✨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! ✨
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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
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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
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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 CARTWHEELS
I see you.
Recently, I shaved my beard and head.
I shaved my eyebrows off too, did you see?
Have you ever shaved your head?
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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 16
CBS 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.
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PART 3—BLOG 391—A Cartwheel—YOU?
Be Different—Find Your Own Way
From 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. ✨
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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
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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.
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! 🌟
