✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 382 — THE YEARS PILE ON
This Video will give you more insight into me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr8QFnD1yGc
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—
Headlining at Ballys, tossing clubs with a grin.
Seven of them. A world record—
Because physics loves a good insult. 😄
Then came the truck—the coma.
Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
And here I am now—not juggling clubs.
But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Balancing healing, catching courage.
Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
The mission grew bigger than applause.
Now I lift humans. I write to stay connected.
I write because it’s how I breathe.
If these words help you, too?
That’s magic catching air. 🎉
What’s next on Kit’s journey through life?
Back to juggling? Back to life?
Stay with Kit and find out.
Life can get better.
Life will get better. ✨
Juggling 5 clubs in 1978 while visiting Germany
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My new address here is >>
Kit Summers
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217
Tampa, FL 33647
kitsummers.com
kitsummers@gmail.com
https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
Stop by for a visit when you can.
A love letter would be dandy.
Call me >> 610-400-3233
READ THE WORDS IN THE BLOG SLOWLY AND CAREFULLY.
Every week, I try to create the very best blog I can—something that makes you laugh a little harder, think a little deeper, and step back into life carrying more hope than you had before. A spark of joy. A little wisdom. A reminder that life is still full of possibilities. ✨
MY NEW HOME
(THERE USED TO BE AN ALLIGATOR IN THIS POND)
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PART 1) THE BEGINNINGS
DON’T LIVE IN THE FUTURE OR THE PAST —
MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT YOU’RE HOLDING RIGHT NOW!
Larry Zeiger said this about my last blog >>
“Incredible writing! You are definitely a Philosopher King!!!”
One of the pleasures of writing this blog is reconnecting with people from different chapters of my life. Recently, Kim Ransom, whom I went to school with, sent me her email address so she could receive the blog directly from my website. I think the blog comes through much better there than it does on Facebook.
Welcome to the group, Kim! I’m delighted you joined us. Thank you for your interest, your support, and for taking the time to follow along on this journey. It means a lot to know that old friends are still part of the adventure.
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Each week, as I sit down to write my blog, I am adding another chapter to a book that is still being written. With every story, observation, lesson, and reflection, I hope to share something that might help you navigate your own journey a little better.
LIFE!
Life has been an extraordinary teacher. It has given me triumphs and failures, moments of great joy and periods of tremendous hardship. It has lifted me to heights I never imagined and, at times, brought me to my knees. Along the way, I have learned that success is not measured.
Some of life’s most valuable lessons arrived disguised as setbacks. The challenges I once wished away often became the experiences that taught me resilience, patience, gratitude, and perspective. The difficult seasons did not define me; they refined me. They revealed strengths I never knew I possessed and reminded me that growth often comes from the places where we struggle the most.
The years have taught me that happiness is not found in a perfect life, but in appreciating the imperfect one we have. It is found in friendships, meaningful work, shared laughter, acts of kindness, and the courage to keep moving forward when the road becomes difficult. Every experience—good or bad—adds another page to our story and another lesson to our understanding.
HAPPINESS
For all that life has given me, I remain grateful. The victories brought confidence, the failures brought wisdom, and the hardships brought strength. Together, they have shaped the person I am today and continue to guide the person I am still becoming. The lesson is simple: keep learning, keep growing, and never stop believing that your best chapters may still lie ahead.
From standing on stages as a professional juggler to lying unconscious in a coma, from building businesses to rebuilding my life, each experience has left behind lessons worth sharing. Writing allows me to gather those lessons and pass them along.
That may be why these weekly posts feel like more than a blog. They feel like pages in an ongoing book—a collection of thoughts, experiences, and discoveries gathered over a lifetime. Some chapters are lighthearted. Some are serious. Some simply describe an ordinary meal or a quiet morning. Yet even the ordinary moments often contain something worth noticing.
MORE?
I hope that somewhere among these words, you find an idea, a perspective, or a bit of encouragement that helps you move forward. If a single sentence inspires you to think differently, smile more often, persevere through difficulty, or chase a dream you have been postponing, then the time spent writing has been worthwhile.
So each week I return to the keyboard, ready to write another chapter. With every blog, every story, and every lesson learned along the way, it feels as though I am adding another page to a book that is still being written.
Life has taken me down roads I never expected to travel. There have been victories and setbacks, moments of joy and moments of struggle. Yet each experience has left behind a lesson worth sharing. Always know that what’s in front of you is much more important than what’s behind you.
LESSONS
Writing allows me to gather the lessons life has taught me and share them with others. Through my words, I can share the victories, setbacks, hard-earned wisdom, and discoveries that have shaped my journey. You can use what you read to make your life better and better.
My hope is that somewhere along the way, a reader will find encouragement, inspiration, or a new perspective that helps them on their own path. If my experiences can make someone’s burden a little lighter, their road a little clearer, or their future a little brighter, then every hour spent writing is time well spent.
As long as I have stories to tell, questions to ponder, and ideas that might help another person live a little better, I will keep writing. The book will continue—one page, one thought, and one hopeful word at a time.
Life does not stop teaching when we grow older. Every year brings new lessons, new challenges, and new opportunities to learn something valuable. Age may add wrinkles to our faces, but it can also add wisdom to our minds if we remain curious and willing to learn.
TEACH
Some of life’s greatest lessons arrive through success. We achieve a goal, overcome an obstacle, or discover a new skill, and in the process, we gain confidence and understanding. Yet many of our most important lessons come through hardship.
Disappointments, mistakes, setbacks, and losses often teach us things that comfort and success never could. The difficult moments we would never choose for ourselves frequently become the experiences that shape our character the most.
Learning is not reserved for classrooms, textbooks, or youth. It happens in conversations with friends, in quiet moments of reflection, in observing the world around us, and in paying attention to others’ experiences.
Every person we meet knows something we do not know. Every day contains an opportunity to discover a new idea, develop a better habit, or gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world. Learn something new daily, as you can.
The people who continue to grow are not necessarily the smartest or the strongest. They are the ones who remain open-minded, ask questions, and refuse to believe they have learned everything worth knowing. A curious mind keeps life interesting. It keeps us engaged, adaptable, and eager for what comes next.
ANOTHER ONE
No matter how many years pile on, there is always another lesson waiting around the corner. The day we stop learning is the day we stop growing. So stay curious, stay teachable, and welcome each new day as another chapter in the ongoing education called life.
Some wisdom comes from success, some from failure, and some from simply paying attention to the world around us. I work to gather those lessons and share them with others in a way that encourages, inspires, and makes the road smoother.
No matter your age, there is always room to grow, improve, and discover something new. Whether you are twenty or ninety, the ideas that shape a better life remain remarkably similar >>
Stay Curious.
Keep Learning.
Be Kind.
Find Purpose.
Never stop moving forward.
If even one thought from these pages helps someone take a positive step,
Then every hour spent writing will have been worthwhile.
I want to write a spark that will make your life better each time.
I hope that somewhere within these words you find encouragement, inspiration, or a new way of looking at life. If even one sentence helps you smile, think, grow, or keep moving forward, then every hour spent at the keyboard has been worthwhile.
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PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delights — Inspiration, Freshly Served
>>>>>June 13
A smile in the morning can do wonders. It costs nothing, takes only a moment, and yet it has the power to change the direction of an entire day. A smile can lift your spirits before your feet even hit the floor, reminding you that a new day has arrived, filled with fresh possibilities.
I’m talking about smiling with your mind rather than with your mouth. A mental smile is a choice to view life with optimism, gratitude, and hope, even when circumstances are less than perfect. It may not solve every problem you face, but it can help you approach challenges with a lighter heart, a clearer perspective, and a better attitude.
Difficulties often seem smaller when you refuse to let them control your outlook. Life is not always easy, but it usually goes better when you carry a smile in your mind and choose to focus on possibilities rather than obstacles. Sometimes that simple shift in thinking can make all the difference in how you experience the day.
SMILE!
What makes a smile so remarkable is that its benefits often extend beyond ourselves. A smile shared with a stranger, a friend, a caregiver, or a family member can brighten their day, too. As a pebble dropped into a pond, its effects ripple outward in ways we may never fully see. One simple expression can spark a conversation, ease a worry, or remind someone that kindness still exists in the world.
Life will always present obstacles, disappointments, and unexpected turns. Yet each morning offers us a choice about how we greet the day. We can begin with frustration and worry, or with gratitude, hope, and a smile. The smile may be small, but never underestimate its power. Sometimes the simplest actions have the greatest impact, and a smile is one of the simplest gifts we can give—to others and to ourselves. 😊
A smile can brighten your mood, lift the spirits of those around you, and remind you that no matter what challenges may lie ahead, there is still something good worth noticing. It is a simple but powerful choice—one that helps you face life with hope, gratitude, and confidence. Even on difficult days, a smile can be a gentle reminder that better moments are still ahead.
The day will bring its share of responsibilities, surprises, and perhaps even a few frustrations. Yet beginning the morning with a smile sets a positive tone for everything that follows. It is a simple choice that reminds you to greet the day with optimism, gratitude, and confidence, no matter what challenges may come your way. A smile does not change the world around you, but it can change the way you experience it.
It is a simple declaration that you are ready to face the day with hope instead of worry, gratitude instead of complaint, and confidence instead of fear. It is a conscious choice to focus on possibilities rather than obstacles, blessings rather than burdens, and opportunities rather than limitations.
When you begin your day with that mindset, you give yourself the best chance to create something positive, productive, and meaningful from whatever lies ahead. Change your thoughts and change your life.
CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
What makes a smile so remarkable is that it often spreads. One smile encourages another. Before long, a small act of kindness can ripple through a family, a workplace, a neighborhood, or even a community. You never know whose day might be improved simply because you chose to greet them with warmth.
So tomorrow morning, before you rush into your routine, pause for a moment and smile. Smile because you are alive. Smile because another day of possibilities has arrived.
😁
Smile because there are still stories to write, people to love, lessons to learn, and adventures waiting just around the corner. Sometimes the smallest action can be the spark that lights up an entire day. 😊
Breakfast was nothing to write about—just fuel in the tank, a bit of nourishment to get the day started. Not every meal is memorable. Some simply do their job and quietly send us on our way.
MY ELBOW
As for my left elbow, it has been hurting quite a bit. Arthritis is certainly one possibility, especially as the years pile on. However, elbow pain can also come from tendinitis, bursitis, overuse, a strained muscle, or even the way we sleep or the position of our arms throughout the day.
The human body is a remarkably complex machine, with countless systems working together every moment of every day. When something feels wrong, it is not always easy to pinpoint the exact cause of the discomfort. A symptom in one area may actually originate somewhere else, making it difficult to understand what the body is trying to tell us.
That is why patience, observation, and proper care are often necessary as we work toward feeling better and maintaining our health. Sometimes the answer is simple, while other times it takes time and investigation to uncover the source of the problem. The important thing is to keep moving forward, listening to the body, and doing what we can to support our well-being.
For now, I will give the elbow a little kindness. A bit of rest, avoiding movements that aggravate it, and some ice may help calm things down. I’ll pay attention to whether certain activities make it better or worse and see if the pain begins to ease.
One thing I have learned over the years is that the body has a way of getting our attention. Mine has certainly been through its share of adventures—truck accidents, a coma, rehabilitation, and countless miles traveled.
Sometimes a sore elbow is simply a sore elbow. But when pain becomes severe or persists, it is worth paying attention. After all, this body has carried me through an extraordinary journey, and it deserves a little care in return. 💪🙂
NOTHING GOING ON
An uneventful day. Some days are like that. Not every day arrives carrying a parade, a thunderstorm, or a life-changing revelation. Some days simply show up quietly, sit down beside us, and ask very little. There were no dramatic headlines, no great victories, and no major setbacks—just the gentle passing of time and the steady rhythm of another ordinary day.
Yet days like these have their own value. They give us a chance to breathe, reflect, and appreciate the simple gift of being alive. Not every page of life needs excitement to be meaningful. Sometimes the greatest gift a day can offer is a little peace, a little comfort, and the quiet reminder that simply moving forward is enough.
Yet even on uneventful days, there is often something worth noticing. The way the morning light falls across the courtyard—the conversation at breakfast. The resident, using a walker, offers a smile. The bird that lands where no one else is looking. Life does not always shout; sometimes it whispers.
I’ve found that many of the best lessons hide inside ordinary days. Triumphs make exciting stories, but quiet days give us time to think, reflect, and appreciate what we already have. After all, a peaceful day is something many people would gladly trade for.
There isn’t much to write about today. Or today’s story is simply this: the world is calm, the sky stretches overhead, my heart is still beating, and another page of life is being written. Not every day needs excitement, adventure, or remarkable events to have value. Some days quietly remind us that being alive is enough.
A peaceful moment, a comfortable place to sit, a pleasant thought, or the simple awareness that life continues can be a gift in itself. I have learned that happiness is often found not in extraordinary moments but in the appreciation of ordinary ones. Today may seem uneventful, but it is still a day worth living, a page worth writing, and a reminder that sometimes the simplest blessings are the greatest of all. 🙂 HAPPY TIME
There was Happy Hour today, and yes, it lasted a full hour. I kept things simple and had just one plastic cup of white wine. It tasted good going down, and for a little while, it added a pleasant touch to the afternoon. Happy for an hour — humm.
Sometimes it’s not about how much you drink, but about taking a moment to relax, enjoy the company around you, and appreciate the simple pleasures that brighten an ordinary day. Cheers to life’s small moments. At my table were four older ladies.🍷🙂
Dinner is in half an hour, and I’m not even hungry. Still, I’ll head down and see what’s being served. Sometimes the meal surprises me, and sometimes it doesn’t, but it gives me a chance to get out of my room and see what’s going on.
DINNER
I’ve learned that not every meal needs to be memorable. Sometimes food is simply fuel, and sometimes the real value is in the people sitting around the table. If nothing else, I’ll enjoy a little conversation and a change of scenery.
And who knows? Maybe tonight’s dinner will turn out to be better than I expected. Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. A nice meal would certainly be welcome. Will it be? I have no idea.
But sometimes the simple act of showing up is enough. Now and then, an ordinary evening delivers an unexpected conversation, a good laugh, a delicious meal, or a pleasant surprise. The only way to find out is to pull up a chair and see what the evening has in store. 🍽️🙂
>>>>>June 14
What was provided to me here is a single bed. Since I sleep alone and rarely move once I drift off, it suits me just fine. I have never needed much space, and this bed serves its purpose well while being quite comfortable.
After all, I spent seven years living in a van and sleeping on a bed barely two feet wide, so this feels downright spacious by comparison. Life has taught me that the size of a bed doesn’t determine comfort; it’s about having a peaceful place to rest, and for me, this bed does the job perfectly.
The residence itself is quite nice. Everything is new, clean, and well-maintained. There is a certain comfort in living in a place where things work as they should and where the surroundings are pleasant, orderly, and inviting.
The hallways are bright, the common areas are attractive, and the entire building feels thoughtfully cared for. While no place is perfect, I appreciate being in an environment that is comfortable, safe, and welcoming.
It is one less thing to worry about, freeing my mind to focus on what matters most—writing, thinking, learning, and making the most of each day. With fewer concerns demanding my attention, I can devote more energy to exploring new ideas, sharing lessons from life’s journey, and continuing to grow. Each day is a gift, and I intend to use it well, filling the hours with purpose, curiosity, and gratitude.
My room is simple but more than adequate. I have a comfortable bedroom and a large bathroom with a spacious shower. I do not require luxury to be content. Give me a clean place to sleep, a place to write, and a little room to think, and I am happy.
LIFE AT LEGACY
At this stage of life, I have come to appreciate simplicity. I no longer need a large house filled with possessions or constant activity to be content. A comfortable bed, a private room, and a peaceful environment are enough, and this residence provides all three.
THIS IS WHERE I DO ALL MY WRITING
After the many adventures, challenges, and unexpected twists life has brought me, I find great comfort in having a quiet place to rest, write, think, and simply enjoy the day. Sometimes the simplest things are the ones that matter most.
THE DINING ROOM
And I get three healthy meals a day to keep me going. One of the pleasant surprises has been how good some of the food is. Not every meal is memorable, of course, but many of the choices are both nutritious and surprisingly tasty.
THE FOOD
I certainly eat well here, and I appreciate that. Good food fuels the body, lifts the spirit, and helps provide the energy needed for whatever the day may bring. At this stage of life, I’ve learned that taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s an investment in all the days still ahead.
I just went outside for a walk. Boy, this is a big building. There is a paved path that circles the entire structure, and I can already see it becoming my running track. For now, I am getting familiar with the route, one step at a time.
Even during this short walk, my asthma made its presence known. That is a good reminder that before I set out for longer strolls—or eventually a run—I will need to use my inhaler and give my lungs a little extra help. There is no shame in working with the body you have while strengthening the body you want.
RUNNING?
What excites me most is what lies beyond the pavement. The trees, the open spaces, (the animals?), and the feeling of being outdoors call to me. After spending so much time indoors over the years, the opportunity to move through nature again feels like a gift.
Today was only a walk, with a little running mixed in, but every journey begins with a first lap. No one runs a mile before taking that first step, and no great accomplishment arrives all at once. Progress is built one effort at a time.
My breathing may have reminded me that I still have work to do, but that is all right. Improvement comes from showing up, not from being perfect. Each lap around the building is laying the foundation for something greater.
HERE I GO!
Soon those walks will become longer, the breathing easier, and the pace a little quicker. Strength, endurance, and confidence have a way of growing quietly in the background when we keep moving forward.
One day, I will be running beneath those trees, feeling the wind on my face and enjoying the freedom of movement that once seemed distant. And as I run, I will remind myself that every mile began with this simple walk and the decision to keep going. That, after all, is one of life’s greatest lessons: small steps, taken consistently, can carry us farther than we ever imagined.
JUST START!
Is it time to start working out—not just to build a stronger body, but to become a stronger, healthier, and more capable version of yourself? Exercise does far more than build muscles. It develops discipline, confidence, energy, resilience, and a positive outlook on life. THE MAIN HALLWAY LEADING TO THE DINING ROOM
The good news is that you do not have to do anything extreme. Just begin. A short walk today can become a daily habit, and that habit can lead to greater strength, better health, and a more active, fulfilling life.
Every runner started with a first step. Every success story started with a decision to begin. The hardest part is often getting started, but that first step can change the direction of your life. Start where you are, use what you have, and keep moving forward. Your future self will thank you for it. And when you do begin, keep me updated on your progress. I’d love to cheer you on along the way.
LUNCH
Lunch was a pulled pork sandwich—basically a Sloppy Joe once again. And who, exactly, was Joe, and why was he so sloppy? One of life’s great unanswered questions. The sandwich was tasty enough, though I didn’t eat much.
My appetite seems to come and go these days, arriving without much warning and disappearing just as quickly. Still, a few bites were enough to satisfy me. Not every meal needs to be a feast. Sometimes its job is to provide a little nourishment, quell the hunger, and carry us comfortably to the next part of the day.
This afternoon, I watched a few videos and stretched out for a while. Sunday has a way of inviting us to slow down, and today I happily accepted the invitation. I’ve accomplished everything I needed to, so now it’s time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a quieter pace.
RELAX
There is something satisfying about reaching the end of the day knowing the important tasks are behind me. No deadlines, no rushing, no pressure—just a chance to rest and appreciate the simple pleasure of doing very little. After all, even the most productive people need an occasional lazy Sunday to refill the tank and prepare for the week ahead.
That is quite the surprise package to discover tucked away in my belongings! Thirty individually wrapped Viagra pills are not exactly the sort of thing most people expect to find while organizing their stuff. I can just imagine my looking at them and thinking, “Well, that’s unexpected.”
VIAGRA?
The funny part is that I don’t even remember ordering or paying for them. Myles had mentioned they had been coming in; there may have been a prescription arranged at some point that simply slipped through the cracks of memory. Given everything I’ve been through medically over the years, that wouldn’t be shocking.
As for “How fun is that?”—at the age of 67, finding 30 Viagra pills I forgot I had is probably a lot more amusing than finding 30 overdue bills I forgot I had. That’s one treasure hunt where the booty is a little different from what was expected. Now, whose booty are we talking about?
IS LIFE GETTING FUNNER?
Still, of all the surprises that could be hiding in a forgotten box, finding a stash of Viagra has to rank fairly high on the list of unexpected discoveries. One moment, it was just a quiet Sunday, and the next, it felt as though life had slipped a little plot twist into the day.
It made me laugh and reminded me that surprises do not always arrive with fanfare. Sometimes they show up quietly, wrapped individually in a box, waiting patiently to transform an ordinary afternoon into a memorable one.
Life has a funny way of doing that. Just when we think we know exactly how the day will unfold, it slips in a little plot twist to keep things interesting. Those unexpected moments often become the stories we remember most, proof that even the most routine day can still hold a few delightful surprises. 😄
A CONNECTION — WHERE?
I find myself thinking about the next woman who comes into my life. I hope we share something joyful, playful, and full of laughter. I want a relationship where we can be completely comfortable with one another, enjoying life’s simple pleasures without pretense or worry.
THIS IS WHEN I WAS AT THE HOME OF THE GREAT JUGGLER RUDY HORN.
I’M HOLDING HIS RASTELLI TROUPHY.
Yes, today, I discovered something unexpected: a supply of Viagra that had apparently arrived for me some time ago. I don’t even remember ordering it, but there it was—about 30 pills, each pill individually wrapped and waiting patiently for their moment in history to bring pleasure. I had to laugh. Life certainly has a sense of humor.
Of course, Viagra pills are not what make a relationship special. What matters is finding someone who enjoys laughter, affection, adventure, and the simple joy of being together. Still, it is comforting to know that if romance decides to come knocking, I may be better prepared than I realized.
HER?
Growing older does not mean giving up on passion, fun, or intimacy—quite the opposite. I look forward to meeting someone who appreciates a good conversation, a mischievous smile, and the chance to create new memories together.
And if those little blue pills help the adventure along, perhaps they arrived at exactly the right time. I look forward to meeting her, sharing laughter, enjoying her company, and discovering the connection that grows between us.
Life has a funny way of delivering surprises, and maybe this is one of them—a reminder that romance, excitement, and new possibilities can still arrive when we least expect them. ❤️
NOW, WHERE WILL I FIND HER? (Or, are you her?)
Dinner was chicken cordon bleu (¿Hablas francés?), and it was quite tasty. Unfortunately, because I no longer have my lower teeth, chewing remains a challenge. The chicken took some effort, and meals like this remind me how much I miss being able to eat without thinking about it.
DINNER
The meal also came with rice and corn. Since I cannot chew them properly, I often have to swallow them whole. It is one of those small frustrations I deal with these days. Still, I enjoyed the meal and was grateful for a warm dinner. Sometimes the food is good, even if eating it is not as easy as it once was.
Then, in the end, they brought cookies-and-cream ice cream—a delightful surprise. The cool sweetness was a treat for my tongue and palate, and for a few moments, all was right with the world. Sometimes it is the simplest pleasures—a bowl of ice cream at the end of a meal—that add a little extra happiness to the day.
>>>>>June 15
Some important words >> “Don’t pray for an easy life.”
Pray for the “Strength to endure a difficult life.”
Whatever “prayer” means for you.
Life rarely becomes easier simply because we wish it to. Challenges arrive for everyone—disappointments, setbacks, losses, failures, and obstacles we never saw coming. The real difference is not avoiding difficulties, but developing the courage, resilience, and determination to face them.
EASY LIFE?
When we ask for an easy life, we are often asking for fewer opportunities to grow. When we ask for strength, we are preparing ourselves to meet whatever comes our way. Muscles grow through resistance. Character grows through adversity. Confidence grows when we discover that we can survive things we once thought impossible.
Looking back on my own life, I have learned that the greatest lessons did not come from the easy days. They came from the struggles—the accidents, the setbacks, the long road back, and the moments when quitting would have been the simpler choice. Those experiences did not break me; they helped shape me.
So do not wish for a life without challenges. Wish for the wisdom to learn from the challenge, the courage to face them, and the strength to keep moving forward. The strongest people are not those who have had the easiest lives—they are the ones who refused to give up when life became difficult.
I still find myself wondering why I am even here. Sometimes it feels as though I must have done something wrong, as if I am being punished for something I cannot quite identify. There are days when I look around and wonder if I will ever truly be free again.
In fact, someone just knocked on my door and invited me to join the walking club. I thanked them but declined, knowing I planned to head outside later for my own walk and a bit of running. It was nice to be asked, though. Opportunities to be active are all around me, and every step I take brings me a little closer to becoming stronger, healthier, and more capable than I was yesterday.
THE TRUTH
The truth is, I have always valued independence. I spent years traveling the country, performing, teaching, building businesses, writing books, and making my own decisions. Freedom was never something I thought much about because I simply had it. That may be why its absence feels so noticeable now.
Yet when I step back and look at my life honestly, I know I am not here because I failed. I am here because life threw challenges at me that would have stopped many people in their tracks. Two truck accidents, a coma, years of rehabilitation, and countless obstacles changed the course of my journey. None of those things were punishments. They were simply part of the road I was given to travel.
Even so, I still long for more freedom. I want to run where I choose, go where I want, and live entirely on my own terms. Until that day comes, I will keep doing what I have always done: adapt, learn, grow, and move forward. My circumstances may limit some of my freedom, but they cannot take away my ability to dream, to write, to inspire, and to continue building a meaningful life.
FREEDOM
I may not yet be where I want to be, but my story is not finished. As long as I keep moving forward, there is still hope for greater freedom ahead. The difficult part is that it’s hard to move forward when I feel stuck here, limited by circumstances, and unable to do everything I want. Some days, the walls seem a little closer, and the road ahead seems a little farther away. Yet I remind myself that being stuck is not the same as being defeated.
Life has taught me that circumstances can change, often when we least expect them to. I have overcome challenges that once seemed impossible, and I know there are still chapters left to write. Every walk I take, every word I write, every lesson I learn, and every positive step I make is progress.
HELP!
It may not be happening as quickly as I would like, but it is progress nonetheless. Every step forward, no matter how small, carries me closer to greater freedom, new adventures, and brighter days ahead. As long as I continue moving forward with hope, determination, and a positive attitude, the best chapters of my story may still be waiting to be written.
I woke at about 3:00 a.m. and found myself smiling at the life I am living right now. Then I sat down to work on this blog. Almost immediately, I noticed several things I could improve. That is one of the secrets to a fulfilling life: never stop looking for better ways to think, learn, grow, and do things. Improvement does not happen all at once; it comes from making small adjustments day after day.
INCHES
Breakfast was the usual fare—a fruit cup, a sausage link, and an English muffin. (Despite the name, I suspect this one never made the long journey from England.) On my way back, I saw a gentleman in a wheelchair slowly making his way down the hall, pushing himself only a few inches with each effort. Watching him reminded me that everyone carries different challenges. Some journeys are measured in miles, while others are measured in inches, but every bit of forward movement still counts.
>>>>>June 16
Here we go again—another day, another page, another opportunity to put thoughts into words. I am not complaining. In fact, I consider it a privilege. Every sunrise brings a fresh chance to learn, grow, reflect, and share something worthwhile.
My words will make you smile. They may encourage you to keep going when life feels difficult. They may remind you to notice the beauty hidden in ordinary moments. Whatever the case, I hope these thoughts enrich your life in some small way.
MORE WORDS
As long as I can think, write, and communicate, I will continue to do so. Life has taught me many lessons—some joyful, some painful—but all of them have helped shape the person I am today. If even one idea from these pages helps brighten your day or strengthen your spirit, then the effort is worthwhile.
So, here we go again—another day, more writing, more living, and more opportunities to discover something new. Not every day arrives with excitement or life-changing events, but every day offers a chance to learn, grow, and move forward. The future is built one day at a time, so I intend to make the most of this one.
I’m glad to have you along with me each day. As I strive to enrich your life through my words, I find meaning and joy in my own life. The encouragement, ideas, and reflections we share are a reminder that when we help others grow, we grow as well.
I’m thrilled that Chris from Woodside Motion (https://woodsidemotion.com/about/) is showing interest in producing a movie about my life story. It’s an exciting opportunity to bring this journey to the screen—from juggling on world-class stages to surviving devastating accidents, rebuilding my life, and continuing to find purpose, adventure, and hope.
A MOVIE?
If you have memories, stories, or moments you’d like included, I would love to hear them. Sometimes the most meaningful details are the ones I may have forgotten or never realized were important. Share your ideas with me, and together we’ll see how they might fit into the movie. Your memory could become part of the story that inspires others to overcome challenges and reach beyond their own potential.
Happy for an hour—as in Happy Hour. I had one can of light beer, and because I have been staying away from alcohol, that single beer was enough to make me feel it. It reminded me how quickly the human body can adjust when alcohol is no longer part of the routine.
The room had a cheerful, party-like atmosphere, with people laughing, talking, and enjoying themselves. It was fun to sit back, soak in the energy, and watch everyone having such a good time. Sometimes it is not the drink that makes Happy Hour enjoyable—it is the smiles, conversations, and simple pleasure of sharing a moment with others.
PARTY TIME!
There was a band playing, Joyce & The Boyce. One guitar, one bass guitar, and she played a ukulele. There was taped percussion in the background now and then. Easy rock tunes brought back good memories. The crowd just sat and watched. I had wanted to get up and dance, and should have. Joyce and her brother are number 11 and 12 in that many-kids family, a large family.
ENJOY — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7lpepVYO6Q&list=RDY7lpepVYO6Q&start_radio=1
Here is what I found on Google about the band >> Joyce and The Boyce is a popular, Florida-based musical duo that frequently performs classic covers, country, and sing-along hits at senior living communities and veterans’ facilities across the Tampa Bay area.
DINNER
For dinner, there was another excellent meal. This is not cafeteria food by any stretch of the imagination. Dining here feels more like an upscale restaurant, where meals are carefully prepared, the atmosphere is pleasant, and the service is excellent. The only difference is that no bill ever arrives at the end.The food is consistently good, although I usually ask for a smaller portion. I have never been a big eater, and these days, a little goes a long way. Still, it is nice knowing that each meal brings another tasty dish and one less thing to worry about.
>>>>>June 17
To reach the elevator, I have to walk down three long hallways to the other side of the building. The corridors are usually empty, which gives me a perfect opportunity to practice my walking technique. As I make my way along, I focus on keeping my feet aligned, my posture upright, and my steps smooth and controlled.
WORKING ON WALKING
What might seem like a simple walk from one place to another has become a daily exercise in improvement. Every trip down those hallways is a chance to build better habits, strengthen my balance, and remind myself that progress often comes through small, consistent efforts repeated day after day.
Just went for breakfast, it was like usual. Oldness certainly reigns here. Walkers are everywhere, and many people move only a short distance with each effort. Some spend their days in wheelchairs, pulling themselves along with their feet. A few advance only inches at a time, making even a trip across the room a slow and determined journey.
Watching them is a reminder of how differently life unfolds for each of us. While many around me struggle to move from place to place, I am still focused on improving my walking, getting stronger, and finding ways to stay active. It reminds me not to take movement for granted. Every step, no matter how imperfect, is still a step forward.
BOREDOM
I have to admit right now — I am bored. Mainly just staying on my computer and typing. Another hour until lunch, what will I do, what will I do? It takes so long to go anywhere, with three long hallways to trek down on each outside.
Now dinner is coming up soon. People often say I should sit and get to know others. This is a time for eating, not for conversation. Because all the tables were full, I sat across from another guy. We greeted each other and then said nothing. And that’s how it is here.
>>>>>June 18
As I sit down to write each day, I have no idea what words will appear on the page. I simply begin. The first sentence may be awkward, the second uncertain, and the third still finding its way. But once I start, something remarkable happens. One thought leads to another, ideas begin to connect, and the words start flowing.
That lesson extends far beyond writing. Too often, people wait until they have the perfect plan, the perfect timing, or the perfect confidence before taking action, but progress rarely works that way. Clarity often comes after we begin, not before.
START NOW!
A book starts with a sentence, a journey starts with a step, a juggling pattern starts with the first throw, and a better life starts with a decision to move forward. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you may wait forever.
But when you start, even imperfectly, momentum begins to build, confidence grows, and the next step becomes easier to see. The editing continues. Whatever challenge or opportunity is in front of you today, don’t wait for perfect conditions—just begin.
The magic is not in having all the answers before you begin. The magic is in the start. Take the first step, write the first sentence, make the first call, or try the first attempt. Once you start, the path ahead has a way of revealing itself, and everything else begins to fall into place.
Not up until about 4 a.m. I simply lay there, comfortably enjoying the quiet and stillness of the early morning, before slowly making my way to the shower. Thursday and Monday are my shower days; any longer than that, and my skin starts to itch. It is a simple routine that works well for me, keeping me comfortable and proving that not everything in life needs to be complicated.
The bed/juggling area
I don’t get very sweaty or dirty these days, and I hardly ever go outside, so showering twice a week works well for me. It has become part of my routine, one of those small rhythms that help give shape to the week. I remember the days when I used to juggle and/or run daily; it’s different now.
A CLEAN KIT
A bar of soap, what’s that? For cleaning, I use a 3-in-1 shampoo on my whole head and body. And, I hardly use any water. I get myself wet under the water, then turn off the water. I put soap on my
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKSQ4N43?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
and get clean. Then I turn the water back on and rinse off.
YOU ARE WELCOME TO SNIFF ME ANYTIME. I WON’T SMELL BAD.
Simple and efficient. The whole process takes just a few minutes, uses very little water, and leaves me clean and refreshed—ready to sit down and write these words for you. Over the years, I have learned that many things in life do not need to be complicated. Sometimes the simplest approach works perfectly well.
After years of living simply, I have learned that some of the best solutions are the simplest. My shower routine gets the job done, conserves water, and leaves me clean and comfortable—ready to greet another day with a smile >> 😀.
MEALS
Breakfast was the usual. The fruit bowl they serve each day is spectacular—filled with a colorful variety of fresh fruit and more than enough to satisfy my appetite on its own. Still, I like to add an English muffin to round out the meal. It’s a simple breakfast, but a delicious way to start the day. Lunch was a chicken salad sandwich, tasty and quick to eat.
Dinner was a grilled cheese sandwich, which I had them add raw onion — turned out perfect. Also, Tomato Bisque Soup. And fresh-cooked broccoli, which made everything excellent. I am quite happy with the good food here, I guess you can tell.
THE NATIONAL PARKS
I have 9 artwork signs of the national parks, each 8 1/2 by 11 inches. I took my time and got them all on the wall nicely. Take a look at the photo and let me know. I’ve been to every national park in the US, yes?
People often ask me which NP is my favorite; there are so many. There are Yosemite and Yellowstone — these parks just attract too many people — it’s like being at a zoo. Each park offers different attractions, and each has a distinct atmosphere. Go — you will love it.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
It is by far my favorite NP.
https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
Followed by Big Bend NP —
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9HFjABKx9s
Enjoy the videos.
Yes, I did hike out to Balanced Road, what a delight.
Before heading off to Jellystone Park, it would be wise to check with Yogi first. After all, he’s “smarter than the average bear” and has been known to have very strong opinions about visitors showing up with picnic baskets.
ENJOY — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPnmzcmKgA0
Boo Boo would probably whisper, “I don’t think the Ranger is going to like this, Yogi,” while Ranger Smith would already be reaching for the aspirin.
And if you do find Jellystone, keep a close eye on your lunch. History suggests that unattended picnic baskets have a remarkable tendency to disappear whenever a certain bear is nearby. As for that video, Yogi never gets old. Some cartoon characters entertain us. Yogi somehow convinces us that stealing lunch is a legitimate career path. 😄
>>>>>June 19
Slept in again, waking around 4 a.m. That seems to be my new normal. I spent some time enjoying the quiet before heading down to breakfast around 8 a.m. As usual, the staff checked the standard vitals, and the morning moved along at its familiar pace.
The food is generally quite good, but I do have a few suggestions for the head chef. A serving of biscuits and gravy now and then would certainly be welcome, and some hash brown potatoes would make a fine addition to the breakfast menu.
Even in a place that does many things well, there is always room for a few tasty improvements. After all, life is a little more enjoyable when breakfast includes one of your favorites. A few suggestions to the chef—such as biscuits and gravy or some crispy hash browns—might make an already good meal even better.
Lunch was vegetable pasta Alfredo, and it was quite tasty. The portion was just right—enough to satisfy without leaving me overly full.
While enjoying the afternoon, I heard from Sharon Fodrovics, who told me how much she enjoys reading my weekly blog. Sharon was a neighbor back when I was living with Tina, so it was especially nice to reconnect and know that these words continue to reach people and brighten their day.
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PART 3, BLOG 382 — THE YEARS PILE ON
ARE YOU THERE?
Being old is often a surprising disconnect between an ageless mind and a body that no longer moves as easily as it once did. It can mean waking up to stiff joints, sore muscles, and new limitations, while inside still feeling much like the same person you have always been.
OLDER? 
Yet aging also brings gifts. There is a deeper understanding of yourself, a greater appreciation for the people you love, and a treasure chest of memories gathered over a lifetime. While the body may slow down, wisdom, gratitude, and perspective often continue to grow, bringing a quiet peace that youth rarely understands.
WRITE (yeah–right)
As you come across ideas that can help you, write them down!
A good idea has little value if it is forgotten. The spark of inspiration that seems unforgettable in one moment can vanish by the next. Our minds are remarkable, but they can hold only so much. Capture your thoughts, lessons, goals, and discoveries while they are fresh.
DEATH
Yes, one day I will die. So will you. So will everyone reading these words. That fact may sound dark at first, but I see it differently. Knowing that life is limited is what gives it value. If we had forever, there would be no urgency to love, to learn, to laugh, to forgive, or to chase our dreams.
YES, ONE DAY YOU WILL DIE.
That is one of the few guarantees life offers. No amount of money, fame, intelligence, exercise, or wishful thinking can change it. Every person who has ever walked this earth has faced the same destination. Kings and farmers, athletes and artists, billionaires and beggars—all eventually reach the end of their journey.
A GUARANTEE
The clock is ticking for all of us. That is not a reason for fear—it is a reason to live. Call the friend. Take the walk. Write the book. Learn the skill. Tell people you love them. Make today count. One day, we will die. Until then, let’s be fully alive.
WRITE
A notebook, a scrap of paper, or a note on your phone can become a treasure chest of future wisdom. Great ideas often arrive quietly and without warning, then disappear just as quickly if we fail to capture them. A single sentence written today may become the solution to a problem, the beginning of a new project, or the inspiration for a better life tomorrow.
REMEMBER
The ideas that change our lives are rarely the ones we merely think about—they are the ones we preserve, revisit, and put into action. Write them down. Save them. Nurture them. Today’s small note may become tomorrow’s breakthrough.
PILE?
“The years pile on” is a simple phrase, yet it carries the weight of an entire lifetime. It speaks to the steady march of time and the accumulation of experiences, victories, failures, memories, and lessons that shape who we become. Every year leaves its mark. Whether we notice it or not, each season of life adds another layer to our story.
NOSTALGIA?
For some, those words stir feelings of nostalgia—a glance back at roads traveled, people loved, dreams pursued, and chapters completed. For others, they serve as a gentle reminder that life keeps moving forward, whether we are ready or not. The clock never pauses. Each sunrise offers an opportunity, and each sunset quietly reminds us that time is precious.
TIME
The years do pile on. So do the friendships, the adventures, the scars, the laughter, the wisdom, and the countless moments that make life worth living. We cannot stop the passage of time, but we can decide how we spend it. We can choose curiosity over complacency, gratitude over complaint, and action over hesitation.
YOUR LIFE
One day, when you look back across the landscape of your life, you will not remember every ordinary day. Many moments will fade with time, blending into the background of the years. What you will remember are the choices you made, the risks you took, the people you loved, the challenges you overcame, and the decisions that changed the direction of your journey.
LOVE
Act on the opportunities that excite you. Tell people you love them. Learn something new. Take a chance. In the end, the goal is not simply to count the years, but to fill them with purpose, growth, laughter, kindness, and love.
MEANING
Death gives meaning to our days. Imagine if you knew you would live forever. How many dreams would you postpone? How many important conversations would you wait until tomorrow to have? How many sunsets would go unnoticed?
FINITE
It is precisely because our time is finite that each day matters, each minute matters. Every sunrise is one fewer than we had yesterday. Every hug, every laugh, every act of kindness is precious because it cannot be repeated exactly the same way.
WHAT ABOUT YOUR BRAIN?
Our brains work incredibly hard every day, processing information at an astonishing rate of about one billion bits per second. With that much activity, it’s no surprise that the brain needs time to rest, recover, and recharge.
SLEEPYHEAD
Scientists have long believed that sleep helps maintain and repair the brain. More recently, they discovered something even more fascinating: while we sleep, the brain undergoes a kind of cleaning cycle, flushing out chemical waste that accumulates during the day.
TEN PERCENT?
Contrary to the old myth, we do not use only 10 percent of our brains. Every part of the brain is active and serves a purpose. Whether we are solving problems, watching television, carrying on conversations, exercising, or simply daydreaming, different regions of the brain are constantly at work.
SLEEP?
Even while we sleep, the brain remains remarkably busy. It processes memories, regulates vital functions, and carries out important maintenance tasks that help keep us healthy. Far from shutting down, the brain works around the clock, making it one of the most active and complex organs in the human body.
CLEANUP TIME
This nighttime cleanup is carried out by a waste-removal network known as the glymphatic system. Unlike the rest of the body, the brain lacks lymphatic vessels to drain fluids, so it developed its own unique method.
MICE?
In studies with mice, researchers found that rhythmic pulses of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in alertness and the sleep-wake cycle, trigger shifts in blood volume and cerebrospinal fluid. These changes help flush waste from the brain during sleep, acting like a nightly cleaning system.
HEY BLOOD
These pulses cause blood vessels in the brain to briefly tighten. Because the skull is rigid and cannot expand, this creates a pumping action. Cerebrospinal fluid moves into the space and then flows back out as the vessels relax.
RINSE TIME
As the fluid moves through the brain, it carries away waste products, helping to keep this remarkable organ healthy. Every good night’s sleep gives your brain a refreshing rinse, preparing it for another day of thinking, learning, and living.
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
SO DO NOT SIT BY THE WINDOW
STARING AT THE CLOCK? — STAND UP AND LIVE!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
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PART 4) 🔥 A FEW SPARKS TO SLIP INTO YOUR POCKET
✨ THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are like mental spark plugs. 💥 They jolt the mind awake, shrink giant problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can flip your thinking upside down—turning “I can’t” into “Why not give it a shot?” The right words at the right moment can become a tiny flashlight in a dark hallway. 🔦
But here’s where the real magic happens: repetition turns inspiration into identity. The more you repeat a truth, the more your mind begins to believe it… and eventually, your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on a wall is a decoration. A quote lived out through your actions? That becomes a transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by? That’s power. ✨
“The longer I live,
the more beautiful life becomes.”
~ Frank Lloyd Wright
“My mind will never grow old — You will see.
My body — Now that’s a different story.”
~Kit Summers
“There is a fountain of youth:
It is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to
your life and the lives of people you love.
When you learn to tap this source,
You will truly have defeated age.”
~ Sophia Loren
“For the unlearned, old age is winter;
For the learned, it is the season of the harvest.”
~Hasidic saying
“Know that you are the perfect age.
Each year is special and precious,
for you shall only live it once.
Be comfortable with growing older.”
~Louise Hay
“Oh, the worst of all tragedies is not to die young,
but to live until I am seventy-five and yet not ever truly to have lived.”
~ Martin Luther King Jr.
“You don’t stop laughing when you grow old,
You grow old when you stop laughing.”
~George Bernard Shaw
“I believe the second half of one’s life.
It is meant to be better than the first half.
The first half is finding out how you do it.
And the second half is enjoying it.”
~Frances Lear
“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.”
~Franz Kafka
“Every year should teach you something valuable;
Whether you get the lesson is up to you.
Every year brings you closer to expressing your whole and healed self.”
~Oprah Winfrey
“One of the reasons people get old—lose their aliveness—
is that they get weighed down by all of their stuff.”
~Richard Leider
“Age is an issue of mind over matter.
If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
~Mark Twain
“I suppose real old age begins when
one looks backward rather than forward.”
~ Mary Sarton
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PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK
ACT YOUR AGE!
The younger you keep your mind, the richer and more rewarding your life can be. Age may add years to the calendar, but it need not limit your thinking. Curiosity, enthusiasm, laughter, and a willingness to keep learning are what truly keep a person young.
As for me, I’m forever 23 at heart. How about you? Are you still curious, still dreaming, still willing to try something new? If so, you may be collecting birthdays, but your mind is still wonderfully young. 😊
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PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>BLOG 383–DON’T “SHOULD” ON YOURSELF
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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!
🌟
