Bike riding in Georgia and Tennessee

The first of this week, we traveled to Georgia and rode with Paul and Cheryl on the Silver Comet Trail. That was some really great riding. And toward the weekend we traveled to Tennessee and rode with Mike and Mitzi and rode in Jackson, Tennessee locally and on the Howard Keas Memorial ride. We would have ridden as much at home but we got to spend some time with some special folks in both places. In the middle of the week, I took David and Chris on an overnight campout at Cheaha State Park. So it was a busy week for me. I am looking forward to getting back to work and a routine so I can recharge and get ready for next week. We might be able to go ride in the Four Hills Feast. Chris found a job so we don't know if we might have to baby sit. Meanwhile, Bev and I will have to ride in order to be in shape for the Missouri ride.

Effigy of Grief

Effigies are used in grieving by providing a tangible representation of what has been lost, allowing a mourner to connect with who or what they've lost , which can help with the process of acceptance and emotional expression, particularly when the loss is sudden or traumatic; they can be used to focus grief and memories around a physical likeness, offering a sense of continued presence even in their absence

There is an African proverb that says "when death finds you, may it find you alive".

On July 31st, I died.... After having several weeks of discomfort in my neck and jawline, I made an appointment to see my PCP to determine what was going on. The consensus seemed to center around a gall bladder problem. But he suggested that we should rule out cardiac. Once I got over to the hospital, I had a wait of 20 minutes or more before I was sent up to my room. Immediately I was taken for a chest x-ray. Once I got back I saw my nurse and the lab tech were there and I lay down to let her get the blood. As I leaned back, I felt a wave of nausea and everything went quiet and dark. I became aware again after a short period of time, I'm unsure how long. and from there it was a lengthy process to be transported to Grandview where I received a heart catherization and ultimately, bypass grafts. It was literally like hitting the off switch on your computer.

Spock

Spock is my favorite character in all fiction. A character who bridged the gap between two worlds and faced disdain from each. Who strove for excellence and exemplified strength, character, intelligence, and control. His nearly emotionless demeanor was a perfect foil for those who would attempt to intimidate or insult him. It was a style I would endeavor to imitate to thwart those attempting to insult, demean, or scare me in my own young life. I bought this little figure to remind me to guard against letting my defenses down and allowing emotional hurt to strike me. But I doubt my recollection of Spock will work for me again. It was the last gift from my past. Perhaps I will find another reservoir of strength.

diddlee

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