Auld Lang Syne

“Man’s feelings are always purest and most glowing in the hour of meeting and of farewell. ” — Jean Paul Richter

Not To Be Forgotten: A dear friend passed away during Christmas. His health issues resulted from his unhealthy smoking habit which resulted in blindness in one eye and his eventual demise. I was sad to hear he died alone in the cruel city of Las Vegas. A heavy equipment operator, he moved there before the construction boom went bust. Thanks to Facebook, I was able to communicate the sad news to his step-daughter.

I first met my friend when I was sowing my wild oats. We disagreed but often discussed both religion and politics. Being best of friends, we never judged each other. I visited him in Vegas and enjoyed visiting Hoover Dam, the Atomic Testing Museum and the Star Trek experience. I will miss my dear friend and always will remember him as a great “wing-man” (a title he proudly wore).

Second Chance: I likewise have health choices to make to do what I can to live for my children. My recent visit to the doctor revealed that I must now inject insulin to better manage my diabetes. My dietary choices are much more limited. I have added an application to my Android phone to better track my sugar levels and log my eating habits. I want to see each of my boys graduate from high school and need to do what I can to make that happen.

Another good friend who survived cancer (he made it past the crucial 5 year mark) recently had a heart attack. He is lucky to be alive and I pray he makes the necessary dietary adjustments to live a longer life. If not for himself, then for his wife and son.

Congratulations to a Baseball Friend: Not all visits to the hospital are bad. A new baseball friend from Hutto Texas celebrated in January the birth of twin daughters. My family sends our positive wishes for continued good health and prosperity. He also maintains a blog and I have added a link to his blog (Confessions of a Trophy Husband).