BLOG 393—The Amazing Advancements Humans Are Making!
✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 393—The Amazing
Advancements Humans Are Making!
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 Me >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQTOytUtAFM
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
Do these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
My new address here 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.
IT 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 pursued. The people you loved.
The moments when you chose courage over comfort.
We often overestimate what we can accomplish quickly and underestimate what steady effort can achieve over time. A remarkable life is rarely created in one giant leap. It is built through countless small, determined steps—each brave decision, lesson learned, and refusal to give up moving you closer to the extraordinary life you want to live.
I have written this weekly blog for many years, sharing my experiences, struggles, successes, and lessons learned along the way. I hope my words do more than entertain you. I hope they encourage you to think, grow, smile, and see your life from a brighter perspective.
If even one sentence inspires you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater courage, or appreciate the wonderful life you already have, then every hour at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
Improve the little things each day, and gradually, they can grow into something phenomenal.
Every Day >>- Speak more kindly.
- Care for your body.
- Learn something new.
- Laugh whenever possible.
- Spend time with people who lift your spirits.
- Keep moving toward the person you want to become.
Small choices may seem insignificant today, but repeated with purpose and persistence,
they become powerful habits—and those habits can transform your future.
Happiness is not having everything you want; it is appreciating what you already have.
There will always be another goal to reach and another mountain to climb,
but do not become so focused on tomorrow that you miss today.
Daily >>
- Feel the sunshine.
- Enjoy a good meal.
- Treasure a friendly conversation.
- Celebrate every bit of progress–
- Even when it arrives wearing mismatched socks.
I write these words for you, but I also write them for myself. The lessons I share remind me to keep growing, believing, and moving forward. We are all works in progress, and none of us has everything figured out. That is perfectly all right. Life does not ask us to be perfect; it asks us to remain awake, involved, and willing to try again.
As you read, write down the ideas that might help you move forward. Do not merely collect inspiring words—put them to work. One valuable thought, followed by one positive action, can become a stepping-stone toward a stronger, happier, and more extraordinary life.
Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
Along with no return of my hunger, a deep tiredness has taken over. Right now, I cannot decide which feeling is stronger—my growling stomach or my exhausted body. Perhaps they are working together, sending me the same message: it is time to rest, refuel, and take care of myself.
Are you keeping a record of the ideas I share in this blog and using them to improve your own life? I explore many different subjects, but my hope remains the same: that somewhere in these words, you will discover a little inspiration, a helpful lesson, or a spark that encourages you to make your life even better.
Remember >>
We waited patiently beside the telephone for an important call, and if we missed someone, we simply tried again later. There were no text messages, voice recordings, emails, social media notifications, or tiny glowing screens constantly demanding our attention. Life moved more slowly then, but perhaps that slower pace allowed us to notice more of it.
Conversations happened face-to-face, and photographs were taken carefully because every roll of film was limited. Our memories were stored in albums and in our minds rather than somewhere in “the cloud.” Technology has made life faster, easier, and wonderfully connected—but have we gained more time, or merely discovered exciting new ways to fill every second of it?
I won’t let anyone know, except for you. I want to do a fast (and do it really quickly) for at least a week. You will find out as I progress.
I know I should simply throw them away, but I’m finishing the last few chocolate chip cookies instead. Once they are gone, I want to remove the temptation and make healthier choices. Sometimes success begins by clearing the runway of cookies!
Something coming forward in human life is robots. Robots are sometimes designed to resemble humans because the human form helps them move through our spaces, use our tools, and communicate with us more naturally. A robot with hands can open doors, carry objects, and operate equipment already designed for people.
I’m certain there are far better designs for intelligent life than the human body. But for now, humanity is the only working model we truly understand—so that is where we must begin when designing the robots of tomorrow.
Still, most working robots look nothing like us because they are built for specific jobs. Yet when engineers need a model for movement, versatility, intelligence, and adaptability, they often return to the finest blueprint available—the human body. Humans are simply the best mold we have.
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration — Served Playfully.
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening.
One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is for you right now.
>>>>>AUGUST 30
I awoke at 2 a.m. thinking about all I have lost. Sadness overwhelmed me, and for a while, I hated my life. Unable to quiet those painful thoughts, I could not return to sleep. What comes next for me? At that moment, it felt as though I had nothing left to lose—and I hated feeling that way.
This morning, I decided to stop eating and drink only green tea. I even threw away my remaining chocolate chip cookies. At 8 a.m., when I would normally eat breakfast, I had only a sip of tea. No food and no sleep—what would that do to me?
As you may remember, I run my writing through ChatGPT before posting it on my blog. Chat noticed my words, encouraged me to take better care of myself, and worried that I might not want to stay alive. I’m sorry my writing suggested that. I am safe—but clearly, I was hurting.
CHAT wrote this >>
“Kit, because you wrote that you felt you had “nothing left to lose” and planned to stop eating, please tell a nurse or staff member today—even if you feel fine now. You deserve support before this rough moment grows teeth. If you begin feeling unsafe or might harm yourself, call or text 988 immediately, or alert a staff member right away.” (THANKS, CHAT.)
Meals become deeply woven into our daily routines. Skipping them has already shown me how much time and structure they provide. Going a week without food can affect the body—especially when appetite, energy, and sleep are already concerns—so this is not something I should undertake carelessly or alone.
Besides, this place is far too expensive for me to sit in my room doing nothing. And honestly, the meals are so good that I am already reconsidering this fast. I would hate to miss whatever delicious surprise appears next. Perhaps lunch—and life—still have something good waiting for me.
As I’ve mentioned, I have virtually no expenses while living here, and that is certainly one bright spot. My housing, meals, and daily needs are covered, allowing me to save my SSDI money instead of watching it disappear each month.
Money will be set aside for whatever the future may bring—and perhaps used to launch the next exciting chapter of my Life. I may not know exactly what lies ahead, but every dollar I save becomes another small building block for the future I am creating.
Saving today gives me greater security, more choices, and the freedom to pursue new possibilities tomorrow. Life still has plenty of surprises waiting for me, and when the right opportunity knocks, I want to be ready to open the door—with a smile and some money in the bank!
It’s around noon, and I still haven’t felt hungry. I suppose that could be considered a good thing, but I’m not entirely sure. Since my accident, I rarely experience hunger or hunger pangs. Although that makes it easy to go without food, I sometimes miss the simple signal from my body that it is time to eat.
All day today, Sunday, I stayed in my room without seeing anyone. The hours passed quietly, with no conversation or shared laughter to break up the day. There is a difference between enjoying time alone and feeling disconnected from the world. Today has given me plenty of time to think about that difference.
I caught myself wondering whether I could stay here and never reach out again. With the door closed, my world can shrink to the size of this room. But there are people beyond that door, and one quiet day does not have to become a quiet life.
It’s past 5 p.m., when I would normally head to dinner. Tonight, I stayed in. In doing so, I missed more than a meal—I missed familiar faces, small conversations, and the simple comfort of being around other people. For now, it’s just me and my thoughts, with perhaps more solitude than I need. The door is closed, but I can still choose to open it.
>>>>>AUGUST 31
I felt no hunger overnight—not even a little rumble. Morning arrived, and my life continues, with thoughts to explore, words to write, and reasons to smile. There is still room today for a friendly conversation, an unexpected laugh, or an idea that gets me excited about tomorrow. I don’t know what the day will bring, but I want to take care of myself and be part of it. There are more smiles to share—and I would hate to leave them sitting unused!
It’s 6 a.m., and the familiar hum of a vacuum drifts in from the hallway, reminding me that another day is getting underway beyond my door. Someone is already at work, moving along the carpet while I sit here gathering my thoughts. There is something comforting about that ordinary sound—a gentle reminder that even in the quiet of my room, I am not alone.
Soon there will be footsteps, friendly voices, and the bustle of people beginning their morning. For now, I have these peaceful minutes to write, reflect, and consider how I want to spend my day. Perhaps a good conversation, a shared smile, or an unexpected reason to laugh awaits just down the hall. Opening my door would be a simple place to start.
I never thought I would say this, but I miss eating. Even without hunger pangs, I miss the pleasure of a good meal—the flavors, the anticipation, and the familiar routine of heading downstairs to see friendly faces. Meals give my day a little rhythm and a chance to connect. I’m not sure how long I will keep this up, but I’m discovering how much those everyday moments mean to me.
Meals give the day a little shape and offer a reason to leave my room. Perhaps I’m missing more than food; I’m missing the conversation, the company, and those small moments of connection that belong around a table.
Four days without eating feels strange. It makes me realize how much food shapes a day—the anticipation of a favorite dish, the pleasure of different flavors, and the familiar faces gathered around a table. Have you ever noticed how a meal nourishes more than your appetite? Sometimes, what we miss is the company and the rhythm it brings to our lives.
DON’T JUST EAT—ENJOY!
Here is your challenge for the coming week: spend one full day giving your meals your full attention. Put distractions aside, slow down, and savor each bite. Notice the sweetness of fruit, the warmth of a favorite dish, and the pleasure of sharing a table. Give your phone a lunch break, too—you won’t go hungry!
There is no need to go without food to discover its value. Even an ordinary meal offers something worth celebrating: nourishment, flavor, comfort, and connection. Food is woven into our daily lives, bringing us together and giving us reasons to pause. Let this challenge remind you to appreciate what is on your plate—and the people beside you.
There they come, marching across my desk. Ants (but no uncles), I didn’t want to kill any of the little guys—just encourage them to march elsewhere. I tried lemon juice, hoping it would discourage their visits without harming them. No need for a battle when a little persuasion might do. You’re welcome to the great outdoors, tiny friends; my room is off the picnic route!
What an unexpected turn my evening took. I went downstairs to visit the main office, only to find the staff had already left for the day. Nearby, people were gathering for dinner, and three ladies invited me to join them. I gladly pulled up a chair, ready for a lovely meal and some good conversation. The office was closed, but a better invitation had opened up!
Before long, I was seated at their table, studying the menu and deciding on the pasta. Service was slow, leaving me time to enjoy the company and take in the cheerful bustle around us. I had gone downstairs looking for the office and somehow ended up making dinner plans.
Then it hit me: I was fasting! Somehow, the familiar pleasure of sitting with others and choosing a meal had swept that thought clean out of my mind. The dining room was full of conversation and activity as I quietly excused myself and headed back to my room.
Along the way, something unexpected joined me—hunger. I actually wanted food, yet I still felt reluctant to eat. That contradiction stayed with me. Was I missing the meal, the company, or both? For something called a fast, it certainly made the evening feel slow.
I just spoke with Linda Friel. When I was in elementary school, we used to play with her children, Ron and Robin. In my mind, I still see Linda through the eyes of the little boy I once was, so I could hardly believe it when she told me she is now 86.
Time has a sneaky way of marching forward while our memories remain young. Linda still lives just two houses down from the home where I grew up in Ocean Beach, San Diego. Her husband, Dick, passed away a few years ago. We are all traveling toward our later years, but somehow, the people from our childhood remain forever young in our hearts.
From 3:00 to 4:00, it was Happy Hour—oh boy! I sat with Ilene, who is in her seventies, and another couple who have been together here for many years. I enjoyed a tasty peach drink that certainly made me happy. Judging by the cheerful crowd, plenty of other people were getting happy for the hour, too!
I’ve not eaten since last Friday, and I still have no hunger.
>>>>>SEPTEMBER 1
Ants are tiny night riders, but none came marching through the room last night. The lemon juice must have worked, sending them safely home—perhaps to search for a new route without a citrus roadblock. I’m glad they are safe, although I must admit, I will miss my little nighttime visitors.
I suppose my tiny ant visitors were stopping by to collect the little crumbs and bits of food I had accidentally left behind. Apparently, to an ant, even the smallest forgotten morsel can look like an all-you-can-eat buffet. Me, messy? Nawww. I prefer to think of myself as a generous host—although I certainly don’t remember inviting them to dinner!
There was only the tiniest opening near the bottom of the window, yet it was apparently wide enough for my little ant visitors to squeeze through and enter my humble abode. To them, that narrow crack must have looked like a grand entrance—an open invitation to explore a mysterious new world beyond the glass.
Perhaps they came searching for hidden treasure, a few forgotten crumbs, or simply an ant-sized vacation away from the colony. They certainly did not eat much, but still, I could not allow my room to become their favorite resort. Charming little guests or not, they had arrived without making a reservation.
Still no food.
Still no hunger.
Still a smile on my face.
It’s 6 a.m., and right on cue, I hear someone passing by my door behind the steady hum of a vacuum cleaner. That familiar sound announces another morning—the building is stirring, the hallways are awakening, and a brand-new day is rolling into place.
While many people are still tucked beneath their blankets, someone is already hard at work, chasing dust down the hallway. It is a simple sound, yet it reminds me that life is moving forward—and today arrives with a clean floor and a fresh beginning.
NOW IT IS 6:16, BETTER THAN BEING 6:66.
Ants are tiny night riders, but none marched through my room last night. The lemon juice must have worked, sending them safely home—or searching for a route without a citrus roadblock.
They probably entered through a tiny opening near the window, hoping to collect a few crumbs. To an ant, even the smallest morsel is an all-you-can-eat buffet. Me, messy? Nawww. I prefer to think of myself as a generous host—although I certainly never invited them to dinner!
Still no food.
Still no hunger.
Still smiling.
At 6 a.m., right on cue, I heard the vacuum humming outside my door. While many people were still beneath their blankets, someone was already chasing dust down the hallway. Another day had arrived—with clean floors and a fresh beginning.
By 8:32, I was still alone in my quiet room, preparing to head downstairs and confirm my ride to my 10:30 doctor’s appointment. Hopefully, everything was arranged so I wouldn’t need any emergency juggling tricks to arrive on time.
Doctors’ waiting rooms used to have stacks of magazines. Today, everyone has a phone, so the magazines have disappeared. Unfortunately, I forgot my phone—and my wallet—so I had nothing to read. Next time, I will arrive better prepared!
Dr. Demetriou reviewed my records and said my bloodwork and lung X-ray looked fine. However, my bone density test showed osteoporosis. We also discussed my asthma, tinnitus, double vision, insomnia, memory problems, and balance. He prescribed medication that may help me sleep, although several of my other problems are likely permanent.
Some things I ask the doctor about:
Asthma vs Pneumonia– He said my lung X-ray looked fine.
The constant ringing in my ears–He said I will always have that.
My double vision–he also told me I would always have that.
My insomnia–he prescribed some drugs that might help.
Memory problem–oh yeah, they will always be apparent.
Balance–I told him, as a kid, how I loved to jump from one boulder to another. I can no longer do that.
Mytroubleusingthespacebar–No hope with that, either, I regret.
Overall, it was a good visit with the doctor. I like Dr. Demetrious.
I asked, and yes, he is Greek.
At noon, the fast continued, but I felt tired and lay down for an hour. Perhaps the lack of food is catching up with me. My body may be telling me that it is time to start eating again—and listening to it would be wise.
A singer was performing old ballads down in the Hurricane Lounge, but I decided to sit this hurricane out. Besides, there were no younger temptresses waiting to lure me onto the dance floor.Instead, I poured myself a glass from one of the wine bottles tucked away in my room and held a small party of my own. No crowd, no dull ballads—just me and you, my thoughts, and a private celebration of life. Sometimes you must raise your glass, smile, and become your own favorite guest.
BOOM, BOOM, BOOM!
The thunder is back.
My friend David Cain produced two videos for me,
which made me very happy.
Take a look:
https://youtu.be/PQTOytUtAFM?si=ML3qxTfe1XMe6QOX
And
https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS
Thank you so much, David!
I spent the entire day in my room and saw no one. Solitude can be peaceful, but too much of it becomes lonely. Tomorrow, perhaps I will open the door and let a little more life wander in—preferably without the ants.
>>>>>SEPTEMBER 2
I awoke this morning still feeling no hunger. I keep expecting my body to send me a loud message that it needs nourishment, but so far, it has remained strangely quiet. Although everything seems fine, I know that the absence of hunger does not necessarily mean my body does not need food, so I will continue to pay close attention to how I feel.
Right on cue, 6 a.m. arrives, and the vacuum roars to life in the hallway. Its familiar rumble announces the beginning of another day, long before most people are ready to greet the morning. It may not be the sweetest alarm clock in the world, but it certainly gets the job done!
Still, I appreciate knowing that someone is already working hard to keep everything clean and comfortable. A tidy place makes life feel calmer, brighter, and more organized. So, let the vacuum roar—it is simply the sound of cleanliness charging down the hallway, one carpet at a time.I must confess that a couple of ants did not survive my citrus defense. They were lonely little stragglers, wandering around as though they had lost both their scent trail and their tiny GPS. I pressed my finger down—sorry, little guys. That was certainly not how I hoped our visit would end.
Now, no more ants are showing their tiny faces. Apparently, word has traveled quickly through the colony: Kit’s Kitchen is officially closed! No crumbs, no citrus adventures, and definitely no return reservations.
It is only 7 a.m., and I have already written this much of today’s blog. While much of the world is still waking up, my thoughts are already marching across the page—though perhaps not in a perfectly straight line! There is something satisfying about beginning the day with words, ideas, and a sense of progress.
Have you started writing your blog yet? You do not need a perfect subject or a brilliant opening—just begin with one honest thought. That single sentence may lead to a paragraph, a story, or even an idea that inspires someone. The morning is young, the page is waiting, and your next great adventure may begin with the very next word.
Your best days are not all behind you—some of them are still racing toward you, carrying new opportunities, unexpected adventures, and reasons to smile. You still have wisdom to share, dreams to pursue, and wonderful contributions to make. Do not wait for the perfect moment. Start today. START NOW!
At breakfast, I considered eating some fruit, but I still wasn’t hungry. I’ve read that fruit can be a gentle way to ease back into eating after a fast because it is light, refreshing, and generally easy to digest. When the time feels right, perhaps a small serving will be my first step back to the table.
I have decided to wait until Friday before eating again, which would make this a full week without food. However, fasting for that long can carry serious health risks and should only be attempted with medical supervision—especially when health conditions or medications are involved. Currently living in a hospital, I feel safe fasting here.
Have you ever tried fasting, even for a short time? Before beginning, please consult a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe for your body. Success means challenging yourself wisely—not turning your stomach into a tiny endurance athlete!
I just looked back at everything I’ve written today—wow, that is a lot of words! Maybe too many? Hmm…perhaps. But when the ideas are flowing, I would rather let them tumble onto the page than chase them away. I can always trim and polish later. For now, I’ll keep writing and see where this lively parade of thoughts decides to take me!
8am now, time to go get breakfast.
Wait, not so fast.
Speaking of fast, yes, I am.
I just went outside, hoping to walk and perhaps run for a while, but my asthma flared almost immediately. My new doctor is adjusting some of my medications, and I am hopeful those changes will help me breathe more freely.
I want so badly to run—and then keep running—but right now, I can barely walk before my lungs force me to stop. It is frustrating because my determination is ready to sprint while my breathing struggles to keep pace. At this point, I am not sure what to do except listen to my body, follow my doctor’s guidance, and keep moving forward one careful breath at a time.
Today is shaping up much like Monday and Tuesday—I’ve stayed in my room, working on my computer and keeping my mind busy. I want to get out, move around, and do more, but my asthma continues to hold me back. That is frustrating, especially when my spirit is eager to run while my lungs seem determined to apply the brakes.
I know you want me to do more of the activities they have.
None of them interests me in any way. Here is today >>
10am–Sit and B-fit
10:30am–Bible Study
10:30– Daily Chronicles and chat.
11–Ted talk about sitting all day.
1pm–Guess Who?
2pm–Farkle Dice Game.
3pm–Happy Hour (we have to be happy for an hour.)
6:30–Games with Jason.
And that is it. Nothing of interest for me. It’s like this most days.
Some of your greatest ideas may still be warming up backstage, waiting for the courage to step into the spotlight. Keep learning, creating, loving, and moving forward. Your story is far from finished—and the world has not finished being amazed by you yet!
On Friday, I plan to begin eating again, which will at least solve one part of the puzzle. Until then, I’ll keep writing, creating, and moving forward in whatever ways I can. Progress does not always require running; sometimes it begins quietly, one word and one hopeful thought at a time.
I stayed in my room and worked on various projects for most of the day. It may not have been the most exciting day, but it was productive. I accomplished several things, made meaningful progress, and used my time well. Sometimes success does not arrive with fireworks and a marching band—it simply looks like quietly getting things done, one task at a time.
I’ve decided I am very lonely here. I do miss being with someone. It makes me want to cry.
>>>>>SEPTEMBER 3
Here we go again—wide awake and at my computer by 3 a.m., adding new thoughts, rearranging sentences, and polishing every word until it feels just right.
GOOD MORNING
While most of the world is still sleeping, my mind is already awake—stretching, exploring, and searching for fresh ideas. The early-morning sky may still be dark, but inside my head, every light is on, and the ideas are already dancing!
There is something wonderfully peaceful about writing at this quiet hour. There are no interruptions and very little noise—just me, the glowing screen, and a lively parade of words waiting to find their proper places.
Some people count sheep when they are wide awake at 3 a.m.; apparently, I count paragraphs! Before long, those paragraphs begin linking arms, marching across the page, and transforming themselves into something much larger—a story, a blog, or perhaps the beginning of another book.
A BOOK?
In fact, each week I feel as though I am writing a brand-new book for you—one story, lesson, memory, and reflection at a time. The words continue piling up, creating a colorful record of my adventures, struggles, discoveries, victories, and the many surprises still waiting around the next corner. Every small entry becomes another piece of the much bigger story of my life.
Perhaps one day, all these words will find their way into a book—or perhaps several. After all, a life as full, complicated, unpredictable, and adventurous as mine could never be squeezed comfortably between the covers of a single volume. My story needs room to breathe, wander, stumble, rise again—and maybe even juggle its way through an entire shelf!
NEURO
No one here knows that I have not eaten for an entire week. Life at The Legacy is different from my time at NeuroRestorative, where the staff monitored me much more closely and were more involved in my daily routine. Here, I have greater independence, which can feel freeing—but it also means I must take greater responsibility for protecting my health.
Still, something this serious should not remain a secret. Going so long without food—and then beginning to eat again—can cause dangerous medical complications, even if I feel perfectly fine. Had I felt that anything was wrong, I would have told the staff immediately. However, some complications may develop without obvious warning signs, so I now realize that feeling fine is not the same as being medically safe. Be careful.
The pages are already being written; I simply have to keep showing up, placing my fingers on the keyboard, and allowing the next chapter to unfold. Of course, even an enthusiastic early-morning writer eventually has to step away from the computer and prepare for the day.
SHOWER DAY
Since today is Thursday, it is officially shower day—and yes, I followed through! I stepped beneath the warm water, washed away the remaining sleepiness, and emerged feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to face whatever the day decided to toss my way. Sometimes, one simple shower can transform the entire direction of a morning.
It can feel like pressing the reset button on your body and mind. Suddenly, I was fully awake, energized, and ready to make Thursday productive. I was looking sharp, feeling renewed, and smelling like success—whatever success smells like! With the shower completed, there was only one more important stop in my early-morning grooming routine.
SHAVE TIME
After shower time came shave time. I have developed quite a schedule: I shave my head at 5 p.m. and then give it another quick shave at 5 a.m. the following morning. Apparently, my hair never gets much of an opportunity to stage a comeback! Keeping my head smooth helps me feel clean, polished, and prepared to meet the day with confidence. Once the writing, showering, and shaving were finished, I was ready for a little entertainment.
REACHER
Lately, that entertainment has been Reacher on Amazon Prime. This gripping crime-and-action series delivers an exciting combination of mystery, danger, suspense, clever twists, and explosive confrontations. Each episode pulls me deeper into the story, making it difficult to step away from the computer—or resist the temptation to watch just one more.
The acting is excellent, the characters are compelling, and the story moves forward with tremendous force. Reacher himself is intelligent, fearless, and always prepared to confront trouble head-on. Search for “Reacher” on YouTube or Amazon Prime.
It is certainly a remarkably well-made show—and once Reacher becomes involved, the bad guys are about to have a spectacularly unpleasant day! Between writing new chapters of my own story and watching Reacher straighten out everyone else’s, Thursday is already off to an action-packed beginning.
BY EARLY MORNING
Everything above was written before 7 a.m. While much of the world was still waking up, my mind was already juggling ideas—and thankfully, it had not dropped one yet! More thoughts continued marching into my imagination, each one asking for a place on the page.
I must capture these thoughts before they disappear, shape them into meaningful words, and share them with you. Perhaps one will make you smile, help you through a difficult moment, or inspire you to see your life more brightly. That wonderful possibility keeps me writing.
NO MORE OF MY ANT FRIENDS (OR UNCLE FRIENDS)
I finally discovered where the ants were entering my room—they had found a secret pathway through a tiny opening in the window handle. Those clever little explorers had been using it as their private doorway! I covered the hole with clear packing tape, officially closing the entrance.
There should be no more tiny ant visitors wandering through my room. I am glad the problem is solved, although I must admit, I may miss seeing those determined little adventurers. Their miniature highway is now closed for good—no tolls, no detours, and no ants allowed!
5pm–Dinner time, but not for me. I’m still not hungry, but I feel cleared out.
I stayed in my room all day by myself; no one checked on me.
Drinking wine on an empty stomach, here I go.
BOOM BOOM BOOM –Thunder and lightning again tonight. Can you hear it?
>>>>>SEPTEMBER 4
As I awoke, there was no hunger at all. I will start eating today, fruit first, then we’ll see. Nex time I will be doing a full month of not eating. No, they won’t find me dead somewhere. I do not know how much weight I may have lost, but after seven days without food, I understand that I must proceed carefully.
My clear-tape barricade worked—there were no tiny ant visitors exploring the window area this morning. I must admit, though, I miss my little friends. The room feels strangely quiet without their miniature morning parade. Still, they belong outside, and I belong in here—so our friendship will simply have to continue through the window!
Surprisingly, I did not feel hungry at all during the entire week. Still, the absence of hunger does not necessarily mean the body is receiving everything it needs. Because restarting food after a prolonged fast can cause serious complications, I will begin slowly—with only a small amount of food approved by my medical team.
Have you ever gone without food for an extended period? A weeklong fast can be dangerous, especially for anyone with health conditions or taking medications, and it should never be attempted without medical supervision. Success sometimes means challenging yourself—but it also means listening to your body and knowing when to call in the experts!
I continue to ask myself the same question: What am I doing here? In my heart, I feel that I should be back on the road—exploring new places, meeting interesting people, and fully embracing life. Here, there are no therapies or classes designed to help me improve, grow stronger, or regain more independence.
They offer daily activities, but most seem intended for people who are much older than I feel. I may live among older adults, but I refuse to think or act old. My adventurous spirit is still wide awake, tapping its foot impatiently and asking, “All right, Kit—where are we going next?”
Right now, I am trying to remember what life was like before computers, cell phones, the internet, and all the remarkable technology we now take for granted. We wrote letters by hand, searched through encyclopedias for information, and unfolded enormous paper maps across the dashboard whenever we needed to find our way.
I just returned from breakfast, where I ate only a small serving of fruit. I had read that fruit could be a gentle way to awaken my “tummy-tum” after a long fast—but after seven days without food, I know that choosing the safest foods requires more than advice from the internet.
Lunch was a choice between Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Chicken Alfredo. I could decide so I had a little of both. It was absolutely fabulous.
=============
PART 3—BLOG 393—The Amazing Advancements Humans Are Making!
Be Different—Find Your Own Way.
Life is waiting for you. Do you see it?
You have choices; are you making the right ones?
There are various ways of seeing and dealing with life.
Are you choosing correctly?
THE GREAT HUMAN LEAP?
Humanity is advancing faster than ever. Ideas once found only in science fiction are becoming part of everyday life. We are not simply building better machines—we are discovering new ways to heal, communicate, explore, learn, and live.
Not long ago, people stared at the moon and wondered what it would be like to touch it. We watched birds soar and dreamed of flying. Diseases spread without effective treatments, and messages traveled no faster than horses could carry them.
YET HUMANITY KEPT ASKING ONE POWERFUL QUESTION: “What if?”
What if we could fly, restore hearing, replace a damaged heart, help an injured person walk again, or speak instantly with someone across the world? Remarkably, we are already doing these things. The impossible has developed an embarrassing habit of becoming possible!
I remember using one of the earliest personal computers while writing my first book, “Juggling with Finesse,” in 1982. The machine was slow, bulky, and remarkably limited by today’s standards, yet it felt almost magical at the time.
There was no Google, no internet, and certainly no cloud quietly protecting my words. I saved everything on a five-and-a-quarter-inch floppy disk—an object that was actually floppy — and kept it with me! Even then, I felt as though I were writing the future.
Today, I use a computer to write my blog, improve my books, share the many experiences of my life, and connect with wonderful people worldwide—people just like you! With a few taps on the keyboard, my thoughts can travel farther and faster than I ever could in my van. What an astonishing leap technology has made—and what an incredible opportunity it gives us to learn, create, inspire, and bring people together!
Scientists are now repairing genes, detecting diseases earlier, growing human tissue, and creating personalized treatments. Researchers are exploring neuroplasticity—the brain’s remarkable ability to reorganize itself—while brain-computer interfaces, advanced prosthetics, and rehabilitation technology may help people regain movement, communication, and independence.
Artificial intelligence assists with medicine, education, translation, research, farming, and dangerous rescue work. Meanwhile, cleaner energy, electric vehicles, reusable rockets, and space exploration are helping us protect our planet while reaching toward others.
Still, our greatest advancement will not be a faster computer, a smarter robot, or a rocket powerful enough to reach Mars. It will be learning to use these remarkable tools wisely—with compassion, responsibility, and respect for one another.
Technology may extend life, but love, laughter, purpose, and meaningful work make life worth living. Progress is also found in the patient taking another step, the student asking another question, and the person told, “You will never,” quietly answering, “Just watch me.”
The future is not merely waiting for us—we are building it with every courageous idea, compassionate choice, and determined step forward. Growth—I love it! It keeps us learning, reaching, and turning today’s possibilities into tomorrow’s remarkable reality.
SO KEEP ASKING THAT SMALL BUT POWERFUL QUESTION >> WHAT IF?
You can help shape this remarkable new world we are building. Expand your hopes, raise your expectations, and believe in what we can accomplish together. The future is not simply something we enter—it is something we create. Dream boldly, move forward with courage, and add your own brilliance to what comes next!DO NOT WAIT FOR MONDAY. TAKE ONE SMALL STEP TODAY.
YOUR BETTER LIFE BEGINS NOW.
ADD TO THE WORLD IN A GREAT WAY.
DO SOMETHING WONDERFUL!
==============================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
==============================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) “If I have seen further, it is by standing
on the shoulders of giants.”
— Isaac Newton
2) “Advanced technology is no
different from the magic I do.”
— Kit Summers
3) “Creativity is thinking up new things.
Innovation is doing new things.”
— Theodore Levitt
4) “Impossible only means that you
haven’t found the solution yet.”
– Anonymous
5) “However far modern science and techniques have
fallen short of their inherent possibilities,
they have taught mankind at least one lesson:
Nothing is impossible.”
— Lewis Mumford
6) “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man–
True nobility is being superior to your former self.”
— Ernest Hemingway
7) “The best way to predict the
future is to create it.”
— Peter Drucker
8) “Never before in history has innovation offered
promise of so much to so many in so short a time.”
— Bill Gates
9) Our virtues and our failures are inseparable,
like force and matter.
When they separate, man is no more.”
– Nikola Tesla
10) “The true sign of intelligence is
not knowledge, but imagination.”
— Albert Einstein
===============
PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
Take one full day to pay closer attention to your relationship with food. Notice what draws you toward a meal: appetite, routine, comfort, companionship, or the pleasure of something delicious. Drink water throughout the day, slow down at the table, and give yourself time to appreciate each bite. Then, don’t eat for at least one full day.
When you return to eating —
Don’t just feed your face.
Put your fork or spoon down between bites.
Carefully analyze each bite before it drops into the stomach.
“Think” as you eat.
Examine the taste.
Examine the texture.
Find the pleasure in each morsel.
Do this consistently, and you will begin to lose weight, improve your fitness, and feel stronger and healthier. The results may not appear overnight, but every positive choice moves you closer to the person you want to become. Keep going—small steps, repeated faithfully, can create a remarkable transformation.
Let an ordinary meal become an opportunity for discovery. What do you enjoy most—the flavors, the familiar ritual, or the people sharing the experience? You don’t have to go without nourishment to discover something meaningful about eating.
Sometimes, simply stepping away from autopilot is enough to awaken a fresh sense of appreciation. A little mindful attention can reveal how much a meal adds to your day—not only through the food on your plate, but also through the comfort, connection, and joy surrounding it.
Always remember Christopher Jones, who can help promote you.
Email: christopher@woodsidemotion.com
Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
====================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 394–More Ideas for a Better Life
=====================
🌟 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! 🌟September 4, 202600BLOG 392–For a Better Life
✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 392—For a Better Life
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/
Learn More About Me >> https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
Do these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
My new address here 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.
IT 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 look back on? Will you remember the dreams you chased, the people you loved, and the moments when you chose courage over comfort? We often overestimate what we can accomplish quickly, yet underestimate what steady effort can achieve over time. A remarkable life is rarely created in one giant leap—it is built through many small, determined steps.
I’ve been writing my blog for many years, carefully sharing my experiences, thoughts, struggles, successes, and lessons learned along the way. With every post, I hope my words do more than simply entertain you—I hope they encourage you to think, grow, smile, and see your own life from a brighter perspective.
If even one sentence inspires you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater courage, or appreciate the wonderful life you already have, then all those hours at the keyboard have been worthwhile. My greatest hope is that these words add something meaningful to your journey and help you expand your life into something stronger, happier, and even more extraordinary.
Improve the little things each day, and gradually, they can grow into something phenomenal. Speak more kindly. Take better care of your body. Spend time with people who lift your spirits. Learn something new—every day, laugh whenever possible, and keep moving toward the person you want to become. Small choices may seem insignificant today, but repeated over time, they can completely transform your future.
Happiness is not about having everything you want; it is about appreciating and enjoying what you already have. There will always be another goal to reach and another mountain to climb, but do not become so focused on tomorrow that you miss the beauty of today. Notice the sunshine, enjoy a good meal, cherish a friendly conversation, and celebrate every bit of progress—even if it occasionally arrives wearing mismatched socks.
I write these words for you, but I also write them for myself. The lessons I share are reminders that help me keep growing, believing, and moving forward. We are all works in progress, and none of us has everything figured out. That is perfectly all right. Life is not asking us to be perfect; it is asking us to remain awake, involved, and willing to try again.
As you read each blog, write down the ideas that can help you move forward. Do not merely collect inspiring words—put them to work. Even one valuable thought, supported by one positive action, can become a stepping-stone toward a stronger, happier life. Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
I heard from my dear friend, Phyllis Lynch, about my last blog:
“Great blog as always, Kit! I don’t know how you keep coming up with all these great topics to write about!!!! Funny though, because just yesterday I decided to jump on the trampoline with my grandsons. It’s been forever since I’ve been on a trampoline (especially with a bunch of little ones jumping at the same time haaaa). Be well, my friend! Keep ’em coming! Love all of your writings!!!”–Phyllis ; ) 😁
How about you? What do you think of my blog? I would truly love to hear your thoughts. Did something I wrote make you smile, think differently, or inspire you to take action? Perhaps you agreed with my words—or maybe you saw things from another point of view. Either way, please send me a message and share what is on your mind. Your thoughts, ideas, and honest feedback mean a great deal to me. After all, I may be writing the words, but you are an important part of this journey, too!
Currently, I am alone with a sad face.
Not sure what it will take to bring back more joy.
Perhaps you have a lonely friend?
As I type these words, I’m watching CBS Sunday Morning, a program I’ve been missing because of timing. It is filled with terrific, thoughtful stories that make you pause, reflect, and see life from a fresh perspective.
The sky may be cloudy today with thunder and lightning, but that will not keep me indoors.
I’ll be out there enjoying the day—because even cloudy days deserve a little sunshine from us.
BOOM BOOM BOOM
BOOM BOOM BOOM
BOOM BOOM BOOM
(Tell me the truth, did you read every boom?)
A thunderstorm is coming through right now (can you hear it?)
Weekends move so slowly here. I spent most of the day on my computer, watching videos and letting the hours quietly drift by. TV does nothing for me. Still, I managed to put some good time into the blog. Did you notice? Even on a slow day, a little creativity keeps life moving forward.
As you might remember, Monday and Thursday are my regular shower days. That schedule has worked perfectly well for me—until today, when I suddenly began feeling unusually itchy. Apparently, my skin has looked at the calendar and decided it does not approve of waiting.
The itching makes me want to jump into the shower right now, but I think I can survive until tomorrow morning and shower day. It is only one more night, after all. Until then, I will try not to scratch myself into a new work of abstract art. Tomorrow’s shower is going to feel especially wonderful!
============PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration — Served Playfully.
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening.
One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is for you right now.
>>>>>AUGUST 22
It’s Saturday again—a fresh chance to look ahead and think about the possibilities waiting in the coming week. What exciting plans will you make? Life keeps moving, so step forward with it. Don’t let another week quietly pass you by—make it count!
As I looked toward the week ahead, the clouds outside began to clear, and a fantastic day unfolded. Now it was my turn to do my part and make it wonderful. Each new day offers choices, opportunities, and fresh reasons to smile. Begin today with determination, create your own sunshine, and make the day fantastic—after all, much of it is up to you!
Of course, a wonderful day can be made even brighter by a delicious meal. Once again, I must say—the food here is fabulous! Lunch was fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp, and every creamy, flavorful bite was absolutely divine. I continue to be amazed by how enjoyable a meal can be. My taste buds may never want to leave! But, as I wrote to my sister, you will see less and less of me writing about the food I consume.
After such a satisfying lunch, however, my energy began to fade. Please don’t tell anyone, but I must admit I spent quite a while lying in bed, letting my body and mind relax. I wasn’t really sleeping, but I had slipped into a deep, heavy state of rest—the kind where your eyes close, your thoughts drift quietly, and the rest of the world seems to disappear. Sometimes, even when sleep refuses to arrive, peaceful rest can still give the body exactly what it needs.
That rest felt especially necessary because I’m not sure where this stubborn tiredness is coming from. It feels like more than ordinary fatigue—it feels like complete exhaustion, even though I haven’t done anything physically demanding. I have been writing for the blog, but surely tapping keys cannot be considered an Olympic event.
Then again, writing may not tire my body, but all that thinking, creating, and searching for just the right words could be quietly exhausting my mind. Writing may look like sitting still, but the brain can run an entire marathon without ever leaving the chair—and mine may have forgotten to bring a water bottle!
Thankfully, after my mental marathon, dinner provided another comforting reward. I enjoyed a tasty casserole made with hamburger and potatoes. Its rich, satisfying flavor reminded me of the biscuits and gravy I enjoy in the morning—almost as though breakfast had quietly sneaked onto the dinner menu. It was a warm and delicious way to bring another Saturday to a close.
I know that you can’t taste or even smell my food, so, as I’ve suggested, you will see less and less from me about what I’ve put in my mouth.
>>>>>AUGUST 23
It is 6:00 a.m., and I have already been tapping away at the keys for a couple of hours. While much of the world is still sleeping, I have been thinking, reflecting, and carefully shaping these words for you. Each sentence begins as a tiny thought, but with patience and polishing, it grows into something I hope will encourage you, brighten your day, and perhaps inspire you to take one more positive step forward.
Those early-morning hours passed quickly, and before I knew it, lunchtime had arrived. Lunch was a simple chili dog. They offered me two, but I asked for only one—and one was more than enough. My appetite remains surprisingly light here, perhaps because meals arrive so frequently and the portions are usually quite generous.
Because I have been eating less, I have even considered attempting another fast. However, going without food for a week or two is something I should discuss with the staff first. Besides, meals are among the highlights of living here. If I stopped eating, what would I do with all that extra time? I might have to take up another hobby—or write three more books!
Then again, finding time between meals may be the real challenge. Sometimes it feels as though I finish one meal, blink twice, and someone is already preparing to feed me again. I certainly cannot complain about going hungry. Around here, the greater challenge is recognizing when I have had enough—and convincing my fork that its shift is officially over.
After lunch, the day settled into its usual quiet Sunday rhythm. It is 3:11 now, and the afternoon is moving slowly. There is not much happening here, but it is Sunday, after all—a day that seems to stroll while the rest of the week runs. At the moment, typing these words for you gives me something meaningful to do and keeps my mind active.
Still, I do not want to write simply to fill empty hours or take up space. I want my words to have a purpose—to make you think, smile, or see your life from a fresh perspective. Perhaps something I write today will encourage you tomorrow. If these words brighten even one small corner of your day, then neither my time nor yours has been wasted.
Eventually, the slow afternoon gave way to another anticipated moment: dinner. Tonight’s meal was creamy chicken stew served over a warm, fluffy biscuit. It was rich, comforting, and quite tasty—the kind of food that feels like a gentle hug from the inside.
I requested only a half serving, and that turned out to be exactly the right amount. I enjoyed every bite without leaving the table feeling overly full. Sometimes, a smaller portion is all it takes to satisfy the appetite and make a meal—and the day—feel complete. Words about food, you will see less and less.
>>>>>AUGUST 24
After reading through the blog several times, I changed a word here, polished a thought there, and smoothed out a few rough edges. It is only Monday, and most of the rewriting is already finished. Somehow, writing this blog seems to come naturally—the words simply tumble onto the page as if they have been waiting for their turn.
Have you ever tried writing this way? Simply sit down, place your hands on the keyboard, begin typing, and see where your thoughts lead you. Don’t worry about making every sentence perfect—just relax and allow the words to flow freely.
You may be surprised by the stories, memories, and ideas hiding inside you, patiently waiting for the chance to come alive. Sometimes, the most meaningful words appear when we stop searching for them and give them room to find us. Your mind may be holding an entire treasure chest—and writing is the key that opens it.PERHAPS YOU SHOULD BEGIN YOUR OWN BLOG TODAY?
First thing this morning, a shower was definitely called for. Now I feel clean, refreshed, and pleasantly human again! I have spent most of the morning at my computer, writing and keeping my mind occupied. Still, it remains difficult to be here with nothing planned and no clear direction for moving forward. I need something meaningful to work toward—not simply a way to pass the hours, but a reason to feel excited about tomorrow.
Later, I rode the bus to Publix with two staff members, Keia, and a new person she was training, Brianna. Naturally, I bought a few treats—and yes, I broke down and bought more chocolate. Apparently, chocolate has a remarkable ability to leap into my shopping cart when I am not looking. Once again, I thought that if they used a smaller vehicle for trips like this, we all could have fit comfortably while using far less gas.
A few weeks ago, I shaved every bit of hair from my head. Now that it is beginning to grow back, I have discovered that my little tuft of hair at the top-front of my head seems to have disappeared. Total baldness may be approaching, and I am not quite sure how I feel about it.
Then again, perhaps my hair is simply retiring before the rest of me. After all these years of growing, blowing in the wind, and surviving countless haircuts, it may have decided that it has worked long enough and deserves an early vacation. Perhaps each strand packed a tiny suitcase, waved goodbye, and headed for a sunny beach somewhere.
If baldness is the next chapter of my life, I will welcome it with a smile. I may have less hair on my head, but I still have plenty of ideas inside it—and just think of all the time and money I will save on shampoo, combs, and haircuts!
If baldness is the next chapter of my life, I will welcome it with a smile, a polished head, and a good sense of humor. Besides, I will save money on shampoo, spend less time fixing my hair, and never have to worry about waking up with bedhead again. Sometimes, even losing something comes with a few unexpected benefits!
Once again, only two of us rode in the 14-passenger bus. It seemed wasteful to burn so much fuel while transporting so few people. As I have suggested before, Legacy should consider purchasing a reliable, inexpensive used car for medical appointments and other small trips.
The larger bus is an excellent choice for group outings, as it allows many residents to travel together comfortably and safely. However, when only one or two residents need transportation to a doctor’s appointment or another nearby destination, using such a large vehicle seems unnecessary.
A smaller car would be far more practical, easier to maneuver, less expensive to operate, and much more fuel-efficient. It would reduce wear and tear on the larger bus, lower fuel costs, and help the environment. Having both options available would allow Legacy to choose the right vehicle for each trip—because transporting two people should not require a bus built for fourteen.
>>>>>AUGUST 25
Today’s outing took me to an imaging center for a bone-density scan. I’m not entirely sure what the results will reveal, but I hope they show that my bones are still holding me together quite nicely! The scan was ordered for my upcoming doctor’s appointment on September 1. I’ll let you know what I learn and how everything goes.
They held another happy hour today, and I joined the festivities for about forty-five minutes—just enough “happy” for one afternoon! I spent the time surrounded by many of the older residents, including one remarkable woman who is 97 years old.
Even so, it still feels strange to be living among so many people who are much older than I feel. I may be 67 on the calendar, but inside, I remain curious, energetic, and eager to discover what comes next. Perhaps age is not simply the number of years we have lived, but the amount of life we are still determined to experience. 100, here I come. So I didn’t last one hour at the happy hour.JUST TWO CUPS OF LITE BEER AND I WAS HAPPY ENOUGH.
On the dinner menu, it was listed as “American Meatloaf.” Naturally, I asked if I could have the Japanese meatloaf instead—which earned a good laugh. The meatloaf came with creamy mashed potatoes, warm cornbread, and sauerkraut, making it a delicious and satisfying dinner. The food here continues to impress me—my taste buds may never want to move out!
I just saw the heartbreaking news that Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. What a shock, I never imagined her passing away. She seemed larger than life—overflowing with music, humor, generosity, and joy. Her passing reminds us once again that none of us will live forever. That is why we must treasure each day, love people while they are here, and leave behind as much kindness as we can.
Speaking of death. There must have been many here at Legacy who have died. I am not seeing any current residents who are on their way out. Yes, we are all heading toward death. I hope you accomplish what you want to before you end.
>>>>>AUGUST 26
It is 7:20 now, and I have been awake for quite a while. This morning, I feel strong, alert, and not the least bit tired. That makes me wonder: Where does that mysterious exhaustion come from on other days—and where does it disappear to when I feel this good?
As you may know, I plan to live beyond the age of 100. Would you like to join me in that ambitious adventure? I find it almost impossible to imagine no longer being alive. Life is such an extraordinary gift, filled with endless possibilities. Do you ever think about your own death—or does the thought make you appreciate being alive even more?
It still feels strange to be living in a home for older adults. I often wonder what everyone else does throughout the day. As I walk along the halls, I hear televisions playing behind many closed doors. Perhaps watching television is how some residents relax, pass the hours, and remain connected to the world beyond these walls. Still, I cannot help wondering: Is this how they truly want to spend their remaining time, or have they forgotten that life—even here—can still hold new experiences, meaningful connections, and unexpected joy?
THERE IS DARLING DOLLY
There is a variety of events going on each day, but none of interest to me.
I see a few people at these. Today is:
10 am–Silver sneakers–workout for old people.
10:30–Daily Chronicles and Chat.
11–TED Talk TV movie.
1 pm–Balloon Mindton
2 pm–Hearts Card Game.
3 pm–Bingo
7 pm–Poker
So, nothing there for me. I will work out on my own this afternoon.
Less and less about food, you will see.
Lunch today offered a difficult choice: shrimp scampi or spaghetti with meat sauce. Naturally, I solved the problem by asking for a little of each—and both were absolutely delicious! The meals here continue to impress me. My compliments to the kitchen; my taste buds are very happy residents!
Today, I received my new video to help promote things. Take a look >>
https://youtu.be/zs-V8w5vHnE
Please, let me know what you think.
>>>>>AUGUST 27
I had to write this down immediately, before the memory drifted away—as dreams so often do. In the dream, I was with a woman, and the love between us was soooooo strong that it seemed to fill every part of me.
Although we had been together for only a short time, it felt as though our hearts had known each other forever. I remember holding her close, tasting her kiss, and feeling that she was absolutely exquisite. For those few beautiful moments, I was completely loved—and completely in love.
Then I awoke. The warmth slowly faded, the beautiful dream slipped quietly beyond my reach, and I opened my eyes to the life I am living now. That was when the sadness settled over me—the kind that comes when your heart has briefly touched something wonderful, only to discover it was never truly there.
Still, perhaps the dream came to remind me that my heart is very much alive—still capable of loving deeply, still longing for companionship, and still believing that somewhere along the road ahead, love may find me again.
Could you be the woman I have been waiting for—the one whose heart is ready to love deeply, laugh freely, and build something beautiful together? Or perhaps you have a lonely friend, searching for the same warmth, companionship, and meaningful connection that I hope to find.
Maybe our paths have crossed for a reason. Among all the people in this enormous world, perhaps life gently guided us toward one another at precisely the right moment—two hearts arriving at the same place, ready to discover what beautiful possibilities might unfold.
Sometimes love does not arrive with fireworks or a grand announcement. Sometimes it enters quietly—beginning with a few honest words, a shared smile, and two hopeful hearts brave enough to open the door and simply say hello.
Perhaps that is how something beautiful begins: one conversation, one laugh, and one tender moment at a time. We may not know where this path will lead, but every unforgettable love story starts somewhere. Could this be the beginning of ours?
Thursday has arrived, which means it is shower day—so into the shower I went! Mondays and Thursdays seem to be the perfect schedule for me. Two showers a week are enough to keep me feeling fresh and comfortable, and my body seems quite satisfied with the arrangement. Because I am not juggling or working out much these days, I do not have the smells that come with those two efforts.
Right now, I feel wonderfully clean and refreshed, and that simple feeling makes me happy. There is something uplifting about stepping out of the shower, putting on clean clothes, and feeling ready to face the day. Sometimes, happiness does not require anything grand—it can begin with warm water, a fresh start, and a very clean Kit!
It is still so early, yet I have already added many new words to this week’s blog. While much of the world is still sleeping, my thoughts are wide awake, dancing through my mind and landing on the page. I sincerely hope you enjoy reading these words as much as I have enjoyed writing them. Perhaps somewhere within them, you will discover an idea that makes you smile, encourages you, or inspires you to take one positive step forward today.
I’m letting my hair grow out again, but this time, I plan to keep it neat and under control. I’m curious to see how it looks as it grows—and whether my hair still remembers what it is supposed to do! My facial hair will also be carefully trimmed, shaved, and maintained. I may be embracing a more natural look, but I have no intention of letting myself resemble a man who has been lost in the wilderness for six months. Growing older may be unavoidable, but growing untidy is entirely optional!
Breakfast is over, and I have already eaten. Now comes the big question: What should I do next? I plan to head outside, practice my juggling, and attempt a little running—anything to keep my body moving and my spirit alive. But I often wonder: What do all the other residents do with the long hours of their day? How do they stay active, interested, and connected to life?
I find myself feeling dreadfully tired far too often. There was a time when I had more energy than I knew what to do with—I was always moving, juggling, traveling, creating, and searching for the next adventure. My energy seemed almost endless, as though someone had forgotten to install an “off” switch.
Now, that energy can be difficult to find. Some days, even simple activities feel like they require far more effort than they once did. I wonder where all that strength and enthusiasm went—and, more importantly, how I can bring some of it back. I feel like I am an old person; could it be the place I am in doing that to me?
Still, I refuse to believe that my energy has disappeared forever. Perhaps it is simply hiding, waiting for me to uncover it through better rest, healthier choices, steady movement, and a renewed sense of purpose. I may not have the same energy I once had, but I still have determination—and sometimes determination is the spark that gets the whole engine running again.
It feels strange living here, where each meal becomes something to anticipate and plan around. Breakfast leads to thoughts of lunch, and lunch is followed by wondering what will be served for dinner. And then awakening and wondering what food is next.
Meals are often the biggest events of the day—the small milestones that keep the hours moving forward. Lunch will be here soon—oh boy! My taste buds are preparing for another grand adventure. So it will be hard to limit what I eat.
Lunch—yum! Today’s chicken-and-vegetable curry, served over rice, was absolutely delicious. At every meal, I ask for half the usual serving size because that is normally plenty for me. This time, however, I found myself wishing I had ordered more. I could have asked for another helping—but no, I decided to leave my taste buds wanting an encore! Hoping the encore will come with dinner.
Right now, I am watching Reacher, an exciting crime show filled with plenty of action and suspense. This episode was filmed in the Philadelphia area, which makes it especially interesting to me. I once owned a house about twenty miles south of Philly, so many of the surroundings feel familiar. Recognizing the area gives me a personal connection to the story—and makes an already exciting show even more enjoyable.
Outside, I can hear it again—boom, boom, boom! Can you hear it, too? I wonder what is causing all that noise. Perhaps a thunderstorm is rolling in, or maybe the sky has decided to practice playing the drums! I’ll investigate this booming mystery and let you know what I discover.
>>>>>AUGUST 28
My little ant friend returned this morning to say hello and explore my computer. Whenever an ant appears, I see only this one tiny visitor, so I have decided it must be the same little fellow each time. As you can probably tell, he has become my friend—a very small companion with six legs, endless curiosity, and absolutely no respect for personal space!
Yesterday I spoke with my sister, Kath, on the phone.
She had some suggestions that will add to my life, so I will implement them. She suggested >>
1) To wear shoes more often, people often don’t want to see bare feet.
2) There is not much hope that a movie will be made about me (I see her point.)
3) Get out and move my body more; that is the plan.
4) No more writing about meals in my blog.
5) No more candy. Yes, I have picked up the human problem with eating too much sugar.
You will see these areas change in my future.
Twice a day—at five in the morning and five in the evening—I run an electric razor over my face. My whiskers grow far too quickly to settle for only one shave a day. Since I have already shaved this morning, it must be past 5:00 a.m. Have you looked at your clock lately—or is time sneaking past you, too? Or is that subject too personal to write you about?
There was an outing today to visit a local museum. I considered going but ultimately told them, “No, thank you.” Looking at old artifacts and learning about the area’s past did not interest me at all. I would rather spend my time creating something new than staring at something old—unless, of course, the museum decides to put one of my juggling clubs on display!
=============PART 3—BLOG 392—For a Better Life!
Be Different—Find Your Own Way.
Life is waiting for you. Do you see it?
You have choices; are you making the right ones?
There are various ways of seeing and dealing with life.
Are you choosing correctly?
- Take care of your body. Eat nourishing food, move whenever you safely can, rest without guilt, and pay attention when your body asks for help.
- Live in today. Learn from yesterday and prepare for tomorrow, but do not miss the only moment you can actually touch: this one.
- Stay connected. Call someone, share a laugh, offer encouragement, and allow others to help you. Life grows warmer when it is shared.
- Keep creating. Write, teach, juggle, speak, dream, or begin something new. Purpose keeps the inner lights glowing.
- Spend time outside. Feel the sun, watch the clouds, listen to the birds, and remember that the world is much larger than your worries.
- Practice gratitude. You do not need a perfect life to appreciate one good meal, one kind person, or one beautiful morning.
- Turn adversity into opportunity. You cannot always control what happens, but you can decide what you will build from it.
- Keep your inner child awake. Remain curious, playful, and willing to look slightly ridiculous. Joy rarely arrives wearing a business suit.
CONNECT WITH NATURE!
It’s right out the window, see it? Nature may be one of the simplest keys to a happier, healthier life. It asks for no password, charges no admission, and never runs out of beauty. Sometimes, all we need to do is open the door and step outside.
Once, a man became so busy that he nearly forgot he was alive. Every morning, he checked his phone, rushed through breakfast, and hurried into another demanding day. Even while resting, his mind kept racing—like a squirrel that had swallowed too much coffee.
One Saturday, the power went out. His television fell silent, his computer screen went dark, and his phone battery died. With no technology left to entertain him, he reluctantly stepped outside—and suddenly realized that he had no idea what to do.
Warm sunlight touched his face as a gentle breeze moved through the trees. Birds sang from the branches, and wildflowers brightened the path. He began walking without a destination. With every step, the noise inside his mind grew quieter.
Eventually, he reached a peaceful pond and settled beneath the wide, sheltering branches of an old oak tree. Sunlight danced across the water, leaves whispered gently in the breeze, and for the first time in years, he allowed himself to sit quietly and simply breathe.
A short while later, an elderly woman came strolling along the path with a small, cheerful dog trotting beside her. As they approached, the dog paused to investigate a particularly fascinating patch of grass, and the woman stopped nearby. She noticed the calm expression on the man’s face and offered him a warm, knowing smile—as though she understood that he had just rediscovered something important.
“Beautiful, isn’t it?” she asked.
“I had forgotten how peaceful the world could be,” he replied.
“The world never stopped being peaceful,” she said.
“You simply stopped visiting this part of it.”
Her words stayed with him. From that day forward, he made time to walk outside. Nature did not remove his problems, but it helped him see them differently. The trees taught him to remain grounded while continuing to grow, and the changing seasons reminded him that every ending can lead to a new beginning.
You do not need to climb a mountain or explore a distant wilderness to reconnect with nature. Step outside. Feel the sunshine. Listen to the birds. Watch the clouds drift across the sky. Nature is waiting to welcome you back—open the door and say hello!YOU HAVE A CHOICE—
STEP OUTSIDE.
EMBRACE THE MOMENT.
EXPERIENCE LIFE!CONNECT WITH THE CHILD WITHIN YOU!
Rediscover the curiosity, playfulness, and joy that still live inside you. That child never disappeared; perhaps life simply became so busy that you stopped listening. Run barefoot through the grass. Lie on your back and watch the clouds drift by. Splash in a puddle, smell a flower, skip a stone across a pond, or sit quietly beneath a tree and breathe. Growing older does not mean we must stop playing, laughing, exploring, or being delightfully silly!
Modern life makes it far too easy to remain indoors, glued to screens and barely moving. We rush from one responsibility to another while the beautiful world outside waits patiently for us. Finding the motivation to step outdoors may sometimes be difficult, but nature is always worth the effort. Open the door, step into the sunlight, and let the fresh air remind you how wonderful it feels to be alive.
Take a few minutes each day to juggle. You don’t need a long or exhausting practice session—just five to ten minutes, several times throughout the day, can work wonders for both your mind and body. Juggling helps loosen your muscles, calm your thoughts, sharpen your focus, and lift your spirits.
Each toss encourages coordination, concentration, and confidence. So pick up a few balls, take a deep breath, and let them fly. A little juggling can add a surprising amount of balance to your day—in more ways than one!
Juggling loosens your muscles, awakens your brain, improves coordination, and helps you become fully present. As the objects rise and fall, everyday worries begin to fade, your breathing settles, and your attention becomes sharper. There is little room for stress when three balls are cheerfully demanding your complete attention!
So step away from the screen, pick up your juggling balls, and let them fly. A few playful minutes can calm your mind, brighten your mood, and help you return to the rest of your day feeling refreshed, focused, and ready for whatever comes next.
Even short periods of physical activity can help counter the effects of a sedentary lifestyle. Take a walk around the block, wander through a park, stretch beneath the open sky, or dance with the breeze when nobody is watching. You still have that childhood wonder–bring it on!
Time outdoors can sharpen our attention, reduce stress, lift our spirits, and strengthen our sense of empathy and compassion. Nature does not demand that we hurry or achieve anything. It simply invites us to slow down and become fully present.
For centuries, the natural world has inspired writers, artists, explorers, inventors, and dreamers. Its beauty, complexity, and magnificent mystery can quiet a busy mind, restore perspective, and awaken our imagination.
A towering tree reminds us to stand tall and remain strong, even when life’s storms shake our branches. A flowing river teaches us to keep moving forward, finding a new path whenever something blocks our way. And a tiny flower pushing through a crack in the sidewalk proves that life can flourish in the most unlikely places. Nature is always teaching us: be strong, stay flexible, and never stop growing.
Children understand this naturally. They do not need a reason to chase a butterfly, examine a strange rock, or laugh at a cloud shaped like a dancing elephant. They notice the small wonders adults often walk past without seeing. To a child, the world is not ordinary—it is an enormous playground filled with questions, possibilities, and discoveries waiting around every corner.DON’T “TURN” INTO AN ADULT.
NEVER BE “TOO” SERINESS!
STAY YOUNG AND PLAYFUL.Reconnect with the child still living inside you—the one who laughed freely, dreamed boldly, and found treasure in the smallest things. Ask questions. Explore unfamiliar places. Sing loudly, dance badly, splash in puddles, and allow yourself to be wonderfully ridiculous. Life is too short to spend every moment acting serious and sensible. Occasionally, your soul needs to loosen its tie and do a cartwheel!
Never lose your curiosity, playfulness, or joy. Bring back the sense of wonder you once carried so naturally, and let the magic of life amaze you all over again. The world has not run out of wonder—we have simply become too busy to notice it. Slow down, look around, and invite that joyful child to come outside and play.
IDEAS TO LIVE A BETTER LIFE
A man spent most of his life waiting for everything to become perfect. He would be happy when he earned more money. He would travel when he had more time. He would begin exercising on Monday and write his book next month.
Unfortunately, life never received the memo.
There were always bills to pay, problems to solve, and unexpected bananas rolling across the floor. Mondays brought fresh excuses, months became years, and his dreams slowly gathered dust.
(Could this be you I am writing about?)
One morning, the man looked into the mirror and barely recognized the older face staring back at him.
“Where did my life go?” he whispered.
That afternoon, he met an elderly woman feeding birds in the park.
“I wasted too much of my life waiting for the right time to begin living,” he admitted.
“Then stop waiting,” she replied. “A better life is built through small choices. Care for your body. Forgive others. Help someone. Learn from failure. Everyone drops a few balls—pick them up and begin again.”
Before leaving, she added, “Stop comparing your life with everyone else’s. Walk your own path and try to become a little better than you were yesterday.” The following morning, the man took a walk, called his sister, and wrote the first paragraph of his long-delayed book. Those small actions did not change the entire world—but they changed his world.
Your better life does not require perfection—it requires being fully awake to the life unfolding around you. Love your people deeply, care for your mind and body, laugh often, and help others whenever you can. Life is happening right now, so open your heart, embrace each moment, and make it count.Do not wait for Monday. Take one small step today.
YOUR BETTER LIFE BEGINS NOW.
DO SOMETHING WONDERFUL WITH IT!
==============================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
==============================
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) “The good life is a process,
not a state of being.
It is a direction, not a destination.”
— Carl Rogers
2) “I’ve never carefully planned my path.
I have something far more meaningful—a life—
and I give it everything I’ve got.”
— Kit Summers
3) “The biggest adventure you can ever
Take is to live the life of your dreams.”
— Oprah Winfrey
4) “Your time is limited, so don’t
waste it living someone else’s life.”
— Steve Jobs
5) “The happiness of your life depends
on the quality of your thoughts.”
— Marcus Aurelius“
6) Life is 10% what happens to you
and 90% how you react to it.”
— Charles R. Swindoll
7) “Keep your face always toward the sunshine,
and shadows will fall behind you.”
— Walt Whitman
8) “If you don’t like the road you’re walking,
start paving another one.”
— Dolly Parton
9) “Life isn’t about finding yourself.
Life is about creating yourself.”
— George Bernard Shaw
10) “Either you run the day,
or the day runs you.”
— Jim Rohn
===============PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
Break your life into pieces–the steps toward a better life.
Chart this so you will never forget.
Now, start with #1 and live your better life.
YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS.
YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
====================PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 393–The Advancements Humans are Making
=====================🌟 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.
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! 🌟August 28, 2026BLOG 391—A Cartwheel—YOU?
✨KITTING AROUND✨BLOG 391—A Cartwheel—YOU?
Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
Learn More About Me >> https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
Do these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
My new address here is >> kitsummers.com
Kit Summers (A love letter would be dandy.) kitsummers@gmail.comThe Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL 33647
Call me >> 610-400-3233=======================
I FEEL THAT THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET.
DAILY—IT’S A NEW DAY, IT’S A NEW LIFE.
DON’T LIVE IN THE FUTURE OR THE PAST.
WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE ONE DAY — MAKE PLANS NOW!
MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT YOU’RE HOLDING RIGHT NOW!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 do you want to look back on?
Most people overestimate what they can accomplish in a single year.
People often underestimate what they can achieve in a year of steady effort.
If you make every little thing good, you make the entire thing phenomenal.
I write this for you, but it’s also for me—as the words help you, they help me, too.
Happiness is not about getting all that you want. It’s about enjoying all that you have.
Small steps may not seem impressive today, but over time, they can build a great life.
As you read each blog, jot down the ideas that can help you move forward. Even one useful thought, written down and put into action, can become a stepping-stone toward a stronger, happier life.IT’S CARTWHEEL TIME!
FIND A GRASSY FLAT AREA.
WEAR SHOES IF YOU MUST;
I LIKE TO BE BAREFOOT.Which hand touches the ground first when you do a cartwheel? I normally place my left hand down first and turn to my left. Here’s your challenge: begin with the hand you do not normally start with, then turn in the opposite direction. Be able to do a cartwheel in either direction.
It may feel awkward—and that’s exactly the point! You’re challenging your brain, testing your balance, and teaching your body an entirely new movement. Get ready to stretch your abilities and turn your world upside down—in every direction!
Let yourself feel young, playful, and fully alive. Laugh loudly, stay curious, try something new, and never become too grown-up to be wonderfully silly. Youth is not merely an age—it is the spark inside you that still wants to explore, create, juggle, dream, and occasionally attempt a cartwheel.
Don’t become so “adult” that you leave your playful spirit behind. Grow wiser, stronger, and more responsible—but never stop laughing, dreaming, exploring, or occasionally doing something wonderfully ridiculous, like a cartwheel. Your body may grow older, but your sense of wonder doesn’t have to age with it. Growing up is inevitable; growing dull is entirely optional!
Keep that spark glowing. Life becomes brighter when you welcome joy, loosen your grip on seriness, and give your playful spirit room to dance. You do not have to turn upside down to turn your day around—sometimes, all it takes is a smile, a little courage, and the willingness to have fun!
Do you have a story that the world needs to hear?
I wrote about https://woodsidemotion.com/ before.
Contact Christopher; he will help — (347) 732-3681
This is important, too >>
TO GET BETTER
The power of daily improvement >> If you improve by just 1 percent each day, those small gains compound. By the end of a year, you can become nearly 37 times better than when you began. Tiny steps may not look impressive today, but over time, they can create astonishing results. START TODAY!DAILY EFFORTS TOWARD IMPROVEMENT.
Keep it simple: small tasks are easier to repeat. Enormous goals can feel heavy and overwhelming, causing people to quit before they gain momentum. Shrink the goal, take one manageable step, and keep going!
Create automatic routines >> When you repeat an action consistently, it gradually becomes a natural part of your life—and eventually part of your identity.You are no longer merely trying to improve; you become someone who practices, learns, saves, reads, or exercises every day.
WHAT SMALL ACTIONS CAN YOU ACCOMPLISH IN ONE YEAR?
Learn a language >> Practicing for only 15 minutes a day adds up to more than 90 hours of study in one year.
Save money >> Setting aside just $5 each day creates a fund of more than $1,800 in a year.
Read more books >> Reading only 10 pages a day adds up to 3,650 pages—enough to finish approximately 12 to 15 medium-length books annually.
Simple Ways to Stay Consistent >> Focus on the system; don’t get overwhelmed by the massive goal in the distance. Concentrate on completing today’s small task. Tomorrow, do it again, and then again the next day.
Track your progress >> Mark each successful day on a calendar or use an app to watch your streak grow. Every mark becomes a small victory—and victories love company!
Start incredibly small >> Choose a daily target so easy that you cannot find a reasonable excuse to skip it. Starting small is not a sign of weakness; it is a smart strategy for creating lasting success.
You do not need to transform your entire life today!
Take one small step; repeat it tomorrow.
Allow steady effort to work its magic.
Success is rarely one enormous leap—
It is usually hundreds of little steps refusing to quit.
PART 1) THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep Growing. Keep Believing in You.
As you read each blog, write notes on areas that will help you advance.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
I know it may have been a while. Get out there today and do a cartwheel.
You remember how easily you did them in your youth.
It’s still in you—have a great jump!
TO DO A CARTWHEEL >>
It’s a wheel, and you’re the spokes.
===Start in a Lunge: Put your favorite leg in front. Bend your front knee a little. Keep your back leg straight. Put your arms straight up next to your ears.
===
Reach for the Floor: Lean your body forward. Put your first hand down on the ground. Turn your hand slightly inward.
===
Kick Over: Push off with your front foot. Kick your back leg up into the air, followed by your front leg.
===
Pass Through the Middle: Put your second hand down next to the first hand. Your body should be briefly upside down, with your legs spread wide in a “V” shape.
===
Land Safely: Bring your first foot down to the ground, then your second foot. Stand up straight and finish facing the side.
LEARN FROM THIS >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yt0EDoK7nA
===================
Just today, I stepped outside and attempted to juggle three clubs. It did not take long to discover how much skill, control, and confidence I had lost—but I also rediscovered how much determination still lives within me. The clubs may have dropped, but my desire to improve certainly did not.
You have to remember that I once juggled 5 clubs comfortably and confidently, without giving it much thought. The rhythm of every throw and catch was deeply ingrained in my brain and body. My hands seemed to know exactly where each club belonged, and the entire pattern flowed almost automatically.
It was the same when I juggled 7 clubs: eventually, I developed a natural rhythm in which every throw and catch seemed to flow effortlessly into the next. It is difficult to explain—and, unfortunately, I cannot demonstrate it for you now—the clubs rose and fell in a beautiful, perfectly timed crescendo.
I could juggle 5 clubs nearly anywhere, at almost any time, without fear or hesitation. It was more than a skill—it was a natural part of who I was. That is why struggling now feels so frustrating, but those years of practice have not vanished. Somewhere inside me, that rhythm remains, waiting to return.MUSCLE MEMORY?
OH YEAH, I FORGOT.Growing older is unavoidable, but surrendering our youthful spirit is a choice. Keep moving, learning, laughing, and challenging yourself—even when your first attempts wobble wildly. Stay as young as you can for as long as you can, and when life drops a club, pick it up with a smile and throw it again!
I’m getting a taste of what it is like for many who have reached a ripe old age. For many older people (yes, you and I are getting there, too.) I see the loss of so much—walking ability, eating aptitude, juggling skills (?) I want to maintain my freedom for as long as I can.
Every throw demanded my full attention, and every catch felt like a small victory. The clubs did not always travel where I intended them to, and the pattern often collapsed. Still, each time they fell, I picked them up and tried again.
There was a time when I could juggle 3 clubs blindfolded because the rhythm was deeply ingrained in me. Back then, the clubs flowed almost automatically, and my hands seemed to know exactly where and when to throw and catch.
Now, I must watch every club and concentrate on every throw just to keep the pattern alive. I may be far from the juggler I once was, but he is still inside me—determined, hopeful, and ready to return, one carefully placed throw at a time.
It is frustrating to compare today’s struggle with yesterday’s mastery, but comparison will not rebuild my juggling—practice will. I may never juggle exactly as I once did, but I would love to bring back some of that ability.
Every throw exercises my body and brain, every catch is a small victory, and every drop is simply a club asking me to try again. I have rebuilt myself before; perhaps, one determined throw at a time, I can rebuild this too.HAVE YOU JUGGLED TODAY?
A movie is going to be made based on my life story—not simply to entertain, but to educate, encourage, and inspire. It will explore how we can discover excellence within ourselves, develop it through determination and practice, and find it again when a major change turns life upside down.
Kit and Randy Foster in Balboa Park, San Diego.
My own journey has included extraordinary success, devastating accidents, painful losses, and the difficult challenge of rebuilding my life. After spending thirty-seven days in a coma, I had to relearn how to walk, speak, think, and juggle. The excellence I had once known seemed far away, but it had not disappeared. It was waiting to be rediscovered—one word, one step, and one juggling toss at a time.
That will be the heart of this film: excellence is not reserved for the strongest, smartest, or most talented people. It belongs to anyone willing to keep learning, adapting, and moving forward. A life-changing event may alter your abilities, plans, or direction, but it does not have to erase your purpose.
Sometimes excellence means reaching the top. Other times, it means finding the courage to stand up, begin again, and create a new definition of success. My story will show that even when life drops every ball at once, we can pick them up, make another throw, and discover that our greatest performance may still be ahead of us.
I must walk more than 200 meters from the elevator to my room, so the journey itself has become a good workout—especially since I make it several times each day. Along the way, I pass many rooms and often hear televisions playing behind closed doors. Perhaps television brings comfort and companionship to some residents, but that is not how I want to spend the rest of my life.
I still have dreams to chase, stories to write, people to inspire, places to explore, and juggling patterns to reclaim. There is far too much living left for me to sit quietly and watch other people live on a screen. I want to keep moving, creating, learning, laughing, and making every day count—right up until my last club drops.
Twice a day—at 5 a.m. and again at 5 p.m.—I shave. My beard seems determined to grow faster than I can keep up with it, so trimming it twice daily has become part of my routine. By evening, the whiskers have already returned, ready for another battle with the razor. Apparently, my beard never received the message that it is supposed to take the day off!
What time is it? According to the paragraph above, it must be
5 a.m.—shave time once again! My beard never sleeps.
Even when I wish it would.YES JASMINE, YES APRIL —
YOUR DAD IS DOING CARTWHEELSI see you.
Recently, I shaved my beard and head.
I shaved my eyebrows off too, did you see?
Have you ever shaved your head?
============AGE 84 (can you do that?)
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration — Served Playfully.
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening.
One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is for you right now.
>>>>>AUGUST 15
7 a.m.—The sun is beginning to peek over the horizon, promising a clear, bright, beautiful day. Soon, I will step outside, move my body, and breathe the fresh morning air. The world is waking up—and it feels as though it has been waiting for me.WELL, WORLD, HERE I COME!
AM I AN EARLY BIRD OR A SPRING CHICKEN?I still feel a little out of place living among so many older people. I may not be a spring chicken anymore, but inside, I remain young, curious, and eager for adventure—or at least one carefully supervised cartwheel without an emergency landing!
I try to help the other residents whenever I can by holding a door, offering encouragement, assisting with a walker or wheelchair, or simply sharing a smile. Small acts of kindness may not earn medals, but they can brighten someone’s day—and that makes them important.
I am deeply grateful to Selective Insurance for making my stay here possible and providing me with a safe, comfortable home. Still, one question keeps bouncing around my mind like a juggling ball that refuses to land:
What’s next for Kit?
Perhaps my next chapter will involve writing, speaking, teaching, traveling, helping others—or something I have not yet imagined. Whatever it is, I intend to greet it with curiosity, courage, a Kit-sized smile, and possibly a cartwheel or two.
WHAT’S NEXT?
I still feel remarkably young—young enough to dream, learn, explore, and begin something entirely new. Perhaps I will return to school and become a doctor. Why not? Curiosity, ambition, and possibility do not come with expiration dates.
In my speaking programs, I include “WHAT’S NEXT”.
Watch this >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qOjJusWOEw
A magician, you, hum.
In life, we can become almost anything we truly set our minds to. A doctor, Kit? Hmm…perhaps! Of course, before enrolling in medical school, I should probably master the cartwheel. It would be terribly embarrassing to earn my medical degree only to become my very first patient!
Medical school may be only a playful thought—or it may be the first spark of an unexpected adventure. Either way, I refuse to believe my greatest opportunities are behind me. The future remains wide open, and Dr. Kit Summers, the Cartwheeling Physician, has a delightful ring to it.
I could prescribe one daily cartwheel to anyone feeling gloomy. Possible side effects may include sudden laughter, mild dizziness, an upside-down view of life, and the discovery that the floor is much closer than expected.
Please cartwheel responsibly!
YOU CAN!
That reminds me of a message I have shared many times:
“IF SOMEONE ELSE CAN DO IT, SO CAN YOU!”
Successful people are not born with magical powers or handed secret instruction manuals. They learn, practice, stumble, make mistakes, and keep moving forward—often collecting a few bruises and a much better story along the way.
That same ability lives within you. You do not need to know every step before beginning. Take one step, learn from it, and then take another. Success is not reserved for a lucky few; it is built by ordinary people who keep believing, growing, and refusing to quit.
Carry those words with you. Let them strengthen you when life becomes difficult and inspire you when opportunity appears. Believe in yourself, take the first step, and keep trying. If that first step turns into a cartwheel, terrific—just make sure you have plenty of open space!
SPECIAL PEOPLE
Some residents here need someone by their side around the clock, and today I was reminded why. I had gone downstairs to enjoy a chicken sandwich when Joe entered the dining room. As he was settling into his seat, he lost his balance and fell. Within moments, a caring crew surrounded him, helped him safely into his chair, and made sure he was all right.
My heart goes out to people who can no longer move safely or find their way without assistance. It must be frightening and frustrating to lose the independence they once enjoyed. Caring for them requires tremendous patience, strength, and compassion.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
Living here has given me a glimpse of life at a ripe old age—and yes, you and I are both heading in that direction. I see people losing abilities they once took for granted: walking without assistance, eating with ease, remembering familiar faces, and perhaps even juggling. That last possibility is especially terrifying!
These observations remind me not to take my abilities for granted. I want to keep moving, thinking, creating, writing, laughing, juggling, and attempting increasingly questionable cartwheels for as long as possible. Above all, I want to preserve my freedom and independence.
Growing older may be unavoidable, but giving up on ourselves is not. Let’s strengthen the abilities we still have and enjoy every step, throw, smile, wobble, and sideways tumble along the way.
THANK YOU!
Caregivers may receive a paycheck, but what they provide is worth far more. To everyone who spends each day helping others live with safety, comfort, and dignity: thank you. Your patience matters. Your compassion matters. You are truly special.
HAPPY TIME
Every Saturday at 3 p.m., Legacy hosts Happy Hour, usually serving wine and beer. I joined Betty and Paula, two delightful ladies. Betty is 94 and still has plenty of wisdom, wit, and wonderful stories to share. Sitting with them, listening, laughing, and learning was a joy.
Mable, who works at Legacy, also joined us. She is from Panama and speaks with a charming accent. With good drinks, lively conversation, and delightful company, it was a lovely afternoon—or was it evening? At 3 p.m., perhaps my clock was enjoying Happy Hour, too. The gathering lasted almost exactly sixty minutes, so it certainly lived up to its name!GET THE OLD PEOPLE DRUNK
AND KEEP THEM HAPPY!At another table, I noticed a pretty woman whose name I did not catch. She appeared younger—like me, of course—and had a lovely smile. I will keep an eye out for her next time. Better yet, I may use both eyes. Some opportunities deserve my full attention—and perhaps my finest cartwheel.
On second thought, I should probably begin with “Hello.”
MY WRITING
It’s funny—I keep telling myself to make this blog shorter and include only the strongest material. Then I look back and discover an enormous parade of words marching across the page. Once my fingers begin moving, they apparently do not know when to stop. They keep juggling sentences until the page overflows. Still, the number of words matters less than what those words give you.
Are the stories interesting?
Does the humor make you smile?
Do the positive messages encourage you?
Does reading my blog add something worthwhile to your day?
Please tell me honestly: Am I writing good material? Which parts inspire you, and which could disappear without anyone filing a missing-paragraph report? Your feedback will help me trim the excess, strengthen the best ideas, and make this blog shorter, sharper, and even more enjoyable.
It’s Saturday, and most of the blog is already written. Boy, perhaps I should become a writer or something! I certainly spend enough time tapping these keys, chasing ideas, and persuading stubborn sentences to behave.
Or maybe I should become a juggler?
Nah—that would never work.
Imagine earning a living by tossing objects into the air and hoping they return in the proper order! Then again, I may have tried that once or twice—and it turned out rather well.
Two people doing one cartwheel
Perhaps I do not have to choose. I can juggle words, toss ideas into the air, catch the good ones, and let the clumsy ones bounce under the furniture. Whether I am holding a pen, three clubs, or attempting a cartwheel nobody requested, the secret remains the same >>
Keep practicing.
Keep smiling.
When something drops—including you—get back up and try again!
I am fascinated by numbers such as 4-3-2. Today they appeared on the clock as 4:32 in the afternoon. I love when the time hits 1234. Dinner begins at 5 p.m., although—as usual—my stomach has not bothered to send a hunger announcement.
Still, I enjoy visiting the dining room to discover what delicious creation awaits. Who needs hunger when curiosity is already wearing a bib? And if dinner gives me enough energy, perhaps I will attempt another cartwheel.
>>>>AUGUST 16CBS SUNDAY MORNING
It seems that every Sunday I become busy with other things and forget to watch CBS Sunday Morning. Sure enough, I forgot again today! That is unfortunate because I genuinely enjoy the thoughtful, uplifting stories the program shares. Perhaps next Sunday I will remember—although I may need to leave myself a note large enough to juggle!
60 MINUTES
Fortunately, 60 Minutes comes on tonight at 7 p.m., so I have another opportunity to enjoy some interesting television. I do not watch much TV because I would rather spend my time writing, creating, exercising, and living my own stories. Still, these are two programs I enjoy. A little good television is fine—just as long as it does not become the main event of life.
THE BLUE SKY
I look out the window and see a beautiful blue sky stretching across the morning. The sunshine seems to be calling my name, reminding me that the world is waiting beyond my door. I have been talking about exercising, breathing fresh air, and tossing a few juggling balls toward the clouds. Today is the time to stop talking and start moving.
IT STARTS
I may begin slowly—with a short walk, a gentle stretch, and a little juggling—but every worthwhile journey begins with one determined step. Those juggling balls will not throw themselves, although after all these years, you might think I could have trained them better!
MOVE
Today, I will step outside, move my body, and celebrate every bit of progress I make. Blue skies are overhead, opportunity is knocking, and adventure is waiting just beyond my door. It is time to breathe deeply, toss a few balls toward the clouds, and embrace the joy of being aliveLET THE JUGGLING—AND THE LIVING—BEGIN!BREAKFAST
Breakfast was the usual: one toasted English muffin, one sausage link, and a bowl of fresh fruit. It was simple, healthy, and enough to fuel the day ahead. Nothing fancy—no marching band or juggling pancakes—but sometimes a modest breakfast is all we need to get rolling.
USING A WALKER
I spoke with a woman who was walking behind a walker. She surprised me by saying she used it because she had become lazy—not because she was physically unable to walk without it. I appreciated her honesty, but her words stayed with me.
LAZINESS?
Her comment reminded me how easily inactivity can sneak into our lives. When we stop challenging our bodies, muscles weaken, balance may decline, and ordinary movements can gradually become more difficult.
MORE OR LESS?
The less we move, the harder movement becomes—and the harder it becomes, the less we want to move. It is a dangerous little circle that slowly steals our strength, freedom, and confidence. The best way to break it is simple: take one step, then another. Even small movements can lead us toward a stronger, healthier, and far more exciting life.
WALKER IF YOU MUST
Of course, many people truly need walkers for balance, pain, safety, or medical reasons. Using one is nothing to be ashamed of; it can provide valuable freedom and independence. No one should stop using a mobility aid without guidance from a doctor or therapist.
MOVE!
Whatever our abilities, we should keep moving safely. We do not need to run marathons, lift enormous weights, or perform cartwheels down the hallway. We can walk, stretch, stand, exercise, or even wiggle our toes as though they are performing a tiny dance recital.
Every safe movement tells the body, “I still need you—stay strong.”
DON’T FALL FOR IT
Rest when necessary and accept help when it keeps you safe, but do not surrender an ability simply because sitting still feels easier. A little effort today may preserve a great deal of freedom tomorrow. Keep moving whatever you can—your legs, your arms, your mind, and perhaps a few juggling balls. Use your abilities, strengthen them, and never surrender them without a fight!
THE HEAD TILT
I have noticed in several recent photos that I still tilt my head to the left. The therapists at NeuroRestorative first brought it to my attention, and I am now becoming more aware of it. Correcting the tilt may take time because my body has grown accustomed to that position and considers it “normal.”
PAYING CLOSER ATTENTION
Still, awareness is the first step toward improvement. I am paying closer attention to my posture and occasionally catching myself in the act. Whenever I notice the tilt, I gently straighten my head and reset my position. I may not correct this habit overnight, but each small adjustment is another step in the right direction—preferably with my head pointing straight ahead!
DOUBLE VISION?
However, the tilt may be more than an old habit. My brain injury affects my vision, and I often see double. Perhaps tilting my head is my body’s natural way of bringing the two images closer together and helping me see the world more clearly. What appears to be poor posture might actually be my brain performing a clever little balancing act.
EYE DOC?
Before working too aggressively to straighten my head, I plan to discuss this possibility with my eye specialist. I do not want to force a correction that could make my vision—or my balance—worse. Seeing double is quite bad, and the head tilt is awful.
POSTURE
Until I understand what is happening, I will remain mindful of my posture and gently practice holding my head straighter when it feels comfortable. Sometimes improvement does not begin by pushing harder; it begins by paying attention, asking the right questions, and working with the body rather than against it.
SOLVE THE HEAD TILT
I may not like seeing my head lean to one side, but “difficult” does not mean “impossible.” Once I understand the reason, I can work on it safely. Little by little, I will keep straightening what I can—and moving forward with my head held high (but not tilted)
HELP!
I looked into the hallway and noticed a man searching for his breakfast. He seemed confused and needed assistance, so I found a staff member and let them know. Someone quickly came to help him. It is about 10:30 now—rather late for breakfast, but kindness is always right on time.
MAGIC
I even performed my three-rope magic trick for him, and he seemed to genuinely enjoy it. Watching his curiosity turn into a smile made the moment even more rewarding. Sometimes, a little magic is all it takes to brighten someone’s day—and his reaction certainly brightened mine.
I JUST CAUGHT MYSELF
As I was typing, I suddenly noticed that my head was tilted again. I wasn’t doing it intentionally; it just feels more natural and comfortable to me. After so many years, my body may have adopted the tilt as its preferred position—or perhaps it helps my brain compensate for the double vision caused by my injury.
NOTICE
Even so, I do not particularly like how the tilt looks in photographs, and I would prefer to hold my head straighter whenever possible. For now, I will remain aware of it without forcing a correction that would cause discomfort or interfere with my vision. Sometimes progress begins with something as simple as noticing what we are doing. Today, I caught the tilt—and awareness is the first step toward understanding it.
AM I DELAYING
Or simply preparing? I have decided to wait until after lunch before heading outside to juggle and exercise. I hope I am not merely postponing it, because “later” has a sneaky habit of becoming “tomorrow.” I got out there and threw 3 clubs around; they didn’t fly right, not like the old days.
TIME FOR JUGGLING
Once lunch is finished, I will put on my shoes, grab my juggling clubs, and step outside. I may walk before I run and move carefully if my asthma protests, but I will begin. The important thing is to turn my good intention into action—and get those balls flying!
Is that Kit?
BAREFEET
Walking barefoot across the cool grass felt wonderful—a simple pleasure that made me feel free, alive, and connected to the outdoors again. I quickly discovered that regaining my former juggling skills will require patience, determination, and plenty of practice. My hands and body may not yet remember everything they once knew, but every throw and catch is a step forward. Even the drops are teaching me—and those juggling balls certainly gave the grass a good workout!
FINALLY—JUGGLING!
Unfortunately, my asthma flared up quickly, so I didn’t get much running in today. I listened to my body instead of pushing too hard, and that was the smart choice. Still, I found a terrific grassy spot where I can safely practice my juggling. I plan to return there often, gradually rebuilding my coordination, endurance, and confidence. I may not be juggling as I once did—yet—but I am back outside, tossing the balls into the air and moving toward something meaningful. That is a mighty fine beginning!
THE ELEVATOR
Two floors here. On the bottom floor, there is the restaurant and some meeting rooms. The upper floor has each person’s residence and a few meeting rooms. And the bar. Limited drinking of just wine and beer, but many happy faces.
UP OR DOWN?
Or “the evelalator”, as my dear friend Sue used to call it. Just one way to get between floors, people cause problems. Remember this yourself: always let people OFF before you approach the elevator doors. People always have a ” first one wins” attitude, which is wrong. I’ve been teaching as much as I can, but it’s hard.
>>>>>AUGUST 17
Right now, I cannot remember a single story from yesterday’s 60 Minutes, although I did leave myself a few notes. I know I watched the program. I listened, thought about the stories, and perhaps even reacted to them—but today, the details have disappeared.
Where do those experiences go when my mind cannot retrieve them? Are they still tucked away somewhere in my brain, quietly shaping my thoughts even though I cannot consciously recall them? Perhaps forgetting does not mean an experience is entirely lost. Maybe something remains—a feeling, an impression, or a tiny lesson hiding beneath the surface.
My memory may not always hold on to the details, but that does not make the time meaningless. I was present as I watched, and that moment remains part of my life. Thankfully, I left myself a few notes—small breadcrumbs from yesterday, helping me find my way back.
My memory may struggle to hold on, but I refuse to let that keep me from living. Perhaps remembering every moment matters less than fully experiencing it. I will keep moving forward, finding joy wherever I can—even when yesterday slips away.
Is this difficulty with my memory simply another effect of my brain injury? Sometimes, when I give something greater importance—when I focus on it carefully and connect it to a purpose—I am more likely to remember it. Perhaps my memory is not completely failing; maybe it has simply become more selective.
Is it really as bad as I sometimes fear, or does my brain simply store information differently now? Either way, I will continue paying attention, writing things down, and giving important moments the focus they deserve. My memory may have changed, but I can still work with the remarkable brain I have.
It’s only 5 a.m., and I have already written quite a bit. I keep telling myself to cut back, but that is difficult when thoughts and ideas race through my mind, each one eager to burst onto the page. What can I do? A writer has to write—and apparently, my imagination refuses to sleep in!
THE HEAD TILT
As I worked on my computer, I suddenly caught myself tilting my head again. Because the position feels so natural and comfortable, I often slip into it without realizing what I am doing. This time, however, I noticed the tilt and immediately straightened my head.
Changing a long-established habit will take time, patience, and plenty of practice, but every correction is a small step forward. The more aware I become, the easier it may be to improve my posture. For now, I will keep a close eye—or perhaps both eyes—on my head position.
It’s 3 p.m., and I feel completely drained. This overwhelming fatigue has been stealing my energy, and it’s terribly frustrating. I wanted to go outside, practice my juggling, and get some exercise, but today my body is asking me to slow down. Resting is not giving up—it may be exactly what I need to recharge so I can try again tomorrow.
Dinner tonight was a delicious plate of shrimp tacos, filled with tender shrimp cooked just right. The flavors blended beautifully, making every bite a little celebration.
As I’ve written before, the meals here are often magnificent—and tonight’s dinner certainly lived up to that praise. My compliments to the kitchen crew; they turned an ordinary evening into a tasty occasion!
>>>>>AUGUST 18
As I sit here in the quiet of the early morning, I wonder what I will write today. The world outside is still dark, but my mind is already beginning to stir. Thoughts are quietly gathering, waiting to become words, stories, and perhaps a little inspiration. I may not know exactly where today’s writing will take me, but that is part of the adventure. I will simply begin—and trust that the words will find their way.
It’s 9:15, the sun is shining brightly, and so am I. I’m feeling a little more energetic today, and later I plan to head outside for some juggling and a few cartwheels—but not at the same time. I may enjoy a challenge, but I’m not completely bananas!
The hallways and surrounding areas are completely empty. Where did everyone go? Perhaps they are still sleeping, resting in their rooms, or quietly beginning their day. Whatever the reason, the entire place feels unusually still—as though the world has pressed the pause button.
For now, it is just me, my computer, and a mind overflowing with words. As usual, I am here writing this blog to you, turning the silence into stories one sentence at a time. Everyone else may be hiding, but my thoughts are wide awake—and apparently, they have plenty to say!
It’s 10:32 now, and I am watching videos until lunchtime at noon. Part of me hates spending my time this way because I have never been comfortable simply sitting still when there are things to accomplish. Yet, at this moment, I cannot think of anything else I truly need—or have the energy—to do.Perhaps this is not wasted time after all. Maybe my mind and body are asking for a short pause before the rest of the day begins. I do not have to fill every minute with work, progress, or another grand adventure.
Sometimes, watching a few videos and allowing myself to relax is perfectly acceptable. I don’t need to fill every minute with writing, exercising, planning, or accomplishing another important task. Rest is not wasted time; it gives my mind and body an opportunity to slow down, recover, and recharge. Taking a peaceful break today may give me more energy, clearer thoughts, and renewed enthusiasm tomorrow.
I am learning that relaxation is an important part of living a healthy, balanced life. I can watch something entertaining, laugh a little, and enjoy the moment without feeling guilty about what I am not accomplishing. Life cannot always be about staying busy and productive. After all, even a dedicated juggler must occasionally put the clubs down, rest his arms, and let someone else provide the entertainment!
Another A+++ for the wonderful kitchen staff! Today’s cheesy ravioli with pesto sauce was prepared perfectly. The tender ravioli was filled with delicious cheese, and the rich pesto sauce brought all the flavors together beautifully. Every bite was warm, flavorful, and satisfying.
The meals here continue to impress me, and this one certainly earned a place among my favorites. It filled me up without leaving me overly stuffed—and, most importantly, it left me smiling. My sincere compliments to the kitchen staff for creating another magnificent meal. Bravo to the chefs!
At about three in the afternoon, I stepped outside to toss three juggling clubs around. The clubs certainly flew through the air—but catching them was another matter! My mind remembered what to do, but my hands refused to cooperate. Then, just as I began to flow into a cartwheel, my brain firmly announced, “Nope—not right now.”
It was frustrating, upsetting, and more than a little discouraging. Still, that is how life goes sometimes. Not every throw lands perfectly, and not every attempt ends with a victory. Today may not have been my day, but I showed up and tried—and tomorrow, I can pick up the clubs and try again.
Right now, I’m thinking about the thousands of hours I spent practicing—in countless gyms, backyards, and parks. Juggling once felt natural; I could keep the clubs flying without a second thought. Now, I struggle to keep even three clubs in the air.
I’m not sure what it will take to regain that rhythm, but I do know this: the juggler I once was is still inside me. Have you seen this juggler I mentioned? I’ve not seen him. I’ll keep searching for him, one throw, one catch, and one determined practice at a time.
>>>>>AUGUST 19
This morning, my tiny ant friend returned for another computer adventure. He marched all the way across the screen, moving his little legs so quickly that it was amazing to watch. When he reached the front edge, he turned and headed toward the back. A moment later, he disappeared behind my computer—perhaps off to explore the mysterious world of wires, buttons, and unfinished stories.
HI, ANT FRIEND
I will never stamp out my little friend.
I love to watch him march.
And he doesn’t eat much.
SIT AND JUGGLE
I can sit comfortably in my desk chair and practice my juggling—proof that progress doesn’t always require standing tall! My pattern is becoming smooth and consistent, although I still drop the balls more often than I would like. I keep trying, learning, and improving with every throw. Each drop is not a failure; it is simply another chance to pick up the ball and begin again.
“HOW AM I?”
The question keeps bouncing around inside my mind: “What the hell am I doing here?” I wish I had a clear answer, but right now, I simply don’t. Outside, the sky is dark and cloudy—a strange sight here in supposedly sunny Florida—and now the thunder is joining the conversation: BOOM! BOOM!
Perhaps the storm outside matches the one inside me as I search for purpose, direction, and some understanding of where my life is headed next. Still, storms never last forever. The thunder eventually fades, the clouds move on, and the Florida sunshine returns. I must believe the same is true for me. I may not know exactly what I am doing here today, but my story is not finished—and somewhere beyond these clouds, my next adventure may already be waiting.
I hear so many people ask, “How are you?”—not because they truly want to know, but because it has become an automatic greeting. Perhaps we should ask something more meaningful, such as “What made you smile today?” or “What’s on your mind?” Whatever you ask, pause long enough to listen. A sincere question, supported by two listening ears and an open heart, can make someone feel that they truly matter.
Instead of automatically asking, “How are you?” offer a sincere compliment or say something kind about the person. My usual response to “How are you?” is, “Yes, I am,” which tends to leave people wonderfully confused. It is certainly friendlier than what I sometimes feel like saying: “None of your fucking business!” Let’s retire this worn-out question and begin conversations with words that show genuine thought and interest.
LUNCH
On days like this, I find myself simply trying to stay busy until the next meal arrives—and I hate feeling as though I am only passing time. Yes, lunch is coming soon, but I want my days to be about more than waiting for another plate of food. I want each hour to hold purpose, progress, laughter, or at least one small adventure. Life is meant to be lived, not merely counted in meals.
This afternoon, I watched an episode of Hogan’s Heroes, a television show I have enjoyed for many years. The characters still make me laugh, even though every member of the original cast has now passed away. The same is true of Gilligan’s Island. Their voices, expressions, and comic adventures remain alive on the screen, frozen in time and ready to entertain another generation.
HOGAN
It is strange to laugh at and with people who are no longer here. They once had busy lives, families, dreams, worries, and futures—just as we do today. Now they have gone to the place where every one of us is eventually heading. That thought is not necessarily frightening; it is a reminder to appreciate the time we have, to share laughter while we can, and to create memories that may continue to bring joy long after we have left the stage.
Enjoy watching this >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnZYSlcILDU
That tiredness has wrapped itself around me and refuses to let go. I wanted to go outside, breathe the fresh air, juggle my clubs, and try to run—but today, my body and mind are both saying, “No, not now.”
IT’S GOT A HOLD OF ME
It is difficult and deeply disappointing when the desire is there, but the energy is not. I want to push forward, yet right now, I feel as though I have no control over what my body will allow me to do.
Still, resting today does not mean I am giving up. Perhaps my body is asking for patience instead of punishment. The clubs will still be there, the path will still be waiting, and another opportunity will come. For now, I can accept this tiredness without letting it define me. I may be forced to pause—but I am not finished.THE IMPORTANT THING IS I AM ENJOYING MY LIFE HOW IT IS NOW.
>>>>>AUGUST 20
Again and again, I read through this blog, polishing the words, strengthening the message, and improving each paragraph. If I devoted that same steady effort to writing a book every day, I could have an entire manuscript sitting before me within a month. One page at a time, one idea at a time, one improvement at a time—that is how a book is born.
Throughout this blog, you have read about the patience, discipline, imagination, and consistent effort it takes to write a book. Now I have a question for you: Have you started writing yours yet? You do not need to map out every chapter before you begin. Simply start with one idea, one meaningful memory, or one valuable lesson you have learned along the way.
Your experiences could encourage someone who is struggling, guide someone through a difficult season, or give a reader the courage to keep moving forward. Never underestimate the power of your words. Somewhere, someone may be waiting for the message that only you can share. Begin today—even if you write only one paragraph. Every great book begins with a few brave words!
On the first floor is a room filled with various pieces of exercise equipment. I went down to investigate it this morning. Most of the machines require a security pass or some other bit of technological wizardry before they can be used, so I did not attempt anything yet.
I will return later with Joe—or someone who understands how everything works—and learn how to use the equipment safely. The workout may have been postponed, but it has not been canceled! Good to know it’s available, at least.
>>>>>AUGUST 21
Friday has arrived again, and I’ve read through this blog one final time—polishing the words, adjusting the rhythm, and making sure each thought says what I truly want it to say. Now I’m sending it into the world and placing it in your hands.
What do you think of my stories, ideas, and wandering thoughts? I would genuinely enjoy hearing from you. Your comments help me grow as a writer and remind me that my words are reaching real people. Please write back and tell me what made you think, smile, or wonder, “What is Kit up to now?”
Breakfast was the usual, but once again, I didn’t eat very much. Lately, I find myself eating less and less because I rarely feel truly hungry. In one way, that may be good for me, especially if I am trying to lose a little weight and avoid overeating. Still, there must be a healthy balance. My body and brain need proper nourishment to stay strong, energetic, and ready for whatever the day may bring.
Eating less is not necessarily a problem, but eating too little can create trouble. Food is fuel, and even a determined old juggler cannot keep the clubs flying when the tank is empty. I need to make sure that the smaller portions I eat still provide the protein, vitamins, and energy my body needs. The goal is not simply to eat less—it is to eat wisely, stay healthy, and keep moving forward. As we all should do.
============
PART 3—BLOG 391—A Cartwheel—YOU?
Be Different—Find Your Own WayFrom the time we are young, the world tries to hand us a map.
It tells us where to go, what to wear, how to behave,
And what success should look like.
For example–Follow that road. Be this person.
Live this way, with choices thrown at you.
And please remain inside the neatly painted lines!
But what if that map was drawn for somebody else?
Every person is born with a different collection of talents, dreams, struggles, and wonderfully peculiar possibilities. No two lives are identical, so why should we all travel the same road? A path leading one person toward happiness might lead another directly into a mud puddle—and nobody wants to spend life squishing around in someone else’s mud!
EVERY CARTWHEEL IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT
You were not born to become a copy. You are here to discover what makes you come alive and then find the courage to pursue it. Other people may offer advice, directions, or strongly worded opinions. Listen to what helps, smile politely at the rest, and never surrender the steering wheel of your life.
Being different is not always easy. When you choose your own path, some people may laugh, criticize, or try to steer you back toward the crowded highway of “normal.” They may question your choices simply because they do not understand them. Let them talk. Their opinions belong to them; your life belongs to you.
NORMAL?
Normal is often terribly overcrowded anyway—too much traffic, too many rules, and not nearly enough room for cartwheels! Step away from the crowd and follow the road that feels right for you. It may twist, wobble, or lead somewhere unexpected, but it will be yours. The world does not need another copy. It needs the wonderfully original, courageously different person you were born to be.
I learned this lesson through juggling. Most people see 3 balls flying through the air and think, “That looks impossible.” A juggler sees those same balls and thinks, “Let’s give it a try!” The first attempts are rarely graceful. Balls bounce across the floor, roll beneath furniture, and occasionally bonk you on the head. Yet every dropped ball teaches you something.
LIFE RISKS ARE MUCH THE SAME WAY.
Finding your own path does not mean you will never fail. It means you are willing to fail while pursuing something meaningful. Pick up the ball, adjust your throw, and try again. Sometimes you may drop everything at once—but at least you are participating in your own life instead of watching from the sidelines.
My life never followed a traditional route. I became a professional juggler, traveled extensively, wrote books, operated a salsa business, spoke to audiences, and lived in a van while exploring the country. My road contained sharp turns, painful accidents, enormous potholes, and several detours that apparently had detours of their own.
After spending thirty-seven days in a coma, I had to relearn how to walk, speak, think, and juggle. Progress came through small victories—a clearer word, a steadier step, or one successful throw. I was not returning to exactly who I had been. I was becoming someone new. That experience taught me something important: the right path for you may not exist yet.
MAKE YOUR NEW LIFE!
Sometimes you must create it as you go. Take one brave step, see where it leads, and then choose the next one. A detour is not always a disaster. Sometimes it carries you toward scenery you would otherwise have missed.
Listen to advice, but also listen to yourself. What brings you joy? What gives your life meaning? What dream keeps tapping you on the shoulder? Pay attention to that tap. Dreams can become rather annoying when ignored.
Do not be different merely to attract attention. Be different because you are honest enough to be yourself. There is no prize for blending perfectly into the wallpaper. Life becomes brighter when you bring your own colors into the room.
The world does not need another imitation. It needs your ideas, humor, courage, peculiarities, and wonderfully unusual way of seeing life. You were not born merely to follow footprints. You were born to leave a few. Be different. Find your own way.
SMILE!
And if no path leads toward the future you desire, smile, take a deep breath, tighten your shoelaces, and begin creating one of your own. It may twist, climb, wobble, and occasionally disappear beneath a pile of juggling props, but keep moving forward.
You are not lost—you are simply exploring a road that has never existed before. And whenever possible, step boldly toward your dreams while avoiding the mud puddles. Of course, if you do land in one, splash around, laugh loudly, and keep going!==============================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
==============================PART 4) 🔥 A FEW SPARKS TO SLIP INTO YOUR POCKET
✨ THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are like mental spark plugs. 💥 They jolt the mind awake, shrink giant problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can flip your thinking upside down—turning “I can’t” into “Why not give it a shot?” The right words at the right moment can become a tiny flashlight in a dark hallway. 🔦But here’s where the real magic happens: repetition turns inspiration into identity. The more you repeat a truth, the more your mind begins to believe it… and eventually, your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on a wall is a decoration. A quote lived out through your actions? That becomes a transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by?
Now that’s power. ✨
==========
1) “She begins each day with a cartwheel and believes
reading is almost exactly the same as cartwheeling:
It turns the world upside down.” — Katherine Rundell
2) “Why merely stroll through life when you can cartwheel
into your next great adventure?” — Kit Summers.
3) “It’s believing you can push through the exhaustion just
to be able to sing after you do a cartwheel or a split.” — Naima Adedapo
4) “Ordinary actions repeated over a period
of time produce extraordinary results” – Unknown
5) “You don’t have to be great to start.
But you have to start to be great.” – Zig Ziglar
6) “Beneath the caged flutter of hope.
Fear blooms in the liver as a spear
where memory burns its fever across the
” Spoke of my body” ― Stephanie Robert
7) Why do you need to do a fancy
Cartwheel before you hit him?
It just looks stupid. – Owen Hart
8) If I weren’t my age, I would turn a flip.
I would do some cartwheels.
That’s how I feel. – Mavis Staples
9) Even if you have nothing in your wallet.
Nothing can keep you from having a great summer.
You can listen to crickets sing you to sleep.
Trace the Big Dipper, breathe in the stars.
Run through a sprinkler.
Host a cartwheel contest in the front yard. – Regina Brett
10) My hunch is that if we allow ourselves to give
Who we really are to the children in our care.
We will, in some way, inspire cartwheels in their hearts. – Fred Rogers
===============
PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
The grass is right out there waiting for you.
Time to do some cartwheels!
With a smile on your face, of course.
YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS.
YOU CAN BE MORE—YOU ARE MORE!
====================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 392—For a Better Life
=====================🌟 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.
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! 🌟August 21, 2026BLOG 390–BE THE BEST!
✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 390—BE THE (YOUR) BEST!
Always Keep Getting Better Than Yesterday!
Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
Learn More About Me >> https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS — World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
Do these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨==================== ======================
My new address here is >> kitsummers.com
Kit Summers (A love letter would be dandy.) kitsummers@gmail.com
The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL 33647
Call me >> 610-400-3233
=======================I FEEL THAT THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET.
DAILY—IT’S A NEW DAY, IT’S A NEW LIFE.
DON’T LIVE IN THE FUTURE OR THE PAST.
WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE ONE DAY — MAKE PLANS NOW!
MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT YOU’RE HOLDING RIGHT NOW!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 >>
Most people overestimate what they can accomplish in a single year.
If you make every little thing good, you make the entire thing phenomenal.
I write this for you, but it’s also for me—as the words help you, they help me, too.
Happiness is not about getting all that you want. It’s about enjoying all that you have.
Small steps may not seem impressive today, but over time, they can build an extraordinary life. K
People often greatly underestimate what they can achieve over two or three decades of steady effort.PART 1) THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep Growing. Keep Believing in You.
As you read each blog, write notes on areas that will help you advance.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
===================
Life has knocked me down more times than anyone should have to endure. I have survived devastating accidents, heartbreaking losses, shattered dreams, and challenges that often seemed far too enormous to overcome. There were moments when the road ahead appeared dark and uncertain, and simply taking the next step required every ounce of courage I could gather.
Yet each morning, I rise again—perhaps a little bruised and moving more slowly, but still filled with determination, hope, and purpose. I refuse to let yesterday’s pain steal tomorrow’s possibilities. Whatever life throws at me, I will keep moving forward, sharing what I have learned, and doing all I can to make someone else’s life a little brighter—perhaps yours.
Like you, I cannot change everything that has happened to me, but I can choose what I do with it. I choose to turn my pain into wisdom, my struggles into strength, and my experiences into encouragement for others.
If something I write, say, or do helps make your life a little brighter, stronger, or happier, then every time I fought my way back up was worth it. Yes, life has knocked me down—but it has never convinced me to stay there. And neither should you! Perhaps a little bruised, but still filled with determination, hope, and purpose.
No, I cannot change everything that has happened to me, but I can choose what I do with it. I choose to turn my pain into wisdom, my struggles into strength, and my experiences into encouragement for others. If something I write, say, or do helps make your life a little brighter, stronger, or happier, then every time I fought my way back up was worth it. Yes, life has knocked me down—but it has never convinced me to stay there. And neither should you!
Every positive choice moves you toward a stronger, healthier, and happier future. Progress may not always be visible, but every wise decision matters. Even the smallest step can carry you closer to the person you want to become. Keep moving forward with courage and determination, one purposeful choice at a time.
Positive choices are powerful because small decisions eventually produce remarkable results. One healthy habit, hopeful thought, or courageous action may seem insignificant, but together they add up and can transform your life. Choose what helps you grow, believe in where you are going, and greet each new step with a great big smile!
===========
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration — Served Playfully.
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening.
One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is for them right now.
>>>>>AUGUST 8
BE THE BEST
Are my fingers nimble? Are they fast? By 8 a.m., I had already written most of this week’s blog and finished today’s portion. Not bad for ten busy fingers! Of course, even speedy fingers need fuel, so breakfast came first.
After my usual morning meal, I returned to my room ready to write. I wore my Slaps to the dining room, but once seated, I slipped them off and tucked my bare feet beneath the table. A staff member promptly reminded me to put them back on.
Some people are uncomfortable with anything outside the ordinary. I prefer comfort—with perhaps a dash of harmless rebellion. Being different does not mean being wrong. Sometimes, choosing to Be the Best means having the courage to be completely yourself—bare feet and all!
I HAVE CLEAN FEET!
Soon afterward, someone delivered my six morning pills—for high blood pressure, allergies, and a couple of vitamins. I dislike taking medication, but I understand that some of it may be necessary. If my doctors believe those pills are helping me remain healthy, I will keep swallowing them—even if I refuse to smile while doing it!
The next knock brought something far more pleasant: clean laundry. Staff members collect our clothes, wash and fold them, and return everything ready to wear. Living here is expensive, but it does include a few luxuries. With another chore crossed off my list, I had more time to write.
With the cooking, cleaning, and laundry handled, I can devote much of my energy to this blog. I only hope I do not become too spoiled. One day, I may stand before a washing machine wondering which button makes the magic happen!
The only thing I “cook” is hot water for tea—and I have mastered that recipe. I drink two large mugs each day, letting the warmth awaken my mind and keep my fingers moving. My routine is simple: brew, sip, smile, and create. It is my way of trying to Be the Best version of myself—and, hopefully, produce my best blog.
Eventually, all that writing stirred what little appetite I had, and lunchtime arrived. I ordered a cheeseburger with four crispy tater tots. The burger was tasty, but after half of it and a few tots, my stomach waved a tiny white flag and declared, “That’s enough!”
I sent the rest back, including most of the handful of tots they brought instead of four. Watching good food go uneaten bothered me more than my small appetite. Food should fill stomachs—not trash cans.
I wish restaurants and facilities made it easier to share untouched food with people who need it. If you are hungry, please let me know. My extra food could become your welcome meal instead of waste. A small act of generosity may seem minor, but it can make a meaningful difference. Being your best is not only about what you accomplish—it is also about what you give.
Lunch brought an interesting conversation as well. I met a gentleman who has lived here for ten years.
TEN YEARS! I could hardly imagine spending an entire decade in one place. During that time, friendships form, routines become familiar, and residents and staff members come and go. For him, this must feel less like a facility and more like home.
Still, I cannot picture myself living here that long. My restless spirit is already whispering, “Where are we going next?” Before it could pack its imaginary suitcase, however, dinner arrived. And what a delightful surprise it was! I have enjoyed many good meals here, but this may have topped them all. The sweet-and-sour chicken and Asian roasted pork were beautifully prepared and bursting with flavor. Along with the rice, every bite was pure joy. My taste buds may still be applauding!
Just when I thought the day’s entertainment was over, nature began preparing its own spectacular finale. Thunderstorms rolled in with brilliant flashes of lightning, rushing rain, and mighty—BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
From nimble fingers tapping early in the morning to thunder drumming across the sky at night, it had been quite a lively day. I began it by doing my best, spent it trying to give my best, and ended it watching nature perform at its best.
We may not be able to be the best in the world at everything we do—but every day, we can choose to Be the Best we can be. Give life your finest effort. Share what you have. Remain proudly yourself. And never stop creating your next great day!
>>>>>AUGUST 9
It felt wonderful to sleep until 5 a.m.—practically noon by my standards! I usually sleep only five or six hours, but that seems to be enough to keep me functioning well.
Some people need eight or nine hours before they are ready to face the world. My mind prefers to open the curtains early and announce, “All right, Kit—the day is waiting!” Since I cannot always persuade it to remain asleep, I appreciate the rest I receive and make the most of every waking hour.
Those early hours bring a special kind of peace. The hallways are quiet, distractions are few, and the new day stretches before me like an empty page. With a warm mug of tea nearby, I can think, create, and place a few meaningful words into the world.
Outside my window, a clear blue sky invited me into the sunshine. Breakfast was finished, and my spirit was ready to race around the courtyard—even if my body preferred a gentler pace.
Unfortunately, my asthma had other plans. My spirit was pressing the accelerator while my lungs were standing firmly on the brakes! Still, I refused to let asthma steal the entire morning. If I could not run, I could walk. Moving slowly is still moving forward, and every journey begins with one determined step.
To Be the Best does not mean doing everything perfectly or moving faster than everyone else. It means giving your best to the moment before you—even when your plans must change. Sometimes being your best means running boldly; other times, it means walking wisely.
At lunchtime, I went downstairs to the restaurant—although it still feels more like a cafeteria—and ordered the braised chicken. It was quite tasty. I found an open table, began eating, and was soon joined by a woman who sat directly across from me.
Unfortunately, lunch was followed by a miserable afternoon. For several hours, a throbbing ache traveled from my tooth to my ear. The pain became so intense that concentrating on anything else was nearly impossible. I tried to remain calm, but that stubborn ache refused to pack its bags and move out!
I could not tell whether the problem began in my tooth, my ear, or somewhere in between. When the pain became too severe to ignore, I knew I needed help. I have overcome far greater challenges, but that little ache put up one mighty fight! If it returns or grows worse, I will contact a dentist or doctor.
Just when the day seemed determined to test me, the telephone rang with a welcome surprise. My old juggling friend Jonathan Rosenberg called, and it was wonderful to hear his voice again.
Many years ago, Jonathan attended one of my juggling workshops. He now lives in England, where he has returned to juggling and is teaching others. In 1979, he won the competition at the IJA Festival—an impressive accomplishment!
I was also delighted to learn that Jonathan is still happily sharing his life with his wife and their three children. His call was exactly the cheerful distraction I needed. Old friendships are like juggling clubs—sometimes they disappear for a while, but what a joy when they come flying back!
With my spirits lifted, the day rolled toward dinner. Tonight’s meal was “supposedly” a Philly cheesesteak, although Philadelphia might demand a formal apology. The cook gave it a brave try, but the sandwich appeared thoroughly confused about its identity. Still, it filled my stomach, made me laugh, and gave me something to write about—three worthwhile accomplishments!
That is another part of choosing to be the Best: discovering something valuable even in an imperfect day. I could not run, pain interrupted my afternoon, and dinner needed a passport to prove it came from Philadelphia. Yet I still found sunshine, movement, friendship, laughter, and meaningful words to share.
A day does not have to be perfect to be worthwhile. Whatever arrives—victory, pain, friendship, or a bewildered cheesesteak—meet it with courage, humor, and the best within you.
Be the Best—not only when life goes according to plan, but especially when it does not.
>>>>>AUGUST 10
It is already 7 a.m., and my mind has spent most of the morning writing, revising, rearranging, and searching for exactly the right words. Once I begin, the ideas line up and demand their turn on the page. Some sentences behave beautifully; others need a firm talking-to before they cooperate!
How is the blog coming along? I believe it is taking shape—but your opinion matters far more than mine.
?QUESTIONING?
?Does each paragraph flow naturally into the next?
?Are the stories interesting?
?Is the humor enjoyable?
?Are the positive messages clear?
?And why is Kit asking so many silly questions?
Please let me know what you think. Your comments help me learn, improve, and continue creating something worth reading. I want every blog to be better than the one before it—one lively idea, one meaningful story, and one occasionally stubborn sentence at a time.
That is part of what Be the Best means to me: never assuming something is finished simply because it is good. Keep learning. Keep polishing. Keep reaching for better.
All that improvement requires brainpower—and sometimes I wonder whether something is wrong with mine. After two serious brain injuries, that question practically answers itself! I rarely feel hungry or full, which may be another way my injured brain communicates—or forgets to communicate—with the rest of my body.
BREAKFAST
Breakfast begins at 8 a.m., yet some mornings I do not even want to stop writing long enough to eat. My mind is racing ahead while my appetite is apparently still asleep! Even so, my body needs fuel, whether hunger remembers to send an invitation or not. A car cannot travel far on an empty tank—and neither can Kit.
I should eat something nutritious and keep this remarkable old engine humming. I will also mention my lack of appetite to my doctor, especially if it continues. My busy brain, flying fingers, ambitious plans, and wonderfully stubborn determination all require energy.
Perhaps “Be the Best” also means taking proper care of the body that carries you toward your dreams. All right, Kit—step away from the keyboard and head toward breakfast!
60 MINUTES?
I watched 60 Minutes last night, yet this morning I cannot remember a single story from the program. Not one report, interview, or interesting detail remained in my mind.
I may have been tired or not paying close enough attention, but forgetting an entire program is concerning. After two serious brain injuries, I understand that my memory may not work the way I want it to. Still, I need to pay attention when something seems different.
I will begin writing down what I watch, along with a few details afterward, to see whether this happens regularly. I will also mention it to my doctor if it continues or worsens. Be the Best does not mean pretending everything is perfect; it means honestly recognizing a problem and taking constructive action.
And I am talking about remembering one television program. Imagine juggling three, five, or even seven balls at once—each one soaring through the air while your eyes, hands, and brain work together in remarkable rhythm. Now replace those balls with clubs. Yes, that is where I once was.
Every throw must be tracked and timed so the next catch happens precisely where and when it should. The eyes follow the pattern, the hands prepare for each catch, and the brain constantly calculates what comes next—all within a fraction of a second.
Juggling requires concentration, coordination, quick thinking, timing, memory, and plenty of patient practice. Drop a ball? Pick it up, learn from the mistake, and throw it again. That is how both juggling and life improve.
JUGGLING
Even the finest jugglers occasionally drop something. The secret is not to become discouraged. Pick it up, smile, and toss it back into the pattern.
Memory can work much the same way. Keep challenging it, exercising it, and giving it another opportunity to shine. If my mind occasionally drops a ball, I will do what every determined juggler does: pick it up and try again.
That is another part of Be the Best: you do not have to perform perfectly. You simply have to keep returning to the pattern.
Then, while editing one small section, I suddenly thought I had lost the entire blog. Every paragraph, every story, and every carefully chosen word appeared to be gone! My heart practically jumped out of my chest and began juggling without me.
I HAD ACCOMPLISHED SO MUCH!
I searched through my files, retraced my steps, checked my backups, and tried not to panic. After several frightening moments, I finally recovered everything. What an enormous relief!
I had poured so much time, thought, energy, and heart into this blog that the possibility of losing it genuinely frightened me. The experience taught me an important lesson: save often, create backups—and perhaps back up the backups!
Losing one sentence is frustrating. Losing an entire blog is a full-blown writer’s nightmare. Thankfully, this story has a happy ending: the blog survived, my heart returned to its proper place, and I am back at the keyboard.
This week, the shopping trip was to Target instead of Walmart. Unfortunately, Target does not accept my CarePlus card, so that ended most of my shopping plans. I did, however, find a small lamp for my room.
TARGET
When Bre returned to the bus, she went back inside to find the other shopper. I waited for quite a while. Meanwhile, a store employee was trying to return a long parade of shopping carts, but our bus was blocking his path. With permission, I moved the bus back about ten feet so he could get through. He was quite appreciative.
It felt good to help—and, I must admit, it felt good to be behind the wheel again, even for only ten feet!
BRE
Bre eventually emerged with the other shopper, who had purchased bags and bags of merchandise. Naturally, I helped load everything into the bus. When we returned to Legacy, I helped unload the bags and brought the cart to her room.
Once again, only two residents rode in a bus built for eighteen people. Using such a large vehicle for a tiny shopping group burns far more fuel than necessary, especially when it must idle while everyone waits.
Legacy could benefit from having a small used car or van for trips involving only one or two residents. It would be practical, economical, and much easier to maneuver.
A CART OR TWO
A shopping cart or two at Legacy would also be extremely helpful. Since residents regularly shop at Walmart and Target, perhaps Legacy could purchase a couple of carts—or ask whether either store might legally donate one.
They would make carrying groceries and other purchases to residents’ rooms much easier. Sometimes one simple tool can solve a surprisingly large problem.
AND—I am ready to get behind the wheel again. I might even outperform you!
Now, whom should I speak with about exploring what would be required for me to drive safely and legally again? Being the Best sometimes begins by asking the right person the right question.
LUNCH
For lunch, I ordered one chicken taco—yes, only one! I am hardly ever hungry here, and I would much rather request a small portion than watch perfectly good food go to waste. One taco may not sound like much, but it was enough to satisfy me without leaving a lonely pile of leftovers behind.
SKINNY ME?
Eating smaller portions may help me become healthier and lose a little weight. I am hoping that one day, people will look at me and say, “There goes Kit—a smart, skinny guy!” The “smart” part may still be under investigation, and the “skinny” part is certainly a work in progress. Still, every positive choice moves me closer. We will see what happens—one chicken taco at a time!
WOODSIDE
I just spoke with Christopher about the movie based on my life story, and it sounds as though things are moving forward. That was encouraging to hear. The day my last blog appeared was also Christopher’s birthday. What a cowinkydink!
I recently watched the movie “Rocky” and noticed themes that might fit naturally into my film: struggle, determination, setbacks, courage, and the decision to keep fighting when life knocks you down. My story would not imitate Rocky, of course, but its emotional journey offers valuable lessons about building a powerful and inspiring film.
What do you think? If you have written a book, developed an idea for a movie or television program, or discovered lessons about success that could help others, consider contacting Christopher at Woodside at 347-732-3681.
You may already possess a story worth sharing. Perhaps you have a book—or several. Perhaps you have an idea that belongs on the screen. Perhaps your hard-earned path to success could inspire someone who desperately needs hope.
Do not leave that story sitting silently inside you. Give it a voice. Give it a chance. Take the next step. Be the Best does not mean being better than everyone else. It means giving the world the very best that lives within you—then returning tomorrow determined to make it even better.
>>>>>AUGUST 11
My one tiny ant has returned—the only one I have seen so far. Perhaps it is a brave explorer scouting my room, or maybe “he” is actually a “she.”
Either way, this miniature visitor is welcome to roam wherever those six little legs may lead. I will never intentionally harm the ant—or any friends who might eventually arrive. As long as they do not organize a picnic inside my computer, we should get along beautifully!
Last night, I watched Forrest Gump, and several themes reminded me of ideas that could fit naturally into my own movie. Forrest ran back and forth across the country; I drove through every state and visited every national park in the continental United States.
His life was filled with unexpected adventures, remarkable accomplishments, painful setbacks, and fascinating people. Mine has been, too. The more closely I examine the film, the more connections I discover—not because I want to imitate it, but because I want to understand how one extraordinary life can become a powerful, entertaining, and deeply human movie.
My greatest hope is to create a film that reaches millions of people and inspires them to live happier, stronger, and more meaningful lives. My story is about far more than juggling, accidents, recovery, business, or travel. It is about refusing to surrender when life knocks you flat—and choosing to Be the Best you can be, even when getting back up seems impossible.
We cannot control everything that happens to us, but we can choose how we respond and what we build next. A wonderful life rarely appears by accident; we create it through our choices, attitude, courage, and determination.
Life may toss us a few unexpected balls, but we can always pick them up, begin again, and keep moving forward. That is what it means to Be the Best—not to be perfect, but to give life your best effort every day.
At three o’clock, I walked to Happy Hour. After passing seven—yes, seven—walkers along the way, I was not feeling particularly happy. Part of me wanted to return to my room and enjoy my own company. Once again, that familiar question appeared: “What am I doing here?”
When the music began, curiosity pulled me inside for a look. The place was packed, and every chair was taken, so I found a seat at the bar. The entertainer played recordings and sang along, mostly country music, which suited the crowd perfectly. Although everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, I still felt as though there was little there for me.
Then I saw Kiea and her son, her young helper, Noah, who was carrying snacks and drinks to the residents. I decided the boy deserved something more exciting, so I took him aside and taught him to juggle scarves. Watching him discover a brand-new skill delighted me. Perhaps that was why I was there—to help someone else Be the Best he could be, one floating scarf at a time.
Later, another helper about my age walked past. With so many older residents around, it was refreshing to see someone closer to my generation. I did not exactly “fall” for her—but I may have stumbled slightly! Then, looky there—a table full of ladies invited me to join them. I politely declined, perhaps missing an adventure or wisely avoiding one. With me, it could have gone either way!
When “Sweet Caroline” began, the entire room came alive. Everyone sang, smiled, and joined in as the entertainer energized the crowd. After a Sangria or two, I found myself smiling as well.
Perhaps Happy Hour had not been such a bad idea after all. Sometimes, being your best simply means stepping outside your room, giving the moment a chance, helping someone learn something new—and allowing life to surprise you.
>>>>>AUGUST 12
This morning, I am looking through the window just to the left of where I sit and type. Beyond the glass, the world is still wrapped in darkness, quietly and patiently waiting for a new day to begin.
Most mornings, I have the pleasure of watching the sun rise—or, more accurately, watching the Earth rotate until the sun comes into view. Either way, it is a magnificent daily performance, and somehow, I always have a front-row seat!
While the outside world slowly awakens, a much smaller world is already bustling across my desk. My one little ant has returned, wandering around as though it owns the place. It seems especially fascinated by my computer—perhaps it enjoys the warmth, the glow of the screen, or the inspirational words appearing before its tiny eyes. Maybe I have the world’s smallest blog subscriber!
Of course, I keep calling the ant “he,” but perhaps it is a “she.” How would anyone ever know? I certainly will not be conducting a microscopic inspection! I never personally asked which gender it is, and I doubt the ant plans to tell me. Whoever this determined little visitor may be, it is welcome to explore—as long as it does not start editing my sentences or demanding its own keyboard.
Speaking of unexpected appearances, the ant was not the only one sporting an interesting look today. I gave myself a haircut—but, as you can see in the photos, I shaved only half my head! My explanation is simple: only half the people I spoke with thought I should get a haircut, so I decided to follow exactly half their advice. Once again, it is Kit comedy in action—because if life hands you clippers, you might as well have a little fun!
Even the eyebrow is gone
With half a haircut and a full appetite, I headed to lunch. I asked for a small bowl of rice with just a little chili on top, and what they brought was exactly what I wanted. I was quite pleased! Surprisingly, hardly anyone noticed my new hairstyle. It seems most people are so focused on themselves that even half a shaved head can slip past them. Either that, or everyone here has learned not to question Kit comedy!
Lunch may have been small and simple, but dinner arrived with much greater ambition. Tonight’s meal was shrimp with mashed potatoes—and quite tasty, I must say! As you can see in the photo, the portion was enormous.
I have been asking them to serve me only half that much, but apparently the kitchen believes every plate should arrive ready to feed a small village. Once it was placed before me, of course, I felt obligated to eat it. Waste not, waist…well, let’s not discuss that part!
Just when I thought I could not eat another bite, along came the grand finale: delicious chocolate ice cream. I was surprised by just how wonderful it tasted—rich, creamy, and the perfect ending to an already satisfying meal.
My stomach may have requested a half portion for dinner, but somehow it discovered a secret compartment reserved exclusively for dessert. Funny how that always works! With the meals finished, the ice cream gone, and my half-haircut still receiving surprisingly little attention, I returned to my computer.
It is now 5:31 p.m., and I am settling in to work on this blog—writing, revising, polishing, and persuading a few stubborn sentences to behave themselves. I will keep going until every story flows smoothly, every idea is clear, and every word has earned its place.
I may not know exactly when I will finish, but one thing is certain: I am not stopping until this blog is ready to make someone smile, think, and perhaps feel inspired to create something wonderful in their own life.
The sun will rise, the ant will explore, the hair will eventually grow back, and another opportunity will always be waiting. YES, LIFE WILL GO ON—and so will I!
This morning, I looked through the window beside my computer. Beyond the glass, the world remains wrapped in darkness, quietly awaiting another day. Most mornings, I have the pleasure of watching the sun rise—or, more accurately, watching the Earth rotate until the sun comes into view. Either way, it is a magnificent daily performance, and somehow, I always have a front-row seat!
While the outside world slowly awakens, a much smaller world is already bustling across my desk. My one little ant has returned, wandering around as though it owns the place. Perhaps it enjoys the warmth of my computer, the glow of the screen, or the inspirational words appearing before its tiny eyes. Maybe I have the world’s smallest blog subscriber!
I keep calling the ant “he,” but perhaps it is a “she.” How would anyone know? I certainly will not be conducting a microscopic inspection! Whoever this determined visitor may be, it is welcome to explore—as long as it does not start editing my sentences or demanding its own keyboard.
Speaking of unusual appearances, the ant was not the only one sporting an interesting look today. I gave myself a haircut—but, as you can see in the photos, I shaved only half my head!
My explanation is simple: only half the people I spoke with thought I needed a haircut, so I followed exactly half their advice. Once again, it is Kit comedy in action—because if life hands you clippers, you might as well have some fun!
With half a haircut and a full appetite, I headed to lunch. I asked for a small bowl of rice with just a little chili on top, and they brought me exactly what I wanted. Success! Surprisingly, hardly anyone noticed my new hairstyle. Most people must be so focused on themselves that even half a shaved head can slip past them. Either that, or everyone here has learned not to question Kit comedy!
Lunch was small and simple, but dinner arrived with much greater ambition: shrimp with mashed potatoes—and quite tasty, I must say! As you can see in the photo, the portion was enormous.
I have repeatedly asked for half that much, but the kitchen apparently believes every plate should be prepared to feed a small village. Once it arrived, of course, I felt obligated to eat it. Waste not, waist…well, let’s not discuss that part!
Just when I thought I could not manage another bite, along came the grand finale: delicious chocolate ice cream. Rich, creamy, and wonderful—it was the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. My stomach may have requested a half portion for dinner, but somehow it discovered a secret compartment reserved exclusively for dessert. Funny how that always works!
With the meals finished, the ice cream gone, and my half-haircut still receiving surprisingly little attention, I returned to my computer.
It is now 5:31 p.m., and I am settling in to work on this blog—writing, revising, polishing, and persuading a few stubborn sentences to behave. I will continue until every story flows, every idea is clear, and every word has earned its place.
To Be the Best does not mean everything must be perfect. It means giving your finest effort to whatever is before you—even if that happens to be a blog, a bowl of chili, or half a haircut!
I may not know exactly when I will finish, but I will keep working until this blog is ready to make someone smile, think, and perhaps feel inspired to create something wonderful in their own life. The sun will rise, the ant will explore, the hair will grow back, and another opportunity to Be the Best will always be waiting.
YES, LIFE WILL GO ON—and so will I!
>>>>>AUGUST 13
It is a brand-new day, and yes, life continues moving forward. At this early hour—5:33 a.m.—I can hear someone vacuuming the hallway. I suppose the job must be done sometime, although this seems like a rather ambitious hour to declare war on dust! I only hope the roaring machine does not awaken anyone who is still enjoying a peaceful sleep.
Of course, half my head is still shaved nearly to the skull, while the other half remains untouched. I plan to keep this spectacular half-and-half hairstyle until tomorrow—part haircut, part social experiment, and entirely Kit! It certainly attracts a few curious looks, but that is part of the fun. Life becomes far more interesting when we are willing to be a little different, laugh at ourselves, and give everyone else something to smile about!
THE ANT
My little friend—the tiny ant who has been visiting me—was exploring another table nearby. He wandered all over the top as though he were inspecting every inch of his newly discovered territory. Perhaps he was searching for a crumb, enjoying an adventure, or simply trying to determine where that strange man with the computer had gone.
I watched him for a while, wondering where such a tiny traveler might be headed. The world must seem enormous when you are no bigger than a speck! I hope he eventually finds his way home and rejoins his family. Until then, he is welcome to continue exploring—just as long as he does not invite the entire colony over for breakfast!
TONI
Even Toni, who works in nursing here, reminded me that I must wear my shoes. At the time, I was carrying my Slaps rather than wearing them. My bare feet are no dirtier than the bottoms of anyone else’s shoes, and I am much more comfortable without footwear.
As I have written before, going barefoot is simply different—and people are often uncomfortable with anything outside the norm. How sad that something so harmless can cause so much concern. As you may know, I enjoy being different, choosing my own path, and occasionally giving “normal” a playful little kick in the pants!
Living here also means being surrounded by people much older than I am. I understand that aging is part of life and that, if I am fortunate, I will reach those later years myself. Yes, it’s a reminder that I will be older one day, but that day is in the future.
YOU’RE GETTING OLDER, TOO
Still, seeing so much age, frailty, and limitation every day can feel overwhelming. As you can probably tell, I am not very happy here. I often feel trapped, uncertain about how to leave or change the direction of my life.
Yet uncertainty does not mean hopelessness. I may not see the entire road forward, but I can start identifying the next step. I can speak with my family, explore my options, strengthen my body, continue writing, and keep building toward greater independence.
I have rebuilt my life before—more than once—and I refuse to believe that this place is the final chapter of my story. This may be where I am today, but it does not have to be where I remain tomorrow. I may have to rebuild, yet again, to bring back happiness.
CHANGE
A change? I know I want something in my life to change—I’m simply not sure yet what that change will look like. With so many possibilities ahead, the uncertainty can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Still, I do not need to have every answer today.
Sometimes change begins with one small step, one new idea, or the courage to explore a different path. My future is still waiting to be shaped—and ultimately, the choice is mine. Stay with me, you will read of glorious changes ahead.
There is still so much life waiting for me: new people to meet, places to explore, ideas to create, and adventures I have not yet imagined.
Ultimately, the choice is mine.
I may not have every answer today, but I do not need to see the entire road before taking the first step. Perhaps change begins by trying something new, following what brings me joy, and paying attention to what makes me feel most alive.
I am still here—still thinking, still dreaming, and still believing that something wonderful may be waiting just beyond today. My story is far from finished. There are new people to meet, fresh adventures to discover, unexpected opportunities to embrace, and many meaningful moments yet to experience.
WHAT’S NEXT?
My next chapter will not write itself, however. I must decide what I want it to say, gather the courage to begin, and take one small step forward. I may not know exactly where the story will lead, but that is part of the excitement. The blank page is not empty—it is filled with possibilities.
Now, I simply have to pick up the pen and begin writing. After all, the most exciting chapters of my life may still be waiting to unfold! Are more books on the way? My busy fingers are already dancing across the keyboard—and they are shouting, “YES!”
At 3 p.m., it was drink time. They were sampling different kinds of bourbon. The first was Jim Beam bourbon—80 proof and packing quite a punch! This was only a tasting, with pretzels and Coke provided afterward to soften the blow. The plan was simple: sip the bourbon, eat a few pretzels, and wash everything down with Coke. I, not liking either pretzels or Coke, did not last very long.
BOURBON
I sampled the bourbon—and one taste was plenty for me. I just had my one plastic cup, which held about half an inch of Whiskey. My first time drinking whiskey surprised me. The effects on your brain happen quickly. I can see why someone might become a drunk.
I skipped the pretzels and Coke, walked back to my room, and returned to writing. Honestly, I found far more pleasure in sharing these words with you than in sipping whiskey. Imagine that—you are more important to me than Jim Beam Whiskey! Now that is something worth raising a glass to, yes!
Keep the old people drunk.
Keep the old people happy.
Still an hour until dinner. Don’t worry, I will last until then.
Dinner was a single beef enchilada.
A quick and tasty meal.
They usually serve a couple of enchiladas; I had asked for just one.
>>>>>AUGUST 14
They say, “The early bird gets the worm,” but I am usually awake before the birds even begin chirping—and you will never catch me eating a worm! So, what does that make me—the early bird’s alarm clock? While those feathered sleepyheads are still tucked into their nests, dreaming of breakfast, I am already welcoming the day.BOY, I DON’T WANT TO END UP LIKE THIS GUY
With a warm mug of tea nearby, I begin writing, thinking, and preparing to make the most of another beautiful morning. Perhaps I am not merely an early bird. Maybe I am the fellow who flips on the sunrise, wakes the birds, and announces, “All right, everybody—up and at ’em! The worms are not going to wait forever!”
The rest of my beard will be shaved away today, bringing my latest experiment in “Kit fashion” to a close. More Kit humor, of course! For a couple of days, I walked around with half my head shaved and the other half untouched—a hairstyle guaranteed to make people look twice and wonder whether I had misplaced my barber halfway through the job.
Last evening, Nikoletta finally saw my unusual creation. I am glad she had the opportunity to experience my wonderfully “different” look before it disappeared. I may have worn it for only a couple of days, but that was long enough to spark smiles, puzzled expressions, and a little extra laughter. But what continues to surprise me is that not everyone even looks at people’s faces. They are missing so much in life.
Today, the remaining hair and beard will be shaved away, and I will return to looking slightly more conventional—at least on the outside. Do not worry, though: the hair may disappear, but my playful spirit is not going anywhere. Life is simply more fun when we are willing to be different, surprise people, and give the world something to smile about!
It is only about 6 a.m., and I have already written a large portion of today’s blog. While much of the world is still asleep, my fingers are busy, my thoughts are dancing, and the words are happily marching across the page. Some sentences arrive perfectly dressed and ready to go, while others stumble in wearing mismatched socks and need a little help getting themselves together!
There is something magical about writing during these peaceful early-morning hours. The hallways are quiet, distractions are still snoozing, and my imagination has plenty of room to stretch, wander, and play. By the time the birds begin singing outside my window, I may have accomplished half a day’s work—and perhaps given those sleepy birds a few ideas for starting blogs of their own!
Today, I finished the job—all the hair on my head is officially gone! I even shaved off my eyebrows, although I decided my eyelashes deserved a pardon. Removing those would have been a little too ambitious, even for me. So, here I am: a completely clean-shaven Kit—streamlined, aerodynamic, and ready to face the world! (and the ladies.)
Too weird for you?
Something you would never do?
Go ahead—I dare you. Surprise me!
At lunchtime, lively German music filled the air, creating the perfect atmosphere at https://dunderbaks.com/. Seven of us traveled there on the bus, with Kiea behind the wheel. The restaurant was crowded, but the staff kindly found us a private room where we could relax and enjoy ourselves.
Everyone on the trip except Kiea and me used either a walker or a wheelchair, and every one of us—including me—wore glasses. We were quite the spectacular spectacle-wearing crew! I helped with the loading and unloading wherever I could.
I had brought only six dollars, figuring two bucks for a beer and four for lunch. Apparently, my menu prices had traveled straight from 1975! Ahh, this brought my mind back to Germany, where I have been 3 different times. Yes, each time I did eat some bratwurst.
The beer, bratwurst, and sauerkraut came to about twenty-two dollars. Fortunately, I had brought a credit card, so my German feast—and my appetite—were saved. It was a wonderful outing filled with delicious food, cheerful music, and good company—an ausgezeichnet time at a truly vorzüglich place!
After that delicious lunch, I returned to Legacy and settled back into life here. As you may have noticed, I have been questioning whether this is truly where I belong—or whether living here is really the best choice for me. Too often, I feel trapped, and I deeply miss the freedom to go where I want and make my own decisions.
Still, I refuse to believe that my freedom, independence, and adventures are behind me. Somewhere ahead, a new path is waiting—one filled with purpose, possibility, and perhaps a few wonderful surprises. My next chapter has not yet been written; I simply need to find the courage, direction, and determination to turn the page.
What is next for Kit?
Of course, if I were able to come up with an answer, I would and could amaze the world.
=============
PART 3—BLOG 390—BE THE BEST
Are my fingers nimble?
Are the hands quick?
Is my mind fast?
Are the hands always ready to perform another keyboard trick?
Like juggling tricks, it is unlimited.
And remember, these are the hands of an advanced juggler.
I’m always aiming for excellence rather than mediocrity.
CHOOSE NOW—MEDIOCRITY OR EXCELLENCE!
Mediocrity stems from choosing to settle. It’s choosing comfort over challenge, routine over growth, and complacency over excellence. But the problem is, you can’t build greatness on a foundation of “good enough.” Excellence demands more.
You do not have to be perfect—just be determined to become better every day. It’s that easy. Give today your finest effort, and tomorrow you will meet a stronger you. Excellence begins when you stop making excuses and start making progress.
As happened to me, life may knock you down, but courage helps you rise with greater purpose. Your past explains where you have been; it does not decide where you are going. Success is built one positive choice, one brave step, and one determined day at a time. Remember, you can change direction at any time.
A stumble is not the end of the journey—it is an invitation to get up and grow. Believe in your possibilities, especially when the path ahead feels uncertain. You cannot always control what happens, but you can control what you create from it. Aim high, work hard, keep smiling, and BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE!
Give your finest effort, learn from every stumble, and keep growing. You don’t have to be perfect—just determined, enthusiastic, and a little better than yesterday.
I had already written most of this week’s blog, and today’s portion was finished by 8 a.m. Not bad for ten busy little workers—eight fingers, two thumbs, and one determined mind conducting the whole orchestra!
I returned from breakfast after eating my usual meal. I wore my Slaps, as I often do, but while sitting with my bare feet tucked beneath the table, a staff member reminded me to keep shoes on. Some people seem uncomfortable with anything outside the ordinary. As for me, I prefer comfort—and perhaps a little harmless rebellion—to unnecessary rules.
Someone also delivered my six morning pills—for high blood pressure, allergies, and a couple of vitamins. I dislike taking medication, but I understand that some may be necessary. If my doctors believe the pills are helping me stay healthy, I will keep taking them—even if I do not smile while swallowing them!
One pleasant convenience of living here is the laundry service. Staff members collect our dirty clothes, wash and fold them, and return everything clean. We pay a hefty price to live here, but it does include a few welcome luxuries. Someone just collected my laundry—another chore happily crossed off my list!
With cooking, cleaning, and laundry taken care of, I have plenty of time to focus on my blog. I hope I do not become too spoiled, though. One day, I may stare at a washing machine and wonder which button makes the magic happen!
The only thing I “cook” is hot water for tea—and fortunately, I have mastered the recipe. I drink two large mugs each day, letting the warmth wake my mind and keep me moving. My ritual is simple: brew, sip, smile, and create another wonderful day—and, hopefully, another excellent blog. Is it working?
For lunch, I ordered a cheeseburger with four crispy tater tots. The burger was tasty, but I have not been eating much lately. After half the burger and a few tots, my stomach waved a tiny white flag and declared, “That’s enough!” I sent the rest back—including most of the handful of tots they brought instead of the four I had asked for.
I hate wasting food, especially knowing that people nearby may be hungry. I wish restaurants and facilities made it easier to share untouched leftovers rather than tossing them away. When I have more than I need, I would gladly give it to someone who could use a good meal.
If you are hungry, please let me know. My extra food could become your welcome meal instead of waste. A small act of sharing can make a meaningful difference. Can I help? And when you have a little extra, do you share it with others? Help others when you can.==============================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
==============================PART 4) 🔥 A FEW SPARKS TO SLIP INTO YOUR POCKET
✨ THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are like mental spark plugs. 💥 They jolt the mind awake, shrink giant problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can flip your thinking upside down—turning “I can’t” into “Why not give it a shot?” The right words at the right moment can become a tiny flashlight in a dark hallway. 🔦But here’s where the real magic happens: repetition turns inspiration into identity. The more you repeat a truth, the more your mind begins to believe it… and eventually, your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on a wall is a decoration. A quote lived out through your actions? That becomes a transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by?
Now that’s power. ✨
==========
1) Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
2) Kit Summers: “Mediocrity Waits for Opportunity;
Your Excellence Creates it.”
3) Maya Angelou: “Do the best you can until you know better.
Then when you know better, do the best you can.”
4) Vince Lombardi: “Perfection is not attainable.
But if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”
5) Booker T. Washington: “Excellence is to do a common thing uncommonly.”
6) Ralph Waldo Emerson: “To be yourself in a world that is
Constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
7) Confucius: “He who aims at the stars may not strike one.
But he will not shoot his hand into the mud either.”
8) Henry David Thoreau: “If one advances confidently
In the direction of his dreams.
And endeavors to live the life which he has imagined.
He will meet with unexpected success in common hours.”
9) Colin Powell: “If you are going to achieve excellence in big things,
You develop the habit in little matters.”
10) Jackson Brown Jr.: “Remember that the best relationship
is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.”
===============
PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
In everything you do this week—AIM FOR EXCELLENCE!
Whether the task is enormous or tiny, give it your finest effort.
Take pride in what you accomplish.
And always reach for your very best!
MAKE THIS A NEW HABIT.
YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS.
You can be more—YOU ARE MORE!
=================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 391—When was the Last Time You did a Cartwheel?
=================
I miss you. 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.
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! 🌟August 11, 2026BLOG 389—YES, YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 389—YES, YOU’RE GETTING THERE!Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
Read This Entire Blog; it’s Good for Your Brain.
Learn More About Me >> https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
This Blog is Best Read on a Laptop, Rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS — World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback.
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
If these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨
====================
My new address here is >> kitsummers.com
Kit Summers (A love letter would be dandy.) kitsummers@gmail.com
The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL 33647
Call me >> 610-400-3233
=======================I FEEL THAT THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET.
DAILY—IT’S A NEW DAY, IT’S A NEW LIFE.
DON’T LIVE IN THE FUTURE OR THE PAST.
WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE ONE DAY — MAKE PLANS NOW!
MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT YOU’RE HOLDING RIGHT NOW!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 >>
Most people overestimate what they can accomplish in a single year.
If you make every little thing good, you make the entire thing phenomenal.
I write this for you, but it’s also for me—as the words help you, they help me, too.
Happiness is not about getting all that you want. It’s about enjoying all that you have.
Small steps may not seem impressive today, but over time, they can build an extraordinary life. K
People often greatly underestimate what they can achieve over two or three decades of steady effort.PART 1) THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep Growing. Keep Believing in You.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
===================
Every positive choice moves you toward a stronger, healthier, and happier future. Progress may not always be obvious, but each good decision counts. Keep moving forward, one determined step at a time.
You know what they say—age is just a number. What truly matters is how you see yourself and the possibilities still waiting ahead. A youthful spirit does not come from the candles on your birthday cake; it comes from curiosity, enthusiasm, love, laughter, and a willingness to keep learning and growing.
Your body may collect a few wrinkles and creaks along the way, but your mind can remain hopeful, adventurous, and wonderfully alive. Never allow your age to tell you what you can or cannot do. Think young, stay engaged, welcome new challenges, and keep moving forward. After all, growing older is automatic—but growing better is a choice!
My goal is to live beyond 100. Too ambitious? I once joked that my goal was to live to 32—but I’m already 67, so apparently I overshot! Later in this blog, I’ll share practical ideas for adding strength, purpose, laughter, and joy to the years ahead.
YES—YOU ARE GETTING THERE!
===================================
WOODSIDE MOTION
I want to tell you about Christopher Jones and the team at Woodside Motion. They discovered my books and life story, reached out to me, and I’m genuinely glad they did.
If you’re an author who dreams of seeing your book brought to life through film or television, Woodside Motion may be worth exploring. They help authors understand the book-to-film process, evaluate stories for screen potential, prepare professional supporting materials, and introduce promising projects to production companies. Take a look >>> https://woodsidemotion.com/
What has impressed me most is their honest communication and step-by-step guidance. They don’t rush authors or make promises that only a production company can fulfill. Instead, they work to give each story its best opportunity to reach the screen. Contact Christopher to learn more—your story might be exactly what he is looking for! — (347) 732-3681.
Christopher also connected me with Apex Media,
which produced a video about my life and message.
Have you seen it? You can watch it here >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4qaG2yi7hI.
I think it came out surprisingly well—
Although I may be slightly biased because I’m the fellow in it!
My blog reaches people from every walk of life. Some of you are authors or performers, while others have lived extraordinary lives and dream of sharing your stories with the world. If that sounds like you, Woodside Motion may offer an exciting opportunity worth exploring.
Each week, after posting my blog, I stare at the blank page for the next one and wonder–will I find enough to write about? Then I begin typing. One thought leads to another, the words multiply, and before I know it, another full blog has come to life. Apparently, my greatest challenge isn’t finding enough words—it’s convincing them to stop!
=======================
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration–Served Playfully.
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening.
One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is there now.
>>>>>AUGUST 1
First, I owe you an apology. With nothing much happening today, I began moving and deleting things—and apparently deleted more than I intended. I’m rebuilding this from memory, or what remains of it! Will I remember it? I doubt it! But, then again . . .
Life keeps moving forward, whether we feel ready or not. The years pass, circumstances change, and every new season brings its own surprises, challenges, and opportunities. We all grow older—that part is unavoidable—but we never have to stop growing wiser, stronger, kinder, and more curious.
That is the heart of this blog: to keep learning, keep laughing, and keep living with purpose. Try something new. Challenge your mind. Move your body. Share your love. Laugh at life’s occasional nonsense, and never stop searching for reasons to wake up excited about tomorrow.
Growing older is not the end of the adventure; it is simply another chapter. You still have lessons to learn, people to inspire, dreams to pursue, and memories to create. As long as you are breathing, you are still becoming—and your best days may be waiting just around the next bend. No matter your age!
I reread my last blog and discovered it had enough words to qualify as a small novel. This time, I’m determined to keep things shorter and sharper. We’ll see how long that noble experiment survives once my fingers start talking!
NOONISH
Lunch was a delicious ham sandwich. The last time I ordered one, the ham was sliced far too thick for me to chew comfortably. This time, I asked for paper-thin slices—and that is exactly what they brought. It was much easier to eat and tasted wonderful. Once again, the kitchen came through. The meals here are consistently fantastic, and I truly appreciate the care they put into preparing them.
>>>>>AUGUST 2
WHO–ME?
I shouldn’t tell you this, but when I woke at 3:30 this morning, I discovered that, at 67, everything was still in working order. Yes—a bona fide boner. I laughed. The equipment still works; unfortunately, nobody was there to celebrate the good news. So I rolled over and let nature—and gravity—handle the situation.
SO EARLY
Should I share something this personal? Perhaps not—but real life isn’t made entirely of polished success stories. Sometimes it inspires us, sometimes it leaves us lonely, and sometimes it delivers an unexpected laugh at 3:30 in the morning.
PERSONAL HOGWASH
(Have you ever tried washing a hog?)
Humor has carried me through two devastating accidents, a coma, and more trouble than I ever ordered from life’s menu. Laughter doesn’t erase hardship, but it makes the load lighter. If I can make you smile—even while you wonder, “Did Kit really write that?”—I’ve done something worthwhile.
WHAT’S THE BEST MEDICINE?
Besides, if I can’t laugh at myself, I’m giving everyone else far too much work—and believe me, life has already provided plenty of material! Laughing at my mistakes, awkward moments, and unexpected detours keeps me humble, hopeful, and moving forward. We all stumble occasionally; the secret is to stand back up, dust ourselves off, and enjoy the punchline along the way.
DOUBLE VISION
I often see double while writing my blog. Perhaps that makes every joke twice as funny—or gives me two chances to misspell the same word. If I lose half my readers, I can look at the screen and pretend they’ve doubled!
LEGACY
Living at Legacy has been difficult. Activities are scheduled every day, but none have captured my interest. Bingo and beanbag toss may thrill some people, but I’m still waiting for “Extreme Juggling While Writing a Bestseller” to appear on the calendar.
FINGER TIME
For now, I spend most of my time in my room, working at the computer and writing to you. It gives my days purpose and keeps my mind juggling ideas. If writing counts as exercise, my fingers should be magnificent!
TINKER TIME
The blog is written, but it is never truly finished. I read it again and again—rearranging sentences, corralling runaway commas, and sprinkling in humor wherever it can add a smile. Each revision makes the writing a little clearer, stronger, and more enjoyable. Eventually, I must stop tinkering and let it go—otherwise, I might still be editing this week’s blog when next week arrives!
SUNDAY?
Today is only Sunday, and the blog won’t go out until Friday. That gives me five more days to change a perfectly good sentence seven times. Like a juggling routine, a blog can always be improved—but eventually, you must stop rehearsing and release it into the world.
A SLOW SUNDAY
Sundays here move at the speed of a turtle wearing bedroom slippers. Rather than sit inside and watch the minutes crawl, I stepped outside and walked around the building—about 800 meters, or half a mile. It wasn’t a marathon, but every step moved me forward—and gave that sleepy turtle some competition.
FRESH BREATH?
Before leaving, I used my “breath freshener,” otherwise known as my inhaler, but my asthma came along anyway. It was an unwanted companion, yet I completed the walk. Half a mile may not impress everyone, but every step forward counts—and I took about a thousand of them.
A FRIGHTENING MOMENT
At about 3:00 pm, while on the floor untangling computer cables, I suddenly lost my balance. The room spun, pain shot through my body, and I struggled to steady myself.
DIZZY
My asthma has also been especially bad lately, making ordinary movement difficult—and sometimes frightening. With no animals here to trigger it, I don’t understand why my breathing has worsened. Between the dizziness, pain, and shortness of breath, it was an unsettling afternoon.
ONE NOODLE AT A TIME
Dinner was spaghetti covered in a rich, tasty meat sauce. It smelled wonderful, but without properly functioning teeth, even spaghetti becomes a challenge. We seldom appreciate the ability to chew until it disappears.
NOODLE HELL
Still, I took small bites, ate slowly, and enjoyed every bit I could. It may take me longer to finish a meal these days, but I refuse to let a few stubborn noodles steal my appetite—or my sense of humor. Life keeps serving up unexpected challenges, and I keep finding new ways to adapt.
CHALLENGE
I may not handle everything as easily as I once did, but that doesn’t mean I stop trying—or stop enjoying life along the way. Some challenges require more patience, concentration, and determination than they once did, but I continue to adapt and find new ways to move forward.
QUIETLY
Progress doesn’t always arrive in giant leaps; sometimes it comes quietly through small victories that most people never notice. With a positive attitude, a stubborn spirit, and a healthy sense of humor, I will keep doing my best—one careful bite, one steady step, and one slippery noodle at a time.
HE IS 123!
HOW OLD ARE YOU?>>>>AUGUST 3
At 9:00 this morning, I taught wonderful Ilene, who is in her 70s, how to juggle scarves. She quickly grasped the basic movements and promised to keep practicing—a joyful reminder that you are never too old to learn something new or toss a little fun into life!
WALMART—NO!
I went downstairs, ready for our Walmart adventure, only to discover that the trip had been canceled. It is now scheduled for Wednesday. Apparently, Walmart wasn’t ready for me today—but perhaps it will be by then!
My main mission is to replenish my supply of Lindor chocolates. Their rich, creamy centers are simply irresistible, and because my food card covers them, they almost seem free. Unfortunately, the calories refuse to accept my food card—they always charge full price!
CHOCOLATE—YES!
Moderation is the delicious answer: enjoy a few, savor every creamy bite, and make the bag last—if temptation allows! Life is far too short to give up chocolate, but hopefully long enough to enjoy it one heavenly piece at a time, all the way to 100—and beyond!The meal portions here are often much larger than I can eat. Today, I explained that I have a small appetite and hate wasting food. She nodded as though she completely understood—then returned with enough food to feed an entire team of hungry jugglers! Apparently, my request for a smaller portion got lost somewhere between the kitchen and my plate.
For lunch, I ordered a cheeseburger and carefully requested only four French fries. I thought I had made myself clear—four fries, not forty! Naturally, the plate arrived with a generous handful piled beside the burger. Apparently, the kitchen is excellent at cooking, but counting French fries is still a work in progress. I ate what I could, smiled at the rest, and accepted that around here, “just four” apparently translates to “keep them coming!”
Hungry?
I will gladly share!
Dinner was a delicious pasta dish. They serve an impressive variety of meals here, and nearly everything has been scrumptious. That may be the first time I have written scrumptious—and I even spelled it correctly! Now that is an accomplishment worth savoring.
In the evening, I usually begin watching the news, although there seldom seems to be much good news. Afterward, I watch whatever’s on, like “Friends”. Television can waste time, but sometimes a little harmless time-wasting is exactly what the mind needs.
I go to bed early, read for a while, and drift off. As you know, I’m an early riser. This morning, my day began at 3:00 a.3:00 amgh one part of me had apparently risen first! Even the sun needs me to get things started. What can I say? I report the news as I see it—and feel it!
>>>>>AUGUST 4
I started working on this blog at about 4:30 this morning, and I like the way it’s coming together. I’ve packed it with thoughts and ideas that may help you live a happier, healthier, and more meaningful life. Did you notice—or were you still asleep while I was busy changing the world before breakfast?
The sun finally peeked through the clouds, although it still seems reluctant to show its face. It may not be the prettiest day outside, but that doesn’t mean it can’t become a wonderful day. As usual, I’ll make the best of whatever comes my way—clouds and all!
I see so many people relying on walkers and wheelchairs to move through their days. These important aids provide safety, stability, and a measure of independence, allowing people to reach places they might not otherwise be able to. Still, it saddens me to see how difficult mobility has become for so many. Something as simple as standing up, walking across a room, or stepping outside can require tremendous effort, patience, and courage.
Some may need assistance for the rest of their lives, while others may slowly regain strength and improve. Either way, watching them reminds me never to take my own mobility for granted. Every step is a gift, every walk is an opportunity, and every bit of movement is worth appreciating. As long as I am able, I intend to keep moving forward—one careful, determined, and grateful step at a time.
>>>>>AUGUST 5
This morning, I’ve been busy writing to literary agents and speakers’ bureaus. I have the time, determination, and a powerful story—so why not make the effort? Most may not respond, but it takes only one enthusiastic “YES!” to open the right door. I intend to reach hundreds, and I’ll keep knocking until opportunity answers.
I planned to take today’s bus to Walmart, but it left at 10:010:00 amd I was supposed to be at 9:00. Oops! My main mission was to buy more Lindor chocolates. Considering how difficult they are to resist, perhaps missing the bus was life’s sneaky way of protecting my waistline.
Today, I received a call from each of my daughters, Jasmine and April. They both asked what I had been doing, but I struggled to come up with answers. Some days pass quietly, without leaving much to report.
They both encouraged me to exercise more—and I know they are right. I want to become stronger and healthier, too. Wanting it is the first step; now it is time to put that desire into motion, one workout and one determined step at a time.
Still, hearing their voices meant the world to me. I love them both deeply, and each has done so much to support and encourage me. I am incredibly grateful—and truly fortunate—to have two such wonderful daughters in my life.
Lunch was especially tasty: tender, bite-sized shrimp in a delightful sauce, potatoes covered with rich gravy, and broccoli cooked just right. The meals here are consistently varied, flavorful, and prepared with care. My only complaint is that the portions are often larger than my appetite—but that is a pretty delicious problem to have.
Still, even with the wonderful food, living here is not exactly paradise. Then I checked the schedule and discovered a Margarita Happy Hour at 3:00. Oh boy—here we go again! Perhaps paradise arrives in a glass with a salted rim.
Naturally, curiosity got the better of me, so I headed downstairs to investigate. About 15 women and only 5 men attended, so we gentlemen were greatly outnumbered. Still, we bravely carried on, held our ground, and somehow survived the overwhelming odds—with smiles on our faces!
We sampled strawberry, orange, and berry margaritas containing very little alcohol—just enough to make the afternoon slightly more interesting. Fresh fruit was served, and eventually everyone received a full margarita. Yes, I felt its cheerful effects later, and I must admit, it felt pretty good!
The theme was Polynesian, immediately carrying me back to the wonderful months when Barrett and I lived in Hawaii and performed throughout the islands. We were even hired to entertain audiences at the Polynesian Cultural Center—an experience I will never forget.
The music, breathtaking scenery, warm island spirit, and thrill of performing created memories that still bring a smile to my face. Hawaii gave me far more than beautiful views; it gave me an unforgettable chapter in my life.
The staff members seemed to enjoy the celebration even more than the residents did. From where I sat, the party’s unspoken philosophy appeared to be: “Keep everyone happy—and keep those margaritas flowing!” Apparently, good spirits came in more than one form.
They asked trivia questions about Polynesia, tropical fruits, Hawaii, and the surrounding islands. Everyone else enjoyed the game, but it wasn’t exactly floating my outrigger canoe. When they paused for a break, I quietly slipped away and returned to what I enjoy most—writing to you.
I can still hear the festivities from here, but I won’t be returning. They’re asking another question about Hawaii, and I happen to know the answer—but I’ll keep it to myself. After all, I once lived in Hawaii for three months. Sometimes it’s more fun to know the answer than to shout it across the room!
ALOHA, FOLKS!
Dinner will arrive in less than an hour. As usual, I won’t eat much. My appetite has packed its bags and disappeared because nothing sounds especially good right now. Still, I’ll go to the dining room, see what they are serving, and try a little. Sometimes one good bite is enough to awaken a sleepy appetite.
>>>>>AUGUST 6
Today is partly cloudy, which makes me wonder: Whatever happened to sunny Florida? The sunshine is simply taking a coffee break. Still, the cooler weather may make walking a little more comfortable. Jasmine, today I am beginning my plan to walk after every meal.
These short walks will gradually strengthen my body, improve my breathing, and help calm my asthma. I will take it slowly and listen carefully to my body. My goal is to keep building my strength until I can eventually start running again. Every journey begins with one step—and today, I am taking several!
Instead of walking outside, I wandered through the hallways with my feet happily bare. After about a quarter mile of walking on the carpet, my asthma began to flare. So I stopped by my room for a puff from my inhaler—my personal breath freshener. It wasn’t a marathon, but every step carried me closer to better health. Are you getting enough exercise?
>>>>>AUGUST 7
When I awoke around 3:30 am, a mighty dream was still dancing through my mind. At first, I remembered it in vivid detail, but almost instantly, it vanished—like a shy performer slipping behind the curtain before taking a bow.
No matter how hard I tried, I could not pull it back, and losing something so wonderful made me a little sad. Most of us dream while we sleep, yet those mysterious nighttime adventures often disappear the moment we awaken. How about you—do you remember your dreams?
I function fairly well on about five hours of sleep each night. Experts recommend seven or eight hours, but my mind refuses to remain in dreamland that long. I cannot force myself to sleep, so what c
an I do? Rather than wrestle with my pillow, I make the most of those peaceful early-morning hours.
Here I am once again, typing these words to you in the peaceful stillness of the early morning. While much of the world remains asleep, my mind is wide awake—gathering thoughts, chasing ideas, and turning them into sentences. It seems to enjoy this quiet ritual, and so do I. But the important question is: Do you enjoy reading what my restless mind creates for you?
By 6:00 this morning, I was already wide awake, had gathered my thoughts, and was moving forward with purpose. I had even written a good portion of today’s blog while much of the world was still stretching, yawning, and searching for the coffee pot.
There is something wonderfully peaceful about being productive in the early morning. The quiet gives my mind room to wander, explore, and turn fresh thoughts into words. It feels good to begin the day with momentum—even before the sun has clocked in for work!
Did you know I get a little help with my writing? I send my work through ChatGPT to sharpen the language, improve the flow, and make each message clearer. The thoughts, stories, experiences, and ideas are entirely mine; ChatGPT helps me polish and organize them.
Then I carefully review every sentence, choosing the words I hope will inspire you, encourage you, and add something meaningful to your life. ChatGPT is free to use, although I pay a small monthly fee for additional features—and I believe it is money well spent! I mainly use Chat for editing words, but it has so much more. And, remember, it’s FREE!
To learn about Chat, see >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zPQV1BSH_k&t=529s
We went to—https://hellasbakery.com/ in Tarpon Springs for a Greek lunch today. The word delightful comes to mind. Today was Friday, and there were so many hungry people there. I must say, Linn bought my lunch, what a kind thing.
HELLAS IN THE 80s
Hellas Restaurant & Bakery is a wonderful Greek destination in Tarpon Springs’ historic Sponge Docks. Family-owned since 1970, it offers authentic Greek meals and a bakery overflowing with tempting pastries—sweet danger behind glass!
- Address: 785 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
- Phone: (727) 943-2400
- Bakery hours: Sunday–Thursday, 9 a.9 amm9 am pmy–Saturday, 9 a.9 ammp10:30 pmar treats: baklava, cheesecake, galaktoboureko, traditional baklava, kourabiedes cookies, and spanakopita
- Parking: Complimentary customer parking is available, with validation.
The drive back took about an hour, but the outing was well worth the travel time. We may return someday to explore more of the area’s interesting places, but for today, lunch was our only adventure.
The meal was delicious, the scenery was delightful, and the friendly company made the journey even more enjoyable. For dessert, we had baklava—sweet, flaky, and quite tasty! By the time we returned to Legacy, everyone agreed that it had been a wonderful little outing. We shared good food, pleasant conversation, and plenty of smiles along the way.
I’m gradually learning everyone’s names. Shakeia drove us, and the passengers included Joe, Mary Ellen—a name I certainly remember—Betty, Linn, Barbara, Eileen, and one other person. Thank you, Linn, for generously buying my lunch! Two people used wheelchairs, two had walkers, and the rest of us walked. Eileen—or “You Lean”—inspired our little joke: we all lean toward Eileen! Yes, we were quite a group, rolling and strolling our way through a delightful day.
Sorry, I wasn’t ready with my camera, but I’ll be prepared next time. The drive out there was quite pleasant, with plenty of beautiful trees and lush foliage along the way. We passed through a small town where I noticed that many apartment windows—even those on the second and third floors—were completely covered.
Did you catch that? Even the windows high above the ground, where hardly anyone could look inside, were covered! And what would anyone see, anyway? Wherever I live, I prefer to keep my windows uncovered—and during pleasant weather, open. Natural sunlight is sooooo much better than staring at closed blinds. Let the sunshine in!
Another wonderful sight was the many paved bicycle paths running throughout the area. Hopefully, I will have a bike soon and can “transmute” those paths—yes, I’m giving that word a brand-new job! I’ll ride them as far as my legs and curiosity will carry me, perhaps eventually exploring every corner of Florida. Watch out, Sunshine State—Kit may soon be rolling your way!
===========================
PART 3—BLOG 389—YES, YOU’RE GETTING THERE!LEARN!
In this section, I share lessons that have helped me grow through life’s greatest victories and toughest setbacks. I hope that these fresh perspectives help you recognize new possibilities, live with purpose, and build a healthier, happier life.
HOW SAD . . .
YOU CAN DO IT!
More people than ever are celebrating their 100th birthday—and the party is growing! According to the United Nations, more than 722,000 centenarians live worldwide, and that remarkable number is expected to climb dramatically in the coming decades. Living to 100, once considered extraordinary, is becoming increasingly achievable—200, anyone?
WILL YOU JOIN US?
I rarely hear anyone say, “My goal is to live to 100.” We carefully plan vacations, careers, finances, and retirement, yet seldom create a strategy for living a long, healthy, and meaningful life. Too often, we let the years pass and hope for the best. I’ve decided to think differently—to make choices today that can help me enjoy more strength, purpose, happiness, and adventure in the years ahead.
BE HAPPY
My goal is to live well beyond 100. I watch what I eat, stay active, exercise my mind, continue learning, laugh often, and choose hope over excuses. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, but our choices today can improve our chances of enjoying many more tomorrows.
SURVIVAL
After surviving two devastating accidents and a 37-day coma, I no longer take a single day for granted. Every sunrise is another opportunity to learn, encourage someone, grow stronger, and keep climbing. Life is fragile—but the human spirit is wonderfully stubborn.
SMILE!
How long do you want to live? More importantly, who do you want to be when you reach that age? Do you want to be strong and capable, curious and engaged, hopeful and excited about each new day—or weak, complacent, and discouraged?
IT’S YOUR TIME
A long life is not simply about adding more years to your journey; it is about filling those years with vibrant health, meaningful purpose, joyful laughter, treasured relationships, and countless reasons to keep moving forward. You still have an extraordinary amount of life within you—find it, embrace it, and use every bit of it!
4,000,000?
Researchers project that by 2054, nearly four million people worldwide could be 100 or older. Imagine millions of centenarians still learning, loving, creating, laughing, and making a difference. Keep building a healthy, purposeful life today—and you will be proudly standing among them!
IT’S A GOOD THING
I don’t see old age as something to fear. I see it as another mountain worth climbing. Every healthy meal, brisk walk, restful night, meaningful conversation, and conquered challenge is an investment in the years ahead. YOU WILL GET OLD AND DIE—Why not do it in style?
DOLLS
Women hold a sizable advantage in longevity. In the United States, more than three out of four centenarians are women. Biology plays a part, but lifestyle matters too. Women often develop heart disease later, take fewer unnecessary risks, and pay closer attention to preventive healthcare. Apparently, asking for directions really can extend your life!
GUYS
Men, meanwhile, have earned a reputation for taking chances—sometimes wisely, sometimes foolishly, and occasionally without consulting the brain at all. Risks can produce thrilling adventures and wonderful stories. They can also lead straight to the emergency room, complete with a bandage, a bruised ego, and a hospital bill capable of causing a second injury. Could this be me?
BOOM!
If my history is any indication, women are also far less likely than men to wander into the path of a moving truck. I speak from painful experience—I’ve been hit not once, but twice! Apparently, after the first collision, life decided I needed a refresher course. I survived both encounters, but I certainly don’t recommend putting “argue with a truck” on your bucket list. Trust me, the truck usually wins.
HABIT?
Years ago, I joked, “Getting old is just a habit people think they have to follow.” Birthdays keep coming, of course, but growing older doesn’t mean giving up on living. I’m still planning, learning, writing, dreaming, and setting goals. Why should any of that stop simply because another candle appears on the cake?
YOUR AGE IS A FACTOR
Whether you’re 30, 60, 80, or already in your 90s, it’s never too early—or too late—to invest in yourself. Eat a little better. Move your body. Challenge your brain. Stay connected. Laugh often. Make plans. Keep dreaming. Help someone else enjoy a better life.
100 YEARS!
Centenarians don’t merely survive or collect birthdays; many continue to thrive with strength, curiosity, purpose, and joy. They stay mentally engaged, adapt to life’s inevitable changes, maintain meaningful relationships, and keep their bodies moving as well as they can.
LIVE LONG
Their remarkable longevity is often supported by three powerful forms of resilience—cognitive, personal, and physical—each helping them recover from challenges, embrace new possibilities, and continue moving forward through every season of Life.
RESIILENCE
Cognitive resilience helps the mind remain active and adaptable. Personal resilience helps us bounce back from hardship. Physical resilience helps the body recover from illness, injury, and everyday stress. The wonderful news is that all three can be strengthened at any age.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRAIN!
One of the greatest gifts you can give your future self is a well-cared-for brain. Studies suggest that about half of centenarians eventually develop dementia, while roughly one-quarter experience mild cognitive impairment. Others reach 100 with remarkably strong memories and thinking skills.
RESISTANCE
Some people may be naturally resistant to Alzheimer’s disease. Others develop what scientists call cognitive reserve—the brain’s ability to adapt and compensate when physical changes occur. No single habit guarantees a long life or a sharp mind. Together, however, these choices may improve your chances of remaining healthy and mentally strong.
GOOD HABITS
Many habits that strengthen the body also protect the brain. Helpful choices include eating a Mediterranean-style diet, exercising regularly, maintaining close relationships, learning new skills, reading, solving problems, and keeping your curiosity alive.
SHE IS 122, HOW ABOUT THAT!
IT’S YOU!
Many centenarians share two powerful qualities: optimism and emotional resilience. They laugh, adapt, recover from disappointment, maintain close relationships, and continue finding purpose—even after painful losses.
BE THE OPTIMIST
Scientists are still studying how strongly these qualities influence longevity, but the benefits of a positive outlook are already easy to recognize. Optimism can help us manage stress, recover from setbacks, strengthen relationships, and approach each new day with greater energy and purpose.
BE HAPPY
A cheerful attitude may not guarantee that you will live to 100, but it can certainly make every year along the way healthier, brighter, and far more enjoyable. So why wait? Begin practicing positivity today—your future self may thank you with a smile and a hundred birthday candles!FIRE ME UP!
If we’re both fortunate enough to blow out 100 birthday candles someday, we’ll have quite a story to tell—a grand adventure filled with challenges overcome, lessons learned, dreams pursued, and plenty of laughter along the way. Of course, with 200 candles between us, we had better invite the fire department to the party—or at least keep a large fire extinguisher nearby!==================================================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
==================================================PART 4) 🔥 A FEW SPARKS TO SLIP INTO YOUR POCKET
✨ THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are like mental spark plugs. 💥 They jolt the mind awake, shrink giant problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can flip your thinking upside down—turning “I can’t” into “Why not give it a shot?” The right words at the right moment can become a tiny flashlight in a dark hallway. 🔦But here’s where the real magic happens: repetition turns inspiration into identity. The more you repeat a truth, the more your mind begins to believe it… and eventually, your Life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on a wall is a decoration. A quote lived out through your actions? That becomes a transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by? That’s power. ✨
==========
1. “I discovered that a fresh start is a process.
A fresh start is a journey –
A journey that requires a plan.”
– Vivian Jokotade
2. “Taste the joy of Life—right now!
Every moment is an invitation to
Smile, Laugh, Learn, and truly LIVE! ”
– Kit Summers
3. “Step out of the history that is holding you back.
Step into the new story you are willing to create.”
– Oprah Winfrey
4. “Never underestimate the power you
have to take your life in a new direction.”
– Germany Kent
5. “We must be willing to let go of the life we planned.
To have the life that awaits us.
The old skin has to be shed before the new one can come.”
– Joseph Campbell
6. “Don’t be afraid to start over.
This time you’re not starting from scratch,
You’re starting from experience.”
– Unknown
7. “You can start anew at any given moment.
Life is just the passage of time,
and it’s up to you to pass it as you please.”
– Charlotte Eriksson
8. “Sometimes the best thing we can ask for is change,
and a fresh start forces us to confront change head-on.”
– Natalya Neidhart
9. “If you don’t like the road you’re walking,
start paving another one.”
– Dolly Parton
10. “Begin today!
Declare out loud to the universe that you are
willing to let go of struggle and
eager to learn through joy.”
– Sarah Ban Breathnach
11. “Never underestimate the power
You have to take your life in a new direction.”
– Germany Kent
12. “As long as you’re alive,
You always have the chance to start again.”
– Emily Acker
13. “You are never too old to start over.
Every day is a chance to make
changes to create the life we want.”
– Karon Waddell
14. “You’ve got a chance to start all over again!
A new place, new people, new sights. A clean slate.
See, you can be anything you want with a fresh start.”
– Annie Proulx
15.
=========================
PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
TODAY—Make it a goal to live beyond age 100.
More than that, make your life a true joy to live.
Always know that you are better than you think.
YOU CAN DO THIS IN ALL AREAS.
You can be more—YOU ARE MORE!
===========================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 390—BE THE BEST!
=====================================
I miss you. 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.
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! 🌟August 7, 2026
