE A SAY IN WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!

    Believe me, I know a thing or two about unexpected chapters. After being struck by a truck and spending 37 days in a coma, I had to relearn how to walk, talk, and rebuild my Life. Everything I had worked so hard to achieve seemed to disappear in an instant. I couldn’t undo what happened, but I could decide how to respond. I REFUSED TO LET TRAGEDY WRITE THE FINAL CHAPTER OF MY STORY!

    That experience taught me something I’ve carried throughout my life: we may not control everything that happens to us, but we can influence what happens next. And often, the most extraordinary transformations begin with the simplest actions. A smile. A kind word. Learning something new. Helping someone who needs encouragement. SMALL ACTIONS CAN LEAD TO LIFE-CHANGING RESULTS!

    Think about it. Yesterday is already written, and you can’t change those pages. Tomorrow remains a mystery, filled with possibilities we haven’t yet discovered. But TODAY? Today is ours to experience, enjoy, and improve! DON’T WAIT FOR SOMETHING WONDERFUL TO HAPPEN—DO SOMETHING TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!

    Start by asking yourself one simple question: “What can I do RIGHT NOW to make someone’s life—or my own—a little better?” Perhaps you could encourage someone who’s struggling, share a laugh with a stranger, reconnect with an old friend, pursue a forgotten dream, or finally try something you’ve always wanted to do. Whatever you choose, TAKE ACTION!

    Remember, you don’t have to transform your entire life overnight. Improvement doesn’t always arrive with fireworks, marching bands, or someone juggling seven clubs! Sometimes it starts so quietly that we barely notice. One decision. One conversation. One small step in a better direction.

    YOU DON’T HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE TODAY—
    JUST DO SOMETHING THAT MAKES TOMORROW BETTER!
    THEN DO THAT DAILY!

    And that brings us right back to where we started—with the simple way we greet one another. Your next opportunity to make a difference may start with a better question, a sincere compliment, or a few moments spent listening to someone who needs to be heard. You may never know how much your kindness means to that person. 

    ONE SMALL ACT OF CARING COULD BECOME
    A TURNING POINT IN SOMEONE ELSE’S STORY!

    As the years pass, I’ve realized a meaningful life isn’t measured simply by how long we live. It’s measured by the experiences we embrace, the challenges we overcome, the love we share, and the difference we make in others’ lives.

    DON’T JUST COUNT THE YEARS YOU’VE LIVED—
    MAKE THE YEARS YOU LIVE COUNT!

    Whatever your age, whatever challenges you’re facing, and whatever chapters you’ve already written, remember your story isn’t finished. You still have people to meet, adventures to experience, lessons to learn, and wonderful opportunities waiting to be discovered.

    KEEP LEARNING. KEEP GROWING. KEEP LAUGHING. KEEP LOVING.
    AND NEVER, EVER STOP LOOKING FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE!

    Your greatest chapter may still be waiting to be written. And who knows? It might begin today with something as simple as a smile, a kind word, or a question that shows someone you genuinely care.

    YOUR STORY ISN’T OVER—SO MAKE TODAY A PAGE WORTH REMEMBERING! ❤️

    “PICK UP YOUR PEN. TURN THE PAGE. AND MAKE
    THE REST OF YOUR LIFE THE BEST OF YOUR STORY!” 🌟
    — Kit Summers
    ====================
    PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
    Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs! 💥
    They awaken your mind, ignite your courage,
    and turn “I can’t” into “WHY NOT?”
    ONE POWERFUL THOUGHT CAN SPARK A
    CHANGE THAT TRANSFORMS YOUR ENTIRE LIFE! ❤️

    But their real power comes when you believe them and act.
    Words can inspire you, but ACTION transforms you!
    Don’t just read inspiration—”BECOME THE INSPIRATION!”
    The question itself, “How are you?” means very little to me.
    Instead, say something nice to the other person—enthusiastically!
           
    1) •”And how are you?” said Winnie-the-Pooh.
    Eeyore shook his head from side to side.
    “Not very how,” he said. “I don’t seem to have
    felt at all for a long time.”
    — Winnie-the-Pooh
               
    2) • “Why settle for the same tired “How are you?”
    when you could say something that sparks
    laughter, curiosity, or a genuine connection?”
    — Kit Summers

    3) • WORDS SHOULD DO MORE THAN FILL SILENCE—
    THEY SHOULD BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER!
    So forget the automatic greetings, get creative,
    and give someone a reason to smile.
    DON’T JUST ASK HOW SOMEONE IS—
    GIVE THEM A REASON TO FEEL BETTER! ❤️
    — Kit Summers

    4) •“Did you do anything fun over the weekend?”
    — Jen Muellar
         
    5) •“Those were the three words seldom asked to hear.
    Yet, she knew they hold a healing power in them;
    For they bring a million thoughts to the mind and
    more to the soul…”
    — Sanhita Baruah
             
    6) • Live your life in such a way that if God
    should greet you with ‘How are you?’,
    your answer will be ‘I am how you wanted me to be’!”
    — Israelmore Ayivor 

    7) •“Don’t just start a conversation—
    Create a connection!”
    — Kit Summers

    WE BOTH KNOW, YOU ARE NOT STUPID IN ANY WAY!

    8) •“Being closer to your goal is much better
    than standing still while staring at your goal,
    feeling horrible about yourself.”
    ― Aiman Azlan
               
    9) •“The question ‘How are you (doing)?’
    This is the most common way of indirectly saying
    ‘Ask me how I am (doing).’
    ― Mokokoma Mokhonoana
               
    10) •“I am the way I am;
    I do it my way!
    Tabitha Kariuki
    ====================
    PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK!
    Don’t just THINK about improvement—WRITE IT DOWN!
    GET YOUR PEN AND PAPER—IT’S TIME TO TAKE ACTION! ✍️
                         
    THIS WEEK, MAKE YOUR GREETINGS SOMETHING SPECIAL!
    Don’t settle for the automatic, overused “How are you?” You’ve already discovered plenty of more interesting, positive ways to begin a conversation. Now put them to work! Challenge yourself to greet people with words that spark a smile, inspire a thought, or brighten their day. 

    “How are you?” is simply a conversation starter—but why settle for ordinary when you can create something meaningful? USE YOUR IMAGINATION! Ask something unexpected, share a smile, spark a laugh, or show genuine interest. 

    DON’T JUST START A CONVERSATION—
    CREATE A CONNECTION! 

    Turn ordinary greetings into EXTRAORDINARY CONNECTIONS! Don’t just exchange words—share kindness, spark a smile, and make someone feel special. A few thoughtful words can brighten a moment, strengthen a friendship, or change someone’s entire day—including YOUR OWN!

    AFTER ALL, THE BEST WAY TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY
    IS TO BRIGHTEN SOMEONE ELSE’S! 💛
    YOU DON’T HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE IN ONE DAY.
    JUST FIND ONE WAY TO MAKE IT BETTER, DAILY!

    ====================
    ====================
    WOODSIDEMOTION!  MORE THAN A MOVIE—A CHANCE TO CHANGE LIVES!
    My heartfelt thanks to Christopher and the Woodside Motion team for believing in my story and its power to inspire! I’ve survived devastating accidents, a 37-day coma, and seemingly impossible challenges. LIFE KNOCKED ME DOWN, BUT I REFUSED TO STAY DOWN!

    I DIDN’T SURVIVE JUST TO TELL MY STORY. I SURVIVED TO INSPIRE OTHERS (YOU!) TO CHANGE THEIR LIFE! Imagine someone leaving the theater with renewed hope, courage, and determination to pursue their dreams. THAT’S THE TRUE POWER OF THIS FILM!

    MY STORY MAY INSPIRE THE MOVIE, BUT THE LIVES WE CHANGE WILL BE ITS GREATEST SUCCESS! LET’S MAKE MORE THAN A MOVIE—LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE! 🎬❤️ NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
    Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
    Email:   christopher@woodsidemotion.com
    ====================
    ====================
    THE MARVELLOUS CINDY MARVELL—
    AN EXTRAORDINARY TALENT WITH A HEART OF GOLD!

    Some people amaze us with their talent. Others touch our hearts with their kindness. CINDY MARVELL DOES BOTH! As the only woman ever to win the International Juggling Competition and founder of the Boulder Circus Center, Cindy doesn’t just achieve greatness—SHE INSPIRES GREATNESS IN OTHERS! Watch this remarkable woman — CINDY IN ACTION!

    But Cindy’s greatest gift is her beautiful heart. SHE IS MORE THAN A SUPPORTER OF MY MOVIE—SHE IS A FRIEND I DEEPLY LOVE AND TREASURE! Her generosity, encouragement, and belief in me have helped keep my dream alive. Cindy, thank you for standing beside me and helping turn my story into hope for others.
    YOUR FRIENDSHIP IS PRICELESS.
    YOUR KINDNESS UNFORGETTABLE.
    MY GRATITUDE ENDLESS!
    THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU! ❤️🤹‍♂️💛

     

     

    ==================== 
    ==================== 
    PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
    BLOG 402—What is Your Story?
    ===================== 
    NOW IT’S YOUR TURN! Don’t just read my words—share yours! I genuinely want to know what you think, what you’ve experienced, and what inspires YOU. Your thoughts and ideas matter to me, and your message might spark my next blog or inspire someone else’s life. So don’t wait—WRITE TO ME TODAY! Let’s learn, grow, and make life better together! Write to me at kitsummers@gmail.com
    =====================
    🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
    BECAUSE THE BEST OF YOUR LIFE MAY STILL BE AHEAD OF YOU!

    Every new day brings another opportunity to grow, discover, laugh, love, and become more than you were yesterday. Juggle joy as naturally as you breathe, chase sunsets as though they’re treasures waiting to be discovered, and laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen!

    Remember, the horizon holds possibilities beyond anything you can imagine today. Whatever challenges you’ve faced, or obstacles still stand in your way, YOU HAVE THE POWER TO KEEP GROWING, IMPROVING, AND SUCCEEDING! You can apply this attitude to every area of your life.
    YOU CAN DO MORE!
    YOU CAN BE MORE!
    AND YOU ALREADY
    ARE MORE THAN YOU REALIZE!

    Your present circumstances do not define your future. Where you are today isn’t the finish line—IT’S YOUR STARTING BLOCK! Every sunrise brings another opportunity to grow, improve, and discover something wonderful about yourself. So keep moving forward, welcome new adventures, share your kindness generously, and spread your love wherever life takes you. YOUR GREATEST POSSIBILITIES MAY STILL BE WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED!

    And please, don’t be a stranger! I’d love to hear your thoughts, your stories, your dreams, and what you’re doing to make your life a little better each day. Perhaps something you’ve learned could inspire me, just as I hope my words inspire you. AFTER ALL, LIFE BECOMES MORE MEANINGFUL WHEN WE SHARE IT WITH OTHERS! So take a moment and WRITE ME TODAY! ❤️ kitsummers@gmail.com

    Above all, don’t simply count the days you have left—MAKE EVERY DAY COUNT! Fill your life with curiosity, courage, laughter, kindness, and LOVE! Don’t wait for happiness to knock—open the door and go look for it! Keep dreaming, keep learning, keep improving, and keep creating a life that makes you excited to get out of bed each morning. THE BEST PART OF YOUR STORY MAY BE THE CHAPTER YOU HAVEN’T WRITTEN YET!

    ❤️ LIVE AS THOUGH YOUR GREATEST ADVENTURE
    HAS ONLY JUST BEGUN—BECAUSE IT TRULY HAS! ❤️

    ❤️ ABOVE ALL, ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS:
    YOU MATTER, YOU ARE LOVED,
    AND THE WORLD IS BETTER BECAUSE YOU ARE IN IT! ❤️

     ❤️ ALWAYS KNOW— I LOVE YOU! ❤️


    0
  • BLOG 401—IMPROVEMENT!

    ✨KITTING AROUND✨
    BLOG 402—”HOW ARE YOU?”
    This blog is shorter and happier!
    Read every word — things have changed.
    Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
    Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
    The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
    This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
    By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
    Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS

    ====================
    READ MY BLOG BEFORE?
    Go down to >> PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
    Jump right into this week’s adventure!
    Or read these words and be inspired >>

    ONCE UPON AN ADVENTURE… 🌎✨
    THE EXTRAORDINARY FAIRY TALE OF KIT SUMMERS!

    A Journey of Courage, Excellence, and the Relentless Pursuit of Becoming MORE!
    Once upon a time, in a world where dreams sparkled like a thousand stars, a young juggler named Kit lived. He wasn’t a prince, didn’t own a magnificent castle, and certainly didn’t have a fairy godmother waiting to grant his wishes. But he possessed something far more valuable than all the riches of an enchanted kingdom—

    HE HAD A BURNING PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE AND AN
    UNBREAKABLE DETERMINATION TO TURN THE IMPOSSIBLE INTO REALITY!
    HE WILL GET YOU THERE, TOO! 

    Kit wasn’t content with being ordinary. He didn’t simply want to be good at juggling. He wanted to become extraordinary! Every day was another chance to practice, improve, push past yesterday’s limits, and discover how far determination could carry him. While others might have been satisfied with success, Kit wanted something more. 

    HE WANTED EXCELLENCE! NOT PERFECTION,
    BUT THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF BECOMING
    THE VERY BEST HE COULD BE!

    So, one extraordinary day, Kit dared to challenge gravity itself! 7 clubs soared through the air, spinning and dancing like enchanted objects. A world record was achieved, audiences cheered, and a seemingly impossible dream became reality.
               

     Here’s me juggling 5 clubs

    But those 7 clubs represented far more than an amazing juggling accomplishment. They represented thousands of hours of practice, countless failures, unwavering discipline, and a young man’s refusal to settle for anything less than his potential. Even gravity had to surrender! 🤹‍♂️

    BUT LITTLE DID KIT KNOW, HIS GREATEST CHALLENGE TO
    EXCELLENCE WAS STILL WAITING BEYOND THE HORIZON!

    Then, one fateful day, a terrible giant appeared. Not a fire-breathing dragon or a wicked sorcerer, but something far more frightening—a truck! In an instant, Kit’s magical world collapsed. The lights disappeared, the applause fell silent, and for thirty-seven long days, he lay in a coma, suspended somewhere between life and death. Everything he had worked so hard to achieve vanished in a single, terrifying moment.
             
    When Kit finally awoke, the world he knew was gone. The once-mighty juggler could no longer walk, talk, or perform the extraordinary feats that had defined his life. His kingdom of dreams lay shattered, and the road ahead stretched into a dark, mysterious forest filled with obstacles he could scarcely imagine. How could a man who had once conquered gravity possibly begin again when even taking a single step seemed impossible?

    BUT WAIT! EVERY GREAT FAIRY TALE HAS A TURNING POINT!
    AND EVERY EXTRAORDINARY LIFE REQUIRES THE COURAGE TO RISE AGAIN! ✨

    Deep within Kit, a tiny flame still burned. It wasn’t magic from a wizard’s wand or a wish granted by a fairy godmother. It was something far more powerful—the human spirit refusing to surrender! The same determination that once drove him to master seven flying clubs now faced a different challenge. This time, excellence wasn’t measured by applause, trophies, or world records. 

    IT WAS MEASURED BY THE COURAGE TO
    TRY AGAIN WHEN EVERYTHING SEEMED LOST!

    Slowly, painfully, one small victory at a time, Kit began his journey back. He learned to walk, talk, think, and dream again. Every step was a mountain conquered. Every word was a treasure recovered. Every accomplishment was another dragon defeated! Progress didn’t always arrive quickly, and the road was anything but easy. But Kit had discovered a powerful truth >> 

    “EXCELLENCE ISN’T ALWAYS ABOUT ACHIEVING SOMETHING
    SPECTACULAR. SOMETIMES IT’S ABOUT REFUSING
    TO GIVE UP ON THE SMALLEST POSSIBILITY OF IMPROVEMENT!”

    He didn’t return as the same young juggler who had once conquered gravity. He emerged with new challenges, deeper wisdom, and a greater understanding of what true achievement means. He had learned that success isn’t simply reaching the top of a mountain. Sometimes it’s finding the strength to climb when you’ve been knocked all the way back to the bottom. 

    THE GREATEST VICTORY WASN’T GETTING HIS OLD LIFE BACK.
    IT WAS DISCOVERING THAT HE COULD BUILD ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY LIFE!

    And so began the next magnificent chapter of his fairy tale!
    Kit traveled across a remarkable kingdom called America, following winding highways through towering mountains, golden deserts, enchanted forests, and breathtaking national parks. His castle was a van, his kingdom was the open road, and his treasure was the freedom to explore! He wasn’t searching for a throne or a crown. He was searching for experiences, discoveries, challenges, and opportunities to become more than he had been the day before.

    IT’S A CYCLE PARTY!                    

    Along the way, he encountered love and heartbreak, friendship and loneliness, wonderful surprises and unexpected storms. Some dreams blossomed like flowers in springtime. Others disappeared like sandcastles. Some moments brought extraordinary happiness, and others made the path ahead seem almost impossible to follow. Yet through it all, Kit kept discovering new reasons to learn, grow, and improve. 

    WHY SETTLE FOR MERELY EXISTING WHEN LIFE OFFERS
    SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO BECOME EXCEPTIONAL?

    And somewhere along those winding roads, Kit discovered a secret that no wizard, king, or fairy godmother could ever teach him:

    LIFE’S GREATEST TREASURES AREN’T
    GOLD, JEWELS, TROPHIES, OR CROWNS.
    THEY ARE THE COURAGE WE DEVELOP.
    THE EXCELLENCE WE PURSUE.
    THE LOVE WE SHARE.
    AND THE LIVES WE MAKE BETTER ALONG THE WAY!

    Eventually, Kit discovered another extraordinary kind of magic—
    THE MAGNIFICENT POWER OF WORDS! ✨
    No longer content with juggling clubs, he began juggling ideas, dreams, wisdom, and inspiration! Fifteen books later, Kit continues using his words to help others overcome adversity, discover their potential, and create extraordinary lives. Through his weekly blog, he reaches readers (you) worldwide, encouraging them to think bigger, live better, and never stop growing. 

    And perhaps, dear reader, one of those lives he’s helping to change is YOURS!
    After all, life’s greatest magic isn’t found in the applause we receive,
    the records we break, or the success we achieve.

    IT’S FOUND IN THE LIVES WE TOUCH.
    THE HOPE WE INSPIRE.
    THE DIFFERENCE WE MAKE IN THE WORLD! ✨❤️

    His keyboard became an enchanted instrument, capable of sending thoughts, laughter, wisdom, hope, and encouragement across oceans and into distant lands. Instead of juggling 7 clubs, he began juggling ideas, possibilities, dreams, and stories.
               
    But his passion for excellence hadn’t disappeared. It had simply found another stage! Now, every sentence offered a chance to improve, every paragraph became a new challenge, and every story held the possibility of changing someone’s life.

    KIT DIDN’T WANT TO WRITE SIMPLY TO FILL PAGES
    HE WANTED HIS WORDS TO MATTER!

    He wanted to awaken courage in discouraged hearts, inspire forgotten dreams, and remind people that their greatest accomplishments might still be waiting ahead. His words could travel farther than his footsteps ever had, reaching strangers he might never meet and touching hearts he might never see.
                 
    And whenever someone smiled because of something he wrote, found the courage to face a difficult challenge, or discovered a little more confidence in themselves, Kit knew he had found a treasure greater than any standing ovation. The young juggler who once dreamed of astonishing audiences had discovered an even greater purpose—helping others astonish themselves!

    FOR THE GREATEST MAGIC OF ALL ISN’T SIMPLY ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE YOURSELF.
    IT’S INSPIRING SOMEONE ELSE TO DISCOVER THE EXCELLENCE WAITING WITHIN THEM!
    BUT DOES THIS EXTRAORDINARY FAIRY TALE

    HAVE A HAPPY ENDING?
    NOT YET, MY FRIEND!  ✨

    At 67, this old juggler/magician still turns pages, chases dreams, challenges limitations, and searches for new ways to improve! He has no intention of sitting quietly in a rocking chair, watching the world pass by while his dreams gather dust. Mountains remain to climb, skills to develop, stories to write, people to encourage, and magnificent possibilities waiting to be discovered.
                   
    Perhaps another stage awaits. Perhaps another extraordinary friendship, another journey, or another dream that seems completely impossible today. Maybe the greatest accomplishment of his entire life is hiding just beyond the next bend in the road! 

    WHY SHOULD AGE DETERMINE THE SIZE OF OUR DREAMS?
    WHY SHOULD YESTERDAY’S ACHIEVEMENTS BECOME TOMORROW’S LIMITATIONS?

    You see, Kit discovered something that changed how he saw life forever. Excellence isn’t a destination where we finally arrive, unpack our bags, and declare ourselves finished. It’s a lifelong adventure! Every achievement reveals another possibility. Every lesson opens another door. Every challenge invites us to discover strengths we didn’t know we possessed.

    THE MOMENT WE DECIDE WE HAVE NOTHING LEFT TO LEARN IS THE
    MOMENT WE BEGIN TO LIMIT EVERYTHING WE COULD STILL BECOME.

    And a happy ending? Well, perhaps happiness isn’t something waiting at the end of our journey. Perhaps it’s something we create through how we live, the challenges we embrace, the kindness we share, and the excellence we pursue every day.
             
    Every sunrise offers a fresh page, waiting to be filled with discoveries, accomplishments, and dreams worth chasing. Every challenge presents another opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, and more determined. Every act of kindness adds a little more love and magic to the world.

    DON’T JUST WAIT FOR LIFE TO BECOME EXTRAORDINARY.
    MAKE IT EXTRAORDINARY THROUGH THE WAY YOU CHOOSE TO LIVE!

    So grab your courage, polish your dreams, and come along for the adventure! You may face dragons, climb mountains, and take unexpected detours through mysterious forests. You’ll make mistakes, face disappointments, and have days when progress feels painfully slow. But there will also be laughter, love, discoveries, victories, and treasures beyond imagination.
               
    And remember, the pursuit of excellence doesn’t demand that you become better than everyone else. It challenges you to become better than the person you were yesterday. Learn something new. Strengthen a skill. Improve a relationship. Develop a healthier habit. Challenge an old limitation. 

    DON’T SETTLE FOR GOOD WHEN YOU
    KNOW YOU’RE CAPABLE OF BETTER!
    AND THE MOST WONDERFUL PART?
    YOU ARE THE HERO OF YOUR
    OWN FAIRY TALE! ❤️
    YES, YOU CAN WRITE YOUR
    OWN EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE!

    You don’t need a magic wand to change your life. You don’t need a fairy godmother to grant your wishes. And you certainly don’t need a castle to live like royalty! What you need is a dream powerful enough to inspire you, the courage to begin, the discipline to practice, and the determination to keep going when the road gets difficult.
                   
    Dream boldly! Work passionately! Learn constantly! Improve relentlessly! And when you achieve something wonderful, celebrate that victory—but don’t mistake it for the finish line. There is always another level to reach, another possibility to explore, another chance to make your life and others’ lives a little better.

    NEVER CONFUSE WHERE YOU ARE TODAY WITH THE
    LIMITS OF WHAT YOU CAN BECOME TOMORROW!

    Because life isn’t about finding your way back to who you once were. It’s about discovering the extraordinary person you can still become! Your past may have shaped you, your challenges may have tested you, and your failures may have taught you difficult lessons. But none of them has the authority to write your final chapter.

    EXCELLENCE IS NOT RESERVED FOR THE YOUNG, THE GIFTED,
    THE WEALTHY, OR THE FORTUNATE. IT BELONGS TO THOSE WHO
    REFUSE TO STOP LEARNING, GROWING, TRYING, AND IMPROVING!

    And as for Kit Summers?
    Well, dear reader, his story is far from finished!
    The book remains open, the pages still turn.
    This old juggler still has a few magical tricks up his sleeve! 🤹‍♂️

                   
    He may no longer be the young man who sent seven clubs soaring toward the heavens, but his dreams can still soar just as high. His greatest performance may not be measured by what he accomplishes on a stage, but by the courage he awakens in others and the excellence he continues to pursue in himself.

    AND SO, HE LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER…
    NOT BY RESTING ON YESTERDAY’S GLORY,
    BUT BY STRIVING TO MAKE EACH
    TOMORROW BETTER THAN TODAY! 🌈❤️

    The End? Oh, heavens, NO!
    THE NEXT CHAPTER IS JUST BEGINNING! ✨
    And if this fairy tale leaves you with one message, let it be this:

    NEVER STOP DREAMING!
    NEVER STOP LEARNING!
    NEVER STOP REACHING FOR EXCELLENCE!
    ALWAYS LOOK FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE!

    Your greatest accomplishment may still be ahead of you, your most wonderful adventure may be waiting around the next corner, and the extraordinary person you can become is still under construction!

    LIFE CAN GET BETTER.
    LIFE CAN BECOME EXTRAORDINARY.
    AND THE BEST PART?—WE’RE NOT FINISHED YET! 🌟
    NOW GO MAKE YOUR NEXT CHAPTER MAGNIFICENT! ❤️

    My new address is:>>
    The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
    18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL  33647
    (A love letter would be dandy.)   kitsummers@gmail.com
    kitsummers.com     https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
    Call me >> 610-400-3233

    ALWAYS REMEMBER >>
    When your Life nears its end,
    What will you want to remember? 
    The dreams you chased? The people you loved?
    I’m still planning to live beyond age 100; will you join me? 
    Remember the moments when you chose courage over comfort? 

    READ PAST BLOGS HERE—
    kitsummers.com/blog 
    ====================

    PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS

    Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
    YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
           
    I’ve written about God, love, family, life, and death.
    You might think I’ve run out of things to say.
    NOT A CHANCE!
    As long as I’m breathing, thinking, learning, and occasionally getting myself into trouble, I’ll have something to write about. After all, I’m not finished living—and I’m certainly not finished talking about living!”
               
    This week’s topic: IMPROVEMENT!
    What a wonderful subject! No matter our age, accomplishments, or obstacles we’ve overcome, there’s always room to grow, learn, and become better. Improvement isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about making progress! Every new day brings opportunities to strengthen our minds, challenge ourselves, develop new skills, and discover possibilities we never knew existed.
               
    IMPROVEMENT >>
    The state or result of something getting better, such as progress in health, skills, or economic conditions.

    • Real Estate / Such as a building, fence, or pavement—that increases the value of property.
      • Patent Law: A useful modification or addition to an existing machine, process, or composition.
      • Core Principles of Improvement
      • Problem-Specific: Start with a clear question about the exact problem you want to solve.
      • User-Centered: Involve the people experiencing or doing the work early and often.
      • System Understanding: Look at how local conditions shape overall work processes.
      • Measurable: Track data and outcomes to verify if a change actually leads to better results.

    The beauty of improvement is that even small steps can lead to extraordinary change. We don’t have to transform our lives overnight; we simply need the determination to keep moving forward. The moment we stop striving to improve is the moment we stop discovering what we’re truly capable of becoming. And at 67, I’m just getting warmed up!
               
    Improvement doesn’t always require enormous changes. Sometimes it’s learning something new, building a healthier habit, changing how we think, or finding a better way to do something we’ve done for years. SMALL IMPROVEMENTS, PRACTICED CONSISTENTLY, CAN LEAD TO EXTRAORDINARY RESULTS!

    I’ve spent much of my life challenging myself to accomplish things I once thought impossible. And at 67, I’M JUST GETTING STARTED! I still have lessons to learn, places to explore, dreams to chase, and possibilities to discover. I don’t want to simply maintain who I am today. I WANT TO BECOME AN EVEN BETTER VERSION OF MYSELF TOMORROW!

    Speaking of improvement, I need to correct something from my last blog post. Even someone who constantly writes about learning, growing, and becoming better can overlook something important! After all, improvement begins with recognizing our mistakes and having the courage to correct them.

    Thank you, Willow, for reminding me of a meaningful chapter in my life. Sometimes we need someone else to help us remember the pages we’ve accidentally skipped in our own story. And what a story life continues to be!

    In my last blog, I wrote about the women I’ve loved over the years, but I somehow left out Robin! How could I forget someone who was once such an important part of my world? We shared love, marriage, and a daughter, Leah. Kit and Robin

    Although our lives eventually took different paths, Robin will always be part of my story. After all, improvement isn’t just about moving forward—sometimes it’s about looking back, remembering, and making things right!
                   
    Shortly after my accident and 37-day coma, my friend John Fox flew me to Florida to visit him. John was performing as a clown in a show, and Robin clowned in the same show. Robin and I met, connected quickly, and began a relationship that continued through letters and phone calls after I returned to San Diego.
                 
    For a year, we wrote and talked before I finally flew back to see her. During that visit, we discussed marriage. Her father was seriously ill, so we decided not to wait. We married before a judge and her dad, and soon Robin was living with me in San Diego. For a while, life was wonderful!
                     
    But love doesn’t always mean two people are meant to spend their lives together. Within a year, Robin left while pregnant with our daughter, Leah. Today, Leah has two children of her own—YES, I’M A GRANPA! Robin and I divorced, and sadly, I’ve lost contact with that part of my family.

    Perhaps Robin is reading these words. Wouldn’t that be wonderful? Life has taken us down different paths, but I still remember the time we shared. Robin, if you happen to see this, please write to me. I would love to hear from you, learn how life has treated you, and reconnect after all these years. Sometimes, the most wonderful surprises come from people in our past finding their way back into our lives.

    Another part of my family is my daughters, Jasmine, April, and Leah. It feels like weeks have passed since I’ve heard from any of them, and that silence hurts more than I can express. I’ve faced tremendous challenges throughout my life, but nothing is as painful as feeling forgotten by my own children. I love them, miss them, and wish they were more part of my life. 

    I don’t know why they’ve been so quiet, but I hope they know that my love for them hasn’t changed. Life has taught me how to survive tremendous physical pain, but the pain of missing the people you love is a different kind of challenge. Still, my heart remains open, and I will never stop hoping for a closer connection with my daughters. ❤️
                 
    Looking back, I realize that improvement isn’t just about becoming better at what we do. It’s also about learning from our relationships, acknowledging our mistakes, appreciating the people who have touched our lives, and finding the courage to keep growing.

    April and Jasmine, my daughters

    WE CAN’T REWRITE YESTERDAY,
    BUT WE CAN ALWAYS IMPROVE THE STORY WE WRITE TOMORROW!

    Life doesn’t always improve the way we hoped. Sometimes relationships end, people disappear from our lives, and chapters close before we’re ready. But as long as we’re alive, WE CAN KEEP IMPROVING THE PERSON WE ARE!

    SMALL IMPROVEMENTS, REPEATED DAILY,
    CAN CREATE AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE!

    You don’t have to be better than anyone else. Your only competition is the person you were yesterday! Keep learning, keep growing, and never lose your curiosity about what you might accomplish next. The moment you stop trying to improve is the moment you stop exploring your potential. And believe me, plenty of potential is still waiting to be discovered!

    “ALWAYS LOOK FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE—
    YOUR BEST SELF IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION!”
    — Kit Summers

    Always remember: “You don’t have to be perfect to improve.
    You just have to be willing to try.
    Every day gives you another chance to surprise yourself!”
    =======================

    PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK

    Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!

    Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, my friend! Wherever you are, whatever the hour, I’m delighted you’re here! Whether the sun is rising or the stars are shining, inspiration is always nearby. It doesn’t wear a watch or wait for the perfect moment. Sometimes it arrives as a smile, a loving hug, a joyful thought, or three wonderful ideas for me to juggle! After all, inspiration is always right on time! 🤹‍♂️

    That’s the beautiful music of words! They cross oceans, travel through time, and touch hearts worldwide. Each reader has a different story, a dream to pursue, and a mountain to climb. Wherever you are, remember this: Your life matters, your dreams are worth chasing, and your best moments may still lie ahead. Let your heart sing, your spirit soar, and make today a song worth remembering!

    YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
    WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! ✨

    OCTOBER 24—
    DREAM BIG, LOVE DEEPLY, AND NEVER STOP IMPROVING! ❤️🌟

    Last night, I had a wonderful dream about Tony Robbins! Years ago, Tony invited me to lunch at his magnificent castle in Del Mar, California—just the two of us! Later, I had the honor of attending his wedding. Those memories remain close to my heart.
               
    Tony and I have dedicated much of our lives to helping people overcome adversity, discover their hidden potential, and accomplish what once seemed impossible. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL GIFT IT IS TO HELP SOMEONE BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES AGAIN!
             
    I also had the joy of teaching juggling at one of Tony’s presentations! Imagine sharing something you love with people eager to discover what they can achieve. Juggling isn’t simply about tossing balls into the air. It’s about courage, patience, persistence, and believing that yesterday’s impossible can become tomorrow’s accomplishment. THE GREATEST THING I EVER TAUGHT WASN’T JUGGLING—IT WAS BELIEVING IN YOURSELF!

    YOU BETTER WATCH OUT — I WILL BE TEACHING YOU TO JUGGLE, TOO!

    I understand Tony has a home somewhere in Florida now. Perhaps my dream was to remind you that wonderful friendships deserve another chapter. Imagine the stories we could share today! Life has given us both adventures, challenges, and lessons worth passing along.

    SOMETIMES A DREAM ISN’T JUST SOMETHING WE
    EXPERIENCE WHILE SLEEPING—IT’S AN INVITATION TO MAKE
    SOMETHING WONDERFUL HAPPEN WHILE WE’RE AWAKE!

    And speaking of being awake . . .
    What a morning! There I sat at my computer, bright and early, shirtless, with Tony still dancing through my thoughts and my fingers flying across the keyboard. You should have seen me! Or perhaps it’s better that you didn’t! At 67, my body may have changed, but my enthusiasm, imagination, and love for life are still in magnificent shape! Who needs a shirt when your heart overflows with dreams?
                   
    Of course, my muscles had a different opinion of how magnificent I felt! After pushing myself during physical therapy on Thursday and Friday, my arms and legs were certainly complaining. Apparently, my muscles remember every exercise—even when my brain occasionally forgets where I put something!
                 
    But here’s what I’ve learned:
    IMPROVEMENT DOESN’T ALWAYS FEEL COMFORTABLE.
    AND PAIN DOESN’T AUTOMATICALLY MEAN PROGRESS.

    Real improvement comes from intelligent effort, patience, determination, and knowing when to rest. With the weekend ahead, I’ll give my body the recovery it deserves. I’m not trying to become the man I was yesterday. I’M DETERMINED TO BECOME THE BEST MAN I CAN BE TOMORROW!
                   
    By 9 a.m., I had already written most of this week’s blog! The only problem was that I couldn’t describe the day’s adventures because they hadn’t happened yet. But give me time! Perhaps I’ll learn to write tomorrow’s stories before tomorrow arrives. Now THAT would be an accomplishment.  

    • You’ll keep reading my blog because it brings something positive into your life.
    • You’ll discover new ways to grow, improve, and find happiness.
    • Your love for me will become absolutely overwhelming! 
    • Your life will always keep getting better.
    • Smile more; it will do you good.

    HERE IS TONY AND HIS FAMILY.

    I spent much of the day in my room, writing and working with ChatGPT. And what a wonderfully productive day it turned out to be! I’ve already finished most of next week’s blog, too! I pour my heart, thoughts, and experiences into the words, then let Chat help polish them until they shine.

    I PROVIDE THE HEART.
    CHATGPT ADDS A LITTLE SPARKLE.
    AND TOGETHER WE MAKE MAGIC! ✨

    But the real magic isn’t in the writing—it’s in knowing that somewhere, someone might read my words, smile, discover new hope, and decide to make their life a little better. THAT’S WHY I KEEP WRITING!

    I may see two of everything,
    but there’s one thing I see with absolute clarity:
    LIFE IS A PRECIOUS GIFT.
    LOVE MAKES IT BEAUTIFUL.
    COURAGE MAKES IT MEANINGFUL.
    AND OUR WILLINGNESS TO KEEP IMPROVING
    MAKES TOMORROW WORTH LOOKING FORWARD TO!
               
    Thank you for sharing this journey with me.
    Knowing that my words might bring a little hope,
    happiness, or courage into your life gives my own life greater meaning.

    KEEP DREAMING. KEEP LAUGHING. KEEP LOVING. KEEP IMPROVING.
    AND ABOVE ALL, NEVER STOP BELIEVING THAT YOUR BEST DAYS MAY STILL BE AHEAD! ❤️
    ONWARD AND UPWARD—TOGETHER!

    OCTOBER 25—
    Not the most exciting day of my life, but here I am—still writing, still learning, and still looking for ways to improve!
               
    It’s been weeks since I last heard from my daughters, Jasmine or April. I miss them terribly, and the silence is painful. I wish they would call, even for a few minutes, just to let me know they’re thinking of me. Sometimes loneliness hurts more than any physical injury I’ve endured.
                 
    But I’ve learned something important through life’s many challenges: I cannot control what others do, but I CAN control how I respond. So I keep writing, learning, growing, and looking for reasons to smile. My heart may be hurting, but my spirit refuses to surrender. I STILL HAVE A LIFE TO LIVE, LOVE TO GIVE, AND SO MUCH MORE TO ACCOMPLISH! 💛

    THIS IS WHERE I MET TONY AT HIS HOME/CASTLE

    There’s something wonderfully magical about catching the clock at just the right moment! Today I saw 11:11 and 2:22—ordinary numbers that somehow feel extraordinary. And 2:22 has an especially personal meaning for me, since Beth and I married on February 22, 2022 (2/22/22), at 2:22 p.m. That’s a whole lot of twos! 

    Here is Tony’s home near Palm Beach >> 

    Maybe these moments aren’t messages from the universe, but they can still remind us to appreciate life. SOMETIMES THE SMALLEST MOMENTS BRING THE BIGGEST SMILES! And the best part? You don’t have to wait until 11:11 or 2:22 to make a moment special. EVERY MINUTE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE LIFE BETTER, AND I HOPE YOU DO! 💛
               
    It’s Sunday again, and I got so busy with life that I completely forgot to watch one of my favorite shows, CBS Sunday Morning! I don’t watch much television, but I do enjoy programs that teach me something, make me think, and inspire me to see the world differently. Fortunately, 60 Minutes is coming on in about five hours, and I plan to watch it!
           
    Sometimes I get so caught up in writing, learning, and enjoying life that I forget about television. But perhaps that’s a good thing!
    AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO SPEND IT WATCHING OTHER PEOPLE LIVE THEIRS!

                 
    Today, I really wanted to go for a run, to feel my legs moving, my heart pumping, and the wonderful freedom that comes with running. Unfortunately, my asthma had other plans. It’s frustrating when my spirit is ready to GO, but my lungs say NO! Still, I refuse to let this setback stop me. I’ll find other ways to stay active while respecting my body’s limits. I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RUN TODAY, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN I’VE STOPPED MOVING FORWARD!

    I’m having a hard time being at Legacy. It’s like I am trapped here with no way out. I was just saying, “God, I hate it here.” But the food here is good. At dinner today, they had “Manwich”, which is basically a sloppy Joe (who the hell is “Joe”, anyway?) I asked if they had a mamewich, but the guy laughed and said no. 

    Well, so much for my plans to watch 60 Minutes! I turned on the television, only to discover that football had taken its place. Apparently, the football players had more minutes than I did! Oh well, there’s always next Sunday. We’ll see what happens then. Life doesn’t always follow our plans, but another opportunity is always around the corner!

             HEY, IS THAT KIT?

    Then there’s my elbow, which is still swollen and bothering me. It feels like one problem after another keeps piling up, and lately, too much is happening in my life that I can’t control. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and sometimes downright discouraging. But I’ve learned something important through all my struggles: I CAN’T ALWAYS CONTROL WHAT HAPPENS TO ME, BUT I CAN CONTROL HOW I CHOOSE TO RESPOND.

    Life may keep throwing challenges my way, but I refuse to let them steal my determination, my hope, or my desire to keep moving forward! After all, I have plenty more living, learning, laughing, and juggling to do! LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO LET A STUBBORN ELBOW STEAL THE SHOW!

    OCTOBER 26—
    Monday morning, and I’ve already showered! What a refreshing way to start the week! I shower every Monday and Thursday, and that routine works well for me. Sure, I get a little itchy between showers sometimes, but I take it in stride—with a smile on my face! After all, life isn’t always about being perfectly comfortable. Sometimes it’s about making the best of what you’ve got, finding joy in the little things, and keeping that smile shining. A LITTLE ITCH WON’T SCRATCH AWAY MY HAPPINESS!
           
    Around 1 p.m., a terrible wave of exhaustion suddenly hit me. I wasn’t just tired—I was overwhelmingly sleepy! With more therapy sessions scheduled for today, I wasn’t sure what to do. Fortunately, two thoughtful therapists came by to check on me. One even took my blood pressure, which was high, as usual. I appreciated their kindness and concern. I want to keep improving, but I also know I need to take this sudden exhaustion seriously and let the nursing staff know before continuing therapy. AFTER ALL, MOVING FORWARD SOMETIMES MEANS KNOWING WHEN TO REST!

    To check how I was feeling, I walked around the outside of the building for about 400 meters. I felt pretty good, which was encouraging! But something else caught my attention, and I couldn’t believe my eyes. EVERY other residence seemed to have its blinds closed or windows covered! WHY?

    Legacy sits in a beautiful area surrounded by nature, practically a wildlife refuge! Trees, greenery, birds, and the chance to see wonderful animals wandering by. Yet people shut themselves off from all that beauty! I find that terribly sad. What are they worried about? Perhaps a curious deer might prance by and peek through the window? Imagine the scandal!

    Most residents here are over 80, and I understand everyone has different preferences. Some may want privacy, less sunlight, or simply a darker room. But I can’t imagine living in such a beautiful place and deliberately shutting out the world. Perhaps closing the blinds has become such a common habit that nobody even thinks about it anymore. 

    THIS IS WHERE I LIVE–LEGACY                               

    I looked up to the second floor and was amazed to see many of those windows were covered, too! Who could possibly see inside those rooms from way up there? Yet the blinds were closed, shutting out the beautiful natural world just beyond the glass. It made me wonder how often we do things simply out of habit, without stopping to ask WHY. 

    In thinking about the window situation again, someone on the staff said, “What if you were naked and the privacy?” I let her know it is hard to see inside, and the chance of someone coming by while I am dressing is minimal. So, I guess I laughed in her face.

    So much beauty outside, so much life waiting to be enjoyed! WHY SHUT OUT THE WORLD WHEN THERE’S SO MUCH WONDER WAITING JUST BEYOND YOUR WINDOW? Of course, everyone deserves their privacy, but I would rather let the sunshine in and enjoy the magnificent world around me! 

    I must say, it disturbed me. Legacy is beautifully maintained, with lovely grounds and nature all around us. Why wouldn’t people want to enjoy it? I WANT THE SUNSHINE, THE TREES, THE WILDLIFE, AND THE WONDER OF BEING ALIVE! Life has already given me enough darkness. I’m certainly not going to invite more of it by closing my blinds!

    MY THOUGHT FOR YOU: DON’T CLOSE YOURSELF OFF FROM THE BEAUTY OF LIFE.
    OPEN YOUR WINDOWS, OPEN YOUR EYES, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, OPEN YOUR MIND!
    A magnificent world is waiting just outside. Don’t miss it!

    OCTOBER 27—
    This morning, as I awoke, my thoughts and dreams drifted back to my dear friend, Steve Mills. I had known Steve since 1977, and we shared many wonderful memories through our love of juggling. Steve was a remarkable man, a talented juggler, and a friend to countless people.

    Steve also created the world-famous juggling pattern “Mills Mess,” a beautiful, intricate, flowing masterpiece that jugglers around the world continue to practice and perform today. What amazes me is that many jugglers perform Mills Mess without even knowing who Steve Mills was or the remarkable contribution he made to our art. 

    Sadly, Steve took his own life some years ago, something that shocked and saddened those who knew and loved him. I still wonder what struggles he faced behind that wonderful personality. Steve may be gone, but his creativity, friendship, and contributions to juggling live on. 

    Every time someone performs Mills Mess, a little piece of Steve’s spirit continues to dance through the air. Steve had a wonderful, unforgettable laugh—one that could brighten any room and bring joy to everyone around him. Although his life ended far too soon, his creativity lives on in the hands and hearts of jugglers around the world. 

    STEVE AND HIS YOUNG SON, TONY
    Steve, my dear friend, your laughter may have faded, but your legacy never will. As long as jugglers keep those balls dancing, a part of you will always be with us. REST IN PEACE, MY FRIEND. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN! ❤️

    Here is a wonderful video of Steve Mills with Brian Dube, two remarkable figures in the juggling world. And don’t forget the legendary Francis Brunn, whose extraordinary juggling skills amazed audiences worldwide. All were in NYC.

    It’s hard to believe how much the juggling world has changed. Steve and Francis are gone, and the Dube Juggling business I remember is no longer what it once was. All three played important roles in the New York City juggling scene.

    I had the pleasure of visiting Brian Dube’s studio in NYC several times, and I even visited Francis Brunn at his home in the city. What wonderful memories! At the time, these visits felt like an ordinary part of my juggling life. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to know such extraordinary people.

    The years may pass, and the performers may leave us,
    but the memories and inspiration they gave us continue to live on.
    KEEP THE BALLS FLYING!

    HERE IS THE GREAT JUGGLER FRANCIS BRUNN

    Whenever I traveled to New York City, I would stay with my dear friend, Sue Morris. What a wonderful woman she was! I loved Sue deeply, and the memories we made together still hold a special place in my heart. Sadly, cancer took her life far too soon, leaving another emptiness in mine.

    So, when I think of NYC, I remember more than the bright lights, busy streets, and excitement. I remember love, heartbreak, and people I can never see again. New York City holds some beautiful memories for me, but also some of my deepest sorrows. Sue may be gone, but the love I felt for her will always remain.

    My daughter, Jasmine, also lived and worked in New York City for several years. During that time, she really got to know the city—its streets, neighborhoods, people, and hidden treasures. In some ways, I’m a little jealous of how well she knows New York now! I’ve spent plenty of time there myself, but she experienced the city the way only someone who lives and works there can. I imagine she could teach me a thing or two about the Big Apple!

    And every time someone performs Mills Mess, a little piece of Steve’s spirit keeps dancing through the air. His hands may be still, but his imagination and creativity live on through jugglers around the world. What a beautiful legacy to leave behind! Steve may be gone, but every flying ball keeps a little piece of his magic alive. REST IN PEACE, MY FRIEND. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!

    New York City

    Steve even named his son, Anthony (“Tony”), after the legendary juggler Anthony Gatto, another dear friend of mine and one of the greatest jugglers the world has ever known. Sadly, Gatto no longer performs, but his extraordinary talent and contributions to juggling will never be forgotten. The performances may end, but the inspiration and joy live on!
    Here is Anthony juggling >> Gatto juggling

    From 11 a.m. to noon, I had therapy. This time, I didn’t push myself nearly as hard as I did the other day, and it made a difference! They put me on a pedaling machine, which felt wonderful. I got some good exercise without exhausting myself. Sometimes progress isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about knowing when to ease up and keep moving forward. Overall, I left therapy with a big smile on my face. And THAT is the kind of progress I love!

    It’s past noon now, and I’m back in my room, happily typing these words for you. I hope you’re enjoying the read as much as I’m enjoying writing it! Sharing my thoughts, adventures, and life lessons brings me great joy. If even a few of my words make you smile, think differently, or inspire you to improve your life, then my time has been well spent.

    AFTER ALL, WORDS CAN CHANGE LIVES—
    AND PERHAPS TODAY, THEY’LL HELP CHANGE YOURS!

    Dinner tonight was delicious baked ziti, and I must say it again: the food here is wonderful! Every meal seems carefully prepared, and I certainly appreciate that. My only challenge is the portion sizes! They love to pile food onto my plate, and I often have to ask for a smaller serving. I hate wasting good food, especially when it tastes so great. After all, enjoying a meal isn’t about how much you eat—it’s about how much you enjoy every bite!
    ==============
    OCTOBER 28—
    At this point, I have a clean slate; nothing has occurred yet to write about. But it is only a little after 5am, so there is plenty of day left. Sadly, I didn’t wake up dreaming of Steve Mills today. What would you say if I told you I woke up dreaming of you?

    Strength, I am very tired again today. I went in to get some therapy, and the place was packed. There was no room for me, so I left. Later, PT was quite easy today—too easy. I am not challenged here, which would help me more. It would help other people too, but they don’t seem to believe that. Waste of time; I’m still deciding.

    I’m enjoying a glass of Riesling this evening; what a delightful treat! Riesling is a white grape variety grown primarily in Germany, Austria, and other wine-producing regions worldwide. It’s known for its fruity flavors, refreshing aroma, and a range of sweetness levels. 

    Personally, I especially enjoy the sweeter varieties. There’s something lovely about relaxing with a glass of sweet Riesling and savoring life’s simple pleasures. After all, happiness doesn’t always require a grand adventure or an extraordinary experience. Sometimes, happiness comes in a wineglass! 🍷

    OCTOBER 29—
    We didn’t accomplish much in therapy today, but we certainly shared a few laughs! Some of the jokes were so bad they were almost good. ALMOST! When I returned to my computer, I decided to look up a few more jokes to share with you. After all, laughter is wonderful therapy—and you don’t even have to lift weights!
    Enjoy! 😄

    1. Why don’t ghosts lie?
      Because you can see right through them!
    2. What do you call a witch at the beach?
      A sand-witch!
    3. Why was the skeleton so calm?
      Nothing got under his skin!
    4. What is a vampire’s favorite fruit?
      A neck-tarine!
    5. Why did the ghost go to the party?
      To have a BOO-tiful time!
    6. What do you call a fat pumpkin?
      A plumpkin!
    7. Why don’t mummies take vacations?
      They’re afraid to unwind!
    8. What do ghosts eat for dessert?
      I scream!
    9. Why did Dracula become a vegetarian?
      He couldn’t stand the steaks!
    10. What’s a skeleton’s favorite instrument?
      The trom-bone!
    11. Why did the pumpkin cross the road?
      Because it wanted to squash the competition! 
    12. Why don’t skeletons go trick-or-treating?
      Because they have NO BODY to go with!
    13. Why don’t skeletons fight each other?
      Because they don’t have the guts! 💀😂

    Did you read every one?
    Why or why not?
    Yes, dumb, like I heard earlier.
    ===================================
    I need some CHANGE in my Life! Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are always delicious, but even eating wonderful food gets old when every day feels the same. I need something new, something exciting, something to look forward to!

    Therapy isn’t helping much, either. The exercises aren’t challenging enough, and I get bored.
    I want to be pushed, improve, and feel like I’m accomplishing something.
    I’m 67, but that doesn’t mean I’m ready to slow down!

    My asthma was especially troublesome today. I had difficulty breathing several times and had to return to my room to use my inhaler. It’s frustrating when my mind wants to GO, GO, GO, but my lungs have other plans!

    I DON’T WANT TO JUST PASS THE TIME. I WANT TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT!
    Life is meant to be lived, not simply repeated. And I’m certainly not finished growing, learning, and improving!

    I just went outside to enjoy the Halloween event here at Legacy. In the parking lot, several people decorated their cars with spooky Halloween themes and handed out candy. It was a fun way to bring a little Halloween spirit to the community!

    Children from the surrounding neighborhood were invited to join the festivities, although I’m not sure how many actually showed up. Still, it was nice to see something different happening around here. A little excitement is always welcome!

    BOO! 👻 Did I scare you?
    Or have you already survived
    something much scarier—
    like looking in the mirror
    first thing in the morning? 🎃

    OCTOBER 30—
    Last night I watched “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”. Such a good movie—I enjoyed it.
    It’s nice to have cable so you can get all the shows.

    This afternoon, I had therapy with a couple of coaches. I must remind you, I am at a place with old people (the lady in the gym with me was over 100, impressive). But they keep the same schedule, and I can do things in a nifty way. So, of course, that frustrates the begebers out of me.

    I will have to start making my own schedule, and yes, I will stick to it.

     

    WELCOME, MY FRIEND!
    DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
    YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!
    ===============================================

    PART 3) BLOG 401—IMPROVEMENT!
    Be Different—find your own way.

    Never stop improving, learning, growing, or challenging yourself to become better. Every day offers another opportunity to discover something new, strengthen a skill, or take one more step toward your potential. You don’t have to be better than anyone else—just strive to be better than you were yesterday. The moment you stop improving, you stop growing. 

    KEEP GROWING, KEEP LEARNING, AND KEEP LIVING!
    BUT I’M STILL JUST GETTING GOING!

    Don’t measure your life simply by how many years you’ve lived. Measure it by how much living you continue to put into those years. Stay curious, embrace change, and never allow a number to determine what’s possible.

    GET OLDER. BECOME WISER.
    KEEP LEARNING. KEEP GROWING.
    KEEP LAUGHING. KEEP LOVING.
    AND ABOVE ALL, KEEP LIVING!

    You can’t always turn back the clock, but you can move forward with enthusiasm,
    determination, and a willingness to discover what tomorrow might bring.
    YOUR NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE IS STILL WAITING!

    You’re never too old to plant the seeds of a better tomorrow.
    So stop waiting for life to happen—get out there and make something grow!
    AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO SPEND IT STANDING STILL! 💛

    Each of our lives is like a book still being written—complete with surprise characters, unexpected plot twists, joyful chapters, difficult passages, and perhaps a few pages we would happily toss into the nearest fireplace. We never know what the next chapter may bring, and that delicious mystery is part of what makes life so fascinating.
               
    Always remember: Your story is extraordinary because no one else on Earth has lived one exactly like it. Just as every tree has its own arrangement of branches, stems, and leaves—and every redwood, elm, maple, and aspen grows with its own personality—each human life unfolds in a wonderfully different way. Our journeys may follow universal patterns, as explored in The Life You Were Born to Live, but no two paths have the same footprints, potholes, or banana peels.
               
    Still, we share a common longing: the quest for freedom. We seek liberation from limiting beliefs and worn-out ways of thinking—a breakthrough in awareness that allows us to glimpse life’s larger picture and better appreciate its paradoxes, uncertainties, constant changes, and wonderfully peculiar sense of humor.
                     
    Over the years, I have done my best to write books that deliver practical, real-world results. Yet I have also tried to honor the bigger picture: our deep desire to transcend, rise above life’s daily ups and downs, and discover greater meaning—even while attending to the responsibilities and opportunities right in front of us, sometimes tapping our feet impatiently.
                 
    By drawing on everything you have learned on your journey, you can transform ordinary living into an extraordinary path of personal evolution. You can bring fresh meaning, energy, and purpose to each moment. Begin by becoming fully present. Pay attention to this breath, this choice, and this precious little slice of Life happening right now—before it scampers away wearing your socks.
                 
    Then, at unexpected moments throughout your day,
    pause and quietly ask yourself: “What is my purpose in this emerging moment?”
                   
    Listen carefully for the answer—and then do what needs to be done. Your purpose may change from one moment to the next. One minute, it may ask you to take courageous action; the next, to help someone, forgive an old hurt, enjoy a good laugh, or simply stop and appreciate the view.
                     
    Together, these moments form a wondrous, ever-moving parade of choices, challenges, discoveries, detours, and triumphs. They shape the unforgettable story of your life—and add your own irreplaceable chapter to the magnificent story we are all writing together.
    ====================

    PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨

    Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs! 💥
    They awaken your mind, ignite your courage,
    and turn “I can’t” into “WHY NOT?”
    But their real power comes when you believe them and act on them.
    Words can inspire you, but ACTION transforms you!
    Don’t just read inspiration—”BECOME THE INSPIRATION!”

    1) “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man;
    true nobility is being superior to your former self.”
    — Ernest Hemingway

    2) “Out of every loss,
    we must find new direction.”
    — Kit Summers

    3) “One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth.
    Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.”
    — Abraham Maslow

    4) “We can’t become what we need
    to be by remaining what we are.”
    — Oprah Winfrey

    5) “When we’re growing up,
    there are all sorts of people telling us what to do when
    really what we need is space to work out who to be.”
    — Elliot Page

    6) “If there is no struggle,
    there is no progress.”
    — Frederick Douglass

    7) “Life may knock you down. 
    But you will always find another way to rise!”
    — Kit Summers

    8) “Be not afraid of growing slowly;
    be afraid only of standing still.”
    — Chinese Proverb

    9) “Though no one can go back and make a brand new start,
    anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
    — Carl Bard

    10) “Stay afraid, but do it anyway.
    What’s important is the action.
    You don’t have to wait to be confident.
    Just do it, and eventually the confidence will follow.”
    — Carrie Fisher
    ====================

    PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK!

    Don’t just THINK about improvement—WRITE IT DOWN!
    GET YOUR PEN AND PAPER—IT’S TIME TO TAKE ACTION! ✍️
                   
    Turn your Thoughts into IDEAS!
    Turn your Ideas into GOALS!
    And your Goals into ACTIONS!
                 
    Challenge yourself to take SEVEN NEW ACTIONS EVERY WEEK—ONE EACH DAY! Small steps create big changes, and consistent action creates extraordinary results. Just imagine what you can accomplish in seven days! You might surprise yourself—and I guarantee you’ll amaze me!

    STOP JUST THINKING ABOUT SUCCESS. START CREATING IT!

    Once you’ve completed your list of seven improvements, choose ONE and take action TODAY! Tomorrow, tackle another. Remember, small steps taken consistently can lead to EXTRAORDINARY change!
                   
    And don’t stop there!
    Make a new list every week.
    Seven fresh ideas,
    Seven new possibilities.
    Seven opportunities to become better!
    Imagine how much your life could improve in a month, a year, or even a decade.
    Your future won’t improve simply because you wish it would. MAKE IT HAPPEN!

    REMEMBER: YOU DON’T HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE IN ONE DAY.
    JUST FIND ONE WAY TO MAKE IT BETTER, DAILY!

    ====================
    ====================
    WOODSIDEMOTION!
    MY HEARTFELT THANKS TO CHRISTOPHER
    AND THE ENTIRE WOODSIDE MOTION TEAM!

    Thank you for believing in my story, recognizing its potential, and exploring the possibility of bringing this extraordinary journey to the screen. What began as one man’s struggle to survive could become a powerful message of hope, courage, and the incredible strength of the human spirit!

    I’ve faced devastating accidents, survived a 37-day coma, fought battles that seemed impossible to win, and rebuilt my life when everything I once knew had been taken away. I’ve been knocked down, broken, and challenged beyond anything I could have imagined. BUT I REFUSED TO LET ADVERSITY WRITE THE FINAL CHAPTER OF MY LIFE!

    I didn’t survive simply to tell my story. I SURVIVED TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO REWRITE THEIRS! To show people that tragedy doesn’t have to mean defeat, that obstacles can become opportunities, and that even when life knocks you down, you can rise again—stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever!

    Christopher and the Woodside Motion team have the chance to turn my journey into something far greater than a movie. Together, we can reach people who have lost hope, awaken dreams that have been forgotten, and remind audiences around the world that THE HUMAN SPIRIT IS CAPABLE OF EXTRAORDINARY THINGS!

    LET’S CREATE MORE THAN A FILM. LET’S IGNITE HOPE, INSPIRE COURAGE, TRANSFORM ADVERSITY INTO OPPORTUNITY, AND CHANGE LIVES!

    The greatest success isn’t what we accomplish for ourselves—it’s what we inspire others to accomplish in their own lives!

    AND THAT’S A STORY WORTH TELLING! 🎬❤️
                      NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
    Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
    Email:   christopher@woodsidemotion.com
    ====================
    ====================
    CINDY MARVELL
    I want to recognize someone I deeply admire—the MARVELLOUS CINDY MARVELL! As a lifelong juggler and performer, I recognize extraordinary talent, and Cindy has it in abundance! As founder of the Boulder Circus Center, she doesn’t just inspire audiences—she helps others discover their own greatness. What I admire most is that Cindy uses her remarkable gifts to lift others higher. To me, that’s true success! Cindy, you are an inspiration. Now watch this amazing woman in action! >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNbKaLV4I9Q 

    Cindy in the Wilderness Shaking Hands

    Cindy Marvell is far more than a supporter of my movie project—she’s a treasured friend with an extraordinary heart! As the only woman ever to win the International Juggling Competition, Cindy knows what it means to achieve the impossible. Her friendship, encouragement, and generous financial support have helped keep my dream alive. Cindy, thank you for believing in me, standing beside me, and helping turn my life’s challenges into a message of hope that could inspire countless others. Your friendship is a gift I’ll always treasure! ❤️🤹‍♂️💛====================
    ====================

    PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
    BLOG 402—How are you?

     

    =====================
    NOW IT’S YOUR TURN! Don’t just read my words—share yours! I genuinely want to know what you think, what you’ve experienced, and what inspires YOU. Your thoughts and ideas matter to me, and your message might spark my next blog or inspire someone else’s life. So don’t wait—WRITE TO ME TODAY! Let’s learn, grow, and make life better together! Write to me kitsummers@gmail.com
    =====================

    🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
    Because the best is always still ahead.
    So juggle joy like it’s the air you breathe.
    The horizon holds more than you can yet imagine.
    YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS. YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
    Your present moment is not the finish line—it’s your starting block.
    Chase sunsets as if they’re secret treasures waiting just for you.
    Laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen.
    Write me today—kitsummers@gmail.com
    Live as though you’ve only just begun—

    🌟BECAUSE YOU TRULY HAVE! 🌟
    ================================

     


    0
  • BLOG 400—We Are All Getting Older

     *✨KITTING AROUND✨
    BLOG 400—We Are All Getting Older
    This blog is shorter and happier!
    Read every word — things have changed. 
    Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
    Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
    The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
    This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
    By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
    Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS 

    ====================
    ONCE UPON A LIFE… ✨

    Once upon a time, I made gravity nervous!
    Seven clubs soaring through the air.
    A world record. A dream came true.
    Apparently, even gravity has its limits!
    And Kit? He was just getting started! 🤹‍♂️

    Then came the truck. The crash. The coma.
    Thirty-seven silent days when the show stopped.
    The applause faded, and life hung in the balance.
    But my story wasn’t finished. Not even close! 🚒

    I returned—not as the man I once was,
    but as someone determined to become even more.
    I learned to walk, talk, dream, and believe again.
    This time, I wasn’t just juggling clubs.
    I was juggling courage, hope, determination, and LIFE!🪸

    Today, my greatest performance wasn’t on a stage.
    It’s helping others discover the strength within themselves.
    Helping you become what you’re meant to be.
    Applause fades, but changing a life can last forever. 👏

    Writing has become my way of breathing,
    of reaching hearts I may never meet.
               
    And if my words help you smile, find courage,
    or believe in yourself just a little more,
    then I’ve accomplished something greater
    than catching seven clubs in the air. ❤️
                 
    SO, WHAT COMES NEXT IN KIT’S STORY?

    Back to juggling? Back to the stage?
    Another adventure? Another unexpected miracle?
    Perhaps the greatest chapter is still waiting to be written!

    Stay with me, my friend. The journey is far from over,
    and I still have a few surprises up my sleeve!
    Because life isn’t about getting back to who you were.
    It’s about discovering who you can STILL BECOME!
               
    LIFE CAN GET BETTER.
    LIFE WILL GET BETTER.
    AND THE BEST PART?

    WE’RE NOT FINISHED YET! 🌟
    My new address is:>>
    The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
    18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL  33647
    (A love letter would be dandy.)   kitsummers@gmail.com
    kitsummers.com     https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
    Call me >> 610-400-3233
    =======================

    NONE OF US WILL LIVE FOREVER—SO MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW!
    EVERY DAY IS A NEW DAY—A CHANCE TO BEGIN A NEW LIFE.
    DON’T LIVE IN THE PAST OR WAIT FOR THE FUTURE.
    NOW IS THE ONLY MOMENT YOU HOLD!
    MAKE THE MOST OF THIS MOMENT.
    I FEEL THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET! 

    A quick directory >>
    Part 1—The Beginnings — Obvious.
    Part 2—Things that Happened This Week. 
    Part 3—THE BLOG.
    Part 4—Inspirational Quotes.
    Part 5—Your Challenge.  
    Part 6—Blog for Next Week.
    Part 7—Final Thoughts — Obvious.

    ALWAYS REMEMBER >>
    When your life nears its end,
    What will you want to remember? 
    The dreams you chased? The people you loved?
    I’m still planning to live beyond age 100; will you join me? 
    Remember the moments when you chose courage over comfort? 

    READ PAST BLOGS HERE —
    kitsummers.com/blog

    If even one sentence in this blog inspires
    you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater
    courage, or appreciate the wonderful life already dancing
    around you, then every hour at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
    AND, EVERY DAY >>

    • Feel the sunshine.
    • Enjoy a good meal.
    • Speak more kindly.
    • Care for your body.
    • Learn something new.
    • Make the right choices.
    • Laugh whenever possible.
    • Improve one little thing today.
    • Treasure a friendly conversation.
    • Then improve another tomorrow. 
    • Keep going, and those tiny steps may grow.
    • Spend time with people who lift your spirits. 
    • And become something absolutely phenomenal!
    • Keep moving toward the person you want to become.
    • Celebrate every bit of progress—even when it arrives late.

    ====================   
    PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
    Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
    YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
           
    In my last blog, I wrote about family and relationships, but somehow I left out an important part of my life—Robin! How could I forget? We met shortly after my accident and spent about a year corresponding through letters. Eventually, we married, but things didn’t work out as we had hoped. Within a year, Robin left, pregnant with our daughter, Leah. Today, Leah has two sons of her own, making me a proud grandfather!

    I can hardly believe I left out such an important chapter of my life. A big THANK YOU to my sister, Willow, for reminding me! Sometimes, even the person writing the story needs a little help remembering all the chapters!

    FAMILY–GARY, MIKE, MOM, KATH, KIT
    ALL BUT KATH AND I ARE DEAD

    THE PEOPLE WHO SHAPED MY LIFE >>
    In 2014, my mom passed away at the age of 82. Losing her was one of the most heartbreaking experiences of my life. She was there for my greatest triumphs, deepest struggles, and countless adventures. Suddenly, I could no longer pick up the phone, hear her voice, or share my latest discoveries. Her absence left an emptiness that words cannot fully describe.
               
    Mom had an extraordinary mind and an endless curiosity about life. She loved reading, questioning, learning, and discovering new things. I admired her intelligence and her determination to keep growing. Today, whenever I write, explore a new idea, or question something others simply accept, I recognize a little of my mother in myself.
               
    Death may have taken my mother from this world, but it could never take away the curiosity she inspired, the wisdom she shared, or the love she planted deep within my heart. Her influence lives on in who I have become, the lessons I keep learning, and the stories I share. Every word I write carries a little piece of her into the future. And in that beautiful way, a part of my mother will always live on.
               
    Yet Mom’s life was far from easy. She endured tragedies that would have broken many people. My father died when I was six, my terrible accident left me in a coma for 37 days, and both my brothers, Mike and Gary, died far too young. Through it all, Mom somehow found the strength to continue.
           
    But she struggled, too. At times, she turned to vodka to escape her pain. She stopped drinking for a while, but eventually returned to the bottle. I loved my mother deeply, imperfections and all. Her struggles were part of her story, but they never erased her intelligence, strength, or love.
             
    My older brother, Mike, was traveling by bus from San Diego to Oregon when he unexpectedly got off and began hitchhiking. Somewhere along the way, he was struck by a vehicle and killed. Drugs and alcohol had also affected his life. His death left another painful emptiness in our family.

    THERE’S KATH, MIKE, KIT, MARY ELLEN, AND MOM
             
    Years later, tragedy struck our family once again. My younger brother, Gary, and my nephew Josh had been drinking beer and wine while driving a truck off-road through the rugged hills of Eastern Oregon. Somewhere along the way, the truck overturned, tragically killing them both. In an instant, two precious lives were gone, leaving our family to face another heartbreaking loss.
               
    My brother’s dreams, their plans, and all the years they should have had were suddenly taken away. All that remained were treasured memories, unanswered questions, and the painful realization that we would never know what their futures might have held.

    BUT OUR FAMILY’S EXPERIENCE WITH DEATH BEGAN MUCH EARLIER.

    When I was six, my father, who worked for the Oregon Fish Commission, died when his helicopter struck high-voltage electrical wires and crashed. I was too young to understand death, but old enough to feel the emptiness it left behind.
             
    My mother lost far more than the man she loved. She lost the future they had dreamed of sharing, the years they would never spend together, and the countless little moments that make a marriage and a family complete.
           
    Suddenly, the man who had been beside her was gone forever. I can only imagine the loneliness of waking each morning to his absence, the silence where his voice once filled the room, and the heartbreak of knowing he would never walk through our door again.
               
    Yet, despite her shattered dreams and overwhelming grief, my mother still had children to raise, responsibilities to shoulder, and a family that depended on her. I often wonder how many tears she shed when no one was watching, how many sleepless nights she spent longing for the life she had lost, and how often she wished she could turn back time. Her heart was broken, but life gave her little opportunity to stop and grieve.
             
    Somehow, she found the courage to rise each morning, set her sorrow aside, and face another day. Meals to prepare, children to comfort, and countless responsibilities that couldn’t wait for her heart to heal. As a child, I never fully understood the pain she carried or the sacrifices she made to keep our family together. While her world fell apart, she somehow found the strength and love to keep ours from falling apart, too.
                 
    As a young boy, I couldn’t begin to comprehend the overwhelming weight of my mother’s grief. To me, she was simply Mom, always there, somehow finding the strength to hold our family together when her own world had fallen apart. I never fully understood the tears she must have shed in private, the lonely nights she endured, or the dreams she had to leave behind. While I was trying to understand the loss of my father, she was struggling to face an entirely different future without the man she loved.

    Only now, after experiencing my own share of love, loss, and heartbreak, can I begin to appreciate the extraordinary courage it took for her to carry on. She didn’t have the luxury of surrendering to her sorrow. She had children to raise, responsibilities to meet, and a family that needed her love and guidance.
               
    My mother didn’t just lose her husband that day. She lost the future they had dreamed of sharing, yet somehow found the strength to build a new one for us. That is a remarkable kind of love and courage I understand, appreciate, and admire more deeply with every passing year.
             
    Sometimes I wonder how different my life might have been if Dad had survived.
    Would I have become an entertainer?
    Discovered juggling?
    Traveled the world?
    Would my two wonderful daughters have been born?

    ONE UNEXPECTED EVENT CAN CHANGE
    THE ENTIRE DIRECTION OF LIVES.

    WE CANNOT REWRITE THE PAST,
    BUT WE CAN DECIDE WHAT TO DO
    WITH THE LIFE THAT IS STILL AHEAD OF US. 

    Interestingly, my birth name is Virgil Carson Summers, Jr., named after my father, whom everyone called Butch. I’ve always been known as Kit, but I recently learned something wonderful from my sister. My nickname came from my great-grandfather, Christopher Carson, who was also called Kit.
               
    After 67 years, I finally uncovered another fascinating piece of my family’s history! My father gave me his name, but life gave me the freedom to discover who I was, forge my own path, and become the man known as Kit Summers. And now you know.
             
    My name connects me to my past, but the life I’ve lived, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the choices I’ve made have shaped who I am today. I inherited my name, but I created my own story—and it’s still being written!
                   
    Today, Mom and my brothers are gone. My two half-sisters, Kath and Sandy, and I remain to carry our family’s story forward. Kath and I share the same mother, while Sandy and I share the same father. Our family tree has some unusual branches, but love and shared memories matter far more than how those branches are arranged.
             
    Our family continues to grow, with each new generation adding another chapter to our story. My half-sister Kath never had children, while my other half-sister, Sandy, and her husband, Tommy, have two sons, Wally and Russell. That makes Wally and Russell my nephews. Now Russell and his wife have a child of their own, making Sandy and Tommy grandparents and me a proud great-uncle!
             
    Although our family has experienced heartbreaking losses over the years, it is wonderful to see new life bringing fresh beginnings. Our family tree keeps growing, with new branches reaching toward the future. Each generation brings new adventures, new memories, and new possibilities. The people may change, but our family story continues!
               
    Losing so many people I have loved has taught me one of life’s most valuable lessons: Life is precious, unpredictable, and never guaranteed. We cannot change yesterday, and tomorrow may never come. What we do have is TODAY—another opportunity to love deeply, laugh freely, create beautiful memories, and make every moment count. Don’t just exist—LIVE!
             
    I cannot bring back my parents, brothers, or nephew. But I can honor their lives by making the most of my own story. Their stories are part of mine, and every new adventure gives me another opportunity to carry their memories forward.
               
    Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. But TODAY is yours!
    Make it count. Make it meaningful. Make someone smile.
    And whatever challenges life throws your way, keep moving forward!
           
    After all, my story isn’t finished. Adventures remain, people to inspire, discoveries to make, and wonderful surprises waiting around the next corner. At 67, I’m not finished living. I’m still discovering what it means to be Kit Summers—and the best chapters may still be ahead! 
          
    The Death of Kit? Yes, I know. One day, I won’t be here to write this blog. Sorry, folks, but even Kit can’t juggle forever! Still, I have a few thoughts about my final act. I’ve spent my life embracing adventure, and I see no reason why my departure shouldn’t reflect that same spirit.
               
    When my time comes, I don’t want to take up a piece of this beautiful Earth with a grave, nor do I want to use energy for cremation. Instead, I would love for my naked body to be returned to the wilderness, where insects, animals, and the soil can make good use of what remains. Why waste what nature can recycle?
                   
    After a lifetime of wandering through majestic forests, exploring distant shorelines, climbing towering mountains, crossing vast deserts, and standing in awe of nature’s endless wonders, I want my final contribution to be a gift to the Earth.
               
    This extraordinary planet has given me golden sunrises, fresh mountain air, towering redwoods, rushing rivers, spectacular sunsets, and countless adventures that have filled my life with wonder. Nature has given me a lifetime of extraordinary experiences, and someday, I want to return the favor.
             
    When my final adventure comes, I want to return to the wilderness that has brought me so much happiness. Imagine my body resting beneath the trees, surrounded by birdsong, rustling leaves, and the wind whispering through the forest.
           
    As time passes, tiny insects, microorganisms, and the natural forces of decomposition will gradually return my body to the soil. The nutrients that once sustained my life will nourish countless other living things. Even in death, I want to contribute to life’s magnificent cycle.
                 
    Perhaps someday, colorful wildflowers will bloom from the soil where my body returned to the Earth, their bright petals dancing in the gentle breeze. Or perhaps a magnificent tree will take root, growing tall and strong, stretching its branches toward the warm sunshine I have loved throughout my life. What a beautiful thought—that even after my final breath, something wonderful might grow from what I leave behind.
               
    Birds may build their nests among the tree’s leaves, squirrels may scamper along its branches, and future generations may rest peacefully beneath its welcoming shade. Long after my footsteps have faded, a small part of me could continue nurturing the world I have spent a lifetime exploring and loving. From the Earth I came, and to the Earth I will return. My final adventure will not be an ending, but a new beginning—giving back to this extraordinary planet that has given me so much!
               
    Rather than taking up space on this planet after I’m gone, I want to become part of the natural cycle that has sustained life for millions of years. Nature has given me a lifetime of treasures, and I want to give something back.
                 
    But don’t get too excited, bugs, worms, and woodland critters! Your banquet will have to wait. At 67, I’m planning to stick around for at least another 33 years—and perhaps a few more! Forests still call, sunsets still beckon, people still inspire, and adventures still wait around the next bend.
               
    One day, I hope to give my body back to the Earth. But until then, I’ll give my heart, energy, and enthusiasm to LIFE! This extraordinary planet isn’t finished with me, and I’m certainly not finished with it! Age 100—here I come!
           
    Throughout my life, I’ve questioned, explored, and searched for answers rather than blindly accepting what others tell me to believe. I’ve heard religious leaders speak with absolute certainty about God, heaven, and eternal life, yet I keep returning to one simple question: Where is the evidence?
               
    I’ve spent my life questioning, learning, and searching for answers, and I’ve learned that believing something deeply doesn’t make it true. Just because millions of people have accepted a religious belief for thousands of years doesn’t mean I must accept it, too.
               
    Faith isn’t evidence, tradition isn’t proof, and certainty doesn’t guarantee truth. I’ve always valued my independence and my ability to think for myself rather than blindly accepting what others tell me to believe.
               
    I’ve survived experiences that nearly ended my life, and each one has strengthened my appreciation for the precious life I know I have. Having come so close to death, I choose to treasure the time I have on Earth rather than place my hopes in an afterlife that no one has ever proven exists.
               
    Life is far too extraordinary, unpredictable, and precious to spend waiting for promises of another existence. The life we know we have is happening right now, and every moment is an opportunity to explore, discover, love, and make a difference. Why gamble on an unproven eternity when we have the extraordinary gift of being alive today?
             
    My experiences have taught me to think independently, challenge assumptions, and search for truth, even when the answers are uncomfortable. I refuse to surrender my curiosity, my reason, or my freedom to question simply because someone claims to know God’s mind. I respect others’ right to believe, but belief alone is not proof. I would rather spend my life asking honest questions than find comfort in answers never demonstrated to be true.
               
    I’ve come close to death, survived a 37-day coma, and learned firsthand how fragile and precious life can be. I see no convincing evidence that consciousness continues after death, and I won’t pretend otherwise simply because someone claims to know what happens next. If religious certainty cannot withstand honest questions, perhaps it isn’t certainty at all. I would rather live with unanswered questions than accept comforting answers without evidence.
               
    Face the fact: no heaven waits, no eternal existence, and no second chance. What lives on is the impact we have had on others and on the earth, the love we have shared, and the memories we leave behind. Those are the things that give our lives lasting meaning.
                   
    Heaven is a hope that isn’t there. Because no one has proven evidence of a god or an afterlife, I believe we must make the most of the life we have, right here and right now. Don’t waste precious time waiting or hoping for something better beyond this world.
                 
    LIVE FULLY!
    LOVE DEEPLY!
    Make a positive difference in others’ lives. When you help someone else find happiness, purpose, or hope, you enrich your own life in ways you might never have imagined. The greatest reward in life isn’t what we receive, but what we give.
                 
    I would rather embrace the reality of this one extraordinary life than spend it preparing for another that may never come. I understand that believing in God brings many people comfort and hope, especially when facing death or losing someone they love. But to me, hope without evidence is simply wishful thinking. Life is precious precisely because it doesn’t last forever. So, while we’re here, let’s love deeply.
    Live fully.
    Give people wonderful reasons to remember us!
               
    Losing so much of my family has taught me something I wish everyone could understand before experiencing such heartbreak: The people we love will not be with us forever. We often assume we’ll have another conversation, another visit, another hug, or another chance to say the words that matter most. But life makes no such promises. Sometimes tomorrow never comes, and the words we meant to say remain forever unspoken. NOW is your chance!
               
    That is why I encourage you to cherish the people who make your life meaningful. If you have someone special in your life, LOVE THEM WITH ALL YOUR HEART!
    Give them your time.
    Show them kindness.
    Share your laughter.
    Remind them how much they mean to you.
    Don’t assume they already know.
    Tell them! Show them! Make memories together while you still can.
               
    And remember, love isn’t something we should save for special occasions. It belongs in our everyday lives—in a warm embrace, a thoughtful word, an unexpected phone call, or simply taking the time to listen.
               
    Sometimes the smallest gestures create the most lasting memories.

    Don’t wait to show your love.
    GIVE IT TODAY.
    GIVE IT FREELY.
    GIVE IT OFTEN!

    Every morning you wake up is another opportunity that someone else never received. Don’t waste your precious days dwelling on what you’ve lost or waiting for the perfect moment to begin living. Love deeply, laugh often, explore fearlessly, and pursue the dreams that make your heart come alive.
               
    These heartbreaking experiences have profoundly changed how I see life and growing older. Each passing day carries us further along life’s unpredictable journey, yet none of us knows how many tomorrows we have left. 

    DEATH HAS FOLLOWED ME AND MY
    FAMILY LIKE A MERCILLIS SHADOW. 

    Losing people I loved has taught me that growing older is not something to fear, but a privilege to appreciate. Every new day is a gift, every moment is an opportunity, and every breath is another chance to make our lives meaningful. Don’t simply count the years you live—make the years you have count!
         
    But perhaps my love story isn’t finished yet. Someone wonderful may still be waiting to enter my life—someone with whom I can share laughter, affection, companionship, and new adventures. Picturing that reality frightens us; why not let it inspire us? Wonderful memories, and lessons I never imagined learning.
         
    But I’m not finished living, discovering, loving, or dreaming! I still have places I want to explore, people I hope to meet, and beautiful memories waiting to be made. My past has given me a thousand stories to tell, but my future still has plenty of blank pages. And believe me, I intend to fill them!

    I LEARNED THAT WE CANNOT CHANGE YESTERDAY.
    TOMORROW IS NEVER GUARANTEED.
    BUT TODAY?
    TODAY IS OURS TO LIVE AND LOVE!

    Embrace new adventures, pursue your dreams, keep learning, laugh whenever possible, and surround yourself with people you love. We cannot stop the clock, but we can decide how to spend the precious time it gives us.
               
    Don’t simply count the years you’ve lived.
    MAKE THE YEARS COUNT!
    Don’t just grow older—
    GROW BETTER!
    And above all, never forget to LOVE while you LIVE!
               
    OLD AGE—THAT FUTURE MAY ARRIVE SOONER THAN YOU THINK!
    As for my future? Hmm… right now, the picture doesn’t look quite so bright. I miss the companionship, affection, and joy of having someone special beside me. She is out there; I just need time to find her. If you are her, please connect.          
             
    After all, beautiful memories belong to the past.
    Love has no expiration date.
    The future may still have a few wonderful surprises waiting for me.
    This could happen for you, too.
    =======================
    PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
    Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!

    Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, my friend! Wherever you are, whatever the hour, I’m delighted you’re here. Perhaps the sun is rising, painting your world with golden light, or maybe the stars are shining as another day comes to a close. No matter the time or place, inspiration is always ready to put a smile on your face! It doesn’t wear a watch, follow a schedule, or wait for the perfect day. Sometimes it arrives with a laugh, a loving hug, a joyful thought, or three wonderful ideas for me to juggle away! 🤹‍♂️

    That’s the beautiful music of words. They travel across oceans, dance through the hours, and touch hearts in places I’ve never been. My readers live around the world, each with a different story, a different dream, and a different mountain to climb. I may not know what time it is where you are, but I know something far more important: Your life matters, your dreams are worth chasing, and your best moments may still be waiting to begin. So wherever you are, let your heart sing, let your spirit soar, and make today a beautiful song worth remembering!

    YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
    WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! ✨
    WELCOME, MY FRIEND! 

    I’m truly happy you’re here, sharing a little of your day with me. Through my writing, I hope to bring you a smile, a little laughter, and perhaps a fresh perspective on your own life. I’ve experienced incredible highs and devastating lows, and I’m still learning from every adventure. If my words brighten your day or inspire a new thought, then sharing my story is worthwhile!
                 
    >>>> OCTOBER 17
    Computer time! I seem to spend more and more of my day at the keyboard, turning thoughts into words and ideas into stories. My last blog was a beast to organize, but I expect this one to come together much more smoothly. Writing has become one of my favorite ways to spend my time, and I genuinely enjoy the creative process.
                     
    I’ve discovered that writing comes naturally to me, and the more I write, the easier the words flow. Sharing my experiences and lessons gives my life meaning and purpose. When I write, I feel completely free. My body may have limitations, but my imagination has none! Through my words, I can travel anywhere, touch lives, and continue making a difference.
             
    Yet when I look up from my computer, reality returns. I’m still here at Legacy, surrounded by comfort but longing for freedom. Sometimes I feel as though my future has already been decided for me. And since I intend to live beyond 100, that’s one mighty long sentence! Everything I need is provided, except some of what I need most: independence, adventure, love, and companionship.
                 
    Having spent a month in jail on a false charge, I know something about confinement. Legacy is far more comfortable, but comfort cannot replace the excitement of truly living. After surviving devastating accidents and fighting so hard to rebuild my life, the thought of simply watching the years pass is heartbreaking. I didn’t fight my way back to life just to surrender control of how I live it.
               
    For example, I no longer have my van, a car, or even a bicycle. For someone who has spent a lifetime embracing freedom, exploring new places, and moving forward, this loss of independence is especially difficult. I’ve always been the one deciding where to go and what adventure to pursue next. Now, having to depend on others just to get somewhere feels terribly confining. But my desire for freedom hasn’t disappeared. I may have lost my wheels, but I haven’t lost my determination to move forward.
                 
    Now it’s time to turn determination into action! I want to strengthen my body, improve my balance, regain as much independence as possible, and explore living arrangements that offer greater freedom while keeping me safe.
             
    I’ll work with my therapists, set achievable goals, build meaningful friendships, and continue writing and inspiring others. Every small victory will bring me closer to the life I want. At 67, I’m not waiting for someone to hand me a future. I’m determined to build one! My independence may take time, but my journey toward freedom begins NOW!
             
    My computer mouse has stopped working, and the funny thing is, I have THREE of them! You’d think at least one would cooperate.🐭🧀 Without my trusty little mouse friend, putting my blog together has become quite a challenge. What’s a writer to do when all three of his mice go on strike? Perhaps I need a cat to straighten them out!
             
    Joe Claxton to the rescue—once again! Joe opened my computer’s control panel and quickly discovered the problem: somehow, the mouse setting had been turned off. With a few clicks, he switched it back on, and just like that, my mouse was working again!
           
    Now I’m happily back at my keyboard, typing away and turning my thoughts into words. Thanks to Joe Saxton, my computer works, my creativity flows, and I’m back in business! Best of all, my mouse is behaving perfectly—and I don’t even have to feed it any cheese!
               
    But it is bothering me that nothing ever changes here. The same things happen every day; there’s no way around it. The meals are the only thing to look forward to. I just finished my spaghetti with meat sauce. Like most meals here, it was made very well and was delicious.
             
    I still get this strange feeling like I was put in here at Legacy and will be confined here until my death, which will be beyond the age of 100, I might add. This just feels like being in jail; I was in one for a month on a false charge, so I know how it is. But if I were in jail, I would not be able to write these words to you. So, thanks.
           
    >>>> OCTOBER 18
    A new room means a fresh beginning and another wonderful opportunity to create a space that’s entirely my own. I’ve always enjoyed living simply, surrounded by only the things I truly need and love. My new little home has a comfortable bed, a bathroom, and an office I’m still putting together. I don’t need much space or many possessions to be happy. I’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from having more things, but from making the most of what you have.
                 
    I just stepped outside to see my new room from a different perspective. My previous room was on the second floor, hard to see from the outside, but now I’m on the ground floor, much closer to nature. From my window, I see beautiful trees, lush greenery, and a wonderful touch of wilderness. I walked around the building, taking in the surroundings, and everything looked quite lovely.
                 
    Having nature right outside my window brings me a sense of peace, freedom, and connection to the world beyond these walls. One thing caught my attention: every window had its blinds closed—except mine! I can’t imagine shutting out the sunshine, the trees, and the beauty of the natural world.
                 
    I love waking up to the gentle light of a new day, looking through my window, and watching the world come alive. The trees, the birds, the changing sky, and nature’s simple beauty remind me how wonderful it is to be alive. My blinds will always remain open, welcoming the sunshine and whatever surprises each new day brings. Every morning offers another opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary world around us.
             
    I notice that most people keep their blinds closed, shutting out the beauty waiting just beyond their windows. That makes me sad because so much life is happening right outside, so much to see, appreciate, and enjoy. I want to experience every bit of it, from the first morning light to the fading colors of sunset. Why shut out the world when you can welcome it in? Life is too beautiful to spend behind closed blinds!
                   
    Life was never meant to be lived behind closed blinds, shutting out the beauty and possibilities waiting just beyond our windows. An extraordinary world still exists out there, filled with adventures to experience, wonders to discover, and memories yet to be made. As long as I’m alive, I intend to keep my blinds open, my curiosity growing, and my heart eager for whatever comes next. LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO MISS!
             
    Sunday mornings are interesting for me here at Legacy. While many around me eagerly prepare for church, I wonder what makes their faith so powerful that they return every week.
               
    I’ve lived through experiences that nearly ended my life, fought my way back from a coma, and faced challenges that forever changed how I see the world. Through it all, I’ve learned to question almost everything, especially the things people insist I must believe.
                 
    I don’t attend church, and I don’t believe in any of the Gods.
    Well, I do sit in now and then.
    Churches worldwide seem to preach the same things.
    That doesn’t mean my life lacks wonder, gratitude, or purpose.
               
    When people question my disbelief in God, I simply respond, “If your God is all-knowing, then surely he (or she) knows exactly what it would take to convince me of their existence. Yet, so far, I’ve heard nothing, seen no convincing evidence, and received no reason to believe.”
             
    If God truly exists and chooses to remain silent, how can I be blamed for my disbelief? And if I am condemned to hell simply for questioning something I have never been given a reason to accept, then whose fault is that—mine or God’s?
             
    I refuse to believe that sincere questions and honest doubt deserve eternal punishment. If God values truth, then questioning should be welcomed, not condemned. After all, genuine truth has nothing to fear from an inquisitive mind.
               
    Whenever I hear a pastor speak with absolute certainty about God, heaven, hell, and eternity, I find myself questioning every word. Where is the evidence? How can anyone claim to know what happens after death when no one can show they know it? Belief is one thing, but presenting belief as unquestionable truth is something entirely different.
                   
    Standing behind a pulpit doesn’t make someone an authority on the mysteries of existence. A confident voice, an ancient book, and a congregation of believers do not turn assumptions into facts. If your beliefs are built on truth, why should honest questions threaten them?
             
    I’ve spent my life questioning, exploring, learning, and searching for truth. I refuse to surrender my curiosity, independent thinking, or ability to reason simply because someone claims to speak for God. Truth should withstand questioning, not demand unquestioning obedience. My mind is my own, and I intend to keep using it!
                   
    Faith may bring comfort, but comfort is not evidence. Conviction does not establish truth, certainty is not proof, and a belief repeated for thousands of years does not become fact simply because generations have accepted it. Truth should stand on evidence, withstand honest questions, and never demand that we stop thinking.
               
    I don’t demand that others abandon their faith. I simply ask that they recognize the difference between what they believe and what they can actually demonstrate. If there is a God, surely an honest search for truth should be welcomed, not condemned.
             
    For me, the wonder of existence doesn’t require a supernatural explanation. I find extraordinary beauty in nature, the universe’s vastness, the incredible abilities of the human mind, and the simple miracle of being alive.
                 
    I’ve traveled extensively, explored magnificent wilderness areas, and witnessed wonders that left me speechless. I don’t need to believe in heaven to appreciate Earth’s beauty. This world offers more mysteries, adventures, and discoveries than I could possibly experience in one lifetime.
             
    I’ve come close to death, fought my way back, and discovered just how precious life truly is. Those experiences didn’t convince me that some higher power was watching over me. Instead, they strengthened my appreciation for human determination, resilience, kindness, and love.
                     
    I don’t need religion to understand compassion, and I don’t need the promise of an afterlife to live a meaningful life. My purpose comes from learning, creating, helping others, and making every day count.
                     
    I respect those who find peace, comfort, and meaning through their faith, and I hope they can respect my freedom to question. I’ve spent my life challenging limitations, overcoming adversity, and discovering possibilities that others considered impossible. Why should I stop questioning when it comes to religion?
               
    I would rather explore life’s mysteries with curiosity and an open mind than accept answers simply because they’ve been repeated for centuries. To me, questioning isn’t a weakness; it’s one of our greatest strengths.
               
    My purpose isn’t to prepare for another life; it’s to make the most of the one I have. I don’t spend my days worrying about what might happen after death. I’m far more interested in what I can accomplish before that day arrives! At 67, I still have dreams to pursue, stories to write, people to inspire, and adventures waiting to unfold.
                   
    Life is my greatest gift, and I intend to unwrap every bit of it! I don’t need eternity to give my life meaning. I need today, tomorrow, and the courage to make them extraordinary. Yet even with that determination, I’ve begun questioning how my life became so disconnected from the world I once knew and loved.
                   
    After years of traveling wherever my heart desired, exploring new places, making my own decisions, and embracing life on my own terms, I now find myself in a world where much of that precious independence seems to have slipped away.
               
    For someone who has spent a lifetime chasing freedom and adventure, losing the ability to choose my own path is one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever faced. But while my circumstances may have changed, my desire for freedom, independence, and new adventures remains as strong as ever.
                 
    Independence has always defined who I am, and losing control over even the simplest parts of my life is deeply unsettling. I’ve spent my life creating my own adventures, and now I feel like someone else is deciding where my journey will take me.
                 
    Yet I refuse to believe that my days of freedom, discovery, and adventure are behind me. I’ve overcome tremendous obstacles before, and I know so much life still awaits. My circumstances may have changed, but my determination certainly hasn’t.
               
    I may have lost some of my independence, but I haven’t lost my spirit, my dreams, or my desire to explore the world. My future still belongs to me, and I’m determined to reclaim as much freedom as possible!

                                                  HEY, IS THAT KIT? 
                   
    The world continues moving beyond these walls, and sometimes I feel trapped, watching life pass me by. That frightens me, but what frightens me even more is accepting this as my permanent future. I have fought too hard, overcome too much, and come too far to surrender my independence now.
                 
    I’ve always been fiercely independent, traveling wherever I wanted and making my own decisions. Now, without a vehicle or even a bicycle, I feel trapped in a world where others determine so much of my daily existence.
               
    Sometimes I wonder whether I’ve lost my independence or simply lost sight of how to regain it. So many questions, so few answers. But I know regaining my freedom won’t happen overnight. My balance needs improvement, my body needs strengthening, and I must find practical ways to become more self-sufficient.
                 
    I have a plan: continue physical therapy, rebuild my confidence, explore transportation options, reconnect with the outside world, and work toward having greater control over where I go and how I live. Every small improvement will be another step toward the life I want. I may need help with certain things, but needing help doesn’t mean surrendering control of my future.
                 
    I’ve rebuilt my life before, even when the odds seemed impossible. After spending 37 days in a coma, I had to relearn how to walk, talk, and live. If I could do that, I can surely find a way forward now! My goal isn’t simply to escape these walls. It’s to regain the freedom to make my own choices, pursue new adventures, build meaningful relationships, and wake up each morning excited about the day ahead.
               
    I don’t want the rest of my life planned for me. I want to help create it! At 67, with every intention of living beyond 100, I’m not ready to spend the next three decades simply being cared for. I want choices, adventures, friendships, meaningful work, and the freedom to discover what tomorrow might bring.
               
    My first step is to stop asking whether independence is possible and start finding out exactly what it will take.
                 
    I may never live precisely as I once did, but I can still build a life that feels like my own. And that is a future worth fighting for! I’m not preparing for the end of my story. I’m preparing for my next great beginning. INDEPENDENCE, HERE I COME!
                 
    >>>> OCTOBER 19
    I slept wonderfully in my little twin bed last night. Since I hardly move or roll over while sleeping, it’s just the right size for me. I don’t need a big bed to get a good night’s rest, and this little one suits me perfectly. Sometimes, having less really does make life simpler.
                 
    Of course, if a special lady ever comes into my life, we might need to reconsider the sleeping arrangements. Perhaps her place would have a little more room, or we could enjoy a quiet getaway somewhere. But first, we have to find that special someone. My heart certainly has room for romance, even if my bed is another story. And who knows? Perhaps she’s reading this right now.
                   
    Each week, Brianna takes some people to Walmart on the bus; today was one of those days. We just got back; three of us rode the small bus. The vehicle sat idling for a long time. So much gas was wasted; it’s sad.
                   
    Each week, Legacy provides a bus trip to Walmart for residents who want to shop. Today was one of those days, with Brianna behind the wheel. Only three of us rode the small bus, and we just got back. It’s nice to get out, even if it’s only for a little shopping adventure.
                 
    One thing bothered me, though. The bus was left idling for a long time, burning fuel unnecessarily. Watching all that gasoline go to waste was disappointing, especially when simply turning off the engine could save money and help the environment. Sometimes, making the world a better place begins with something as simple as turning a key!

    My computer mouse decided to stop working, even though I had been feeding the little fellow plenty of cheese! Unfortunately, his refusal to cooperate made it hard to work on my blog. Fortunately, Joe Saxton, who works here at Legacy, came to the rescue and got everything running smoothly again. Now life is back to normal—whatever “normal” means these days! Such a small thing, yet it brought me a
                 
    >>>>> OCTOBER 20
    Good morning to you! I’ve been awake for hours, thinking about what to write and searching for just the right words to bring a smile to your face.
               
    Sometimes the simplest words are the best. I’m glad you’re here, sharing another day with me. I hope your morning begins with a smile and that the rest of your day gives you plenty more reasons to keep smiling!
               
    This morning, I had another physical therapy session, and I must admit I walked away feeling more frustrated than encouraged. The exercises seemed designed for someone much older and less capable than I feel.
               
    I understand the importance of maintaining my strength, improving my balance, and staying active. But I want exercises that challenge me, push my limits, and help me make real progress. I want to accomplish something, not simply go through the motions.
               
    After spending much of my life as a professional juggler, traveling the world, performing difficult tricks, and constantly challenging my physical abilities, it’s hard to accept being treated like a helpless old man.
               
    Yes, I’ve survived some terrible accidents, and my body doesn’t always cooperate the way it once did. But my determination hasn’t disappeared. I want physical therapy that helps me discover what I can still accomplish, not exercises that remind me of what I’ve lost.
               
    The longer I stay here, the more I realize how unhappy I am with this environment. The people are kind, and I appreciate the care I receive, but the slower pace of life is difficult for me.
               
    I’ve spent my life seeking adventure, challenging myself, and discovering what lies beyond the next bend in the road. Now, too many days follow the same predictable routine. I miss my independence, my freedom, and the excitement of waking up with something wonderful to look forward to.
         
    I may be 67 years old, but that doesn’t mean I’m ready to live like I’m 97!
    A curious, adventurous, determined young man still lives inside this aging body, and he has absolutely no intention of retiring.

             
    I don’t expect to juggle seven clubs again tomorrow, but I certainly don’t intend to stop reaching for something better. My abilities may have changed, but my desire to improve hasn’t.
             
    I don’t want to spend the rest of my life simply being cared for. I want to LIVE!
               
    I want to grow stronger, experience new adventures, meet fascinating people, laugh more often, and continue discovering everything this remarkable world has to offer. Growing older is inevitable, but I refuse to stop living fully.
               
    I refuse to believe my best days are behind me. I still have exciting chapters to write, new adventures to experience, challenges to overcome, and countless reasons to jump out of bed each morning.
               

    HEY, would I look like this if I lifted weights? 😜

    I’ve already lived an extraordinary journey, but I still want to see, do, learn, and accomplish so much more. My past may be filled with incredible stories, but my future is still bursting with possibilities. And believe me, I’m nowhere near finished yet.

    Once again, I feel trapped here, unable to come and go as I please. The freedom and independence I once enjoyed seem so far away. Some days, I struggle to find anything worth getting excited about.
               
    I don’t like feeling this way, but the frustration keeps building. Even little things that ordinarily wouldn’t bother me seem to get under my skin.
                 
    Today, as at the other places I’ve lived, a staff member came by to empty my trash. Only a few things were at the bottom of the can, yet she was ready to replace the entire bag.
                     
    I stopped her, asked her to put the bag back, and scolded her for being wasteful. Looking back, I realize my frustration probably came through more strongly than necessary.
                 
    I understand that she’s simply doing her job, and I appreciate her efforts. Still, I wish more people would pause and consider whether something truly needs to be done.
             
    Just because we’ve always done something a certain way doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way. Even small decisions, like replacing a nearly empty trash bag, deserve a little thought.
             
    One wasted trash bag may not seem important, but multiply that by millions of people making similar decisions every day, and the environmental consequences become enormous.
                 
    I’m not suggesting that everyone needs to change everything they do. But greater awareness could make a tremendous difference. Protecting our planet doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with something as simple as stopping, thinking, and choosing not to waste.
             
    Today, they installed a BIG-screen TV in my room—and when I say BIG, I mean ENORMOUS! It practically takes over the room.
           
    The funny thing is, I hardly ever watch television. I might catch the news or an occasional episode of 60 Minutes, but I’d much rather spend my time writing, creating, and exploring my own ideas.
                 
    Now I have a television big enough for a movie theater, with an audience of one who isn’t particularly interested in the show!
                 
    I suppose there’s something amusing about having such an impressive television when watching it is so far down my list of favorite activities.
               
    Oh, how times have changed! I remember being a young boy, sitting in our living room, watching our little black-and-white television. Back then, having a TV was a special treat.
                 
    A remote control? We didn’t have one. In fact, the very idea of a remote seemed pretty remote!
                 
    If you wanted to change the channel, you got up, walked across the room, and turned the knob yourself. Imagine that—a television that actually encouraged physical exercise!
             
    Now, decades later, I have a screen so enormous it practically brings the entire world into my room. Technology has come a long way, but I still enjoy living more than sitting around watching someone else live.
               
    My phone sits right next to my television remote. What an amazing little invention! As a child, I could never have imagined something so small it would fit in my pocket could accomplish so much.
                 
    Nowadays (yes, those three words have become one!), a phone can take pictures, play music, show movies, provide directions, answer questions, and connect us instantly with people on the other side of the planet.
                 
    I remember our first telephones—those wonderful rotary phones with a dial that clicked as you turned it. A cord connected the handset to the base, and another cord connected the base to the wall.
                 
    You actually had to stand near the phone to talk! And if you dialed the wrong number, you had to start all over again. Patience wasn’t optional back then!
                   
    Today, I carry an entire world of information in my pocket. We’ve come a long way from twisting a dial to touching a screen. I can only imagine what incredible inventions future generations will take for granted!
                 
    Joe hooked up my enormous television and headed off to his next project. Naturally, I grabbed the remote and started exploring my new entertainment center.
               
    Everything worked beautifully—until suddenly, nothing worked! I pushed buttons, tried different things, and wondered what had gone wrong.
               
    Joe returned to investigate, and after a little detective work, we discovered the problem: dead batteries in the remote! DUH!
                 
    Two little batteries brought all that sophisticated modern technology to a complete standstill.
                 
    Sometimes the simplest things cause the biggest headaches—and provide the best laughs!
               
    >>>>> OCTOBER 21
    Since moving into my new room, I’ve discovered another unexpected benefit: I’ve found a much better place to sit in the dining room! Even better, I now have to walk less than half as far to reach the restaurant. It’s a small change, but one that makes everyday life a little easier and more enjoyable. Sometimes, moving forward in life means moving a little closer to dinner!

    This morning, I had another physical therapy session, and I walked away feeling more frustrated than encouraged. The exercises were so simple that I found myself silently saying, “NEXT!” I kept hoping the next exercise would challenge me, push my abilities, or at least make me feel I was accomplishing something. But each new exercise seemed just as easy as the one before.
                 
    I’ve spent my life pushing my physical limits, and I have no intention of stopping now. I understand that my body has changed and that balance and safety are important, but I want physical therapy that helps me improve, not simply go through the motions.
               
    I’m not asking for the impossible. I’m asking for a challenge! I know my body has limitations, but I also know there’s more potential inside me waiting to be discovered. I don’t want to spend my days simply repeating exercises that keep me where I am. I want to push forward, improve my abilities, and discover what I can still accomplish.
                   
    Don’t just help me maintain what I have. Challenge me to become stronger, steadier, and more capable. Don’t treat my age as a limitation or my past injuries as the end of my possibilities. Help me discover what I can still become!
                   
    What wonderful news! Those big planters represent more than just a place to grow vegetables. They offer something new to nurture, something to look forward to, and another little piece of independence. I may not have much room, but I don’t need acres of land to grow something worthwhile. 
                 
    A few tomato plants, some lettuce, peppers, or herbs could turn that small space into my own miniature garden. There’s something especially satisfying about planting a seed, watching it grow, and eventually enjoying something I’ve raised myself. I’m not just planting vegetables. I’m planting possibilities!
                 
    Tomorrow, a new adventure begins! And yes, I can certainly tell how happy you are. After so much time feeling confined, having a little garden to nurture, watching seeds sprout, and eventually enjoying food you’ve grown yourself is something wonderful. You’re not just planting vegetables. You’re planting independence, purpose, and possibilities! Every new leaf will remind you that life keeps growing, and so can you. Your garden may be small, but the happiness it brings could be enormous! 🌱
             
    This garden could become something wonderful for the other people living here, too. I hope they’ll want to get involved, whether it’s planting vegetables, watering them, or simply enjoying watching everything grow. It would be terrific to see everyone working together and sharing in the harvest.
                 
    I’m hoping our little garden will be fruitful—though, come to think of it, I don’t think we’ll grow much fruit! Perhaps we’ll plant some grapes. But the real harvest may be something even sweeter: the friendships we cultivate, the laughter we share, and the joy of watching something grow together. After all, a garden doesn’t have to produce fruit to produce something wonderful!
               
    Someone bought bags of dirt, though I’m not sure if it’s right now. I will bring a bag and search around the area for leaves. As I put the garden together, I will add a layer of dirt, then a layer of leaves, and keep going back and forth. The leaves will eventually become good compost.
                   
    >>>>> OCTOBER 22
    Last night, my phone rang with a sales call. In the middle of the night! How dare they! Apparently, some salespeople believe sleep is optional. But now I can fight back! I’ve finally learned how to block unwanted calls using Google Voice. No more letting pesky salespeople interrupt my peace and quiet. One little button, and they’re out of my life. OH, HAPPY DAY!
                
    I just finished another session of physical therapy, and once again, I left feeling frustrated rather than encouraged. Everything moves at a snail’s pace! At one point, they strapped weights to my legs for leg lifts, but they were so light that I asked them to double the weight just to feel challenged.
             
    The therapy room was overcrowded, with too many patients, too many therapists, and barely enough space to exercise.
    I’m not looking for an easy workout.
    I’m looking for progress! I’m looking for challenge!
    I want to build strength, push my limits, and discover what I’m still capable of achieving. Without challenge, how can I grow?
                 
    The therapy room was also far too crowded. Patients were everywhere, therapists moved from person to person, and sometimes there was hardly enough space to do the exercises. With so much activity, it was hard to concentrate or feel like I was accomplishing anything. I appreciate the therapists’ efforts, but I want to be challenged, not simply kept busy. I’ve spent my life pushing beyond my limits, and I have no intention of stopping now!
                 
    I hate to say it, but some physical therapists don’t seem to be in the best physical shape themselves. Some are noticeably overweight, which surprises me in a profession devoted to improving physical health and fitness. I realize appearance doesn’t necessarily reflect someone’s knowledge or abilities, but I believe therapists should lead by example. After all, shouldn’t the people encouraging us to become stronger and healthier demonstrate that same commitment in their own lives?
                 
    Afterward, we headed outside to the pond to look for the alligator that lives there. Unfortunately, he was hiding so well that I couldn’t get a good look at him. Darn! Perhaps he wasn’t in the mood for visitors today. I’m determined to photograph him one of these days so I can share it with you. At least the alligator gave me something to look forward to—even if he wasn’t quite ready to make his grand debut! 

    I’M ACTUALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO
    PETTING AND PLAYING WITH THE GATOR!
    Or… on second thought, perhaps I’ll just take his picture.
    I’d rather keep all ten fingers for juggling!

    >>>>> OCTOBER 23
    Met with Corin today, who deals with speaking, communication, and learning. Right away, my memory deficits were apparent. My memory is so bad I don’t even like to work on it. Next up comes PT; I hope I don’t get too bored this time.
                 
    In PT today I was not challenged enough, so I asked for more weight, that helped. I see that I will have to give input to make it more intensive.
               
    DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
    YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!
    ====================
    PART 3) BLOG 400–We and All Getting Older   
    Be Different—find your own way.
               
    SIX MYTHS ABOUT AGING—AND
    WHY I REFUSE TO BELIEVE THEM!

    MYTH #1: Growing Older Means Growing Old!
    Too often, we’re told that aging means declining health, fading memories, fewer opportunities, and watching our best years disappear into the rearview mirror. NONSENSE! Who decided that getting older means we must stop growing, learning, exploring, and enjoying life?
             
    Yes, aging brings changes and unexpected challenges. But every birthday also represents another year of experiences, lessons learned, obstacles overcome, and possibilities waiting to be discovered. Growing older is inevitable. Growing old in spirit is a choice! Age is not a deadline for happiness, success, or personal growth. WE ARE NOT FINISHED LIVING—NOT EVEN CLOSE!
               
    MYTH #2: Aging Automatically Means Poor Health
    Growing older doesn’t automatically mean becoming weak or unhealthy. Although certain health challenges become more common with age, healthy habits can prevent, delay, or manage many of them.
             
    Nutritious food, regular exercise, preventive healthcare, and staying active can help us maintain strength, balance, flexibility, and independence. Even walking, gardening, and stretching make a difference. The secret? KEEP MOVING! Your body was designed for action, not permanent residence in a recliner. Adapt to the changes, but never stop challenging yourself!
               
    MYTH #3: Mental Decline Is Inevitable
    Our brains may process some information more slowly as we age, but that doesn’t mean our intelligence, creativity, or curiosity disappears. Experience can strengthen judgment, emotional understanding, and problem-solving. Keep using and expanding yours.
               
    Reading, writing, socializing, exercising, and exploring unfamiliar activities help keep our minds engaged. Our brains retain the remarkable ability to adapt and learn throughout life. Your brain isn’t simply a machine wearing out. It’s an extraordinary organ that can adapt, learn, and surprise you. GIVE YOUR BRAIN SOMETHING EXCITING TO DO!

    MYTH #4: Older Adults Cannot Learn New Things
    Whoever said, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” obviously never met a determined older adult! That tired expression belongs in the doghouse.
               
    Thanks to neuroplasticity, our brains can continue forming new connections throughout life. We can learn languages, master technology, play instruments, develop new hobbies, or even begin entirely different careers. Learning may require more patience, but age also brings valuable experience and perspective.
                 
    NEVER STOP LEARNING! Try something unfamiliar. Ask questions. Challenge yourself. You don’t have to be good at something when you begin—that’s why we call it learning! You’re never too old to learn something new, but you can become too comfortable to try. Don’t let that happen!
                     
    MYTH #5: Older People Need Less Sleep
    Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean our bodies suddenly require less rest. Most adults over 65 still need approximately seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
                 
    Sleep patterns may change, becoming lighter or more interrupted, but quality rest remains essential for memory, physical health, emotional well-being, and energy. Regular activity, consistent sleeping hours, and healthy evening habits can help. Sleep isn’t wasted time. It’s your body’s nightly maintenance crew, preparing you for another wonderful day!
                   
    MYTH #6: Our Best Years Are Behind Us
    This may be the biggest myth of all! Passion, creativity, curiosity, adventure, and personal achievement never expire. Growing older doesn’t mean watching life disappear in the rearview mirror. It means using everything we’ve learned to explore new possibilities, pursue meaningful goals, and continue surprising ourselves.
                   
    Your best years may not be behind you. They may be backstage right now, warming up for the greatest performance of your life!
                 
    MY FINAL THOUGHT—AT 67, I’M JUST GETTING STARTED!
    I’ve experienced extraordinary adventures, devastating setbacks, and remarkable recoveries. Life hasn’t always become easier with age, but it has taught me that every day offers another opportunity to learn, grow, laugh, love, and make a difference.

    I may not be able to do everything I once did, but that doesn’t mean I’ve stopped dreaming. My best days aren’t behind me. Adventures still await, challenges to overcome, and new chapters waiting to be written.

    BUT I’M STILL JUST GETTING GOING!

    Don’t measure your life simply by how many years you’ve lived. Measure it by how much living you continue to put into those years. Stay curious, embrace change, and never allow a number to determine what’s possible.

    GET OLDER. BECOME WISER.
    KEEP LEARNING. KEEP GROWING.
    KEEP LAUGHING. KEEP LOVING.
    AND ABOVE ALL, KEEP LIVING!

    You can’t always turn back the clock, but you can move forward with enthusiasm, determination, and a willingness to discover what tomorrow might bring.
    YOUR NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE IS STILL WAITING!

    You’re never too old to plant the seeds of a better tomorrow.
    So stop waiting for life to happen—get out there and make something grow!
    AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO SPEND IT STANDING STILL! 💛

              
    HOW ABOUT THESE?
    You may be old, but you can accomplish !!
    YOU HAVE MUCH LEFT IN YOU!
    Grandma Moses — Started painting seriously at 78
    Anna Mary Robertson Moses became a celebrated American folk artist after beginning her painting career in her late 70s. She continued creating art past her 100th birthday.
    =====
    Harriette Thompson — Ran a marathon at 92
    In 2015, she became the oldest woman to finish a marathon, completing the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon at age 92.
    =====
    Colonel Harland Sanders — Built a restaurant empire after 65.
    Sanders expanded his Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) franchise
    business in his mid-60s, turning his chicken recipe into an
    internationally recognized brand.

    =====
    Diana Nyad — Swam from Cuba to Florida at 64
    In 2013, after several unsuccessful attempts, Nyad completed the approximately 110-mile swim without a shark cage. She refused to let previous failures end her dream.
    ======
    Toni Morrison — Won the Nobel Prize at 62
    The acclaimed novelist received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993, demonstrating that creative achievement and recognition can flourish later in life.
    =====
    Fauja Singh — Completed a marathon at 100
    In 2011, Singh completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon at age 100. Although Guinness did not officially recognize his record because of documentation requirements, his accomplishment inspired runners worldwide.
    =====
    John Glenn — Returned to space at 77
    In 1998, the former astronaut became the oldest person to travel into space at that time, aboard the space shuttle Discovery.
    =====
    Nola Ochs — Earned her college degree at 95
    In 2007, Ochs graduated from Fort Hays State University, proving that education doesn’t have an expiration date.
    =====
    Yuichiro Miura — Climbed Mount Everest at 80
    In 2013, the Japanese mountaineer reached Everest’s summit at age 80, becoming the oldest person to do so.
    =====
    Sister Madonna Buder — Completed an Ironman at 82
    Known as the Iron Nun, she became the oldest woman at the time to finish an Ironman triathlon in 2012, completing a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride, and 26.2-mile run.
    ====================
    PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
    Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs! 💥 They awaken your mind, ignite your courage, and turn “I can’t” into “WHY NOT?” But their real power comes when you believe them and act.
    Words can inspire you, but ACTION transforms you!
    Don’t just read inspiration—BECOME THE INSPIRATION!
           
    1) “For the unlearned, old age is winter;
    for the learned, it is the season of the harvest.”  
    ~Hasidic saying
             
    2) “Age is just the number of years you’ve lived,
    not a limit on the adventures still waiting for you!”
    ~ Kit Summers

    3) “Every year should teach you something valuable;
    whether you get the lesson is up to you.
    Every year brings you closer to expressing your
    whole and healed self.” 
    ~Oprah Winfrey
         
    4) “One of the reasons people get old—lose their aliveness—
    is that they get weighed down by all of their stuff.”
    ~Richard Leider
             
    5) “I suppose real old age begins when one
    looks backward rather than forward.”
    ~ Mary Sarton
                 
    6) “Of all the self-fulfilling prophecies in our culture
    The assumption that aging means decline and poor
    health is probably the deadliest.”
    ~ Marilyn Ferguson
               
    7) “Growing older doesn’t mean slowing down on life.
    It means finding new ways to make every day an adventure!”
    ~ Kit Summers
                 
    8) “Your 40s are good.
    Your 50s are great.
    Your 60s are fab.
    And 70 is f*@king awesome!”
      ~Helen Mirren
             
    9) “Age is no barrier.
    It’s a limitation you put on your mind.”
    ~Jackie Joyner-Kersee
               
    10) “Oh, the worst of all tragedies is not to die young,
    but to live until I am seventy-five and yet not ever truly to have lived.”
    ~ Martin Luther King Jr.
    ====================
    PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK!
    ACT YOUR AGE? WHY NOT ACT 16 AGAIN!
    Remember being 16, when life was an adventure, possibilities seemed endless, and every day brought something exciting to discover? Who decided that youthful spirit must disappear just because the candles on our birthday cakes keep multiplying? Growing older is inevitable, but growing old in spirit is a choice!

    Your age may be a number, but your attitude helps determine how fully you live! Stay curious, laugh often, explore new possibilities, and dare to try something you’ve never done before. You can’t stop the years from passing, but you can refuse to let them steal your enthusiasm. Your body may be getting older, but your dreams don’t have to retire!

    Here’s your challenge for the week: ACT 16 AGAIN! Rediscover that wonderful sense of adventure. Do something unexpected, learn something new, laugh until your cheeks hurt, and find excitement in the ordinary. Don’t let the number of years you’ve lived determine how much life you have left to enjoy.

    You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind up your enthusiasm! Life is still an adventure, and YOUR
           
    THINK AND ACT 16 THIS WEEK!
    BEST CHAPTERS MAY STILL BE WAITING TO BE WRITTEN!
    THAT IS YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK!
    BETTER YET, MAKE IT YOUR CHALLENGE FOR LIFE!
    You may be growing older, but you never have to stop growing YOUNGER IN SPIRIT!
    ====================
    ====================

    WOODSIDEMOTION!
    My heartfelt thanks to Christopher and the entire Woodside Motion team for believing in my story and exploring the possibility of bringing it to the screen.

    I’ve survived devastating accidents, fought my way through unimaginable challenges, and rebuilt my life more than once. I didn’t survive just to tell my story—I survived to inspire others to rewrite theirs.

    Together, Christopher and Woodside can turn my extraordinary journey into something even greater: a powerful message that inspires people to overcome adversity, rediscover hope, and embrace life with courage.

    Let’s make a film that doesn’t just tell a story—LET’S CHANGE LIVES!
                      NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
    Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
    Email:   christopher@woodsidemotion.com
    ====================
    ====================
    CINDY MARVELL
    I want to recognize someone I deeply admire—the MARVELLOUS CINDY MARVELL! As a lifelong juggler and performer, I recognize extraordinary talent, and Cindy has it in abundance! As founder of the Boulder Circus Center, she doesn’t just inspire audiences—she helps others discover their own greatness. What I admire most is that Cindy uses her remarkable gifts to lift others higher. To me, that’s true success! Cindy, you are an inspiration. Now watch this amazing woman in action! >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNbKaLV4I9Q


                          Cindy in the Wilderness Shaking Hands
    Cindy Marvell has been more than a supporter of my movie project—she’s a treasured friend who truly believes in me and my story. The only woman ever to win the International Juggling Competition, Cindy’s greatest gift is her generous heart. Her encouragement, friendship, and financial support mean more to me than words can express. Cindy, thank you for believing in me, helping keep my dream alive, and reminding me how wonderful it is to have someone special in my corner! 🤹‍♂️💛
    ==================== 
    ==================== 
                     PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
                    BLOG 400 — YOUR LIFE!
    ===================== 
    NOW IT’S YOUR TURN! Don’t just read my words—share yours! I genuinely want to know what you think, what you’ve experienced, and what inspires YOU. Your thoughts and ideas matter to me, and your message might spark my next blog or inspire someone else’s life. So don’t wait—WRITE TO ME TODAY! Let’s learn, grow, and make life better together!
    =====================

    🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
    Because the best is always still ahead.
    So juggle joy like it’s the air you breathe.
    The horizon holds more than you can yet imagine.
    YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS. YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
    Your present moment is not the finish line—it’s your starting block.
    Chase sunsets as if they’re secret treasures waiting just for you.
    Laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen.
    Write me today—kitsummers@gmail.com
    Live as though you’ve only just begun—
    🌟BECAUSE YOU TRULY HAVE! 🌟
    ================================

     

     

     

     

     

     


    0
  • BLOG 399—The People at Legacy

     *✨KITTING AROUND✨
    BLOG 399—The People at Legacy

    This blog is shorter and happier!
    Read every word — things have changed. 
    Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
    Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
    The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
    This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
    By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
    Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS
    ====================

     

     

    ONCE UPON A LIFE… ✨

    Once upon a time, I made gravity nervous!
    Seven clubs soaring through the air.
    A world record. A dream came true.
    Apparently, even gravity has its limits!
    And Kit? He was just getting started! 🤹‍♂️

    Then came the truck. The crash. The coma.
    Thirty-seven silent days when the show stopped.
    The applause faded, and life hung in the balance.
    But my story wasn’t finished. Not even close! 🚒

    I returned—not as the man I once was,
    but as someone determined to become even more.
    I learned to walk, talk, dream, and believe again.
    This time, I wasn’t just juggling clubs.
    I was juggling courage, hope, determination, and LIFE!🪸

    Today, my greatest performance wasn’t on a stage.
    It’s helping others discover the strength within themselves.
    Helping you become what you’re meant to be.
    Applause fades, but changing a life can last forever. 👏

    Writing has become my way of breathing,
    of reaching hearts I may never meet.
    And if my words help you smile, find courage,
    or believe in yourself just a little more,
    then I’ve accomplished something greater
    than catching seven clubs in the air. ❤️

    SO, WHAT COMES NEXT IN KIT’S STORY?
    Back to juggling? Back to the stage?
    Another adventure? Another unexpected miracle?
    Perhaps the greatest chapter is still waiting to be written!

    Stay with me, my friend.
    The journey is far from over,
    and I still have a few surprises up my sleeve!
    Because life isn’t about getting back to who you were.
    It’s about discovering who you can STILL BECOME!

    LIFE CAN GET BETTER.
    LIFE WILL GET BETTER.
    AND THE BEST PART?
    WE’RE NOT FINISHED YET! 🌟

    My new address is:>>
    The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
    18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL  33647
    (A love letter would be dandy.)   kitsummers@gmail.com
    kitsummers.com     https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
    Call me >> 610-400-3233
    =======================

    NONE OF US WILL LIVE FOREVER—SO MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW!
    EVERY DAY IS A NEW DAY—A CHANCE TO BEGIN A NEW LIFE.
    DON’T LIVE IN THE PAST OR WAIT FOR THE FUTURE.
    NOW IS THE ONLY MOMENT YOU HOLD!
    MAKE THE MOST OF THIS MOMENT.
    I FEEL THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET! 

    A quick directory >>
    Part 1—The Beginnings — Obvious.
    Part 2—Things that Happened This Week. 
    Part 3—THE BLOG.
    Part 4—Inspirational Quotes.
    Part 5—Your Challenge.  
    Part 6—Blog for Next Week.
    Part 7—Final Thoughts — Obvious.

    ALWAYS REMEMBER >>
    When your life nears its end,
    What will you want to remember? 
    The dreams you chased? The people you loved?
    I’m still planning to live beyond age 100; will you join me? 
    Remember the moments when you chose courage over comfort? 

    READ PAST BLOGS HERE —
    kitsummers.com/blog

    If even one sentence in this blog inspires
    you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater
    courage, or appreciate the wonderful life already dancing
    around you, then every hour at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
    AND, EVERY DAY >>

    • Feel the sunshine.
    • Enjoy a good meal.
    • Speak more kindly.
    • Care for your body.
    • Learn something new.
    • Make the right choices.
    • Laugh whenever possible.
    • Improve one little thing today.
    • Treasure a friendly conversation.
    • Then improve another tomorrow. 
    • Keep going, and those tiny steps may grow.
    • Spend time with people who lift your spirits. 
    • And become something absolutely phenomenal!
    • Keep moving toward the person you want to become.
    • Celebrate every bit of progress—even when it arrives late.

    ====================   
    PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
    Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
    YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
             
    Heard from some people >>
    Sarah wrote >>
    “Love how thoughtfully put together this post is.
    The way you balanced proportions and accessory
    details here creates such a clean, modern aesthetic.
    Looking forward to your next style update!”
    Sarah from The Fashion Deals    https://thefashiondeals.com
                 
    “Hey, I can do that!” Kit Summers
    ================================================
    AN OLD FOLKS HOME?
    Perhaps you thought that was something for other people, somewhere far off in the future. Well, here’s a little wake-up call: 

    THAT FUTURE MAY ARRIVE SOONER THAN YOU THINK! 

    We are all getting older, whether we like it or not. But growing older doesn’t mean giving up on learning, laughing, exploring, or enjoying new adventures. The years may be adding up, but there’s still plenty of living to do!

    My daughters found Legacy for me, and perhaps their greatest concern was simply knowing I would be somewhere safe, comfortable, and well cared for. I can only imagine what went into their decision, but I hope it came from love and a desire to give me peace of mind.
                                     
    Life here at Legacy is certainly comfortable. Everything I need is provided, from meals to daily assistance, and I appreciate the care I receive. Of course, that comfort comes at a considerable cost. A heartfelt thank-you to Selective Insurance for covering these expenses and making my stay possible. I am grateful for the security, even as I continue searching for the freedom, adventure, and fulfillment that make life truly worth living.

    And here I am, living in an assisted living community, something I never imagined for myself! I believe I’m the youngest resident here, so perhaps I can teach these oldsters a trick or two. After all, I’ve spent much of my life juggling and doing magic, and I still have a few surprises up my sleeve! But I’m equally certain they have plenty to teach me. Age brings experience, but curiosity keeps us young. And I intend to keep learning, laughing, and juggling for many years to come!
               
    Are you ready for your final departure from life? None of us knows when that day will come, but one thing is certain—our time here is limited, so make every moment count! Finish that project you’ve been putting off. Write the book you’ve always dreamed of writing. Tell someone how much you love them. Chase that adventure, mend that friendship, and do the things that give your Life meaning.

    Don’t leave this world with a heart full of regrets and dreams left unexplored. Leave behind a trail of kindness, love, laughter, and inspiration. Make your life a story worth telling—and a legacy worth remembering!
                 
    ONCE UPON A TIME, THERE WAS LOVE…
    Once upon a time, a man lived whose heart was blessed with the beautiful magic of love. Many know him as “Kit; he will accept whatever you want to call him. Throughout his Life’s journey, several wonderful women had entered his world, each bringing her own special kind of happiness, tenderness, and romance. Some stayed for many years, others for only a season, but each left footprints upon his heart that time could never erase.
    Now, as the years passed and the evenings grew quieter, the man often found himself wandering through the gardens of his memories, remembering the women he had loved.
    Oh, how he missed the warmth of their embraces.
    The sweetness of their kisses.
    The simple joy of having someone beside him to love and be loved by.
    I met most of these women through juggling and performing in Balboa Park, San Diego. 

    THE LOVES IN KIT’S LIFE

    TD — TO ME IT WAS REAL LOVE
    Teresa and I were only six or seven years old when our hearts first found each other. We were just two innocent children discovering the wonderful feelings of affection and young love. And oh, how I loved that little girl! At that age, I may not have understood what love truly meant, but I knew how happy she made me feel. It was the sweetest, purest kind of love—the kind that asks for nothing more than being together.
                 
    As the years passed, life took us in different directions, and we eventually lost touch. But thanks to the magic of the internet, we found each other again after so many years. What a wonderful feeling to reconnect with someone who brought so much happiness to my childhood! Time may change our faces, our lives, and our circumstances, but some memories remain forever young. Teresa, my dear TD, you were one of the first girls to touch my heart, and you will always have a special place there. Some childhood loves never truly disappear; they simply become beautiful memories that last a lifetime.
               
    Over the years, the thought of reconnecting with TD and perhaps rekindling the love we once shared has crossed my mind many times. There’s something beautiful about the possibility of finding love again with someone who held such a special place in my heart. I would truly cherish that opportunity. But love is a journey for two, and both hearts must want to travel that road together.
    ==========
    CAROL —THERE GOES MY INNOCENCE
    Carol was my very first real love, back when we were both in high school, and the world seemed filled with endless possibilities. Yes, she was my first, and I will always remember her with warmth and affection. There is something wonderfully magical about young love—the excitement of seeing that special person, the thrill of holding hands, the sweetness of a first kiss, and the feeling that nothing else in the world matters when you’re together.
               
    We were young, innocent, and just beginning to discover the wonderful feeling of giving our hearts to someone else. Everything about falling in love was new, exciting, and filled with emotions we had never experienced before. Every smile, every touch, and every moment together seemed to hold a special kind of magic. Although life eventually led us down different paths, those beautiful memories have never faded from my heart. First love is something extraordinary—it teaches us how deeply we can care for another person and opens a door to feelings we never knew existed.

    Virginity gone—happiness found.
    Carol opened that door for me, and for that, I will always be grateful. We may have been too young to understand everything love meant, but what we shared was genuine, tender, and unforgettable. Looking back after all these years, I realize how fortunate I was to experience those wonderful feelings with her. Our love belonged to a different time in our lives, but the happiness and warmth of those memories remain part of who I am today. Thank you, Carol, for being my first love, for touching my heart, and for giving me a beautiful chapter of my life that I will always treasure.
    ==========
    ANITA — THE FIRST GREAT LOVE
    Every great love story has a beginning, and for Kit, that beginning was Anita. They were young, still in high school, when their hearts first discovered the wonderful magic of being in love. Their lives became intertwined with youthful dreams, tender affection, and the beautiful innocence of first romance. Every moment together seemed special, and the future appeared filled with endless possibilities.
                 
    But young love, as beautiful as it can be, doesn’t always last forever. As time passed, their lives began moving in different directions, and the love they once shared slowly faded. Although their romance ended, Anita would always hold a special place in Kit’s heart. She was the first to show him the wonderful feeling of loving someone deeply and being loved in return. Some loves may fade, but the memories of a first love can last a lifetime.
    ==========
    CHRIS — A LOVE THAT FELT LIKE HOME
    Then came Chris, bringing another beautiful chapter into Kit’s journey through love. Their attraction blossomed into something deep and meaningful, and before long, they found themselves wonderfully in love. This wasn’t simply a passing romance. It was a relationship filled with affection, companionship, and the happiness of sharing their lives.
               
    For a time, they even lived together, creating a little world of their own. There was something magical about waking up knowing the person you loved was right there beside you. The simplest moments could become the most precious—sharing a meal, laughing together, holding each other close, or simply enjoying the comfort of being together.
               
    But even the happiest chapters sometimes come to an end. Although their paths eventually separated, the love they shared remained part of Kit’s story. Chris had shown him that love was more than romance—it was the beautiful feeling of having someone beside you to share life’s everyday wonders with.
         
    Out of respect for the privacy of these special women who have been part of my life, I have chosen to use only their first names. Each of them holds a unique place in my memories and, in many ways, helped shape the person I became. While I enjoy sharing these wonderful stories from my past, I also recognize that their lives are their own, and they may prefer to remain out of the spotlight. My intention is not to embarrass anyone or reveal anything too personal, but simply to celebrate the love, laughter, friendships, and unforgettable moments we shared. Some people enter our lives for a short time, others stay much longer, but each can leave footprints on our hearts that never disappear. ❤️
    ==========
    KAREN — WHEN LOVE MET A DREAM
    Then there was Karen, a woman who entered Kit’s life when his heart was open to romance, but his dreams pulled him toward an entirely different future. Their connection brought affection, adventure, and the excitement of discovering what life might hold together.
               
    For a short while, they lived and traveled together, sharing experiences and exploring the world. Romance grew along the way, but something else was growing stronger within Kit—his passion for juggling. What had begun as a fascination was becoming his life’s ambition, a dream he was determined to pursue wherever it might lead.
               
    Eventually, Kit faced a difficult choice. He could keep exploring the possibilities of love with Karen, or he could follow the extraordinary dream calling him toward the stage, the spotlight, and a life of performance. KIT CHOSE JUGGLING.
             
    It wasn’t necessarily that Karen meant too little to him. His dream meant so much. He was young, ambitious, and eager to discover just how far his talents could take him. Love offered one beautiful possibility, while juggling promised an adventure he couldn’t resist.
           
    Looking back, Kit could appreciate what Karen had brought into his life while recognizing the choice that had helped shape his future. Sometimes life presents us with two wonderful possibilities, and choosing one means saying goodbye to the other.
                     
    And so, with a heart full of memories and five very different experiences of love behind him, Kit continued forward. He had already learned that love could be innocent, comforting, adventurous, and sometimes heartbreaking.
                     
    But his romantic fairy tale was far from finished. There were still hearts to discover, memories to create, and wonderful chapters of love waiting to be written.
    ==========
    SUE — MY FIRST GREAT LOVE AFTER THE ACCIDENT

    Sue with Avi

    During my years headlining in Atlantic City, Tuesday was my day off, and I often made the 100-mile drive to New York City to visit Sue and stay the night in Sue’s spare room. She was a dear friend who held a special place in my heart. She always welcomed me into her home. Although we were wonderful friends, I secretly longed for something more. I wanted to hold her close, share the tenderness of romance, and discover what it might feel like to love her beyond friendship.
                 
    Then, just a week or two before my terrible accident and 37-day coma, something beautiful happened. Sue and I finally shared the intimacy I had dreamed about for so long. It was a tender, loving experience that meant so much to me. Sadly, the accident and my long coma stole many precious memories, including, it seems, the memory of that special time together.

    Some time later, during a visit to San Diego, Sue lovingly reminded me of the warmth and joy we had once shared in bed. It was as though a beautiful part of my past had come alive again. Although our lives eventually followed different paths, the affection I felt for her never completely disappeared. Sue went on to marry Avi and become the mother of two wonderful sons.
             
    Sadly, cancer took Sue from this world some years ago. Even now, I think of her with great tenderness and gratitude. Some people enter our lives for only a chapter, yet leave their love written across the pages of our hearts forever. Sue was one of those people. I wish we could share one more embrace, one more conversation, and one more laugh together. But since that is no longer possible, I will treasure the beautiful moments we shared. Sue may be gone from my life, but she will never be gone from my heart.
    ==========
    CHRIS RUSS  —  THE LOVE I NEVER KNEW
    Chris and I had only recently met when my life-changing accident turned my world upside down. She was such a beautiful woman, and although we barely knew each other, something about her stayed with me all these years. She even flew with my mother and me on our return trip to San Diego, sharing a small but meaningful part of a journey that would forever change my life.

    We were both young, with so much life ahead of us, but my accident changed everything. With all the challenges I faced while recovering and rebuilding my life, the timing simply wasn’t right for a relationship to develop. Sometimes two people meet at just the wrong moment, and life takes them in different directions before they have a chance to discover what might have been. I have often wondered how things might have turned out if we had met under different circumstances.

    Over the years, Chris and I lost touch, but I have never completely forgotten her. I would love to reconnect, learn where life’s journey has taken her, and perhaps rediscover the friendship we never had the chance to develop. Life has taught me that unexpected opportunities can appear at any age, and some connections remain special no matter how much time passes. Who knows? Perhaps one of life’s most beautiful surprises is finding someone again whom you thought was lost to the years.
    ==========
    MARY ELLEN  — AND A FAMILY IS BORN
    We met in Balboa Park (where else?) after my big accident. One of the most beautiful chapters of my life was written with Mary Ellen, with whom I shared 28 wonderful years, 23 of them as husband and wife. Together, we built a life filled with love, laughter, dreams, challenges, and countless unforgettable memories.
             
    But their greatest joy came with the arrival of their two beautiful daughters, Jasmine and April, who brought a whole new meaning to love and happiness. What a wonderful family we created, and what precious memories they made together! Although that chapter eventually came to an end, the love they shared and the family they built will forever hold a special place in my heart. Some chapters may end, but the love written into their pages lasts a lifetime.
    ==========
    TINA  — A STRONG LOVE
    Then came Tina, a beautiful companion with whom he spent a magical year traveling and exploring the world. Together, they discovered new places, shared wonderful adventures, and experienced the enchanting feeling of being deeply in love. For a time, the world seemed like their own private kingdom.
    ==========
    BETH  — A GREAT LOVE
    Later, Beth entered my life, bringing another beautiful chapter of love and happiness. They shared three years together, two as husband and wife. Their time together was filled with precious moments he would always treasure, even though their fairy tale did not last forever.
    ==========
    JENNIFER  — THE FINAL LOVE? (I hope not)
    Then came Jennifer, who awakened the sleeping romance within my heart. For a while, happiness blossomed again, and I dared to believe another beautiful love story was beginning. But one day, quite unexpectedly, she asked me to leave. Once again, he found himself walking a lonely road, carrying memories of what might have been.
    ==========
    CINDY — OH DEAR CINDY
    And there was Cindy, with whom Kit shared a tender romantic connection. Hoping their affection might someday blossom into a beautiful and lasting love. But like a rosebud waiting for spring, that romance has never fully opened. Always ready to go to Boulder to be with you, dear Cindy.

    Here are Kit and Cindy in Colorado. 

    ==========
    YOU?  — HAVE WE NOT MET YET
    I’m still here, waiting and wondering—are you out there? Life will go on, with or without you, and I’ll continue making the most of every day. But deep in my heart, I know that life’s greatest joys are even sweeter when shared with someone special. I can live my life without you, but oh, how much more beautiful it could be if we were together. ❤️
    ===========
    Thank you so much. Revisiting these beautiful memories has warmed my heart, brought smiles to my face, and brought a few tears to my eyes. I’ve been fortunate to experience some truly wonderful love in my life, and those memories will always be precious to me.
               
    As for my future? Hmm… right now, the picture doesn’t look quite so bright. I miss the companionship, affection, and joy of having someone special beside me. But perhaps my love story isn’t finished yet. After all, just because the past holds beautiful memories doesn’t mean the future can’t hold a few beautiful surprises.
               
    But with great love sometimes comes heartbreaking loss. Some memories still bring a warm smile, while others leave an emptiness that time has never quite filled. I’ve loved passionately, lost painfully, and learned something valuable from every relationship. And despite the heartache, I wouldn’t trade a single moment of the love I’ve known just to escape the pain of losing it.
                 
    My heart has loved deeply; it has been broken, and it has healed. Yet through it all, one beautiful thing remains true: I still have so much love left to give. And I hope someone out there wants to share that love with me. Are you here? Or do you know who she is?
                 
    Through it all, the man discovered something both wonderful and heartbreaking about love. Even when a love story ends, the love we experienced can remain alive within us. The laughter, the tenderness, the adventures, and the quiet moments together become treasures that no passing year can take away.
             
    Yet, deep within his heart, Kit still yearned for that special someone—someone to hold his hand, share his dreams, laugh at his silly jokes, and find joy in life’s simplest moments. More than anything, he longed for the warmth of a loving embrace, the comfort of knowing he mattered, and the beautiful sound of someone whispering, “I’m so happy you’re in my life.”
    Here I am — 610-400-3233
                 
    Though the years had passed and his hair had fallen out, his heart had never forgotten the beautiful magic of falling in love. He still believed in tender kisses, warm embraces, whispered promises, and the joy of having someone special by his side. Somewhere beyond the loneliness, perhaps another wonderful love story was waiting to unfold. After all, the heart never grows too old to love, and the most beautiful chapter of his life might still be waiting to be written.
               
    For the man knew that fairy tales do not always end the way we imagined. Sometimes, just when we think the story is over, love surprises us with another beginning.
    And so he kept a little room in his heart for one more wonderful possibility…
    Perhaps his happily-ever-after was still waiting to be discovered. ❤️
                 
    I’ve lost all contact with these ladies who were a part of my life.
                  WHAT DID I DO THAT WAS SO BAD?
                                 
    Each of these women touched my heart in a different way. Some relationships lasted decades, others only a short while, but each brought moments of tenderness, affection, laughter, and love that I will never forget. I don’t wish to turn back the clock. I simply miss having someone to hold, someone to share my thoughts with, and someone who looks forward to seeing me as much as I look forward to seeing her.
                 
    And then there are my two wonderful daughters, Jasmine and April. I love them both dearly, yet I rarely hear from them anymore. Sometimes it feels as though they want little to do with me, and that hurts more than I can express. I don’t need grand gestures or hours of attention. A simple phone call, a loving message, or a few minutes together would mean the world to me.
               
    At 67, after everything I’ve experienced and overcome, my heart still longs for the simplest and most beautiful things in life: to love, to be loved, to hold someone close, and to know I matter to someone.
           
    My life has been filled with extraordinary adventures, beautiful romances, and unforgettable moments that I will always treasure. I’ve traveled far, experienced the unexpected, and discovered wonders I never imagined. Yet through it all, I’ve learned something even more valuable:
                   
    The greatest adventures aren’t measured by where you go or what you accomplish, but by the love you share along the way. Life is wonderful on your own, but having someone special beside you can make even the simplest moments extraordinary.
    ===================
    PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
    Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!

    Good morning! Or perhaps it’s a good afternoon… or even good evening! Whatever time it is in your little corner of the world, I’m delighted you’re here. Inspiration doesn’t wear a watch or wait for the perfect moment. Sometimes it arrives with a smile, a little laughter, a warm hug, and occasionally three wonderful ideas for me to juggle! 🤹‍♂️
               
    That’s one of the magical things about words. They don’t care when you arrive. My readers are scattered around the world, living different lives, following different schedules, and facing different challenges. I may not know what time it is where you are, but I do know something much more important:

    YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
    WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! ✨

    WELCOME, MY FRIEND!
    I’m truly happy you’re here, sharing a little of your day with me. Through my writing, I hope to bring you a smile, a little laughter, and perhaps a fresh perspective on your own life. I’ve experienced incredible highs and devastating lows, and I’m still learning from every adventure. If my words brighten your day or inspire a new thought, then sharing my story is worthwhile!
                 
    Life certainly hasn’t followed the path I expected! I’ve been knocked down, thrown off course, and sent tumbling in unexpected directions. But I’ve learned to get back up, laugh at my clumsy moves, and call it dancing! After years of juggling, I know that dropping a ball doesn’t mean the show is over. Just pick it up and keep going! I’m still curious about what tomorrow might bring, and I’m delighted you’re along for the adventure!

    AND SPEAKING OF CELEBRATING . . . 

    >>>> OCTOBER 8
    It was HAWAIIAN DAY at Legacy! I lived in Hawaii for 3 months in 1978; I loved it there. Colorful Hawaiian shirts everywhere, leis draped around necks and wrists, and happy smiles lighting up the room! There was even a festive parade, with everyone joining in the fun. And guess who was juggling colorful scarves? ME, OF COURSE! I may not be tossing seven clubs into the air anymore, but those scarves were flying, and so was my spirit! Once a juggler, always a juggler!
               
    >>>> OCTOBER 10
    As usual, I already have most of next week’s blog written, and it’s only Saturday morning! But there’s still an entire week ahead of me, and who knows what might happen? What experiences will I have? What stories will I discover? And, more importantly, what wonderful surprises might life have waiting for YOU? That’s one of the things I enjoy most about being alive—not knowing what tomorrow might bring!
                     
    Each morning, I wake up wondering what the day has in store for me. Who might I meet? What might I learn? What unexpected adventure could come my way? Some days bring excitement, while others seem to offer little more than another ordinary day. But I’ve discovered that even the quietest moments can hold something worth remembering. Sometimes, the best stories come from the smallest experiences!
                     
    And those little experiences have a funny way of adding up. Every week, I wonder whether I’ll have enough interesting material to fill another blog. Yet, as the days unfold, ordinary moments become stories, unexpected encounters teach me something, and before I know it, I have more to write about than I can possibly use. Apparently, my life is more interesting than I sometimes realize!
                   
    That’s when the real challenge begins—not finding something to write about, but deciding what to leave out! Believe me, I do plenty of editing. But writing this blog has taught me to pay closer attention to the world around me. A story is hiding almost every day if we’re willing to notice it. And speaking of unexpected stories, here’s one that came rolling my way!
                   
    A HELPING HAND GOES A LONG WAY!
    Today, I noticed a man in a wheelchair making his way down the hallway, pulling himself forward using only his feet. Each effort moved him about five inches. At that rate, he’d reach his destination sometime next Tuesday! So, I offered to give him a push, and away we went!
               
    I’ve always treasured my independence, so I understand how difficult it can be to depend on someone else. But I’ve also learned that accepting help doesn’t make us weak, and offering it doesn’t cost us much. Sometimes, a small act of kindness can brighten two people’s days. His journey became a little easier, and mine became a little happier!
                   
    Of course, not every little adventure involves helping someone else. Sometimes, the person who needs help is ME! Take this morning, for example, when I lost something that has apparently become an essential part of modern life—MY PHONE!
               
    There was a time when I could live happily without a phone. Now, apparently, I can’t survive without one! I searched everywhere. GONE! Then I remembered taking it to bed last night, hoping you might call. I finally discovered it on the floor beside my bed. WHAT A RELIEF! Apparently, even my phone got tired of waiting for your call and jumped out of bed!
               
    With that mystery solved, I was ready for a little excitement. Unfortunately, it’s the weekend again, and slowness seems to rule the day. The hours crawl by, and I find myself itching to get outside and RUN! But my asthma has other plans. It’s frustrating when my mind shouts, “LET’S GO!” while my lungs respond, “NOT SO FAST, BUDDY!”
                 
    So, what’s a juggler to do? I’ve spent my life moving, exploring, performing, and pushing myself to discover what’s possible. Slowing down doesn’t come naturally to me, and I certainly don’t enjoy it. But if there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s that I can’t always control what happens—I can only decide what to do next.
                 
    For now, that means finding other ways to stay active, useful, and curious. Maybe I’ll help another resident, write another story, make someone laugh, or discover something completely unexpected. My lungs may be slowing me down, but my curiosity is still running at full speed!
                 
    And who knows? By this time next week, I’ll probably have another collection of adventures to share with you. After all, life keeps throwing things my way, and I’m still learning how to juggle them!
               
    When my final moments eventually arrive, I hope to be fully conscious and aware. I’ve always been curious about life, and I’m equally curious about death. What will I feel? What will I think? Will I recognize the moment when life begins to slip away? I have no intention of finding out anytime soon—I still have many wonderful years ahead of me! But when that day finally comes, I hope to experience it with the same curiosity and wonder I’ve carried throughout my life. After all, death is life’s final mystery, and I’d like to be awake for it!
                 
    Are you ready for your final departure from this world? None of us knows when our last day will arrive. But one thing is certain—our time on Earth is limited. Don’t just count the days you have left—fill them with love, adventure, purpose, and memories worth leaving behind!

    Finish that project you’ve been putting off. Write the book you’ve always dreamed of writing. Tell someone how much you love them. Chase that adventure, mend that friendship, and do the things that give your life meaning.

    Don’t leave this world with a heart full of regrets and dreams left unexplored. Leave behind a trail of kindness, love, laughter, and inspiration. Make your life a story worth telling—and a legacy worth remembering!
             
    >>>>> OCTOBER 11
    Another awakening at 3 a.m.! While the rest of the world sleeps, my mind is already wide awake, overflowing with thoughts and memories. I couldn’t wait to return to my blog and write about love and loss—two things I’ve experienced in abundance. I’ve been fortunate enough to love deeply, share beautiful moments, and experience the wonderful feeling of having someone special beside me.
                 
    But now, sadly, there is no romantic love in my life, and there hasn’t been for quite some time. I miss the warmth of being close to someone, the tenderness of a loving embrace, the simple joy of holding hands, and the wonderful feeling of knowing someone is happy just because I’m there. I miss having someone to share my thoughts with, laugh at life’s little surprises, and hold close when the world grows quiet. More than anything, I miss loving someone and feeling that same love returned.
                 
    I’ve been fortunate to experience beautiful romances throughout my life, and those memories will always hold a special place in my heart. But memories, no matter how wonderful, cannot replace the warmth of someone beside you today. I may be 67 years old, but my heart hasn’t grown old, and my desire to love and be loved is as strong as ever. I still have so much affection, tenderness, laughter, and happiness to share. Perhaps somewhere, someone is feeling the same loneliness, hoping to find a heart like mine. I don’t know whether love will find me again, but I haven’t given up believing that another beautiful chapter might still be waiting to begin.
               
    Lunch today was a delicious treat—TACOS! And who doesn’t love a good taco? We had a choice of beef or shrimp, and since I couldn’t decide, I did the sensible thing and ordered one of each! Both were absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor and satisfying every bite. The food here at Legacy keeps impressing me, and today’s lunch was another winner. Sometimes, a couple of tasty tacos are all it takes to make an ordinary day a little more wonderful!
                     
    >>>>> OCTOBER 12
    You’ve heard the saying, “The early bird catches the worm.” Well, I’ve never eaten a worm, and I don’t intend to start now! I’ve been living on the second floor, where worms are pretty scarce. But today, I’m moving downstairs into a smaller studio apartment. Perhaps I’ll finally catch that elusive worm! Then again, I’d much rather catch breakfast in the dining room. Why dig for worms when someone else is cooking? 😄

    It’s only about 6 a.m., and the moving day is beginning! I thought I’d done a good job of getting rid of unnecessary belongings, but looking around, I still have an amazing amount of stuff. Where did it all come from? After years of living in my van, you’d think I’d mastered traveling light. Apparently, my possessions have been secretly multiplying while I sleep!

    Fortunately, I’m only moving down one floor, not across the country. I’m sure the staff will have a cart to help me later this morning. This move is another opportunity to simplify my life, appreciate what I have, and discover how little I truly need to be happy.

    A SMALLER APARTMENT,
    FEWER POSSESSIONS,
    AND A SIMPLER LIFE—THAT’S MY GOAL!

    Over the years, I’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from how much we own, but from how much we enjoy the life we’re living. Possessions can bring comfort, but they can also weigh us down. The less clutter we carry, the more room we have for freedom, laughter, love, and new adventures.

    Of course, getting rid of things is easier said than done! I’m beginning to suspect my furniture has been throwing parties after midnight and inviting friends to move in. But I’m determined to make my new studio a comfortable home filled with everything I need—and very little that I don’t!

    A smaller home doesn’t mean a smaller life! My curiosity, enthusiasm, determination, and dreams remain as enormous as ever. There are still people to meet, stories to write, lessons to learn, and adventures waiting around the corner. I’m downsizing my apartment, not my dreams! 😄

    And you can do the same! Whether you live in a mansion, a modest house, or a cozy apartment, or even travel in a van, consider what truly matters. Happiness isn’t measured by the size of your home or how much you own, but by the love you share, the memories you create, and the life you enjoy. 

    Own less, live more, love deeply, and make room for happiness! ❤️

    It’s now about 7 a.m., and I’ve already written all this! While much of the world is still waking up, my mind has been racing, my fingers flying across the keyboard, and my thoughts turning into words. What a wonderful way to begin another day!

    And the best part? A brand-new day stretches out before me, overflowing with possibilities, surprises, adventures, and opportunities to make life even better! Every sunrise brings another chance to learn, laugh, love, and create something extraordinary. But why wait for the sunrise? 

    Who says the sun has to shine before YOU can?
    Be your own sunshine, brighten someone else’s day,
    and make today a masterpiece! 

    Life is waiting, and I’m ready to embrace it—with a smile on my face, excitement in my heart, and dreams far bigger than my new apartment! After all, I may be downsizing my living space, but I’ll never downsize my enthusiasm for life. A smaller home, a simpler life, and a future filled with BIG possibilities! 🌟😄
                 
    >>>>> OCTOBER 13
    I haven’t heard from my daughter, Jasmine, and April, in some time now.
    I sent these words recently; still nothing >>
    My father died when I was only six years old.
    I had no chance to get to know him.
    Your dad is still alive, yet you stay away.  Why?
                       
    Today, I had my first physical therapy session with Ashley. I must admit, I was disappointed with my performance. I had hoped to do better, but I know improvement takes time, patience, and determination. What concerns me most is the unexpected pain in my left elbow. I’m not sure what is causing it or how best to relieve it. I’m hoping for recommendations that will reduce the pain, restore my strength, and help me keep moving forward. After all, progress doesn’t always come as quickly as we’d like, but every small step in the right direction is still a victory!
         
    MOVING DAY! A new room, a new beginning, and a little less space! Today, I moved from room 217 to room 111, trading my one-bedroom apartment for a smaller studio. The best part? My new room costs less, which means I’m saving money, and the insurance company generously covers my living expenses here. I don’t need a big apartment to live a big life! After all, I’m downsizing my living space, not my dreams! 😄
             
    >>>>> OCTOBER 14
    I had physical therapy again today. My balance is terrible, and I don’t see it getting better. Hopefully they can help. I did teach four people there how to juggle today; that’s a good thing.
                 
    Where did all this stuff come from? I moved from the one-bedroom into a studio apartment; I seem to have much more stuff, or am I thinking incorrectly again?
               
    I felt unusually tired today, and I’m hoping it’s only temporary. I believe I slept fairly well last night, but for some reason, my energy just wasn’t there today. Hopefully, a good night’s sleep tonight will recharge my batteries and have me waking up tomorrow refreshed and ready for whatever adventures life brings!

    After all, even the most determined juggler needs to put the balls down occasionally and recharge! 😄 And if this unusual fatigue continues, it’s worth mentioning to your nurse or doctor, especially if it comes with other symptoms.
             
    >>>>> OCTOBER 15
    I’m still here, hoping, dreaming, and wondering—are you out there? I miss having someone special to share my laughter, adventures, dreams, and quiet moments of tenderness. Life keeps offering wonderful possibilities, and I believe love may still be waiting somewhere along my journey. My heart has so much more to give, and I’m excited about the beautiful memories we could create together.
                 
    I don’t need someone to complete my life, but it would be wonderful to share the happiness, love, and adventures still ahead. I still have dreams to chase, places to explore, and countless reasons to smile. My heart is open, my hopes are alive, and I believe the best chapters of my life may still be unwritten. Perhaps the greatest love of my life is still waiting to begin—with you. ❤️
                   
    Physical therapy again this morning! Unfortunately, my left elbow still hurts quite a bit during certain exercises. This isn’t ordinary muscle soreness. The pain feels deep inside my elbow, almost as though it’s coming directly from the bone. It’s frustrating because I want to keep making progress, not be slowed down by pain. I’ve overcome much bigger obstacles in my life, and I’m certainly not ready to let one stubborn elbow stop me now!
             
    Now I’m dealing with problems in both elbows, and I’m becoming increasingly concerned. My left elbow hurts considerably with certain movements, while my right elbow remains swollen from bursitis. After spending much of my life juggling, my arms have always been essential to who I am and what I love doing. The thought of losing some of that ability is troubling, but I’m determined to find a solution.

    I’ve overcome tremendous physical challenges before, and I’m not about to let two troublesome elbows defeat me! I want to understand what’s causing the pain, discover the best treatment, and regain my strength and flexibility. My goal isn’t simply to eliminate the discomfort—it’s to get back to doing everything I love. After all, what’s a juggler to do without his arms? Keep fighting for a comeback!
                 
    I’m determined to find a solution and regain my strength. If there are specific exercises or treatments that could help my elbow heal, I’d gladly make them part of my daily routine. Of course, I want to make sure I’m doing what’s best for my recovery. My goal isn’t simply to get rid of the pain—it’s to regain my abilities, stay active, and return to doing everything I love. Life is too wonderful to spend it sitting on the sidelines!

    I just moved from a one-bedroom apartment into a smaller studio, and I’m amazed at how much stuff I’ve accumulated! Years ago, I traded a two-bedroom house for a van and spent years traveling across America, discovering that I didn’t need much to live an extraordinary life. My van was small, but my world was enormous! Every mile brought new adventures, freedom, and unforgettable memories.
                   
    Now, as I downsize once again, I’m reminded of those wonderful years on the road and the freedom of living with less. I’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from possessions, but from the experiences we embrace and the love we share. I don’t need more stuff—I need more adventures, more love, and more life to enjoy. My space may be shrinking, but my dreams never will!
               
    Something that JUST happened. My trash can was hardly 1/3 full. An employee just came by and took the trash, which was barely anything—the whole kit and caboodle (me). I scolded her and told her to check with me first about my trash in the future. People might say, “Well, that’s just her job.” Well, people can change, remember?
                 
    Dinner tonight was a simple grilled cheese sandwich with tomato bisque soup. When I saw it listed on the menu, I wasn’t expecting anything special. Boy, was I in for a delicious surprise! Both were absolutely wonderful, and the combination was downright phenomenal! That’s a word I rarely use, but tonight’s dinner certainly earned it. Who knew a humble grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of soup could bring so much happiness? Sometimes life’s simplest pleasures turn out to be the most delightful!
                 
    >>>>> OCTOBER 16
    This morning, I spent time organizing and arranging my new room, turning it into a place that feels just right for me. I’ve learned that wherever you spend most of your time—whether it’s your home, bedroom, or workplace—make it a place you truly LOVE being!
           
    Surround yourself with things that bring you comfort, joy, happiness, and inspiration. Even small changes can transform an ordinary space into one that lifts your spirits and makes you smile. After all, when you create an environment you love, you’re also creating a happier, more fulfilling life. Make your surroundings your own little paradise!
                     
    Don’t just settle for a place to exist—create a place where you can THRIVE! Start with one room, make it your personal paradise, and then bring that same joy into every space you occupy. After all, you don’t have to travel to paradise when you can create a little paradise wherever you are!
            =====      
    I just returned from breakfast, and what a wonderful surprise! Tatiana, the Russian lady who has been in the hospital, is back! I was beginning to worry that I might never see her again, so seeing her this morning truly brightened my day.
               
    I made sure she knew how happy I was to see her, and I think my enthusiasm brought a smile to her face. She still speaks very little English, but kindness, friendship, and a genuine smile don’t need a translator. Sometimes, the most meaningful conversations happen without words.
                 
    I just returned from physical therapy, and unfortunately, my balance is still not where it should be. I’m not sure what I can do to improve it. My therapist guided me through several exercises, but I didn’t notice much improvement. I know progress takes time, but I’m eager to regain my stability and confidence. I don’t expect miracles overnight, but I certainly don’t intend to stop trying!    

    DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
    YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!

    ====================
    PART 3) BLOG 399—The People at Legacy    
    Be Different—find your own way.

    LIFE AT LEGACY—COMFORT ISN’T EVERYTHING!
    GETTING OLDER—BUT I’M NOT FINISHED LIVING!
    THE FAIRY TALE OF THE JUGGLER WHO REFUSED TO GROW OLD

    Once upon a time, in a world filled with wonder, adventure, and unexpected surprises, a young man named Kit lived.

    Kit was no ordinary fellow. He was a juggler who could send seven clubs flying through the air, dazzling audiences with his extraordinary skills. He traveled to distant lands, performed before cheering crowds, and explored the magnificent wilderness. His life was an adventure, and he never knew what wonderful surprise tomorrow might bring!

    BUT EVEN THE MOST ADVENTUROUS FAIRY
    TALES HAVE UNEXPECTED TWISTS. 

    One terrible day, a mighty iron beast—a truck—struck Kit, sending him into a deep sleep that lasted 37 days. When he finally woke, the world he knew was gone. The juggler who once amazed audiences had to learn to walk and speak all over again.
               
    No fairy godmother appeared with a sparkling wand, and no magical potion could erase the pain or put his shattered world back together. Instead, Kit faced the enormous challenge of rebuilding his life, one difficult day, one small victory, and one determined step at a time. There was no magic in his recovery—only courage, perseverance, and an unshakable determination to live again.
           
    And just when he thought he had survived life’s greatest storm, fate delivered another crushing blow. Years later, another iron beast—a truck—struck him again! Once more, his world was turned upside down. But if life thought it could knock Kit down and keep him there, it had seriously underestimated the man who refused to give up!

    GOOD GRIEF!
    DID THESE TRUCKS HAVE SOMETHING AGAINST JUGGLERS?

    Yet somehow, through all the darkness, the little flame of adventure continued burning inside him. He discovered something no wizard could have taught him: Sometimes the greatest magic in life is finding the courage to begin again.
                     
    And begin again he did. He became an author, an inspirational speaker, a businessman, and a traveler. He discovered new talents, new friendships, and new reasons to celebrate being alive. His life wasn’t the same as before, but it was still filled with possibilities.
                   
    Then, as the years slipped by, Kit faced another unexpected chapter. At the grand old age of 67—although he certainly didn’t feel old enough to deserve that number—he moved into a beautiful residence called The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve, in the sunny kingdom of Florida.
                     
    Now, this was no ordinary dwelling. The property was surrounded by magnificent cypress trees, peaceful ponds, winding pathways, and lovely gardens. Birds sang from the branches, sunshine danced across the water, and gentle breezes whispered through the leaves. Inside, the residents were treated almost like royalty!
                 
    Servants—well, actually, wonderful staff members—prepared three delicious meals every day. Others cleaned the rooms, washed the laundry, maintained the grounds, and made certain everyone was comfortable. There was a library filled with stories, a theater for entertainment, a fitness center, and activities to keep the residents busy. 

    IT WAS ALMOST LIKE LIVING IN AN ENCHANTED CASTLE!

    And the food? Oh, the food! Every meal seemed like a royal banquet. The portions were so enormous that Kit sometimes wondered whether the royal chef was preparing him for hibernation. “Please,” he would say, “just a little food for me!” But the plates kept arriving, piled high with delicious treasures. Perhaps the chef was secretly trying to turn the juggler into a Thanksgiving turkey!
                   
    Fortunately, a generous guardian named Selective Insurance paid for his stay in this lovely castle. Kit was deeply grateful to Greg and everyone who continued helping him. His two wonderful daughters, Jasmine and April, had also helped him find this beautiful place, and he appreciated their care and concern.

    EVERYTHING SEEMED PERFECT.
    OR DID IT? 

    One quiet morning, Kit sat beside his window, looking out at the peaceful gardens. The birds sang, the trees swayed, and the sunshine was beautiful. Yet something was missing. He knew exactly how the day would unfold. Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. Bed. And the next day? Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. Bed. And the day after that . . . ? 

    GOOD HEAVENS!
    HAD SOMEONE CAST A SPELL THAT
    MADE EVERY DAY EXACTLY THE SAME?

    Kit had spent much of his life exploring the world, meeting fascinating people, and discovering what waited beyond the next bend in the road. Now, his greatest daily mystery sometimes seemed to be what the chef would serve for lunch! He looked around his lovely room and sighed. “I have everything I need to be comfortable,” he whispered, “but where has all my adventure gone?”

    AND YET, HIS HEART LONGED FOR SOMETHING MORE—LOVE. 

    Not just memories of love from years gone by, but the warmth of someone beside him, a hand to hold, a heart to cherish, and someone special to share life’s beautiful moments with. He had survived so much, overcome so many obstacles, and accomplished so many dreams. Yet one dream remained—TO LOVE AND BE LOVED AGAIN. ❤️
               
    He missed having someone special beside him. Someone to share a sunrise with, laugh at his ridiculous jokes, hold his hand, and perhaps even wander down the wrong road together. He missed friendship, affection, and the beautiful feeling of being important to another person.
               
    Although the castle provided wonderful meals, a comfortable bed, and caring people, it could not simply hand him something on a silver platter. HAPPINESS. And Kit began to understand an important truth: 

    A CASTLE CAN SHELTER YOUR BODY,
    BUT IT CANNOT MAKE YOUR HEART SING. 

    For a while, Kit wondered what life still had in store for him. Once, he could simply climb into his traveling carriage, leave civilization behind, and disappear into the magnificent wilderness he loved so deeply. He remembered waking to birdsong, breathing the crisp mountain air, watching spectacular sunsets, and falling asleep beneath a blanket of countless stars. Out there, surrounded by nature, he felt completely free, wonderfully alive, and at peace with the world.
                 
    He had traveled thousands of miles across America, exploring breathtaking national parks, towering mountains, peaceful forests, and endless stretches of open country. Some of his happiest memories came from discovering places where the only sounds were the wind whispering through the trees and the gentle flow of a nearby stream. Every winding road offered another possibility, and every sunrise promised a new adventure. For Kit, the wilderness wasn’t simply somewhere to visit. It was where he felt most alive.
               
    But time had changed his body, and those wonderful adventures were no longer as easy. He missed the freedom of the open road, the magnificent mountain views, the quiet evenings beneath the stars, and especially the excitement of not knowing what awaited around the next bend. Yet something within him had never changed. The adventurous spirit that had carried him across America was still alive, and his desire to explore, discover, and experience life remained as strong as ever.
               
    Perhaps he could no longer wander through the wilderness as he once had, but those unforgettable experiences had become treasures that no passing years could take away. His adventures had shaped his character, strengthened his determination, and filled his heart with stories worth sharing. Now he needed to discover new ways to experience that same freedom and excitement.

    His traveling days might have changed, but his journey was far from over. People still needed inspiring, memories still needed making, and wonderful new adventures waited just beyond the next bend!

             
    But then, one beautiful morning, an idea came floating into his mind. Not a magnificent quest involving dragons, distant kingdoms, or enchanted treasure. Something much smaller, something that began with a handful of seeds.

    “I SHALL PLANT A GARDEN!”

    Yes! A vegetable garden! After exploring mountains, deserts, forests, and magnificent national parks, his next great adventure would begin in a little patch of earth outside the castle. He imagined bright red tomatoes, colorful peppers, and fresh vegetables reaching toward the Florida sunshine.
             
    Perhaps the plants would flourish. Perhaps the tomatoes would grow as large as pumpkins! Or perhaps the vegetables would take one look at their new gardener and decide that life simply wasn’t worth the effort. 

    AFTER ALL, KIT KNEW MUCH MORE ABOUT
    JUGGLING CLUBS THAN JUGGLING TOMATOES!

    But that didn’t matter. For the first time in a while, he had something new to look forward to. Each morning, he could visit his little garden and search for signs of life. Had a seed sprouted? Was a tiny green leaf pushing through the soil? Would a flower appear?
                 
    And perhaps, as he tended his plants, another resident would wander over and ask, “What are you growing?” Kit would smile and reply, “Hopefully vegetables, but at the moment, mostly dirt!” They might laugh together, and perhaps that laughter would become a conversation. Before long, the little garden might become a gathering place where people shared stories, smiles, and the simple pleasure of watching something grow.

    WHAT BEGAN AS A HANDFUL OF SEEDS MIGHT BLOSSOM
    INTO SOMETHING FAR MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN VEGETABLES. 

    And if nothing grew? Well, Kit would still have enjoyed the sunshine, exercised his body, gotten his hands dirty, and found another wonderful story to tell. Not a bad harvest! For Kit had learned that you cannot harvest the joys of life without first planting the seeds of possibility.

    BUT THE GARDEN WASN’T THE ONLY THING GROWING IN HIS WORLD. 

    Each week, Kit sat at his magical writing machine—a computer, though he sometimes suspected it had a mind of its own—and created another chapter of his continuing adventure, KITTING AROUND. At first, he often wondered what he could possibly write about. After all, how many exciting things could happen inside an enchanted retirement castle?
                 
    Quite a few, as it turned out! A kind gesture in the hallway became a story. A funny conversation brought laughter. A frustrating afternoon offered a lesson. A new friendship created another reason to smile. Soon, the words flew across the page faster than Kit could control them. 

    APPARENTLY, HIS KEYBOARD HAD NEVER BEEN TAUGHT HOW TO BRAKE!

    Yet writing gave him something even more precious than stories. It gave him purpose. Instead of allowing the days to pass unnoticed, he began searching for the small wonders hidden inside them. A smile, a helping hand, an unexpected conversation, a beautiful sunrise, or a tiny moment that might otherwise have disappeared forever.
         
    And as he wrote, he imagined people in distant towns and faraway places reading his words. Perhaps someone would laugh. Perhaps someone struggling through a difficult time would discover a little hope. Perhaps a lonely person would realize that somewhere in the world, another heart understood. And perhaps someone who had stopped dreaming would decide to dream again.
             
    There are days when loneliness finds its way into my heart, when memories of the wonderful life I’ve lived seem more plentiful than the opportunities ahead. But I refuse to believe that my greatest happiness is behind me. I’ve traveled the world, experienced extraordinary adventures, loved deeply, and overcome challenges that once seemed impossible. And through it all, I’ve learned something important: 

    LIFE HAS A WONDERFUL WAY OF SURPRISING US, ESPECIALLY
    WHEN WE KEEP OUR HEARTS OPEN TO NEW POSSIBILITIES. 

    I miss the adventures, the applause, the excitement of waking up somewhere new, and especially the warmth of having someone special beside me. I miss holding hands, sharing laughter, exchanging loving glances, and knowing that someone is genuinely happy I’m there. But instead of dwelling on what’s missing, I choose to appreciate the love I’ve experienced and look forward to the beautiful connections I might still discover.

    Sitting here at my keyboard, I find tremendous joy in writing, remembering, and sharing the lessons life has taught me. Every morning brings another opportunity to create something meaningful, make someone smile, or discover a little unexpected happiness. I don’t want to spend my remaining years simply looking backward at a wonderful past. I want to build an equally wonderful future, filled with friendship, affection, laughter, and perhaps even another great love.

    I’m 67 years old, but my heart certainly hasn’t retired! I still have dreams to chase, stories to write, people to meet, and an enormous amount of love to give. I may not know exactly what tomorrow holds, but that’s part of the excitement. Some of the most beautiful moments of my life arrived when I least expected them. Why should that stop now?

    My life may not be perfect, and I sometimes long for someone special to share its adventures, laughter, and quiet moments. But I haven’t lost what makes life wonderful—my endless curiosity, my playful sense of humor, my enthusiasm for living, and a heart that still believes in the magic of love. I’ve experienced so much in my life, yet I know some of the most beautiful moments may still be ahead. My story isn’t finished, and neither is my heart’s journey.

    I’m not waiting for happiness to find me. I’m making room for it every single day. And if love happens to come knocking, you can bet I’ll answer the door—with a smile, open arms, and perhaps even a juggling trick or two! ❤️
                 
    And so, the old juggler began to see his new home differently. The castle had not stolen his adventures. His adventures had simply changed their shape. Once, adventure meant driving across America, juggling seven clubs before cheering audiences, and exploring magnificent wilderness. Now, adventure might mean planting a tomato, making a new friend, helping someone in a wheelchair, or writing a sentence that changed another person’s day.
               
    The adventures were smaller, perhaps, but their meaning could be just as great. And Kit knew that somewhere beyond the castle walls, there were still places to discover, people to meet, and wonderful experiences waiting for him. He wasn’t ready to stop exploring. Not by a long shot!
                 
    One evening, as the golden Florida sun slipped behind the cypress trees, Kit looked out over the peaceful grounds. He thought about the extraordinary journey that had brought him there—the spectacular successes, the terrible accidents, the love he had known, the people he missed, the dreams that had come true, and those still waiting to be discovered.

    ANOTHER CHANCE. AND ANOTHER. AND ANOTHER. 

    He realized that life had never promised him an easy journey. But it had given him something remarkable. Every morning he woke up to another page in his story, and he still held the pen. Now, dear reader, this is where YOU enter the fairy tale.
                   
    Perhaps you, too, have found yourself living a life you never expected. Maybe you’ve lost something precious. Perhaps the years have brought changes you never imagined, or maybe you’ve simply fallen into a routine where every day feels much like the one before. Have you stopped dreaming? Have you forgotten the wonderful feeling of waking up excited about what might happen next?
               
    Then perhaps it’s time to plant a seed of your own. It doesn’t have to be a vegetable. Your seed might be a friendship you’ve been meaning to begin, a book you’ve dreamed of writing, a place you’ve always wanted to visit, or a new skill you’ve been afraid to try. Perhaps it’s finally telling someone how much you love them, forgiving someone, or simply deciding that tomorrow will be different from today.
                 
    You don’t need a fairy godmother, a magic wand, or a handsome prince riding a white horse. And somewhere, just beyond the next bend in the road, another adventure may be calling his name. He doesn’t know exactly what tomorrow will bring. 

    AND THAT IS WHAT MAKES TOMORROW SO WONDERFUL! 

    So, my friend, remember the tale of the juggler who refused to grow old in spirit. He discovered that growing older was unavoidable, but surrendering his curiosity, laughter, love, and dreams was not. His body might not perform the tricks it once did, but his heart could still perform a little magic.
                     
    And as the sun disappeared beyond the trees, Kit smiled and whispered:
    “My fairy tale isn’t finished.
    There are still gardens to grow.
    People to love. Stories to tell.
    Adventures to discover.
    And a chance to make something wonderful happen!”
               
    And did the old juggler live happily ever after?
    Well, dear reader,
    That’s a question we cannot answer just yet.

    BECAUSE HE IS STILL BUSY WRITING THE STORY!

    And somewhere in that enchanted Florida castle,
    a 67-year-old juggler is preparing for his next adventure.
    What’s next? Will the adventure be with you? 

    I DON’T WANT TO SPEND MY REMAINING YEARS WATCHING LIFE GO BY.
    I WANT TO KEEP GROWING, LEARNING, LAUGHING, LOVING, AND LIVING!
    YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO PLANT THE SEEDS OF A BETTER TOMORROW. SO STOP WAITING FOR LIFE TO HAPPEN—GET OUT THERE AND MAKE SOMETHING GROW!
    =======================================
    LEGACY–WHERE PEOPLE CARE

    Here are some people who live here >>
    Lynn Ash, or Lash, age 83, has lived at Legacy for about 2 years. He worked with animals at the nearby Busch Gardens — https://buschgardens.com/tampa/. He mainly cared for gorillas; he loved that work. He said many animals could tell a hurricane was coming by how they acted. Later, he worked in the graphic design department and did well.
    =====
    Ron Maccino, age 88, has been here about 3 years, owned an auto dealership in LA, and, incredibly, worked until he was 85. He became unstable on his feet, so he moved to Legacy. His son lives nearby in Tampa, so that makes it easy for them. He sold his car dealership, and the money now goes to Legacy.
    =====
    Joe McLaughlin, at 86, has been a resident here for about one year.  I can tell Joe is a very good thinker, which is a good thing. He is here because he is not mobile—at all. He is stuck in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He was an electrical engineer for Republic Steel.
    ======
    ======
    And some remarkable people who work here >>
    Nikoletta Bystrzycka, Executive Director
    Always career-driven and dedicated to excellence, she’s in her 30s—though she refuses to reveal her exact age! Some secrets are worth keeping, I suppose. 😄 She has worked at Legacy for two years, but her passion for caring for older adults began shortly after earning her college degree.
           
    Under her leadership, Legacy has achieved something remarkable: for the first time in its ten-year history, all 82 residences are occupied! That’s quite an accomplishment, and it’s easy to see why. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and positive attitude have helped create a warmer, more welcoming environment for everyone who calls Legacy home.

    THIS IS LEGACY

    Nikoletta was born in Poland; she moved to the United States at a young age and later spent several years living and working in Minnesota. Her journey into senior care began with volunteering, where she discovered how rewarding it could be to make a difference in the lives of older adults. That early experience eventually blossomed into a successful career.
               
    She and her longtime partner have a seven-year-old daughter, adding the joys and responsibilities of family life to her busy schedule. She also has a sharp business mind, continually discovering creative ways to reduce expenses while maintaining quality care. After all, running a successful community requires both a caring heart and a practical mind. And from what I’ve seen, she brings plenty of both to Legacy!
    =====
    Joe Claxton has worked here at Legacy for five years, and he’s been a tremendous help! At 45, he has many wonderful years ahead and much more to offer. Joe genuinely enjoys his work, and it shows! He helps new residents move in and, as I’m discovering, assists those moving to another apartment. With my upcoming move, I’m especially grateful for his kindness and helping hands. People like Joe remind us that enjoying your work while helping others is a wonderful way to make a difference!

    YOU CAN’T ALWAYS TURN AROUND—
    BUT YOU CAN MOVE FORWARD!
    AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL
    TO SPEND IT STANDING STILL! 💛

    ====================
    PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
    Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs. 💥 They wake up the mind, shrink problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can turn “I can’t” into “Why not?”—a small flashlight guiding you through a dark hallway. 🔦
               
    But the real magic comes through repetition. The more you repeat a truth, the more deeply you believe it—and the more your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on the wall is decoration. A quote put into action becomes transformation.
                 
    Simple truth:
    A quote on a page is nice…
    A quote you live by?
    Now that’s power. ✨
            ==========
    1) “Youth is the gift of nature,
    but age is a work of art.”
    – Stanisław Jerzy Lec
           
    2) “Aging is inescapable.
    Growing old is a daily choice.”
    — Kit Summers
                   
    3) “Youth is the gift of nature,
    but age is a work of art.”
    – Stanisław Jerzy Lec
                 
    4) “Age is an issue of mind over matter.
    If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
    – Mark Twain
                   
    5) “The longer I live, the
    more beautiful life becomes.”
    – Frank Lloyd Wright
                 
    6) “Count your life by smiles, not tears.
    Count your age by friends, not years.”
    – Unknown
                 
    7) “My body may age,
    but my spirit will always run free!
    – Kit Summers
                     
    8) “Count your life by smiles, not tears.
    Count your age by friends, not years.”
    – Unknown
                   
    9) “Don’t try to be young.
    Just open your mind.
    Stay interested in stuff.”
    – Betty White
                         
    10) “Youth is the gift of nature,
    but age is a work of art.”
    – Stanisław Jerzy Lee
    ====================
    PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
    Two challenges for you this week >>
    1) You know that older person who lives near you?
    This week, help this person at least two times.
                    AND
    2) Take time to visit an assisted living community—what many still call an old folks’ home. Listen to the residents’ stories, share a smile, offer a helping hand, and perhaps make a new friend. These are people who have lived, loved, struggled, and accomplished remarkable things. A little kindness and companionship can brighten their entire day. Remember, one day you may be sitting in that same chair, hoping someone will stop by to say hello. Give them today the love, kindness, and respect you would hope to receive tomorrow.
             
    That is your challenge for the week.
    That is the challenge for YOUR LIFE!
    ====================
    ====================
    WOODSIDEMOTION!
    Thank you to Christopher and everyone at Woodside Motion for helping me explore the possibility of bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.
    I will always remember Christopher Jones, a man who believes my story deserves to be shared with the world. Christopher, thank you for seeing the possibilities in my journey and believing my experiences can make a difference in others’ lives. I am deeply grateful to you and everyone at Woodside Motion for your dedication to bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.

    My life has been filled with unexpected challenges, painful setbacks, remarkable recoveries, and incredible adventures. But I believe everything I’ve experienced has prepared me for something greater: helping others discover that adversity doesn’t have to define their future. Together, we can turn my story into a powerful message of courage, determination, and hope, inspiring countless people to overcome obstacles, recognize their potential, and NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
                     
    Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
    Email:   christopher@woodsidemotion.com
    ====================
    ====================
    CINDY MARVELL
    At this point, I must recognize the marvellous Cindy Marvell.
    This amazing woman founded and runs https://bouldercircuscenter.net.
    There, she helps others dream big and take flight.
    She is also an extraordinary performer in her own right—take a look >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNbKaLV4I9Q 

    <<Cindy in the Wilderness Shaking Hands
    Throughout this movie project, she offered her encouragement and help in countless ways. Having someone believe in your story makes the journey even more meaningful. For one thing, she is the only woman to ever win the International Juggling Competition.
             
    Thank you, Cindy, for your remarkable talent, generous heart, and unwavering support—both personally and financially. I am deeply grateful to have you beside me, helping keep this dream in the air. Every great dream needs someone who believes in it, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have you juggling this one alongside me! 🤹‍♂️💛
    ==================== 
                            PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
                    BLOG 400–We and All Getting Older
    ===================== 
    I’d love to hear from you! Please take a moment to write and share your thoughts. Your opinions, ideas, and feedback mean a great deal to me, and I always enjoy hearing from my readers. After all, sharing our thoughts is how we learn, grow, and inspire one another!

    =====================
    🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
    Because the best is always still ahead.
    So juggle joy like it’s the air you breathe.
    The horizon holds more than you can yet imagine.
    YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS. YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
    Your present moment is not the finish line—it’s your starting block.
    Chase sunsets as if they’re secret treasures waiting just for you.
    Laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen.
    Write me today—kitsummers@gmail.com
    Live as though you’ve only just begun—

    🌟BECAUSE YOU TRULY HAVE! 🌟
    ================================

     


    1
  • BLOG 398—LOST IN THE WILDERNESS!

    *✨KITTING AROUND✨
    BLOG 398—LOST IN THE WILDERNESS!

    This blog is shorter and happier!
    Read every word — things have changed. 
    Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
    Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
    The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
    This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
    By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
    Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS 

    ====================
    ONCE UPON A LIFE…
    I made gravity nervous—Seven clubs soaring through the air.
    A world record.  Because physics loves a good insult.
    Kit continued his drive toward excellence. 😄
             
    Then came the truck.  The coma.
    Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
    But I returned—Balancing healing,
    tossing hope sky-high, and
    juggling purpose, grit, and joy. 🤹‍♂️
             
    Now, I lift people.
    That is bigger than applause.
    Writing is how I breathe.
    If these words help you breathe a little easier, too—
    That is magic catching air. 🎉

    A shot of me from back in high school

    What comes next on Kit’s journey?
    Back to juggling?  Back to the stage?  Back to life?
    Stay with me and find out. 
    Life can get better.   Life will get better! ✨ 

    My new address is:>>
    The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
    18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL  33647
    (A love letter would be dandy.)   kitsummers@gmail.com
    kitsummers.com     https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
    Call me >> 610-400-3233

    =======================
    NONE OF US WILL LIVE FOREVER—SO MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW!
    EVERY DAY IS A NEW DAY—A CHANCE TO BEGIN A NEW LIFE.
    DON’T LIVE IN THE PAST OR WAIT FOR THE FUTURE.
    NOW IS THE ONLY MOMENT YOU HOLD!
    MAKE THE MOST OF THIS MOMENT.
    I FEEL THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET! 

    A quick directory >>
    Part 1—The Beginnings — Obvious.
    Part 2—Things that Happened This Week. 
    Part 3—THE BLOG.
    Part 4—Inspirational Quotes.
    Part 5—Your Challenge.  
    Part 6—Blog for Next Week.
    Part 7—Final Thoughts — Obvious.

    ALWAYS REMEMBER >>
    When your life nears its end,
    what will you want to remember? 
    The dreams you chased? The people you loved?
    I’m still planning to live beyond age 100; will you join me? 
    Remember the moments when you chose courage over comfort? 

    READ PAST BLOGS HERE —
    kitsummers.com/blog 

    If even one sentence in this blog inspires
    you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater
    courage, or appreciate the wonderful life already dancing
    around you, then every hour at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
    EVERY DAY >>

    • Feel the sunshine
    • Enjoy a good meal.
    • Speak more kindly.
    • Care for your body.
    • Learn something new.
    • Make the right choices.
    • Laugh whenever possible.
    • Improve one little thing today.
    • Treasure a friendly conversation.
    • Then improve another tomorrow. 
    • Keep going, and those tiny steps may grow.
    • Spend time with people who lift your spirits. 
    • And become something absolutely phenomenal!
    • Keep moving toward the person you want to become.
    • Celebrate every bit of progress—even when it arrives late.                                                                    

     There’s Kit & Cindy!
    Happy in Colorado. 

    WORDS FOR YOU—AND FOR ME

    I write these words for you, but I need them too.
    We are all works in progress. None of us has life completely figured out—and maybe we never will.
    Life doesn’t ask us to be perfect. It simply asks us to show up, keep growing, and keep moving forward.
    One choice. One step. One day at a time.
    That is how a life changes.

    ====================   
    PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
    Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
    YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
         
    Every week, I sit down and put my thoughts, stories, mistakes, victories, and lessons into words, hoping something I write might help you live a little better. Maybe a sentence will make you think differently, encourage you to try something new, or give you the little push you need to keep moving forward when life gets difficult.
                 
    Along the way, I’ve discovered something wonderful: these words aren’t just helping you—they’re helping me grow, too. Writing lets me examine my own life, reflect on the remarkable journey I’ve traveled, appreciate what I have today, and imagine the possibilities still ahead. Sometimes I sit down at my keyboard thinking I have an important lesson to share, only to discover that I’m the one who needed to learn it most!
               
    As you’ve probably discovered through my writings, I’ve lived a life far from ordinary. I’ve experienced extraordinary successes, devastating setbacks, unexpected adventures, and more than a few surprises. But through it all, I’ve learned that life isn’t about what happens to us—it’s about what we choose to do next.

    And believe me, I’m still learning, still growing, and still discovering what this wonderful adventure called LIFE has in store for me!
               
    Yes, a different lifestyle I led. 
    I didn’t need a fancy hotel.
    I actually ate horse while in Japan
    Consumed Kangaroo in Australia.
                 
    That may be one of the greatest gifts of writing this blog. We’re traveling this road together. I share what life has taught me, you bring your own experiences to the words, and somehow we both move forward a little stronger, wiser, and more determined to make tomorrow better than today. If my words help even one person—including me—then every word was worth writing.
           
    It’s only Sunday, and somehow I’ve already written most of this week’s blog. Apparently, once my fingers get started, they don’t pay much attention to the calendar. My brain keeps tossing out ideas, my hands keep typing them, and before I know it, I’ve finished another big chunk of the blog. I suppose there are worse problems to have than too many words fighting to get onto the page!
               
    Of course, there’s one little problem with getting so far ahead: I haven’t lived the rest of the week yet! As you know, much of what I write comes directly from my daily life—the things I see, the people I meet, the thoughts that wander through my head, and the unexpected little adventures that show up along the way. I can’t very well write about Wednesday on Sunday unless I suddenly develop the ability to see into the future. And if that happens, forget the blog—I’m buying a lottery ticket!
                   
    So, for now, part of this blog will have to wait. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and the rest of the week still have stories to give me. Something funny may happen. Something frustrating may occur. I may learn something, meet someone, make a mistake, discover a new idea, or find myself staring at life from an entirely different angle. That’s one of the wonderful things about writing about life: first you have to LIVE it.
                 
    Until then, I’ll keep my fingers ready, my eyes open, and my curiosity turned on. The blog may be mostly written, but the week certainly isn’t. There are still days ahead to live, stories ahead to discover, and probably a few surprises waiting to jump into these pages.
               
    Why Getting Lost Matters >> 

    • Shedding Expectations: You drop the habits and career paths you chose only to please others.
    • Creating Space: The confusion and discomfort leave room for quiet reflection.
      • Discovering Truth: Stripping away external labels reveals what you truly value.

         WILL I HEAR FROM YOU NEXT WEEK?–I CERTAINLY HOPE SO! 

    ====================
    PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
    Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!

    Good morning! Or perhaps it’s good afternoon… or even good evening! Whatever time it is in your little corner of the world, I’m delighted you’re here. Inspiration doesn’t wear a watch or wait for the perfect moment. Sometimes it arrives with a smile, a little laughter, a warm hug, and occasionally three wonderful ideas for me to juggle! 🤹‍♂️
                 
    That’s one of the magical things about words. They don’t care when you arrive. My readers are scattered around the world, living different lives, following different schedules, and facing different challenges. I may not know what time it is where you are, but I do know something much more important:

    YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
    WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED! 

    So, WELCOME, MY FRIEND! Whatever challenges life has placed in your path, every new moment gives you another opportunity to begin again. There is always room for greater happiness, another hearty laugh, a little more love, and one courageous step toward a brighter tomorrow. Don’t sit around waiting for life to become wonderful—DO SOMETHING TODAY TO MAKE IT WONDERFUL!

    Of course, moving forward doesn’t mean life suddenly becomes easy. Life will occasionally knock us down, toss something unexpected in our path, or send us tumbling in a direction we never imagined. When that happens, get back up, brush yourself off, laugh at your clumsy moves, and call it dancing! Life isn’t meant to be merely survived—it’s meant to be LIVED, LOVED, EXPLORED, and CELEBRATED!

    AND SPEAKING OF CELEBRATING . . . 

    >>>> OCTOBER 2
    Last night was our Oktoberfest celebration. It took place in the main dining area, with more people seated in the large hallway. German music eventually joined the festivities, although it got started a little late. The food was quite good—bratwurst with sauerkraut, pork fritters, roasted potatoes, and plenty more. Overall, it was a nice event, although I moseyed out a little early. Apparently, my inner German had celebrated enough.

    While enjoying the evening, however, I couldn’t help noticing how elaborate everything was. The cost of putting on this one function must have been enormous—or at least it sure looked that way from where I was sitting. Nothing appeared to have come from the bargain aisle. Even the napkins were huge, thick, and surprisingly fancy. These weren’t ordinary “wipe your mouth and toss it away” napkins. They looked sturdy enough to double as blankets in a small emergency!

    Then there was the food, some of it apparently brought in from who knows where. Everything looked beautiful and tasted good, but I couldn’t help wondering how many dollar signs were hiding behind all that deliciousness. And then there were the full-color flyers—beautifully printed but handed out on the actual day of Oktoberfest.

    That seems a little late for advance advertising, wouldn’t you say? By the time some people read the flyer, the party could have been over and those giant napkins already folded and put away! There seems to be plenty of printing around here. Even the daily menus are printed, used for a few hours, and tossed away. Each expense may seem small, but little expenses have a sneaky habit of becoming BIG expenses.

    Everything was done extremely well, and I appreciate the effort that went into making the evening special. Still, sometimes simple works just as well—and can be every bit as much fun. Next time, perhaps we could skip a few bells and whistles, save a few bucks, eat some good food, turn up the German music, and enjoy ourselves. And whatever you do, SAVE THOSE NAPKINS! At that size and price, we may need to turn them into curtains.

    That same thinking applies beyond Oktoberfest. Someone should be responsible for examining expenses, spotting waste, and finding smarter ways to cut costs without cutting quality. Pennies become dollars, dollars become hundreds, and hundreds can quickly become thousands. You don’t have to squeeze every nickel until Thomas Jefferson screams—but you should at least know where the money is going!

    AND MONEY ISN’T THE ONLY THING I HATE SEEING WASTED.
    WASTING FOOD BOTHERS ME EVEN MORE. 

    >>>>> OCTOBER 3
    I’ve mentioned before how much food gets wasted here at Legacy. Sometimes the portions are so enormous that I wonder if the kitchen thinks we’re feeding a football team! Why not serve smaller portions and let people ask for seconds? You can always add more food, but once it lands in the garbage, even a magician can’t turn it back into dinner. Besides, I’m fairly certain the trash cans aren’t hungry!
               
    Speaking of food, today’s Sweet-and-Sour Chicken was absolutely delicious! Tender chicken over rice, covered in that wonderful sweet-and-tangy sauce. My taste buds were celebrating! The kitchen staff did another outstanding job. I may have a few complaints about living here, but the food isn’t one of them. If happiness could be measured in chicken and rice, I’d be the happiest man in Florida!

    UNFORTUNATELY, LIFE REQUIRES MORE THAN A FULL STOMACH. 

    I spent much of today alone in my room, working and playing on my computer. It keeps me entertained, although it doesn’t laugh at my jokes or give particularly good hugs. The people at Legacy treat me well, and I’m grateful for that. But lately, I haven’t been especially happy here. Comfort is wonderful, but I don’t want to spend the rest of my life being comfortably bored. I want to wake up excited about something other than discovering what’s on the lunch menu.

    FORTUNATELY, WHEN LIFE STARTS FEELING TOO SERIOUS,
    I STILL HAVE ONE OF MY FAVORITE WEAPONS—HUMOR!

    At the restaurant today, they were serving catfish. When the waiter asked whether I wanted some, I looked at him with a perfectly serious face and said, “Absolutely not! I’m allergic to cats AND fish! Imagine what would happen if I ate something that combined BOTH!” He stared at me for a moment, then burst out laughing.

    SUCCESS! ANOTHER UNSUSPECTING HUMAN HAD FALLEN
    VICTIM TO KIT SUMMERS QUESTIONABLE SENSE OF HUMOR, 

    I’ve always loved making people laugh. I’ve spent much of my life juggling jokes, balls, clubs, and rings, so why not juggle a few words, too? Life gives us enough problems without volunteering to become miserable. I’ve been knocked down, run over, and forced to rebuild my life more than once.
             
    Through it all, humor has helped me move forward. Laughter is FREE, requires no batteries, and doesn’t need a doctor’s prescription! But laughter doesn’t mean ignoring what’s missing from our lives. I can laugh and still recognize that I want more.
                   
    I don’t want my days to become breakfast, computer, lunch, computer, dinner, sleep, and REPEAT. I’m beginning to feel like a washing machine stuck on the same cycle—except at least the washing machine gets to spin around! I’ve spent my life performing, traveling, exploring wilderness trails, building businesses, writing books, and running this blog. I’ve had too many adventures to retire into a professional chair-sitting career.
     At 67, I still feel like a young man with a few extra miles on the odometer. My engine is running, and I’m not ready to park. I don’t know where I’ll be living next or what adventures await me. And somewhere out there, I hope there’s a wonderful woman looking for me, too.

    HELLO, LADIES! I’M STILL HERE!

    Perhaps she lost her map or wandered into the wrong ZIP code. Whoever you are, please hurry! I’ve still got plenty of love, laughter, and adventure to share. And I promise not to juggle during our first kiss. Well… probably not.
                   
    Not knowing what comes next can be frustrating. I’ve never been very good at sitting around waiting for life to knock on my door. I’d rather open the door myself, step outside, and go looking for the next adventure. But when impatience starts creeping in, I remind myself of something important: I may not know what comes next, but I can keep moving forward until I find it.

        See my juggling hands?

    I’VE BEEN LOST BEFORE!
    I’ve traveled wilderness roads without knowing where they would lead, faced frightening circumstances, and survived situations that once seemed impossible. Somehow, I kept going. Sometimes I stumbled. Sometimes I fell. But eventually, another road appeared. Besides, lying on the ground gets boring, and the view isn’t particularly impressive!
                 
    Perhaps I don’t need a complete map of my future.
    Maybe none of us do. Perhaps we need enough courage to take the next step.

                 
    So I’ll keep writing, creating, laughing, loving, and searching for new possibilities. I refuse to let my future become nothing more than a comfortable chair, three meals, and a television remote. There’s still too much curiosity in my head, too much adventure in my heart, and far too much mischief waiting to escape!
                 
    My life has surprised me too many times for me to believe the best adventures are behind me.
    Perhaps around the next bend is a new home, a wonderful woman, a new opportunity—
    or something so extraordinary that I haven’t even imagined it yet.

    I’M 67 YEARS YOUNG, NOT 67 YEARS FINISHED!

    And if I get lost along the way?
    That’s nothing new.
    I’ll call it another KIT ADVENTURE, laugh at myself,
    choose another road, and KEEP MOVING FORWARD!

    LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE SERIOUS,
    TOO PRECIOUS TO BE WASTED,
    AND TOO WONDERFUL TO STOP LIVING!

    >>>>> OCTOBER 4
    Sunday.
    Church day.
    But not for me.
    The wilderness is my church!
                 
    On Sundays, life here at Legacy slows to a crawl. Not that other days are particularly exciting, but Sundays seem especially lonely. I miss having someone special to talk with, laugh with, share adventures with, and enjoy life together.

    Being surrounded by people doesn’t mean you can’t feel lonely. Loneliness isn’t always about having people nearby—it’s about having someone close to your heart. I miss companionship, affection, a warm touch, and, most of all, LOVE.
                 
    I’m grateful for the care I receive here, and I appreciate the people who provide it. But I’ve learned something important: being cared for isn’t the same as feeling connected, and comfort isn’t the same as happiness. A comfortable life may take care of the body, but love, purpose, and connection are what feed the heart.
                     
    I spent most of the day sitting in my room, watching videos and trying to keep myself entertained. What bothers me most is that my asthma continues to interfere with my desire to run, exercise, and stay physically active.
                   
    My mind still wants to push forward, explore, and challenge my limits, but my breathing doesn’t always cooperate. It’s frustrating because I don’t feel like an old man, and I certainly don’t want to live like one. I still have energy, ambition, and a strong desire to LIVE, not simply watch life pass me by!
                 
    For dinner tonight, I ate alone in my room and kept things simple with a frozen dinner—Healthy Choice Café Steamers, Chicken Lo Mein. To my surprise, it was quite delicious! Sometimes a simple meal can be just as satisfying as a fancy dinner.
               
    The portion wasn’t particularly large, but it was just right for my appetite. Nothing extravagant, nothing special—just a quiet evening, a tasty meal, and enough food to keep me happy. Sometimes, that’s all I need.

    I DON’T WANT TO PASS THE TIME—I WANT TO LIVE,
    LOVE, LAUGH, AND KEEP DISCOVERING WHAT’S POSSIBLE!
    MY BEST ADVENTURES MAY STILL BE AHEAD OF ME!    

    >>>>> OCTOBER 5
    I took a shower this morning, something I do twice a week, as you probably know by now. It always feels wonderful afterward—clean, refreshed, and ready to take on the world! Back when I was juggling every day, running, and riding my bike, I worked up quite a sweat. And, believe me, all that physical activity produced a rather unmistakable fragrance I affectionately called the “Kit aroma!” At least I knew my body was getting a good workout!

    These days, living here at Legacy, things are quite different. I’m nowhere near as physically active, and I hardly sweat at all. So, fortunately for everyone around me, there’s very little “Kit smell” to worry about anymore! I suppose that’s one advantage of slowing down, but I’d gladly trade it for the freedom to run, ride my bike, and juggle until I was dripping with sweat again. I’d much rather smell like an active Kit than sit around smelling like nothing at all!
             
    Four of us climbed aboard the bus for a shopping trip to Walmart. I picked up a few necessities—well, if you consider chocolate a necessity. I certainly do! After all, a little chocolate makes life sweeter, and I believe in keeping my priorities straight! I also helped everyone board and exit the bus and assisted with loading and unloading their purchases. It felt good to be useful and lend a helping hand.
                 
    I still believe purchasing an inexpensive used car or small van for local trips would make much more sense. That big bus seems unnecessary when only a few people are going to the store, or one person is going to a doctor’s appointment. Besides, the engine was left idling for long periods, burning fuel and money while going absolutely nowhere. Sometimes saving money doesn’t require a brilliant financial strategy—just a little common sense and turning off the engine!
                 
    My elbow has been bothering me. It doesn’t hurt, but it’s just so strange. A bursa acts as a smooth cushion between bones and skin or tendons. When this sac gets irritated, it swells and can look like a soft, golf-ball-sized lump at the back of your elbow. Do you know anything about this? I am concerned.
                 
    >>>>> OCTOBER 6
    Good morning! (I say that to you because, unfortunately, no one here will.) What a wonderful way to begin another day—itchy eyes, a runny nose, and allergies that have apparently decided to move back into my body without asking permission! My eyes itch, my nose is running a marathon, and the rest of my body seems determined to join the festivities. 

    AT LEAST SOMETHING AROUND HERE IS GETTING SOME EXERCISE! 

    What’s a juggler to do? I’ve spent much of my life juggling balls, clubs, and challenges, but now I’m juggling sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyeballs. And believe me, scratching both eyes while blowing my nose takes more coordination than juggling seven clubs! Still, I refuse to let a few million grains of pollen ruin my day. Life goes on, the show must continue, and apparently, SO MUST THE SNEEZING!
                   
    Just returned from breakfast. Same ol’, same ol’. Every morning, I’m handed about six pills for high blood pressure, allergies, and a few vitamins. Have I mentioned that I HATE taking medications? I’d much rather swallow a bowl of chocolate pudding!
               
    Today, the nurse insisted I take them right then and there instead of returning to my room. Apparently, there was no room for negotiation. So, being the obedient little soldier I am, I stood at attention, gave her my finest military salute, and followed orders. YES, MA’AM! Another exciting adventure in the thrilling world of assisted living. At least I survived another battle!  

    YIKES! WHAT AN ADVENTURE—AND NOT THE KIND I EXPECTED!

    What a day! Lynn, a friend here at Legacy, asked if I wanted to go to Home Depot with him. Did I want to go? ABSOLUTELY! Any chance to escape these four walls and experience a little adventure is fine with me. A short time later, Lynn arrived at my room in his motorized wheelchair, and off we went. He had his wheels, and I had my two legs. What could possibly go wrong? As it turned out, PLENTY!
               
    Everything started smoothly. The weather was decent, the fresh air felt wonderful, and I was enjoying the freedom of being outside. As usual, whenever I spotted trash along the way, I stopped to pick it up. I believe in leaving the world a little cleaner than I found it.
                 
    But suddenly, as I bent down to grab some litter, I LOST MY BALANCE AND FELL COMPLETELY TO THE GROUND! What? ME? I was stunned! Since my terrible accident and 37-day coma, I had managed to avoid falling. Now, without warning, there I was, sprawled on the ground. Even after getting back up, my balance didn’t feel quite right. Something was definitely different.
                 
    Still, Home Depot was waiting, and I wasn’t about to surrender. We had about a mile to walk, so we continued our little expedition. Then I spotted a large palm frond sprawled across the sidewalk. Naturally, I decided to move it. BIG MISTAKE!
               
    The moment I bent down, my balance vanished, and—WHAM!—I landed flat on my backside for the second time. At that point, I was beginning to wonder if gravity had developed a personal grudge against me. My sense of balance seemed to have completely disappeared.
               
    TWICE IN ONE DAY! I couldn’t believe it. I used to juggle seven clubs, ride a 7’ unicycle, and perform balancing tricks before thousands of people. Now I couldn’t even pick up a palm frond without becoming part of the landscape! I was shocked, embarrassed, and more than a little concerned.
                 
    But our adventure wasn’t finished. At one point, we needed to go up a driveway to continue. Lynn took a wrong turn in his motorized wheelchair, and suddenly his chair tipped sideways! This was serious because Lynn has very limited use of his legs and couldn’t easily get himself upright.
               
    Fortunately, Cynthia was driving by and stopped immediately to help. We were right beside a gas station, and even the owner came outside to help. What wonderful people! Sometimes, when things go wrong, you discover just how much kindness exists in the world.
               
    Later, Lynn told me how much he appreciated my rolling up his raincoat to make a pillow for his head while we waited for the firefighters to arrive. I was glad I could do something to make him more comfortable.
                 
    Before long, an enormous fire truck arrived, complete with flashing lights and a blaring siren. What a production! You would have thought we were filming an action-packed television drama. All we needed was a camera crew, some dramatic music, and a commercial break. What started as a simple trip to Home Depot had turned into quite an adventure—and we hadn’t even bought anything yet!
    Sadly, the firepeople could do nothing to help. They took Lynn’s vitals and bandaged up his hand. Eventually, we got Lynn upright and continued toward Home Depot. We were so close that turning back seemed ridiculous. After all, we’d already survived two falls, a tipped wheelchair, and several unexpected surprises. What else could happen?

    Which firetruck came to help?

    We made it to the store, stayed together, and bought what we needed. Mission accomplished! Well, almost. We still had to get back to Legacy, and Mother Nature apparently wanted to contribute to our adventure.

    BUT THIS HUGE FIRETRUCK WAS NOT SET UP
    TO TAKE US BACK TO LEGACY; I WAS SURPRISED.

    THEN CAME THE RAIN! What had started as a pleasant outing was becoming a soggy comedy of errors. Walking another mile in the rain didn’t sound especially appealing, so I suggested calling Kiea or Breanna to rescue us with the bus from Legacy. We waited quite a while, but eventually, our wonderful transportation arrived. Never had a ride back to Legacy seemed so inviting! What began as a simple trip to Home Depot had turned into an adventure neither of us expected, or will forget.

    AT LEAST I GOT PLENTY OF MATERIAL FOR THE BLOG AND YOUR EYES. 

    The experience left me thinking. I need to walk more, strengthen my legs, and improve my balance. I’d even love to start running again, but my asthma keeps interfering with those plans. More importantly, those two unexpected falls concern me. After everything I’ve overcome, I don’t like discovering that something as simple as bending over to pick up a trach can send me tumbling to the ground.

    BUT HERE’S WHAT I KNOW:
    LIFE WILL ALWAYS THROW UNEXPECTED OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH. 

    Sometimes we stumble. Sometimes we fall. And sometimes we end up sitting on our backside wondering what in the world just happened! The important thing is to learn from those experiences, get the help we need, and keep moving forward.

    I’VE SPENT MUCH OF MY LIFE LEARNING HOW TO GET BACK UP.
    I CERTAINLY DON’T INTEND TO STOP NOW! 

    I only walked about one mile today.
    But I feel it in my legs.
    I feel it in my body.
    Yes, I’ve certainly led an extraordinary life, filled with unexpected twists, challenges, triumphs, and adventures. But don’t think for a moment that my story is finished. The best chapters may still be waiting to be written!

    >>>>> OCTOBER 7
    Here I go again—another new day, another opportunity to accomplish as much as I can and make every moment count. I’m glad you’ve decided to come along on this journey with me. Life is always better when we move forward together.

    We may not be able to change the entire world overnight, but we can make our little corner of it brighter, kinder, happier, and better. One smile, one helping hand, one courageous step at a time. I’m ready—will you join me?
                 
    My elbow bursitis is bothering me this morning. The fluid-filled lump seems to be getting bigger, although, strangely, it still doesn’t hurt. It’s a little unsettling watching my elbow grow its own little balloon!
                 
    Have you ever dealt with bursitis like this? I’m curious whether anyone else has experienced a fluid-filled lump on the elbow that keeps getting bigger, even though it doesn’t hurt. It’s certainly strange to look down and see this little balloon growing on my elbow!
               
    I’m wondering what I should do about it—or whether I should leave it alone and keep an eye on it. If you’ve experienced something similar, I’d really appreciate hearing what worked for you. Any ideas, advice, or suggestions that might help?
             
    It seems like most people sleep until 7 a.m. or 8.
    For me, waking somewhere around 3 a.m. or 4 is common.
    I can get more done, but is that right for me? 

    SEEMS LIKE I WILL NOT DIE UNTIL I WEAR THIS BODY OUT!
    THAT WILL TAKE A WHILE MORE. 

    I’m still upset about my falling. My mind would not think right. I knew what was going on and what to do, but my body would not obey. I will have to be more careful in the future. And, yes, there is a future. I am still planning to live beyond age 100; watch me go!

    Another slow day. I didn’t get nearly as much done as I had hoped, and that’s not like me. I’m happiest when I’m moving forward, creating something, or checking another goal off my list. But some days don’t cooperate. I’m learning that not every day has to be filled with accomplishments to have value. Sometimes a slow day is just life’s way of telling me, “Don’t worry, Kit. Tomorrow you can hit the gas again!”
               
    I talked with my sister, Kath, today. She told me not to write about her.
    Whoops.
    The stuff below was already written, so I suppose I’m in trouble already.
    In her 70s now, she is living the life that “she” wants.
               
    Kath did give me some good advice, though. She suggested I use less of the same motivational material each week and keep the blog more focused on the stories and everyday happenings. I think she may have a point, so I went back through this week’s blog and cut quite a bit.
             
    At this point, what do you think?
    Is it better with less motivational material?
    Or did I cut too much?
                                     
    >>>>> OCTOBER 8
    Happy birthday to my sister, Kath—or Willow, as she prefers to be called these days! To me, though, she will always be my sister Kath, and a name could never change all the years, memories, laughter, and life we’ve shared. In her 70s now — hard to believe. 

    My two sisters,
    Sandy and Kath

    We’ve both traveled many miles through life, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Through it all, I’m grateful that you’ve been part of my journey. Happy birthday, Willow. I love you, Sis, and I hope the year ahead brings you happiness, good health, wonderful surprises, and many more memories still waiting to be made.
                 
    We are both getting older—and, I like to believe, a little wiser along the way! I have always admired what you have accomplished, the challenges you have overcome, and the person you have become. Life has taught us both valuable lessons, and I believe our best chapters are still waiting to be written.
                   
    As I look toward the future, I see wonderful possibilities, new adventures, continued growth, and plenty of reasons to smile. We may be getting older, but that doesn’t mean we’re finished growing, dreaming, or accomplishing extraordinary things. I believe the best is yet to come—for both of us!
               
    Throughout the day, several people complimented me on my shirt. How nice! I thought I must be looking especially sharp, perhaps even starting a new fashion trend. I accepted each compliment with a smile and a thank-you, feeling rather pleased with my excellent taste in clothing. Who knew I could be such a fashion sensation at 67?
                       
    Then, that evening, as I was getting undressed, I made a startling discovery. MY SHIRT HAD BEEN INSIDE OUT ALL DAY! The seams were showing, the tag was hanging out, and apparently, I had been proudly displaying the manufacturer’s construction techniques to the world. Now I’m wondering—did people genuinely like my shirt, or were they just being polite to a confused fashion designer?
                       
    Perhaps I’ve stumbled onto something wonderful. Maybe shirts actually look better inside out! Tomorrow, I might wear my pants backward, put on two different shoes, and see how many compliments I get. Who knows? I may have accidentally started a whole new fashion trend. And the best part? I didn’t even have to buy anything new!
               
    What an interesting week it has been! I talked with my sister Kath yesterday, and she told me she’s spending today at a wonderful spa, enjoying saunas and a variety of treatments designed to relax, refresh, and rejuvenate the body.
               
    Apparently, admission is free on your birthday, so she decided to take full advantage of that little gift. An entire day of pampering, relaxation, and feeling good—and at a great price! Sounds like a marvelous way to celebrate another trip around the sun. Perhaps I should put that on my birthday calendar, too!
                   
    She also told me she thinks I sometimes share too much personal information in my blog. TOO MUCH? ME? Imagine that! I write what I feel, say what I think, and rarely put the brakes on my fingers. Whether it’s an erection, an election (I hope they both turn out well!), your reaction, my lack of direction, a strange connection, or even your latest infection—NOTHING IS OFF-LIMITS!
                 
    My life is an open book, and somewhere along the way, I apparently forgot to install a filter! Some people keep skeletons hidden in their closets. Not me! I drag mine into the daylight, dust them off, name them, and introduce them to my blog readers! Too much for you? Well, you’re still reading.
                 
    Why hide the embarrassing moments, crazy adventures, and occasional disasters? They’re all part of the wonderful, ridiculous adventure called LIFE! Besides, if you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re missing half the fun—and I’m determined to enjoy the WHOLE SHOW! TOO MUCH? OH WELL.
                   
    Clouds, rain, and gloomy skies—not exactly the beautiful day I had in mind! Now that I finally have everything I need to put my garden together, Mother Nature has apparently decided to interfere. I was ready to get my hands dirty, but the sky took one look at my plans and shouted, “NOPE! NOT TODAY, KIT!” I suppose even the weather has a sense of humor. Too bad it’s laughing at me!
                     
    Today, I spent some time packing my belongings for a move to a smaller room here at Legacy. I’m currently in a one-bedroom apartment, but I’ve been asking for something smaller, preferably a studio. After all, I don’t need much space. Just a comfortable place to sleep, a desk for my writing, and enough room to move around without bumping into myself. I’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from having more space or more stuff. It comes from making the most of what you have.
                   
    Joe asked if I wanted a double bed in my new room. I told him a twin would be just fine. I’d rather have the extra floor space, and besides, I don’t exactly have a parade of beautiful women knocking on my door. Of course, if that ever changes, I may have to reconsider my furniture arrangements!
             
    Someone is coming by right now to look at my room, apparently ready to move in the moment I move out. Talk about a quick turnaround! I guess they have no trouble keeping these rooms occupied. Living here certainly isn’t cheap, yet there seems to be an endless supply of people willing to pay. Apparently, business is BOOMING!
             
    One person moves out, another moves in, and the money keeps rolling in. At these prices, you’d think every room would come with a complimentary gold bar, a personal butler, and breakfast served on a silver platter! I’m still waiting for my gold bar. Perhaps they’ll slip it under my door before I leave!
               
    Today, Legacy had a Hawaiian-themed party, complete with tropical decorations, plenty of smiles, and even a parade! Some participants rolled along in wheelchairs, others marched with canes, and one particularly talented fellow was spotted juggling colorful scarves. Who could that have been? ME, of course! I figured every Hawaiian parade needs a little juggling magic. Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time, and for a while, we brought a little taste of paradise right here to Legacy. ALOHA!
                   
    This is where I find myself today—juggling scarves, something that requires far less effort than the remarkable tricks I once performed. There was a time when I could juggle seven clubs, amaze audiences, and push my abilities beyond what most people thought possible. Today, even the simplest juggling reminds me of how much has changed. I admit, it hurts to realize the skills I spent years perfecting are now out of reach.
               
    But then I remind myself of something important: I may no longer be the juggler I once was, but I am STILL a juggler! My abilities may have changed, but my determination, creativity, and love of life remain. Perhaps the greatest trick I will ever perform isn’t keeping seven clubs in the air—it’s refusing to let life’s challenges keep me down. The juggling may be different now, but the show isn’t over. Not by a long shot!
                 
    >>>>> OCTOBER 9
    Today is the final day of writing this week’s blog, and I’ll send it out this evening. But first, an entire day of possibilities awaits! What surprises, adventures, or unexpected twists will come my way? Life always seems to throw a little of everything into the mix, and that’s what keeps things interesting. I have no idea what today will bring, but you can be sure I’ll find out—and, of course, I’ll tell you all about it!
               
    On Monday, I’ll be moving into a smaller apartment here at Legacy. I’m currently in a one-bedroom, but after seeing one of the studio apartments, I realized it would suit me just fine. After all, I don’t need much space—just a comfortable place to sleep, write, and enjoy life. And when I sleep at night, my eyes are closed anyway, so why would I need anything big or fancy? I certainly won’t be admiring the square footage while I’m dreaming!
                     
    I was also asked whether I wanted a larger bed, but a twin-sized bed will do just fine. After all, I don’t expect any ladies to spend the night, so why take up valuable floor space with a bigger bed? Of course, if my romantic prospects suddenly improve, I may have to reconsider my furniture arrangements!
               
    The best part? This move will also save the insurance company a substantial amount of money! Less space, less expense, and everything I need. Sometimes, downsizing is actually a step up! Besides, I’ve always believed that it’s not the size of your living space that matters—it’s what you do with your Life that counts! 🤭

    But if nothing exciting happens, that’s perfectly fine, too. Not every day needs to be filled with adventure. Sometimes, simply enjoying the quiet moments and appreciating life as it unfolds is enough. Of course, knowing me, I’ll still be looking for something interesting to do. I’ve never been very good at sitting around doing nothing, and I don’t intend to start now!

    DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
    YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!

    ====================
    BLOG 398—LOST IN THE WILDERNESS!
    Be Different—Find Your Own Way.

    YOU CAN’T ALWAYS TURN AROUND—
    BUT YOU CAN MOVE FORWARD!

    Some of the happiest years of my life were spent traveling across America in my van. For seven wonderful years, the road was my home. No schedules, no reservations, and often no idea where I would sleep that night. I explored every national park in the continental United States and discovered countless magnificent places along the way. To me, freedom meant following an unfamiliar road to see where it led. THE WORLD WAS MY PLAYGROUND!
             
    One beautiful day, while exploring the wilderness, I spotted a narrow dirt road disappearing into a thick forest. Naturally, my curiosity took over. Perhaps a hidden lake, a spectacular mountain view, or some undiscovered paradise waited ahead. There was only one way to find out! I turned my van onto the road and began climbing between the towering trees.
               
    At first, everything was wonderful. Sunlight filtered through the branches, birds sang, and the forest seemed to welcome me. But soon, the road narrowed. Branches scraped against my van, deep ruts made driving difficult, and the trees seemed to be closing in. I considered turning around, but suddenly realized something frightening.

    THERE WAS NOWHERE TO TURN AROUND!

    I continued driving, hoping to find a clearing. Another bend. More trees. Another bend. Still nothing! What if the road ended? What if a fallen tree blocked my path? Backing down that narrow, twisting road seemed impossible. My heart pounded, and my hands tightened around the steering wheel. 

    YIKES! WHAT HAD I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?

    For the first time, my wonderful adventure had become a nightmare. I was alone, deep in the wilderness, with no idea what waited ahead. I couldn’t turn around, and going backward was too dangerous. There was only one reasonable choice.

    KEEP MOVING FORWARD!

    Slowly, I continued, carefully avoiding rocks, ruts, and trees. Every bend brought another disappointment. Then, as I began to lose hope, I spotted something magnificent.

    A CLEARING!

    Finally, there was enough room to turn my van around. What a glorious feeling! I carefully maneuvered the van, pointed it back toward safety, and breathed an enormous sigh of relief. Suddenly, the frightening forest became beautiful again. The trees were still towering, the birds were still singing, and the sunlight was still dancing through the branches.

    THE WILDERNESS HADN’T CHANGED. MY DIRECTION HAD!

    That adventure taught me something about life. Sometimes we travel down roads that become far more difficult than we expected. We wish we could turn around, erase our decisions, or return to the comfortable life we once knew. But life doesn’t always offer a convenient place to make a U-turn.

    I CERTAINLY KNEW SOMETHING ABOUT THAT. 

    Around 2012, my life took several devastating turns. I was struck by a truck for the second time. My marriage to Mary Ellen fell apart, and she left with our daughters, Jasmine and April. I also spent a month in jail following what I maintain was a false accusation. One painful experience followed another, and I wondered how much more I could endure.

    I HAD TO GET AWAY, HEAL, AND FIND MY WAY BACK TO LIFE!

    Yes, approaching 2012, I went through a number of bad things >>
    I was hit by a truck for the second time.
    Mary Ellen took Jasmine and April and left me.
    I spent a month in jail on a false charge.
    I HAD TO GET AWAY TO HEAL AND GET BACK TO LIFE! 
               
    Eventually, I set my sights on Australia and New Zealand. That became my goal—and I needed to figure out how to make it happen. A few years earlier, after recovering from my 37-day coma, I had created workshops to help other jugglers improve their skills. Workshops will pay my way!
               
    Years earlier, after surviving a 37-day coma and rebuilding my life, I had developed workshops to help other jugglers improve their skills. Why not put that experience to work? I contacted jugglers throughout Australia and New Zealand and arranged several workshops. So I contacted jugglers throughout Australia and New Zealand and arranged several workshops. The best part? Those workshops paid for my trip. I found a way to turn what I loved—and what I had learned—into my ticket to an adventure on the other side of the world.
                 
    Take a deep breath. Put it in drive. You may not know exactly where the road ahead will lead, but you don’t have to. You’ve already made it through roads you never expected to travel—and you learned something from every mile. Whether you’re facing a literal tight squeeze or a major turning point in life, remember this: You don’t need to see the entire road. You only need enough courage to take the next turn.
             
    Rather than surrender to everything that had happened, I began searching for a new adventure. Eventually, I set my sights on Australia and New Zealand. I had no idea exactly how I would get there, but I knew I wanted to go. And when I set my mind on something, I usually find a way!

    AND GUESS WHAT?
    THE WORKSHOPS PAID FOR MY TRIP!

    Once again, juggling opened doors I hadn’t even known existed. What began as a desire to escape painful circumstances became an opportunity to travel, teach, meet wonderful people, and rediscover the excitement of being alive.

    I couldn’t erase what had happened to me. I couldn’t turn back the clock or return to the person I had once been. But I could choose what happened next. What a fantastic time I had down under. I found many new friends, saw extraordinary landscapes, and found my way back to life. 

    I DIDN’T GET MY OLD LIFE BACK. I BUILT ANOTHER ONE!

    Looking back, I see how much that frightening dirt road had in common with my own life. Both led me into unfamiliar territory. Both brought moments of fear and uncertainty. And both taught me that the way forward isn’t always obvious. Remember, roads go both ways. 

    We sometimes stare into life’s rearview mirror so long that we miss the opportunities appearing through the windshield. You cannot drive safely while looking only backward, and you cannot build tomorrow while trying to live in yesterday.

    Carry the lessons, laughter, courage, and even the pain of your past. They are part of your story, but they don’t have to determine its ending. Slow down when necessary. Change direction when possible. Take one small step when that is all you can manage.

    JUST KEEP MOVING!

    Life will sometimes lead you down roads you never intended to travel. You may encounter disappointment, heartbreak, fear, or obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. But courage doesn’t mean you are never frightened. It means finding the determination to make another decision, take another step, and discover another possibility.

    AND REMEMBER, JUST BECAUSE YOU LOSE YOUR WAY
    DOESN’T MEAN YOU’VE LOST YOUR FUTURE!

    At 67, I’m still exploring, still learning, and still wondering what magnificent adventure might be waiting around the next bend. I’ve survived two encounters with trucks, a 37-day coma, the loss of relationships, and more unexpected detours than I care to count. Yet here I am, still looking ahead, still dreaming, and still determined to make something wonderful of the years to come.

    If there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s that we cannot control every road we travel. But we can decide how we respond when the journey becomes difficult.

    And sometimes, the road that frightens us most leads to the discovery we need most.
    I can sum up one of life’s greatest lessons in just three words:

    LIFE GOES ON!

    So, wherever you are in your journey, don’t give up because the road ahead looks uncertain. Keep your curiosity alive, your courage close, and your eyes open for possibilities.

    BEING LOST ISN’T THE END OF YOUR JOURNEY.
    SOMETIMES, IT’S THE BEGINNING OF YOUR GREATEST ADVENTURE!

    So, my friend, when life takes an unexpected turn, gather your courage, look ahead, and KEEP MOVING FORWARD! You never know what extraordinary opportunities might be waiting just around the next bend.
                 
    With my juggling workshop, I’ve done it all over the US, worked with jugglers in many European countries, taken the workshop to Japan 3 times, and presented it in Australia and New Zealand. Now I have to figure out if they juggle on the moon so I can take it there.

             
    You don’t need to see the entire road.
    You only need enough courage to take the next turn.

    AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO SPEND IT STANDING STILL! 💛

    ====================
    PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
    Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs. 💥 They wake up the mind, shrink problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can turn “I can’t” into “Why not?”—a small flashlight guiding you through a dark hallway. 🔦
               
    But the real magic comes through repetition. The more you repeat a truth, the more deeply you believe it—and the more your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on the wall is decoration. A quote put into action becomes transformation.
                 
    Simple truth:
    A quote on a page is nice…
    A quote you live by?
    Now that’s power. ✨
            ==========
    1) “And into the forest I go, to lose
          my mind and find my soul.”
          — John Muir
               
    2) “The wilderness is where I
        lose the noise of the world,
        discover the beauty of life,
        and find the courage to keep
        moving forward.”
        — Kit Summers
                     
    3) “If you want to lift yourself up,
          lift up someone else.”
          ―Booker T. Washington
                 
    4) “In wildness is the preservation
            of the world.”
    — Henry David Thoreau
                 
    5) “I found far more answers in the
          woods than I ever did in the city.”
            — Mary Davis
                   
    6)  ““The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
    — John Muir
                   
    7) “The world is not finished surprising you.
        Don’t wait for adventure to find you—GO FIND IT!
        —Kit Summers
                 
    8) “Let nature quiet your mind
          and awaken your life.”
            — Kit Summers
                 
    9) “Sometimes life leaves only one direction—
          FORWARD—so take a breath, trust yourself,
          and see what adventure is waiting ahead.”
          — Kit Summers.”
                 
    10) “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”
          —F. Scott Fitzgerald
    ====================
    PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
    Did you ever wander into the wilderness when you were young, following a trail to see where it went, climbing over rocks, splashing through streams, and wondering what adventure waited around the next bend? Remember that wonderful feeling of freedom, when the world seemed enormous, and every new path held a mystery? That adventurous kid is still inside you, no matter how old you are!
                 
    This week, I challenge you to BRING THAT ADVENTUROUS KID BACK TO LIFE! Find a forest, park, beach, mountain, or some wild little corner of the world and GO EXPLORE! Follow a trail you’ve never traveled, climb a hill, splash through a stream, or hug a tree if the mood strikes. Remember that wonderful childhood curiosity when everything seemed new, exciting, and full of possibilities? Well, that world is still out there, waiting for YOU!
                 
    Look for wildlife, listen to the birds, and if the bigger animals are hiding, get down close and discover the fascinating world of bugs beneath your feet. You might be amazed at how much life is happening right under your nose! And go ahead, hug that tree—it probably needs a little love, too. Adventure has no age limit, curiosity never grows old, and life is too wonderful to spend it sitting still. GET OUT THERE, EXPLORE, AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
             
    If possible, spend a night beneath the stars. Listen to the mysterious sounds of the wilderness after dark, breathe the fresh air, and wake up with the rising sun. Discover how magnificent our world can be before everyone else wakes up and starts making noise. When it’s time to leave, pick up some litter and leave the place even nicer than you found it. That’s how a true adventurer says THANK YOU to nature!
               
    Even in the heart of New York City, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, you might find a safe rooftop where you can spend a night beneath the stars. Imagine lying there, gazing up at the endless sky while the city lights sparkle around you. You drift off to sleep with a smile on your face, knowing that freedom isn’t always about where you are—it’s about how you choose to experience life. Sometimes, the greatest adventures are waiting right above your head!
               
    And don’t worry too much about finding something to eat. I’ve heard bears taste pretty good, although I strongly recommend making sure the bear doesn’t decide to taste YOU first! Life is too short to spend every day staring at the same four walls. Get outside, get a little dirty, laugh at yourself, and rediscover that wonderful feeling of being alive. The world is still filled with extraordinary adventures. They won’t knock on your door. Get out there—GO FIND SOME!
                   
    That is your challenge for the week.
    That is the challenge for YOUR LIFE!
    ====================
    ====================
    WOODSIDEMOTION!
    Thank you to Christopher and everyone at Woodside Motion for helping me explore the possibility of bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.
    Always remember Christopher Jones, a man who believes my story deserves to be shared with the world. Christopher, thank you for seeing the possibilities in my journey and believing my experiences can make a difference in others’ lives. I am deeply grateful to you and everyone at Woodside Motion for your dedication to bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.

    My life has been filled with unexpected challenges, painful setbacks, remarkable recoveries, and incredible adventures. But I believe everything I’ve experienced has prepared me for something greater: helping others discover that adversity doesn’t have to define their future. Together, we can turn my story into a powerful message of courage, determination, and hope, inspiring countless people to overcome obstacles, recognize their potential, and NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
                     
    Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
    Email:   christopher@woodsidemotion.com
    ====================
    ====================
    CINDY MARVELL
    At this point, I must recognize the marvellous Cindy Marvell.
    This amazing woman founded and runs https://bouldercircuscenter.net.
    There, she helps others dream big and take flight.
    She is also an extraordinary performer in her own right—take a look >>
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNbKaLV4I9Q 

                          Cindy in the Wilderness Shaking Hands
    Throughout this movie project, she offered her encouragement and help in countless ways. Having someone believe in your story makes the journey even more meaningful. For one thing, she is the only woman to ever win the International Juggling Competition.
             
    Thank you, Cindy, for your remarkable talent, generous heart, and unwavering support—both personally and financially. I am deeply grateful to have you beside me, helping keep this dream in the air. Every great dream needs someone who believes in it, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have you juggling this one alongside me! 🤹‍♂️💛
    ==================== 
    PART 6) NEXT WEEK
    BLOG 399–Life at Legacy    
    =====================  

    🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
    Because the best is always still ahead.
    So juggle joy like it’s the air you breathe.
    The horizon holds more than you can yet imagine.
    YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS. YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
    Your present moment is not the finish line—it’s your starting block.
    Chase sunsets as if they’re secret treasures waiting just for you.
    Laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen.
    Write me today—kitsummers@gmail.com
    Live as though you’ve only just begun—
    🌟BECAUSE YOU TRULY HAVE! 🌟
    ================================

     


    2