*✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 398—LOST IN THE WILDERNESS!
This blog is shorter and happier!
Read every word — things have changed.
Always Keep Getting Better than Yesterday!
Read This Entire Blog; It’s Good for Your Brain.
The full blog is here — https://kitsummers.com/blog/
This Blog is Best Read on a laptop rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS—World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
Learn More About Kit >> https://youtu.be/eQBnUJgTXts?si=1Qik7VdzscvHsfpS
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ONCE UPON A LIFE…
I made gravity nervous—Seven clubs soaring through the air.
A world record. Because physics loves a good insult.
Kit continued his drive toward excellence. 😄
Then came the truck. The coma.
Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
But I returned—Balancing healing,
tossing hope sky-high, and
juggling purpose, grit, and joy. 🤹♂️
Now, I lift people.
That is bigger than applause.
Writing is how I breathe.
If these words help you breathe a little easier, too—
That is magic catching air. 🎉
A shot of me from back in high school
What comes next on Kit’s journey?
Back to juggling? Back to the stage? Back to life?
Stay with me and find out.
Life can get better. Life will get better! ✨
My new address is:>>
The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217, Tampa, FL 33647
(A love letter would be dandy.) kitsummers@gmail.com
kitsummers.com https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
Call me >> 610-400-3233
=======================
NONE OF US WILL LIVE FOREVER—SO MAKE YOUR PLANS NOW!
EVERY DAY IS A NEW DAY—A CHANCE TO BEGIN A NEW LIFE.
DON’T LIVE IN THE PAST OR WAIT FOR THE FUTURE.
NOW IS THE ONLY MOMENT YOU HOLD!
MAKE THE MOST OF THIS MOMENT.
I FEEL THIS IS MY BEST BLOG YET!
A quick directory >>
Part 1—The Beginnings — Obvious.
Part 2—Things that Happened This Week.
Part 3—THE BLOG.
Part 4—Inspirational Quotes.
Part 5—Your Challenge.
Part 6—Blog for Next Week.
Part 7—Final Thoughts — Obvious.
ALWAYS REMEMBER >>
When your life nears its end,
what will you want to remember?
The dreams you chased? The people you loved?
I’m still planning to live beyond age 100; will you join me?
Remember the moments when you chose courage over comfort?
READ PAST BLOGS HERE —
kitsummers.com/blog
If even one sentence in this blog inspires
you to make a positive change, face a challenge with greater
courage, or appreciate the wonderful life already dancing
around you, then every hour at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
EVERY DAY >> 
- Feel the sunshine
- Enjoy a good meal.
- Speak more kindly.
- Care for your body.
- Learn something new.
- Make the right choices.
- Laugh whenever possible.
- Improve one little thing today.
- Treasure a friendly conversation.
- Then improve another tomorrow.
- Keep going, and those tiny steps may grow.
- Spend time with people who lift your spirits.
- And become something absolutely phenomenal!
- Keep moving toward the person you want to become.
- Celebrate every bit of progress—even when it arrives late.
There’s Kit & Cindy!
Happy in Colorado.
WORDS FOR YOU—AND FOR ME
I write these words for you, but I need them too.
We are all works in progress. None of us has life completely figured out—and maybe we never will.
Life doesn’t ask us to be perfect. It simply asks us to show up, keep growing, and keep moving forward.
One choice. One step. One day at a time.
That is how a life changes.
====================
PART 1: THE BEGINNINGS
Keep smiling. Keep growing. Keep believing in yourself.
YES—YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
Every week, I sit down and put my thoughts, 
stories, mistakes, victories, and lessons into words, hoping something I write might help you live a little better. Maybe a sentence will make you think differently, encourage you to try something new, or give you the little push you need to keep moving forward when life gets difficult.
Along the way, I’ve discovered something wonderful: these words aren’t just helping you—they’re helping me grow, too. Writing lets me examine my own life, reflect on the remarkable journey I’ve traveled, appreciate what I have today, and imagine the possibilities still ahead. Sometimes I sit down at my keyboard thinking I have an important lesson to share, only to discover that I’m the one who needed to learn it most!
As you’ve probably discovered through my writings, I’ve lived a life far from ordinary. I’ve experienced extraordinary successes, devastating setbacks, unexpected adventures, and more than a few surprises. But through it all, I’ve learned that life isn’t about what happens to us—it’s about what we choose to do next.
And believe me, I’m still learning, still growing, and still discovering what this wonderful adventure called LIFE has in store for me!
Yes, a different lifestyle I led.
I didn’t need a fancy hotel.
I actually ate horse while in Japan
Consumed Kangaroo in Australia.
That may be one of the greatest gifts of writing this blog. We’re traveling this road together. I share what life has taught me, you bring your own experiences to the words, and somehow we both move forward a little stronger, wiser, and more determined to make tomorrow better than today. If my words help even one person—including me—then every word was worth writing.
It’s only Sunday, and somehow I’ve already written most of this week’s blog. Apparently, once my fingers get started, they don’t pay much attention to the calendar. My brain keeps tossing out ideas, my hands keep typing them, and before I know it, I’ve finished another big chunk of the blog. I suppose there are worse problems to have than too many words fighting to get onto the page!
Of course, there’s one little problem with getting so far ahead: I haven’t lived the rest of the week yet! As you know, much of what I write comes directly from my daily life—the things I see, the people I meet, the thoughts that wander through my head, and the unexpected little adventures that show up along the way. I can’t very well write about Wednesday on Sunday unless I suddenly develop the ability to see into the future. And if that happens, forget the blog—I’m buying a lottery ticket!
So, for now, part of this blog will have to wait. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and the rest of the week still have stories to give me. Something funny may happen. Something frustrating may occur. I may learn something, meet someone, make a mistake, discover a new idea, or find myself staring at life from an entirely different angle. That’s one of the wonderful things about writing about life: first you have to LIVE it.
Until then, I’ll keep my fingers ready, my eyes open, and my curiosity turned on. The blog may be mostly written, but the week certainly isn’t. There are still days ahead to live, stories ahead to discover, and probably a few surprises waiting to jump into these pages.
Why Getting Lost Matters >>
- Shedding Expectations: You drop the habits and career paths you chose only to please others.
- Creating Space: The confusion and discomfort leave room for quiet reflection.
- Discovering Truth: Stripping away external labels reveals what you truly value.
WILL I HEAR FROM YOU NEXT WEEK?–I CERTAINLY HOPE SO!
- Discovering Truth: Stripping away external labels reveals what you truly value.
====================
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delights—Inspiration Served with a Smile!
Good morning! Or perhaps it’s good afternoon… or even good evening! Whatever time it is in your little corner of the world, I’m delighted you’re here. Inspiration doesn’t wear a watch or wait for the perfect moment. Sometimes it arrives with a smile, a little laughter, a warm hug, and occasionally three wonderful ideas for me to juggle! 🤹♂️
That’s one of the magical things about words. They don’t care when you arrive. My readers are scattered around the world, living different lives, following different schedules, and facing different challenges. I may not know what time it is where you are, but I do know something much more important:
YOU ARE HERE, YOU MATTER, AND YOUR LIFE IS FILLED
WITH POSSIBILITIES STILL WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED!
So, WELCOME, MY FRIEND! Whatever challenges life has placed in your path, every new moment gives you another opportunity to begin again. There is always room for greater happiness, another hearty laugh, a little more love, and one courageous step toward a brighter tomorrow. Don’t sit around waiting for life to become wonderful—DO SOMETHING TODAY TO MAKE IT WONDERFUL!
Of course, moving forward doesn’t mean life suddenly becomes easy. Life will occasionally knock us down, toss something unexpected in our path, or send us tumbling in a direction we never imagined. When that happens, get back up, brush yourself off, laugh at your clumsy moves, and call it dancing! Life isn’t meant to be merely survived—it’s meant to be LIVED, LOVED, EXPLORED, and CELEBRATED!
AND SPEAKING OF CELEBRATING . . .
>>>> OCTOBER 2
Last night was our Oktoberfest celebration. It took place in the main dining area, with more people seated in the large hallway. German music eventually joined the festivities, although it got started a little late. The food was quite good—bratwurst with sauerkraut, pork fritters, roasted potatoes, and plenty more. Overall, it was a nice event, although I moseyed out a little early. Apparently, my inner German had celebrated enough.
While enjoying the evening, however, I couldn’t help noticing how elaborate everything was. The cost of putting on this one function must have been enormous—or at least it sure looked that way from where I was sitting. Nothing appeared to have come from the bargain aisle. Even the napkins were huge, thick, and surprisingly fancy. These weren’t ordinary “wipe your mouth and toss it away” napkins. They looked sturdy enough to double as blankets in a small emergency!
Then there was the food, some of it apparently brought in from who knows where. Everything looked beautiful and tasted good, but I couldn’t help wondering how many dollar signs were hiding behind all that deliciousness. And then there were the full-color flyers—beautifully printed but handed out on the actual day of Oktoberfest.
That seems a little late for advance advertising, wouldn’t you say? By the time some people read the flyer, the party could have been over and those giant napkins already folded and put away! There seems to be plenty of printing around here. Even the daily menus are printed, used for a few hours, and tossed away. Each expense may seem small, but little expenses have a sneaky habit of becoming BIG expenses.
Everything was done extremely well, and I appreciate the effort that went into making the evening special. Still, sometimes simple works just as well—and can be every bit as much fun. Next time, perhaps we could skip a few bells and whistles, save a few bucks, eat some good food, turn up the German music, and enjoy ourselves. And whatever you do, SAVE THOSE NAPKINS! At that size and price, we may need to turn them into curtains.
That same thinking applies beyond Oktoberfest. Someone should be responsible for examining expenses, spotting waste, and finding smarter ways to cut costs without cutting quality. Pennies become dollars, dollars become hundreds, and hundreds can quickly become thousands. You don’t have to squeeze every nickel until Thomas Jefferson screams—but you should at least know where the money is going!
AND MONEY ISN’T THE ONLY THING I HATE SEEING WASTED.
WASTING FOOD BOTHERS ME EVEN MORE.
>>>>> OCTOBER 3
I’ve mentioned before how much food gets wasted here at Legacy. Sometimes the portions are so enormous that I wonder if the kitchen thinks we’re feeding a football team! Why not serve smaller portions and let people ask for seconds? You can always add more food, but once it lands in the garbage, even a magician can’t turn it back into dinner. Besides, I’m fairly certain the trash cans aren’t hungry!
Speaking of food, today’s Sweet-and-Sour Chicken was absolutely delicious! Tender chicken over rice, covered in that wonderful sweet-and-tangy sauce. My taste buds were celebrating! The kitchen staff did another outstanding job. I may have a few complaints about living here, but the food isn’t one of them. If happiness could be measured in chicken and rice, I’d be the happiest man in Florida!
UNFORTUNATELY, LIFE REQUIRES MORE THAN A FULL STOMACH.
I spent much of today alone in my room, working and playing on my computer. It keeps me entertained, although it doesn’t laugh at my jokes or give particularly good hugs. The people at Legacy treat me well, and I’m grateful for that. But lately, I haven’t been especially happy here. Comfort is wonderful, but I don’t want to spend the rest of my life being comfortably bored. I want to wake up excited about something other than discovering what’s on the lunch menu.
FORTUNATELY, WHEN LIFE STARTS FEELING TOO SERIOUS,
I STILL HAVE ONE OF MY FAVORITE WEAPONS—HUMOR!
At the restaurant today, they were serving catfish. When the waiter asked whether I wanted some, I looked at him with a perfectly serious face and said, “Absolutely not! I’m allergic to cats AND fish! Imagine what would happen if I ate something that combined BOTH!” He stared at me for a moment, then burst out laughing.
SUCCESS! ANOTHER UNSUSPECTING HUMAN HAD FALLEN
VICTIM TO KIT SUMMERS QUESTIONABLE SENSE OF HUMOR,
I’ve always loved making people laugh. I’ve spent much of my life juggling jokes, balls, clubs, and rings, so why not juggle a few words, too? Life gives us enough problems without volunteering to become miserable. I’ve been knocked down, run over, and forced to rebuild my life more than once.
Through it all, humor has helped me move forward. Laughter is FREE, requires no batteries, and doesn’t need a doctor’s prescription! But laughter doesn’t mean ignoring what’s missing from our lives. I can laugh and still recognize that I want more.
I don’t want my days to become breakfast, computer, lunch, computer, dinner, sleep, and REPEAT. I’m beginning to feel like a washing machine stuck on the same cycle—except at least the washing machine gets to spin around! I’ve spent my life performing, traveling, exploring wilderness trails, building businesses, writing books, and running this blog. I’ve had too many adventures to retire into a professional chair-sitting career.
At 67, I still feel like a young man with a few extra miles on the odometer. My engine is running, and I’m not ready to park. I don’t know where I’ll be living next or what adventures await me. And somewhere out there, I hope there’s a wonderful woman looking for me, too.
HELLO, LADIES! I’M STILL HERE!
Perhaps she lost her map or wandered into the wrong ZIP code. Whoever you are, please hurry! I’ve still got plenty of love, laughter, and adventure to share. And I promise not to juggle during our first kiss. Well… probably not.
Not knowing what comes next can be frustrating. I’ve never been very good at sitting around waiting for life to knock on my door. I’d rather open the door myself, step outside, and go looking for the next adventure. But when impatience starts creeping in, I remind myself of something important: I may not know what comes next, but I can keep moving forward until I find it.
See my juggling hands?
I’VE BEEN LOST BEFORE!
I’ve traveled wilderness roads without knowing where they would lead, faced frightening circumstances, and survived situations that once seemed impossible. Somehow, I kept going. Sometimes I stumbled. Sometimes I fell. But eventually, another road appeared. Besides, lying on the ground gets boring, and the view isn’t particularly impressive!
Perhaps I don’t need a complete map of my future.
Maybe none of us do. Perhaps we need enough courage to take the next step.
So I’ll keep writing, creating, laughing, loving, and searching for new possibilities. I refuse to let my future become nothing more than a comfortable chair, three meals, and a television remote. There’s still too much curiosity in my head, too much adventure in my heart, and far too much mischief waiting to escape!
My life has surprised me too many times for me to believe the best adventures are behind me.
Perhaps around the next bend is a new home, a wonderful woman, a new opportunity—
or something so extraordinary that I haven’t even imagined it yet.
I’M 67 YEARS YOUNG, NOT 67 YEARS FINISHED!
And if I get lost along the way?
That’s nothing new.
I’ll call it another KIT ADVENTURE, laugh at myself,
choose another road, and KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE SERIOUS,
TOO PRECIOUS TO BE WASTED,
AND TOO WONDERFUL TO STOP LIVING!
>>>>> OCTOBER 4 
Sunday.
Church day.
But not for me.
The wilderness is my church!
On Sundays, life here at Legacy slows to a crawl. Not that other days are particularly exciting, but Sundays seem especially lonely. I miss having someone special to talk with, laugh with, share adventures with, and enjoy life together.
Being surrounded by people doesn’t mean you can’t feel lonely. Loneliness isn’t always about having people nearby—it’s about having someone close to your heart. I miss companionship, affection, a warm touch, and, most of all, LOVE.
I’m grateful for the care I receive here, and I appreciate the people who provide it. But I’ve learned something important: being cared for isn’t the same as feeling connected, and comfort isn’t the same as happiness. A comfortable life may take care of the body, but love, purpose, and connection are what feed the heart.
I spent most of the day sitting in my room, watching videos and trying to keep myself entertained. What bothers me most is that my asthma continues to interfere with my desire to run, exercise, and stay physically active.
My mind still wants to push forward, explore, and challenge my limits, but my breathing doesn’t always cooperate. It’s frustrating because I don’t feel like an old man, and I certainly don’t want to live like one. I still have energy, ambition, and a strong desire to LIVE, not simply watch life pass me by!
For dinner tonight, I ate alone in my room and kept things simple with a frozen dinner—Healthy Choice Café Steamers, Chicken Lo Mein. To my surprise, it was quite delicious! Sometimes a simple meal can be just as satisfying as a fancy dinner.
The portion wasn’t particularly large, but it was just right for my appetite. Nothing extravagant, nothing special—just a quiet evening, a tasty meal, and enough food to keep me happy. Sometimes, that’s all I need.
I DON’T WANT TO PASS THE TIME—I WANT TO LIVE,
LOVE, LAUGH, AND KEEP DISCOVERING WHAT’S POSSIBLE!
MY BEST ADVENTURES MAY STILL BE AHEAD OF ME!
>>>>> OCTOBER 5
I took a shower this morning, something I do twice a week, as you probably know by now. It always feels wonderful afterward—clean, refreshed, and ready to take on the world! Back when I was juggling every day, running, and riding my bike, I worked up quite a sweat. And, believe me, all that physical activity produced a rather unmistakable fragrance I affectionately called the “Kit aroma!” At least I knew my body was getting a good workout!
These days, living here at Legacy, things are quite different. I’m nowhere near as physically active, and I hardly sweat at all. So, fortunately for everyone around me, there’s very little “Kit smell” to worry about anymore! I suppose that’s one advantage of slowing down, but I’d gladly trade it for the freedom to run, ride my bike, and juggle until I was dripping with sweat again. I’d much rather smell like an active Kit than sit around smelling like nothing at all!
Four of us climbed aboard the bus for a shopping trip to Walmart. I picked up a few necessities—well, if you consider chocolate a necessity. I certainly do! After all, a little chocolate makes life sweeter, and I believe in keeping my priorities straight! I also helped everyone board and exit the bus and assisted with loading and unloading their purchases. It felt good to be useful and lend a helping hand.
I still believe purchasing an inexpensive used car or small van for local trips would make much more sense. That big bus seems unnecessary when only a few people are going to the store, or one person is going to a doctor’s appointment. Besides, the engine was left idling for long periods, burning fuel and money while going absolutely nowhere. Sometimes saving money doesn’t require a brilliant financial strategy—just a little common sense and turning off the engine!
My elbow has been bothering me. It doesn’t hurt, but it’s just so strange. A bursa acts as a smooth cushion between bones and skin or tendons. When this sac gets irritated, it swells and can look like a soft, golf-ball-sized lump at the back of your elbow. Do you know anything about this? I am concerned.
>>>>> OCTOBER 6
Good morning! (I say that to you because, unfortunately, no one here will.) What a wonderful way to begin another day—itchy eyes, a runny nose, and allergies that have apparently decided to move back into my body without asking permission! My eyes itch, my nose is running a marathon, and the rest of my body seems determined to join the festivities.
AT LEAST SOMETHING AROUND HERE IS GETTING SOME EXERCISE!
What’s a juggler to do? I’ve spent much of my life juggling balls, clubs, and challenges, but now I’m juggling sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyeballs. And believe me, scratching both eyes while blowing my nose takes more coordination than juggling seven clubs! Still, I refuse to let a few million grains of pollen ruin my day. Life goes on, the show must continue, and apparently, SO MUST THE SNEEZING!
Just returned from breakfast. Same ol’, same ol’. Every morning, I’m handed about six pills for high blood pressure, allergies, and a few vitamins. Have I mentioned that I HATE taking medications? I’d much rather swallow a bowl of chocolate pudding!
Today, the nurse insisted I take them right then and there instead of returning to my room. Apparently, there was no room for negotiation. So, being the obedient little soldier I am, I stood at attention, gave her my finest military salute, and followed orders. YES, MA’AM! Another exciting adventure in the thrilling world of assisted living. At least I survived another battle!
YIKES! WHAT AN ADVENTURE—AND NOT THE KIND I EXPECTED!
What a day! Lynn, a friend here at Legacy, asked if I wanted to go to Home Depot with him. Did I want to go? ABSOLUTELY! Any chance to escape these four walls and experience a little adventure is fine with me. A short time later, Lynn arrived at my room in his motorized wheelchair, and off we went. He had his wheels, and I had my two legs. What could possibly go wrong? As it turned out, PLENTY!
Everything started smoothly. The weather was decent, the fresh air felt wonderful, and I was enjoying the freedom of being outside. As usual, whenever I spotted trash along the way, I stopped to pick it up. I believe in leaving the world a little cleaner than I found it.
But suddenly, as I bent down to grab some litter, I LOST MY BALANCE AND FELL COMPLETELY TO THE GROUND! What? ME? I was stunned! Since my terrible accident and 37-day coma, I had managed to avoid falling. Now, without warning, there I was, sprawled on the ground. Even after getting back up, my balance didn’t feel quite right. Something was definitely different.
Still, Home Depot was waiting, and I wasn’t about to surrender. We had about a mile to walk, so we continued our little expedition. Then I spotted a large palm frond sprawled across the sidewalk. Naturally, I decided to move it. BIG MISTAKE!
The moment I bent down, my balance vanished, and—WHAM!—I landed flat on my backside for the second time. At that point, I was beginning to wonder if gravity had developed a personal grudge against me. My sense of balance seemed to have completely disappeared.
TWICE IN ONE DAY! I couldn’t believe it. I used to juggle seven clubs, ride a 7’ unicycle, and perform balancing tricks before thousands of people. Now I couldn’t even pick up a palm frond without becoming part of the landscape! I was shocked, embarrassed, and more than a little concerned.
But our adventure wasn’t finished. At one point, we needed to go up a driveway to continue. Lynn took a wrong turn in his motorized wheelchair, and suddenly his chair tipped sideways! This was serious because Lynn has very limited use of his legs and couldn’t easily get himself upright.
Fortunately, Cynthia was driving by and stopped immediately to help. We were right beside a gas station, and even the owner came outside to help. What wonderful people! Sometimes, when things go wrong, you discover just how much kindness exists in the world.
Later, Lynn told me how much he appreciated my rolling up his raincoat to make a pillow for his head while we waited for the firefighters to arrive. I was glad I could do something to make him more comfortable.
Before long, an enormous fire truck arrived, complete with flashing lights and a blaring siren. What a production! You would have thought we were filming an action-packed television drama. All we needed was a camera crew, some dramatic music, and a commercial break. What started as a simple trip to Home Depot had turned into quite an adventure—and we hadn’t even bought anything yet!
Sadly, the firepeople could do nothing to help. They took Lynn’s vitals and bandaged up his hand. Eventually, we got Lynn upright and continued toward Home Depot. We were so close that turning back seemed ridiculous. After all, we’d already survived two falls, a tipped wheelchair, and several unexpected surprises. What else could happen?
Which firetruck came to help?
We made it to the store, stayed together, and bought what we needed. Mission accomplished! Well, almost. We still had to get back to Legacy, and Mother Nature apparently wanted to contribute to our adventure.
BUT THIS HUGE FIRETRUCK WAS NOT SET UP
TO TAKE US BACK TO LEGACY; I WAS SURPRISED.
THEN CAME THE RAIN! What had started as a pleasant outing was becoming a soggy comedy of errors. Walking another mile in the rain didn’t sound especially appealing, so I suggested calling Kiea or Breanna to rescue us with the bus from Legacy. We waited quite a while, but eventually, our wonderful transportation arrived. Never had a ride back to Legacy seemed so inviting! What began as a simple trip to Home Depot had turned into an adventure neither of us expected, or will forget.
AT LEAST I GOT PLENTY OF MATERIAL FOR THE BLOG AND YOUR EYES.
The experience left me thinking. I need to walk more, strengthen my legs, and improve my balance. I’d even love to start running again, but my asthma keeps interfering with those plans. More importantly, those two unexpected falls concern me. After everything I’ve overcome, I don’t like discovering that something as simple as bending over to pick up a trach can send me tumbling to the ground.
BUT HERE’S WHAT I KNOW:
LIFE WILL ALWAYS THROW UNEXPECTED OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH.
Sometimes we stumble. Sometimes we fall. And sometimes we end up sitting on our backside wondering what in the world just happened! The important thing is to learn from those experiences, get the help we need, and keep moving forward.
I’VE SPENT MUCH OF MY LIFE LEARNING HOW TO GET BACK UP.
I CERTAINLY DON’T INTEND TO STOP NOW!
I only walked about one mile today.
But I feel it in my legs.
I feel it in my body.
Yes, I’ve certainly led an extraordinary life, filled with unexpected twists, challenges, triumphs, and adventures. But don’t think for a moment that my story is finished. The best chapters may still be waiting to be written!
>>>>> OCTOBER 7
Here I go again—another new day, another opportunity to accomplish as much as I can and make every moment count. I’m glad you’ve decided to come along on this journey with me. Life is always better when we move forward together.
We may not be able to change the entire world overnight, but we can make our little corner of it brighter, kinder, happier, and better. One smile, one helping hand, one courageous step at a time. I’m ready—will you join me?
My elbow bursitis is bothering me this morning. The fluid-filled lump seems to be getting bigger, although, strangely, it still doesn’t hurt. It’s a little unsettling watching my elbow grow its own little balloon!
Have you ever dealt with bursitis like this? I’m curious whether anyone else has experienced a fluid-filled lump on the elbow that keeps getting bigger, even though it doesn’t hurt. It’s certainly strange to look down and see this little balloon growing on my elbow!
I’m wondering what I should do about it—or whether I should leave it alone and keep an eye on it. If you’ve experienced something similar, I’d really appreciate hearing what worked for you. Any ideas, advice, or suggestions that might help?
It seems like most people sleep until 7 a.m. or 8.
For me, waking somewhere around 3 a.m. or 4 is common.
I can get more done, but is that right for me?
SEEMS LIKE I WILL NOT DIE UNTIL I WEAR THIS BODY OUT!
THAT WILL TAKE A WHILE MORE.
I’m still upset about my falling. My mind would not think right. I knew what was going on and what to do, but my body would not obey. I will have to be more careful in the future. And, yes, there is a future. I am still planning to live beyond age 100; watch me go!
Another slow day. I didn’t get nearly as much done as I had hoped, and that’s not like me. I’m happiest when I’m moving forward, creating something, or checking another goal off my list. But some days don’t cooperate. I’m learning that not every day has to be filled with accomplishments to have value. Sometimes a slow day is just life’s way of telling me, “Don’t worry, Kit. Tomorrow you can hit the gas again!”
I talked with my sister, Kath, today. She told me not to write about her.
Whoops.
The stuff below was already written, so I suppose I’m in trouble already.
In her 70s now, she is living the life that “she” wants.
Kath did give me some good advice, though. She suggested I use less of the same motivational material each week and keep the blog more focused on the stories and everyday happenings. I think she may have a point, so I went back through this week’s blog and cut quite a bit.
At this point, what do you think?
Is it better with less motivational material?
Or did I cut too much?
>>>>> OCTOBER 8
Happy birthday to my sister, Kath—or Willow, as she prefers to be called these days! To me, though, she will always be my sister Kath, and a name could never change all the years, memories, laughter, and life we’ve shared. In her 70s now — hard to believe.
My two sisters,
Sandy and Kath
We’ve both traveled many miles through life, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Through it all, I’m grateful that you’ve been part of my journey. Happy birthday, Willow. I love you, Sis, and I hope the year ahead brings you happiness, good health, wonderful surprises, and many more memories still waiting to be made.
We are both getting older—and, I like to believe, a little wiser along the way! I have always admired what you have accomplished, the challenges you have overcome, and the person you have become. Life has taught us both valuable lessons, and I believe our best chapters are still waiting to be written.
As I look toward the future, I see wonderful possibilities, new adventures, continued growth, and plenty of reasons to smile. We may be getting older, but that doesn’t mean we’re finished growing, dreaming, or accomplishing extraordinary things. I believe the best is yet to come—for both of us!
Throughout the day, several people complimented me on my shirt. How nice! I thought I must be looking especially sharp, perhaps even starting a new fashion trend. I accepted each compliment with a smile and a thank-you, feeling rather pleased with my excellent taste in clothing. Who knew I could be such a fashion sensation at 67?
Then, that evening, as I was getting undressed, I made a startling discovery. MY SHIRT HAD BEEN INSIDE OUT ALL DAY! The seams were showing, the tag was hanging out, and apparently, I had been proudly displaying the manufacturer’s construction techniques to the world. Now I’m wondering—did people genuinely like my shirt, or were they just being polite to a confused fashion designer?
Perhaps I’ve stumbled onto something wonderful. Maybe shirts actually look better inside out! Tomorrow, I might wear my pants backward, put on two different shoes, and see how many compliments I get. Who knows? I may have accidentally started a whole new fashion trend. And the best part? I didn’t even have to buy anything new!
What an interesting week it has been! I talked with my sister Kath yesterday, and she told me she’s spending today at a wonderful spa, enjoying saunas and a variety of treatments designed to relax, refresh, and rejuvenate the body.
Apparently, admission is free on your birthday, so she decided to take full advantage of that little gift. An entire day of pampering, relaxation, and feeling good—and at a great price! Sounds like a marvelous way to celebrate another trip around the sun. Perhaps I should put that on my birthday calendar, too!
She also told me she thinks I sometimes share too much personal information in my blog. TOO MUCH? ME? Imagine that! I write what I feel, say what I think, and rarely put the brakes on my fingers. Whether it’s an erection, an election (I hope they both turn out well!), your reaction, my lack of direction, a strange connection, or even your latest infection—NOTHING IS OFF-LIMITS!
My life is an open book, and somewhere along the way, I apparently forgot to install a filter! Some people keep skeletons hidden in their closets. Not me! I drag mine into the daylight, dust them off, name them, and introduce them to my blog readers! Too much for you? Well, you’re still reading.
Why hide the embarrassing moments, crazy adventures, and occasional disasters? They’re all part of the wonderful, ridiculous adventure called LIFE! Besides, if you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re missing half the fun—and I’m determined to enjoy the WHOLE SHOW! TOO MUCH? OH WELL.
Clouds, rain, and gloomy skies—not exactly the beautiful day I had in mind! Now that I finally have everything I need to put my garden together, Mother Nature has apparently decided to interfere. I was ready to get my hands dirty, but the sky took one look at my plans and shouted, “NOPE! NOT TODAY, KIT!” I suppose even the weather has a sense of humor. Too bad it’s laughing at me!
Today, I spent some time packing my belongings for a move to a smaller room here at Legacy. I’m currently in a one-bedroom apartment, but I’ve been asking for something smaller, preferably a studio. After all, I don’t need much space. Just a comfortable place to sleep, a desk for my writing, and enough room to move around without bumping into myself. I’ve learned that happiness doesn’t come from having more space or more stuff. It comes from making the most of what you have.
Joe asked if I wanted a double bed in my new room. I told him a twin would be just fine. I’d rather have the extra floor space, and besides, I don’t exactly have a parade of beautiful women knocking on my door. Of course, if that ever changes, I may have to reconsider my furniture arrangements!
Someone is coming by right now to look at my room, apparently ready to move in the moment I move out. Talk about a quick turnaround! I guess they have no trouble keeping these rooms occupied. Living here certainly isn’t cheap, yet there seems to be an endless supply of people willing to pay. Apparently, business is BOOMING!
One person moves out, another moves in, and the money keeps rolling in. At these prices, you’d think every room would come with a complimentary gold bar, a personal butler, and breakfast served on a silver platter! I’m still waiting for my gold bar. Perhaps they’ll slip it under my door before I leave!
Today, Legacy had a Hawaiian-themed party, complete with tropical decorations, plenty of smiles, and even a parade! Some participants rolled along in wheelchairs, others marched with canes, and one particularly talented fellow was spotted juggling colorful scarves. Who could that have been? ME, of course! I figured every Hawaiian parade needs a little juggling magic. Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time, and for a while, we brought a little taste of paradise right here to Legacy. ALOHA!
This is where I find myself today—juggling scarves, something that requires far less effort than the remarkable tricks I once performed. There was a time when I could juggle seven clubs, amaze audiences, and push my abilities beyond what most people thought possible. Today, even the simplest juggling reminds me of how much has changed. I admit, it hurts to realize the skills I spent years perfecting are now out of reach.
But then I remind myself of something important: I may no longer be the juggler I once was, but I am STILL a juggler! My abilities may have changed, but my determination, creativity, and love of life remain. Perhaps the greatest trick I will ever perform isn’t keeping seven clubs in the air—it’s refusing to let life’s challenges keep me down. The juggling may be different now, but the show isn’t over. Not by a long shot!
>>>>> OCTOBER 9
Today is the final day of writing this week’s blog, and I’ll send it out this evening. But first, an entire day of possibilities awaits! What surprises, adventures, or unexpected twists will come my way? Life always seems to throw a little of everything into the mix, and that’s what keeps things interesting. I have no idea what today will bring, but you can be sure I’ll find out—and, of course, I’ll tell you all about it!
On Monday, I’ll be moving into a smaller apartment here at Legacy. I’m currently in a one-bedroom, but after seeing one of the studio apartments, I realized it would suit me just fine. After all, I don’t need much space—just a comfortable place to sleep, write, and enjoy life. And when I sleep at night, my eyes are closed anyway, so why would I need anything big or fancy? I certainly won’t be admiring the square footage while I’m dreaming!
I was also asked whether I wanted a larger bed, but a twin-sized bed will do just fine. After all, I don’t expect any ladies to spend the night, so why take up valuable floor space with a bigger bed? Of course, if my romantic prospects suddenly improve, I may have to reconsider my furniture arrangements!
The best part? This move will also save the insurance company a substantial amount of money! Less space, less expense, and everything I need. Sometimes, downsizing is actually a step up! Besides, I’ve always believed that it’s not the size of your living space that matters—it’s what you do with your Life that counts! 🤭
But if nothing exciting happens, that’s perfectly fine, too. Not every day needs to be filled with adventure. Sometimes, simply enjoying the quiet moments and appreciating life as it unfolds is enough. Of course, knowing me, I’ll still be looking for something interesting to do. I’ve never been very good at sitting around doing nothing, and I don’t intend to start now!
DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEDAY.
YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW—GO LIVE IT!
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BLOG 398—LOST IN THE WILDERNESS!
Be Different—Find Your Own Way.
YOU CAN’T ALWAYS TURN AROUND—
BUT YOU CAN MOVE FORWARD!
Some of the happiest years of my life were spent traveling across America in my van. For seven wonderful years, the road was my home. No schedules, no reservations, and often no idea where I would sleep that night. I explored every national park in the continental United States and discovered countless magnificent places along the way. To me, freedom meant following an unfamiliar road to see where it led. THE WORLD WAS MY PLAYGROUND!
One beautiful day, while exploring the wilderness, I spotted a narrow dirt road disappearing into a thick forest. Naturally, my curiosity took over. Perhaps a hidden lake, a spectacular mountain view, or some undiscovered paradise waited ahead. There was only one way to find out! I turned my van onto the road and began climbing between the towering trees.
At first, everything was wonderful. Sunlight filtered through the branches, birds sang, and the forest seemed to welcome me. But soon, the road narrowed. Branches scraped against my van, deep ruts made driving difficult, and the trees seemed to be closing in. I considered turning around, but suddenly realized something frightening.
THERE WAS NOWHERE TO TURN AROUND!
I continued driving, hoping to find a clearing. Another bend. More trees. Another bend. Still nothing! What if the road ended? What if a fallen tree blocked my path? Backing down that narrow, twisting road seemed impossible. My heart pounded, and my hands tightened around the steering wheel.
YIKES! WHAT HAD I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?
For the first time, my wonderful adventure had become a nightmare. I was alone, deep in the wilderness, with no idea what waited ahead. I couldn’t turn around, and going backward was too dangerous. There was only one reasonable choice.
KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
Slowly, I continued, carefully avoiding rocks, ruts, and trees. Every bend brought another disappointment. Then, as I began to lose hope, I spotted something magnificent.
A CLEARING!
Finally, there was enough room to turn my van around. What a glorious feeling! I carefully maneuvered the van, pointed it back toward safety, and breathed an enormous sigh of relief. Suddenly, the frightening forest became beautiful again. The trees were still towering, the birds were still singing, and the sunlight was still dancing through the branches.
THE WILDERNESS HADN’T CHANGED. MY DIRECTION HAD!
That adventure taught me something about life. Sometimes we travel down roads that become far more difficult than we expected. We wish we could turn around, erase our decisions, or return to the comfortable life we once knew. But life doesn’t always offer a convenient place to make a U-turn.
I CERTAINLY KNEW SOMETHING ABOUT THAT.
Around 2012, my life took several devastating turns. I was struck by a truck for the second time. My marriage to Mary Ellen fell apart, and she left with our daughters, Jasmine and April. I also spent a month in jail following what I maintain was a false accusation. One painful experience followed another, and I wondered how much more I could endure.
I HAD TO GET AWAY, HEAL, AND FIND MY WAY BACK TO LIFE!
Yes, approaching 2012, I went through a number of bad things >>
I was hit by a truck for the second time.
Mary Ellen took Jasmine and April and left me.
I spent a month in jail on a false charge.
I HAD TO GET AWAY TO HEAL AND GET BACK TO LIFE!
Eventually, I set my sights on Australia and New Zealand. That became my goal—and I needed to figure out how to make it happen. A few years earlier, after recovering from my 37-day coma, I had created workshops to help other jugglers improve their skills. Workshops will pay my way!
Years earlier, after surviving a 37-day coma and rebuilding my life, I had developed workshops to help other jugglers improve their skills. Why not put that experience to work? I contacted jugglers throughout Australia and New Zealand and arranged several workshops. So I contacted jugglers throughout Australia and New Zealand and arranged several workshops. The best part? Those workshops paid for my trip. I found a way to turn what I loved—and what I had learned—into my ticket to an adventure on the other side of the world.
Take a deep breath. Put it in drive. You may not know exactly where the road ahead will lead, but you don’t have to. You’ve already made it through roads you never expected to travel—and you learned something from every mile. Whether you’re facing a literal tight squeeze or a major turning point in life, remember this: You don’t need to see the entire road. You only need enough courage to take the next turn.
Rather than surrender to everything that had happened, I began searching for a new adventure. Eventually, I set my sights on Australia and New Zealand. I had no idea exactly how I would get there, but I knew I wanted to go. And when I set my mind on something, I usually find a way!
AND GUESS WHAT?
THE WORKSHOPS PAID FOR MY TRIP!
Once again, juggling opened doors I hadn’t even known existed. What began as a desire to escape painful circumstances became an opportunity to travel, teach, meet wonderful people, and rediscover the excitement of being alive.
I couldn’t erase what had happened to me. I couldn’t turn back the clock or return to the person I had once been. But I could choose what happened next. What a fantastic time I had down under. I found many new friends, saw extraordinary landscapes, and found my way back to life.
I DIDN’T GET MY OLD LIFE BACK. I BUILT ANOTHER ONE!
Looking back, I see how much that frightening dirt road had in common with my own life. Both led me into unfamiliar territory. Both brought moments of fear and uncertainty. And both taught me that the way forward isn’t always obvious. Remember, roads go both ways.
We sometimes stare into life’s rearview mirror so long that we miss the opportunities appearing through the windshield. You cannot drive safely while looking only backward, and you cannot build tomorrow while trying to live in yesterday.
Carry the lessons, laughter, courage, and even the pain of your past. They are part of your story, but they don’t have to determine its ending. Slow down when necessary. Change direction when possible. Take one small step when that is all you can manage.
JUST KEEP MOVING!
Life will sometimes lead you down roads you never intended to travel. You may encounter disappointment, heartbreak, fear, or obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. But courage doesn’t mean you are never frightened. It means finding the determination to make another decision, take another step, and discover another possibility.
AND REMEMBER, JUST BECAUSE YOU LOSE YOUR WAY
DOESN’T MEAN YOU’VE LOST YOUR FUTURE!
At 67, I’m still exploring, still learning, and still wondering what magnificent adventure might be waiting around the next bend. I’ve survived two encounters with trucks, a 37-day coma, the loss of relationships, and more unexpected detours than I care to count. Yet here I am, still looking ahead, still dreaming, and still determined to make something wonderful of the years to come.
If there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s that we cannot control every road we travel. But we can decide how we respond when the journey becomes difficult.
And sometimes, the road that frightens us most leads to the discovery we need most.
I can sum up one of life’s greatest lessons in just three words:
LIFE GOES ON!
So, wherever you are in your journey, don’t give up because the road ahead looks uncertain. Keep your curiosity alive, your courage close, and your eyes open for possibilities.
BEING LOST ISN’T THE END OF YOUR JOURNEY.
SOMETIMES, IT’S THE BEGINNING OF YOUR GREATEST ADVENTURE!
So, my friend, when life takes an unexpected turn, gather your courage, look ahead, and KEEP MOVING FORWARD! You never know what extraordinary opportunities might be waiting just around the next bend.
With my juggling workshop, I’ve done it all over the US, worked with jugglers in many European countries, taken the workshop to Japan 3 times, and presented it in Australia and New Zealand. Now I have to figure out if they juggle on the moon so I can take it there.
You don’t need to see the entire road.
You only need enough courage to take the next turn.
AFTER ALL, LIFE IS TOO WONDERFUL TO SPEND IT STANDING STILL! 💛
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PART 4) 🔥 THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are mental spark plugs. 💥 They wake up the mind, shrink problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can turn “I can’t” into “Why not?”—a small flashlight guiding you through a dark hallway. 🔦
But the real magic comes through repetition. The more you repeat a truth, the more deeply you believe it—and the more your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on the wall is decoration. A quote put into action becomes transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by?
Now that’s power. ✨
==========
1) “And into the forest I go, to lose
my mind and find my soul.”
— John Muir
2) “The wilderness is where I
lose the noise of the world,
discover the beauty of life,
and find the courage to keep
moving forward.”
— Kit Summers
3) “If you want to lift yourself up,
lift up someone else.”
―Booker T. Washington
4) “In wildness is the preservation
of the world.”
— Henry David Thoreau
5) “I found far more answers in the
woods than I ever did in the city.”
— Mary Davis
6) ““The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
— John Muir
7) “The world is not finished surprising you.
Don’t wait for adventure to find you—GO FIND IT!
—Kit Summers
8) “Let nature quiet your mind
and awaken your life.”
— Kit Summers
9) “Sometimes life leaves only one direction—
FORWARD—so take a breath, trust yourself,
and see what adventure is waiting ahead.”
— Kit Summers.”
10) “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”
—F. Scott Fitzgerald
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PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
Did you ever wander into the wilderness when you were young, following a trail to see where it went, climbing over rocks, splashing through streams, and wondering what adventure waited around the next bend? Remember that wonderful feeling of freedom, when the world seemed enormous, and every new path held a mystery? That adventurous kid is still inside you, no matter how old you are!
This week, I challenge you to BRING THAT ADVENTUROUS KID BACK TO LIFE! Find a forest, park, beach, mountain, or some wild little corner of the world and GO EXPLORE! Follow a trail you’ve never traveled, climb a hill, splash through a stream, or hug a tree if the mood strikes. Remember that wonderful childhood curiosity when everything seemed new, exciting, and full of possibilities? Well, that world is still out there, waiting for YOU!
Look for wildlife, listen to the birds, and if the bigger animals are hiding, get down close and discover the fascinating world of bugs beneath your feet. You might be amazed at how much life is happening right under your nose! And go ahead, hug that tree—it probably needs a little love, too. Adventure has no age limit, curiosity never grows old, and life is too wonderful to spend it sitting still. GET OUT THERE, EXPLORE, AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
If possible, spend a night beneath the stars. Listen to the mysterious sounds of the wilderness after dark, breathe the fresh air, and wake up with the rising sun. Discover how magnificent our world can be before everyone else wakes up and starts making noise. When it’s time to leave, pick up some litter and leave the place even nicer than you found it. That’s how a true adventurer says THANK YOU to nature!
Even in the heart of New York City, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, you might find a safe rooftop where you can spend a night beneath the stars. Imagine lying there, gazing up at the endless sky while the city lights sparkle around you. You drift off to sleep with a smile on your face, knowing that freedom isn’t always about where you are—it’s about how you choose to experience life. Sometimes, the greatest adventures are waiting right above your head!
And don’t worry too much about finding something to eat. I’ve heard bears taste pretty good, although I strongly recommend making sure the bear doesn’t decide to taste YOU first! Life is too short to spend every day staring at the same four walls. Get outside, get a little dirty, laugh at yourself, and rediscover that wonderful feeling of being alive. The world is still filled with extraordinary adventures. They won’t knock on your door. Get out there—GO FIND SOME!
That is your challenge for the week.
That is the challenge for YOUR LIFE!
====================
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WOODSIDEMOTION!
Thank you to Christopher and everyone at Woodside Motion for helping me explore the possibility of bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.
Always remember Christopher Jones, a man who believes my story deserves to be shared with the world. Christopher, thank you for seeing the possibilities in my journey and believing my experiences can make a difference in others’ lives. I am deeply grateful to you and everyone at Woodside Motion for your dedication to bringing my extraordinary life story to the screen.
My life has been filled with unexpected challenges, painful setbacks, remarkable recoveries, and incredible adventures. But I believe everything I’ve experienced has prepared me for something greater: helping others discover that adversity doesn’t have to define their future. Together, we can turn my story into a powerful message of courage, determination, and hope, inspiring countless people to overcome obstacles, recognize their potential, and NEVER GIVE UP ON LIFE!
Website: https://woodsidemotion.com/
Email: christopher@woodsidemotion.com
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CINDY MARVELL
At this point, I must recognize the marvellous Cindy Marvell.
This amazing woman founded and runs https://bouldercircuscenter.net.
There, she helps others dream big and take flight.
She is also an extraordinary performer in her own right—take a look >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNbKaLV4I9Q
Cindy in the Wilderness Shaking Hands
Throughout this movie project, she offered her encouragement and help in countless ways. Having someone believe in your story makes the journey even more meaningful. For one thing, she is the only woman to ever win the International Juggling Competition.
Thank you, Cindy, for your remarkable talent, generous heart, and unwavering support—both personally and financially. I am deeply grateful to have you beside me, helping keep this dream in the air. Every great dream needs someone who believes in it, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have you juggling this one alongside me! 🤹♂️💛
====================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK
BLOG 399–Life at Legacy
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🌟 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! 🌟
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