“KITTING AROUND”
BLOG 341: Become the Brightest, Boldest Version of Yourself (Yes — You!)
Don’t just sleepwalk through life—dance, juggle, laugh, explore!
I write, create, and share so that together we can pause, reflect, and grow.
My mission? To inspire you to live differently… and better!
I aim to illustrate and Deepen Contemplation Together!
I WANT TO INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY AND BETTER
Once upon a time, I was a world-class juggler—and I still juggle—JOY! 
Life threw me curveballs: a 37-day coma (yikes!), hit by two trucks (double yikes!)
Yet, I remain happy and am here to help you move up to a higher level.
Watch this >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr8QFnD1yGc&t=110s
I lived six adventurous years in a van, chasing sunsets and visiting every U.S. national park.
I’ve known love, loss, marriage on 2/22/22 at 2:22, and the beauty of starting again.
I have traveled the world helping people to advance!
I keep searching, learning, and loving—because the story isn’t over. ❤️
✨ Lessons I’ve picked up along the way ✨
- For a full sparkle, read this on a laptop or desktop computer.
- Your phone just can’t handle all the fun!
- Only you know what’s best for you.
- The past is a teacher—study it, then step forward.
- The future? It’ll show up whether you’re ready or not (be ready!)
- The now? It’s your playground. Smile and make it sparkle!
- Each day is a chance to shine brighter than the last.
- Do what you can to help others, as you help yourself.
- Leave your mark—help advance humanity before your curtain call.
BE TAKEN AWAY WITH ME
ON WONDERFUL ADVENTURES!
✨ WHY I WRITE THIS BLOG ✨
Because life is too wild, too weird, and too wonderful not to share! Writing this blog is like sprinkling confetti made of ideas, stories, and lessons I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way, sometimes by happy accident). It’s my way of leaving little treasure maps for anyone curious, adventurous, or just in need of a smile.
I write because words are like magic wands—we can use them to inspire, to connect, to spark joy, and sometimes to remind ourselves that we’re all just explorers trying to dance through the chaos. Want me to punch it up even more—like a bold opening line that immediately hooks your readers with a laugh or a surprise?
Think of me as that friend who brings a flashlight on the trail—not to lead the way, but to help you spot your own path. I’m not here to hand you a map with all the answers; I’m here to cheer you on while you draw your own route.
Every time I sit down to write, it feels like starting a brand-new adventure—sometimes surprising, sometimes challenging, but always full of possibility. And that’s precisely what I hope it sparks for you, too: a sense that life isn’t a one-time journey, but a series of fresh starts, each one waiting to be explored with curiosity, courage, and joy.
“So here’s to chasing excellence, 
lighting up the trail for you,
and having a little fun along the way.”
Kit Summers
The Power of Words
Words carry weight.
Words can inspire.
Words will shape you.
So let me ask you:
Are you moving toward the life you
want before your time runs out?
The truth is, it’s never too late to make a change.
At every stage of life, you have
the power to improve, grow, and start again.
Let optimism guide you!
Let your actions ripple outward to help others.
That is how we all rise—together!
My Experiences
Much of what I write comes from lessons I’ve learned, though both successes and struggles.
I share them, not to tell you what to do, but to offer possibilities you can adapt for yourself. Remember:
- Only you know what is best for you.
- You are as young as the last time you changed your mind.
- I keep reminding myself of these truths, and I pass them on to you.
KEEP GROWING!
If you want a small daily spark, sign up for A New Word Daily at Word Genius.
Expand your vocabulary—expand your mind!
You still have time.
You still have an opportunity.
You still have success ahead of you.
So—think, and then think again!
You are always writing your book.
What new stories are you ready to write with your life?
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OPENING WORDS
I was delighted—almost giddy—by the sparks of ideas and words ChatGPT tossed my way. As I leap into this new adventure of learning and playing with it, I can feel my mind stretching, bending, and blossoming in marvelous new directions.
It’s like stumbling upon a secret playground tucked inside my own imagination—swings of curiosity, slides of wonder, monkey bars of “what if?” Using Chat feels like having a brilliant, mischievous editor right at my side—one who’s always ready to spin the ordinary into something extraordinary.
This video will tell you more about ChatGPT >>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFMVT3bcrJo
>> https://chatgpt.com/ << and here they are.
TEETH—A New Chapter in My Smile
Life sometimes hands us unexpected twists—like missing a few teeth here and there from old infections. Instead of patching things up piece by piece, I decided to take a bold approach: have the lower teeth removed and set the stage for a fresh start with a permanent retainer that screws into the jawbone.
Do I ever wonder if it was the perfect decision? Of course! But hey, that’s the magic of life—we don’t get a rewind button, only a big bold “play” button for what’s next. I chose renewal instead of patchwork, adventure instead of hesitation.
Sure, I still question myself now and then—but guess what? The train has already left the station, and I’m riding it with a smile, curious about where it’ll take me next! Yes, my lower teeth have been extracted. A new world of eating and chowing down has opened before me.
This isn’t the end of my smile—it’s the beginning of a stronger, healthier, and brighter one. And every time I grin, it’ll be a reminder that sometimes the boldest choices bring the best transformations. In the end, I think things will turn out perfectly, as my bright smile lights the way.
Unlike your teeth, your mind doesn’t stop growing; it’s stretching, blooming, and expanding every single day, every instant! And here’s the sparkly secret: You get to choose the direction. You’re the artist with the paintbrush—the captain with the compass—the driver holding the wheel.
This is your ship, your road trip, your dazzling masterpiece-in-progress. So steer boldly, paint brightly, and dance your way down the road that lights you up the most! There may be rocks or islands you will need to go around, steer your ship right, toward the joy you are looking for.
Life, of course, is a sea full of surprises.
Some are stormy.
Some are dazzling.
Some sneak up when you least expect them.
✨ A sudden accident that forces you to see life differently.
✨ A new relationship that fills your sails with laughter.
✨ A success that shines brighter than you imagined.
✨ A smile—your own or someone else’s—that reminds you joy can appear out of nowhere.
The waters can be salty, sometimes stinging your eyes, sometimes tossing you around. But salty seas also make you stronger; they remind you that you are the captain who must stay at the helm. Hands steady on the wheel, eyes toward the horizon—you guide your ship even when the waves roar.
And remember, not every stretch of ocean is stormy. There will be stretches of calm water where you can rest, reflect, and enjoy the sunshine. There will be nights where the stars seem to dance in the sky just for you, and mornings that smell like fresh possibility. You remember those times, yes?
Sailing alone can feel daunting, yes. But even when no one else is aboard, you still have the strength, the creativity, and the spark to keep going. And more often than not, fellow travelers will cross your path—people who cheer you on, share their maps, and help patch the sails when the wind gets rough.
So steer boldly.
Sing with the waves.
Dance with the storms.
Laugh when the sea splashes your face.
Let your ship carry you toward success.
Find all the joy, wonder, and desire you can handle.
The ocean is vast, and your story is just beginning!
WELCOME THE PRESENT MOMENT- EVERY SINGLE INSTANT!
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✨ BLOG 341– Become the Brightest, Boldest Version of YOURSELF (Ya, YOU!) ✨
Becoming the brightest, boldest version of yourself is a journey of self-discovery, courage, and authenticity. It involves recognizing your potential, moving past self-doubt, and intentionally cultivating habits that foster growth.
Think of your journey as less of a serious checklist and more like an epic adventure game—where you’re the main character leveling up, collecting skills, and unlocking new powers. The goal? To live fully, laugh often, and keep growing into the best version of yourself.
It’s not a one-time quest—it’s a lifelong adventure filled with detours, treasure hunts, and maybe even a few dragons (a.k.a. challenges). However, with resilience, patience, and a playful spirit, you will continue to move forward.
“To be the best version of yourself” means continually growing, improving, and living authentically in accordance with your personal values and goals, focusing on self-reflection and personal development rather than comparing yourself to others.
It’s about unlocking your potential by aligning your actions with your true purpose and passions, and striving for incremental progress over time to become a better person than you were the day before. It’s about always striving for more and helping others climb their ladder, too.
IDEAS TO HELP YOU GET THERE >>
Visualise your future self.
Let go of limiting beliefs.
Know your purpose.
Do not compromise on your dreams.
Focus on your strengths.
Embrace failure.
Develop a growth mindset.
Don’t have expectations.
Surround yourself with the right people.
Don’t take yourself too seriously.
Help others.
Practice gratitude every day.
Have self-compassion.
Stay positive.
Prioritize what matters to you — not others.
Don’t sweat the small stuff.
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1. Know Your Purpose
If you don’t know where you’re going, life can feel aimless – sometimes even pointless. Having a purpose in life that you can feel and live out can turn a humdrum activity into a passionate endeavor. Knowing your purpose will give you the drive you need to reach excellence. Writing this blog is my purpose.
2. Keep a Journal or diary
A journal can help you understand yourself and your life in new ways. This includes your motivations and your emotions – writing about them can be a great way to narrow down on your passions and your life purpose. Writing these blog posts helps me in numerous ways.
3. Accept Help from Others
You’re not alone out there – we all need other people to grow and develop. But if you start growing arrogant, automatically feeling like you know better than others, you can end up losing out on valuable knowledge and experiences.
4. Help Other People
Conversely, helping others is another excellent way to become the best version of yourself. There are numerous benefits to social activity and the sense of community that comes with it – you’ll be mentally stimulated, you’ll learn new skills, you’ll be healthier, and you may even live longer.
5. Challenge Yourself
When you stop finding new challenges to face, you stop growing. The ability to be vulnerable is also essential here. Take risks (within reason) and you’ll discover new aspects of yourself. You may be surprised at the situations you can get used to and even master, as long as you put forward some authentic, constant effort.
Every person is unique, including you. Someone else’s life path cannot be your benchmark of success, since they have different dreams, passions, and skills. There is also no roadmap or ideal outcome in life, because everyone’s path is unique and belongs to them alone. Learning how to be the best version of yourself is a lifelong journey. It’s a lot of work, but your personal growth is worth it.
1. Define Your Vision and Values
- Know Your “Why”: What lights you up inside? What gives your life spark and meaning?
- Imagine Your Future Self: Picture your dream life—how do you feel, act, and shine each day?
- Embrace Your “You-ness”: Identify the passions, quirks, and interests that make you, you. Let them guide your choices.
2. Set Goals and Take Action
- Sketch Your Game Plan: Write down bold dreams, then break them into tiny, doable steps.
- Start Small, Win Big: Tiny habits—such as stretching in the morning or drinking more water—add up to significant wins over your lifetime.
- Track Your Progress: Celebrate milestones like you’re earning achievement badges, and adjust your path as you go.
3. Cultivate Your Mindset
- Be Your Own Cheerleader: Speak to yourself with kindness—progress comes with wobbles and victories.
- Flip the Script: Trade “I can’t” for “I’m learning” and “I’ll try.” Words are powerful magic spells.
- Stay Curious: Treat mistakes as plot twists, not failures. Every twist teaches you something new.
4. Prioritize Self-Care and Joy
- Fuel Your Body: Nourish yourself with movement, food, and rest that energize you.
- Play Often: Make space for hobbies, laughter, and fun—they recharge your batteries.
- Keep it Light: Declutter your schedule and your space so you can focus on what really matters.
5. Stay Focused and Authentic
- Walk Your Own Path: No comparisons—everyone’s journey is a different story.
- Own Your Weirdness: Authenticity is your superpower—no copycats allowed.
- Practice Gratitude: Even the tiniest joys—like sunshine, coffee, or a good playlist—count as treasures.
Remember: you’re not building a perfect self—you’re crafting a joyful, evolving version of you that shines brighter every day.
ALL YOU HAVE IS NOW!
MAKE THINGS FANTASTIC!
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WORDS TO LIFT YOU!
Inspirational quotes and sayings are like little magic sparks—tiny but mighty! They can flip your mood, open your heart, and fire up your thoughts in all the best ways. Think of them as cheerful nudges, joyful challenges, and sparkly essentials on your path to happiness. ✨
READ & SHINE!
Dive into these quotes and let them be your daily pick-me-up, like sipping on a cup of sunshine. Whether it’s self-care, success, or just a boost of happy vibes, these words can be your pocket-sized cheerleaders. And, develop your own quotes to push you forward.
THE BURST!
Sometimes all you need is a quick “zap!” of wisdom to get back on track. That’s exactly what these quotes do—they bring focus, sprinkle joy, and pump you up to make this day (yes, THIS one) your best yet. Go for daily efforts, then move ahead.
BE POSITIVE!
A kind word can make you grin, a funny line can make you laugh, and an uplifting thought can completely change your day. Here’s the secret: you’re the boss of your thoughts! And when you sprinkle positivity into your thinking, you sprinkle it into your life.
“YOU” ARE THE MAGIC
The way you see yourself—the beliefs you hold, the stories you tell, and the dreams you chase—shapes your world. So feed your mind with words that push you forward, not hold you back. As you move forward, extend your hand and help someone else move forward in their life.
️ SELF-TALK = SUPERPOWER
Every day is a fresh chance to inch closer to your goals. Sure, life’s busy and wild, but you’ve got this! Positive words might just be letters on a page, but they can keep your heart strong and your spirit dancing. Develop your writing skills to help many others in their lives. ✨
QUOTES = SECRET FUEL
Motivational quotes aren’t just fluffy words—they actually rewire your brain to believe in yourself. They hand you courage, remind you that you’re capable, and give you that little “you can do it!” shove when you need it most.
☀️ SUNSHINE FOR YOUR SOUL
Think of these quotes as rays of light on cloudy days. They brighten your mood, shift your focus toward the good, and remind you that even when storms roll in, there’s always a rainbow waiting. ️
PEARLS OF WISDOM
Life can be messy and uncertain, but quotes are like shiny pearls that sparkle at just the right moment. They lift, inspire, and energize you when your tank feels empty. Stay out of the mess by reading and developing your own quotes often ✨
WORDS THAT TRANSFORM
The right words can light a fire in your soul, kick excuses out the door, and inspire you to leap outside your comfort zone. Read them with an open mind—and let them work their magic. You’ve read words that help you; now spread those words to help others.
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Ever felt like you’re the only one struggling? Guess what—millions of others feel the same. Quotes remind you that you’re human, you’re not alone, and together we’re all figuring it out (sometimes with coffee, sometimes with tears, but always moving forward!). ☕
⏰ READ & REPEAT!
Use these words like daily vitamins for your mind. Stick your favorites where you’ll see them first thing in the morning, whisper them to yourself before work, or share them with a friend. Let them remind you of your potential, your sparkle, and the beauty that awaits you in every new day.
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✨ I HOPE THESE WORDS SPARK JOY AND FIRE UP YOUR SPIRIT ✨
Upgrade your thinking—when your thoughts shine, your life follows!
⚡Change can happen in a heartbeat—sometimes instantly!
Dream big, write boldly, and create your very own best-seller story.
Remember: you are amazing—so step onto the stage and play your part with confidence and flair!
You can flip the script, rise higher, and chase down your wildest dreams.
The magic is already in you—so go light up the world!
LET THE FOLLOWING WORDS MAGICALLY TRANSFORM YOU! >>
“Change equals self-improvement. Push yourself to places you haven’t been before.” – Pat Summitt.
“Never bend your head. Hold it high.
Look the world straight in the eye.” — Helen Keller.
“Getting in touch with your true self must be your priority.” — Tom Hopkins.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” — Carl R. Rogers”
“Formal education will make you a living;
Self-education will make you a fortune.” — Jim Rohn.
“Employ your time in improving yourself by other men’s writings so that you shall come easily by what others have laboured hard for.” — Socrates
“The bad news is that time flies.
The good news is you’re the pilot.” — Michael Altshuler.
“There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that’s your own self.” – Aldous Huxley.
“Do the best you can until you know better.
Then when you know better, do better.” — Maya Angelou.
“When you stop chasing the wrong things,
You give the right things a chance to catch you.” — Lolly Daskal.
“Set a goal so big that you can’t achieve it until you grow into the person who can.” – Zig Ziglar.
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.” — Sir Edmund Hillary.
“All you need is the plan, the road map,
and the courage to press on to your destination.” — Earl Nightingale
“Start by doing what’s necessary,
Then do what’s possible,
And suddenly you are doing the impossible.” — Francis of Assisi.
“Success is the sum of small efforts,
Repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier
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MY DAILY JOTTINGS!
Upgrade your thoughts and watch your world glow brighter!
✨ Life can shift in an instant—sometimes all it takes is one bold thought.
Go ahead, craft your noble book, your masterpiece—why not a best-seller?
You are dazzling, brilliant, unstoppable—so step into the spotlight and shine your part!
The universe is cheering for you—so dream big, play big, and LIVE big!
Remember, no matter where you are, you can spin things around quickly.
️ Then race toward your wildest, most colorful dreams!
✨ MY SELF >> ✨
My story is just getting good—oh, the plot twists ahead!
I’ve got a hundred years (at least) of life, laughter, and love in me.
I’m here to light sparks, stir souls, and make lives brighter—
Even for people I’ve never met.
I’m not winding down, I’m revving up.
New chapters, fresh adventures, bold transformations—watch me take on the world!
People are waiting to hear my story,
People who need my fire to remind them of their own.
I’m not done—I’m just getting started.
I have treasures to add, wisdom to share.
Joy to sprinkle across the world.
I want to bring your life to a higher level.
If you’re over 60—guess what?
The best is NOT behind you.
Join me and live beyond age 100!
Write your book, which will help others.
You’ve got more to give, more to live, and more to create. In my travels, I love the wilderness!
The world is waiting for your brilliance!
(Read more about age in the next blog.)
HERE WE GO! >>
9/6 — Juggling? Writing? YES!
All morning,
I worked on the new blog format.
I hope you like it.
Please send me your thoughts.
Today was a day I was scheduled to go out and juggle on the big lawn. Often tired these days, I was exhausted today, so I just stayed inside and worked on my writing. Besides that, it was raining (again!) You hear of nice sunny Florida, but we have had more rain than I have seen before.
I juggled three balls over the bed for a time. The 3-ball juggling is feeling better, but previously, I didn’t even have to think about it to have the balls dance in my hands. Maryann was there too, juggling on the other side of the bed. Like many beginners, she tends to throw forward with her left-hand throws.
9/7 — An Adventure?
Today is Sunday—a day that feels made for little adventures, like walking a couple of blocks to Publix for a few treasures (okay, groceries). I had the itch to wander out, stretch my legs, and feel the breeze of freedom on my face. But nope—the rulebook here says I need a chaperone whenever I step outside. Honestly, it feels a bit like being in a play where I’ve been cast in the role of “Prisoner of Overprotection.”
Now, I understand—some individuals here do require that kind of watchful care, and that’s essential. But me? I know I could strut to the Publix Grocery Store and back without missing a beat. Still, I won’t go full rebel against their rules (tempting as that may be!) Jail? Here? Me? — Naw.
So instead, I’ll treat this like a game. If freedom is the prize, patience and creativity are my superpowers. I may not be walking to Publix today, but I can walk laps in my mind, take a journey through my imagination, and remind myself that my spirit is far too big ever to be locked up by silly rules.
Because here’s the truth: even when walls feel high, our thoughts can soar higher. And that, my friend, is the sweetest freedom of all. So, stretch your mind to think of ways to advance in your life. Remember, there is no limit to how high you can go.
Today, my fingers weren’t just typing—they were breakdancing across the keyboard, twirling, leaping, and sprinkling stardust with every tap. The ideas came rushing in like a joyful parade, each one waving a little flag of possibility.
My hope? That these words waltz right into your life, tickle your imagination, and leave you smiling a little brighter. You are on your way to living the life that YOU want. I am here to help you get there. Start today, and every day, put in a little more effort.
9/8 — This Blog
Can you imagine what life would be like if I didn’t write this blog? Honestly, I can’t! Writing helps me remember, reflect, and connect—and hopefully it inspires you, too. Have you started writing yet? If not, maybe today’s the day. You never know who might need your words, your story, your spark. As I share with you, you can share with others. That’s how the ripple spreads.
Memory, memory—how’s yours these days? After a brain injury, memory can feel like a tricky puzzle with a few pieces missing. But here’s the good news: even puzzles with missing pieces can still be solved and be beautiful. Figure out your puzzle, it will take you amazing places!
Here is about the therapy today.
My Daily Quest
My New Adventure
This morning, Physical Therapy greeted me with pedals and persistence. I rode the bike—yes, rode it (a stationary bike)—and my asthma stayed politely in its corner. Victory. Mary Ann cheered me on like a quiet coach, steady and encouraging. Funny how thoughts scatter, tumble, and collide while I’m pedaling. They make remembering feel like chasing butterflies in a windstorm.
Then came Speech Therapy with Lilly, sharp-eyed and steady. She pointed out (again) how slippery memory can be. I wrestle with it daily, but maybe this writing—words stacked at the close of each day—will become my net to catch those butterflies.
What will it take to see the improvement I crave? I don’t feel I’m sliding backwards, yet the echoes around me suggest otherwise. I don’t like that tune, not one bit. However, I will continue, because that is the nature of life’s ups and downs.
The afternoon rolled in with Occupational Therapy and Terrie, our field trip captain. We plotted strategies, laughed about forgetfulness (“Did I forget, or am I just playing a trick on myself?”). The store became our training ground. Terrie’s watchful eye followed me through the aisles. Did I pass? Maybe not. But hey—tests are dull. Adventures are better.
Today brought me through my therapies with a smile. First, Mary Ann guided me through some balance work (and trust me, I needed her steady encouragement). Then it was time to hop on the exercise bike—pedaling forward, one mile at a time, both literally and figuratively. After that, Lilly took me through memory exercises that stretched my brain like a mental workout. It’s hard, it’s fun, and it’s progress.
And here’s the best part: Lilly asked me to email her daily with updates on what therapies I do. Why? Because she truly cares. She’s not just doing a job—she’s passionate about helping people grow and heal. Isn’t that refreshing? Passion is contagious. I hope you’re chasing your passions, too. Life shines brighter when you do what you love.
Having Terrie as my coach, my therapist, is a good thing. She reminded me that my memory is not so good, something I admit, I don’t like to hear. Yeah, that sting is real. We went over a number of things we covered yesterday, and I forgot many of them.
Even when the messenger is kind, having a gap or weakness pointed out can feel like a spotlight you didn’t turn on. At the same time, you’re noticing the care behind it—that Terrie’s heart is in the right place. Both truths can coexist: the discomfort of being reminded, and the warmth of knowing someone’s rooting for you.
9/9 — Therapy Time
The day kicked off with Diane leading us on a group walk—fresh air in the lungs, feet in rhythm, eyes on the world around us. Next time, I’ll bring a bag and scoop up stray trash along the way. A moving meditation and a chance to leave the trail brighter than we found it.
Did I feel like a dog on a leash? I could’ve sprinted ahead—my legs were itching for it—but the group kept me tethered. I did cut the walk short, though, because my fingers were calling me back here. This little blog has turned into my favorite playground, and I didn’t want recess to end.
Speech therapy was canceled—Lilly’s out sick.
I hope she is alright.
The universe flipped me a “skip turn” card.
Then it was Terrie time. We unpacked what I’d written yesterday (yes, I may have been a bit sharp, but I swear my heart carried no malice). Then came the dreaded memory game: numbers hiding in a grid, smirking at me like tricksters. Not exactly my idea of a fun time. But I played, and—plot twist—I actually did better than I did in the last round. A small win tucked into the boredom.
For now, this is joy: writing words for you, stacking them into this blog, puzzling them into some kind of order. Who knows where it all leads? The future is a wide-open page. But today, I’ll keep chasing the words—unless, of course, my fingers fall off. Until they might fall off, I will keep typing words for your perusal.
Just hopped off the phone with my sister, Willow—though to me she’ll always be “Kath.” She’s been my rock for so long, always showing up in ways both big and small. After my accident, she didn’t just visit me in the hospital—she anchored me there, reminding me that family is a kind of medicine you can’t get in any prescription bottle.
Kath and I
After my accident, she even took on the epic task of driving my 1975 VW411 all the way back to San Diego from Atlantic City. (That car may have been stubborn, but she’s tougher.) And that’s just one story among a whole catalog of moments where she’s stepped in, cared, and carried more than her share.
Kath, if you’re reading this:
THANK YOU!
You’ve been a lighthouse on stormy nights.
The best sister anyone could dream up.
And then—because the universe decided to double down on goodness—about an hour and a half later, my phone rang again.
This time it was my daughter, April.
Our talk lit me up.
She’s glowing with excitement, with her little one due at the end of October.
With baby, April on the left. Her sister, Jasmine, on the right.
There’s something magical in her voice —a mix of anticipation and joy that only comes when life is about to unfold in the most beautiful way. She promised to call more often (music to my ears) and shared how well things are going for her and husband Jake. Their path forward looks bright, solid, and full of promise.
Two conversations, two hearts that mean the world to me, all in one day. It felt like the universe dropped me a reminder: love shows up in a thousand different forms—sometimes as a sister who drives across the country for you, sometimes as a daughter whose laughter carries the future in it. Today I’m holding both close.
9/10 — Off to the Races
By 9 a.m., I was already sprinting into therapies like it was the opening lap of a grand prix. First up, Terrie. We revisited some past exercises—my mind grumbling, “I don’t really like . . . “—but she kept me on track.
One test had me tapping a moving dot on a huge screen, quick and precise. Basically Whac-A-Mole, but with higher stakes. The hardest part? Not the tapping—it’s shutting down the little voice that insists I’m doing badly (spoiler: that voice doesn’t help).
Terrie reminded me—again—about strategies I tend to forget. Not my favorite thing, being called out on that. But hey, if the tools sharpen the brain, maybe they’re worth the sting. She mentioned this could help with driving. Considering I’ve logged thousands of miles post-accident without incident, I had to laugh. Still, better safe than sorry.
Next came Dino. Speech therapy, kind of. We barely touched on speech drills, because our conversation detoured into ChatGPT and how it could analyze my books and spit out fresh word treasures. He’s got a clever mind, and I like that he lets me play with ideas instead of just drills.
Then Mary Ann had me back to juggling. Three balls in the air over the bed—starting to feel smoother, cleaner. I’m catching my own sloppy throws faster, which is its own little victory. I told her (again) that I’d love to wander across the street and practice outside. She (again) gave me the “liabilities” speech. Fair enough—it’s her job.
But it’s funny: I’ve walked and run across parts of the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, and Europe without so much as a scratch, yet here I can’t cross a quiet road.
Contained, yes.
But I’ll juggle anyway.
Now I’ll feed these words into ChatGPT and see what magic comes out.
It’s always a surprise what bounces back—kind of like juggling, but with words instead of balls.
And, with this blog, I don’t drop (well–sometimes–sorry.)
9/10 — Charlie Kirk
Yesterday, Charlie Kirk left this world far too soon. He packed more living into his years than most manage in twice the time. His fingerprints are all over the good he sparked, and he’ll be missed deeply—by me, and by countless others.
Charlie’s faith was in God and Jesus. Mine is in questions, in doubt, in the spark of human wonder. And yet—we both burned with conviction. His life reminds me: belief or no belief, what matters is how fiercely you live, how you throw your energy at shaping the world.
I’ve never subscribed to any of the thousands of gods humanity has dreamed up. And if I’m called before one someday? Well, I’ll simply say—”You know what proof I needed—you never gave it.” If that lands me in some so-called hell, then the blame rests elsewhere. Besides, the Bible never mentions “hell” the way pop culture paints it.
Charlie’s passing stirs the old paradox: why do bright lights flicker out early?
Maybe the better question is—how brightly will I shine while I’m here?
Are you going for the gusto?
9/11 — SALSA!
Today wasn’t a “therapy” day in the usual sense. Instead, I served up a different kind of medicine: Salsa. My therapy of choice. One big batch, shared with everyone, and the reviews came back hotter than a jalapeño in July.
Remember my salsa? If not, just say the word, and I’ll be happy to pass the recipe along to you. Patricia Ferrari of West Chester, PA, once wrote me after tasting it at Booths Corner Farmers Market >>
“I just wanted to say that your salsa is sensational!
I was instantly hooked. I will not buy supermarket salsa ever again.
Summers Salsa is so fresh and healthy.
It should be sold at ALL supermarkets.”
Even the therapists wanted in—I’ve now officially supplied the whole crew with the recipe.
I’ve traveled and explored my way around the world, making salsa along the way. Visiting and making salsa in California, Europe, Colorado, Australia, Pennsylvania, Japan, and New Zealand. No matter the continent, one constant—happy eaters everywhere!
On a more serious note, I joined a phone call today with six others, all talking about how I’m doing here. No bad comments—music to my ears. Still, talking with some of the other patients reminded me: some people have been in places like this for years.
That’s not my path.
I miss my freedom.
I plan to claim it back.
For now, I must wait.
9/12 — As my mind clicked on, I looked over at the clock: 3:33 am. It looks like I slept well.
First thing, my current joy, working on this blog for you.
It comes out later today.
I have to make sure every letter and every word is in the right place and necessary.
That’s one key to good writing: have just the necessary words, nothing more.
The therapy today was to assemble the planter that came in. Initially, Terrie helped, then she had a patient to attend to. My next therapy was with Jules on Speech. She helped me move the planter project forward. She pointed out some spots I did not articulate clearly, so that was my therapy.
AND WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FR YOUR UPCOMING WEEK?
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THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
Yes, I keep this little gardening corner—Because growing things is pure magic! I love the skill, and I hope you’ll fall in love with it, too.
❄️ Winter has arrived, but don’t pack away. Your green thumbs are just yet. There are still plenty of things to grow—and don’t forget the joy of indoor gardening! Windowsills can become jungles, and kitchens can sprout mini salad bars.
A self-supporting life is a brighter,
Freer life—and gardens are a wonderful Piece of that puzzle. Imagine harvesting your own fresh basil, or pulling up Carrots you grew yourself—delightful!
I’m heading back on the road now,
So my garden chatter may pause.
But oh, how I hope Beth continues
To tend our veggie patch—we poured.
So much love into it!
✨ So, why not begin your own garden today?
Big or small, indoors or out—it could nourish
your body, brighten your soul, and maybe
Even be essential one day.
START YOUR GARDEN TODAY!
It may grow into one of the best adventures of your life.
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MY SELF—THE GARDENER >>
My story is only halfway written—oh, the adventures still ahead!
I have so much life to live, so much joy to give.
I want to touch lives near and far—even those I’ll never meet.
I’m not done—not even close!
I dream of living beyond 100, because honestly? I feel like I’ve just begun.
Will you join me on this journey past 100?
Fresh chapters are waiting for me (and for you!)
Brimming with transformation, magic, and surprise—be ready.
I hope you stay on the right path toward the success you desire.
Somewhere out there, people are waiting—waiting for my story.
Awaiting my spark, my comeback—to ignite their own greatness.
I am ready to shine brighter, love deeper, and give more than ever before.
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ALL OUR LIVES, WE GET TO PLAY THE GAME OF CHALLENGE!
YOUR QUEST FOR THE WEEK >>
Turn on your inner spark and push yourself toward excellence—
One bold step, one tiny habit at a time.
Do it this week, then let it snowball into your daily rhythm.
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NEXT BLOG ADVENTURE >>
BLOG 342—Golden Rules to Live By After Sixty (and Shine Like Never Before!)
Because life after sixty isn’t about slowing down—it’s about Leveling Up,
Laughing Louder, and Living Bolder.
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ALWAYS REMEMBER,
YOUR PRESENT SITUATION IS NOT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION,
THE BEST IS YET TO COME!
