Ooops. I'm sorry. I have been negligent in posting on my blog. Really, no excuses. I just don't know how many people read or care abut my musings. There aren't too many people my age (80's) that are bloggers or who use social media a great deal. But, none-the-less, I will recharge my batteries and again be a regular contributor to Zest and Zeal for Life.
My age has caused me some more grief in recent months. On April 8, 2014, I went to the Moran Eye Center for what I thought would be a standard procedure for a cataract operation. The good doctor explained that I would have the left eye done on the 8th and in two weeks, on the 22nd the right eye would receive the procedure.
My wife, Joyce, had the procedure accomplished earlier as did my son-in-law Mark Van Wagoner. Both encouraged me to schedule the procedure since their results were excellent and they saw the positive results within 24 hours.
I was not as fortunate. The next day, April 9, I had no vision. I could hardly see anything. The doctor decided that we would wait a day or two to see if the results improved. Tests indicated that the surgery went well. The cataract was removed. Nothing seemed our of the ordinary. However, my vision was very bad.
I was referred to another doctor at Moran who specialized in problem cases. He and his staff did exhaustive tests and several procedure but to no avail. One month after the surgery, I could not read. I could not see the stairs in my home. I could not drive. I could not see the numbers on my bathroom scale. I could not read the controls on my stove. I was extremely sight deprived.
The initial doctor, who has an exceptional reputation and much experience was just baffled. He looked at his computer screen and just shook his head. "I have done thousands of these procedures and never have I seen this result." he told me and Joyce.
The two eye physicians decided they wanted me to see Dr. Creel at the Moran Eye center for additional tests. Dr. Creel is not an MD but is a PHd and an eye specialists with certain testing equipment and procedures. I spent one entire day with the good doctor, He kept repeating after each test, "NG" "NG." I said what does NG mean. "Not Good," he told me.
He mentioned that Vitamin A was very important for good eye sight. He suggested a blood draw and lab work for a check on my Vitamin A level. The MD'S concurred and a lab appointment was scheduled. The results were astounding, I was told that I not only was VERY low on Vitamin A, I had NONE in my system. I was prescribed 10,000 IU's a day plus a double capsule of multi-vitamins that were formulated for eye health and strong doses of Vitamin A in their formulation.
It worked! Indeed, the lack of Vitamin A was the culprit. I am still on the heavy regimen of A and am scheduled to see the MD's on August 7. I know my eye sight has improved. I'm anxious to see how much they have improved and if we could talk about scheduling the surgery on the right eye. The initial doctor said he would not operate until the left eye reached 20/20.
Keep your fingers crossed for me. A little prayer would also be helpful.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Friday, April 4, 2014
GREAT ARTICLE
I was honored this week with a very lengthy and flattering article in the Deseret News newspaper. It was like reading your obituary and hearing your eulogy prior to your death.
Doug Robinson, feature columnist for the paper, called and requested an interview regarding my past civic involvement and an update on my life after retirement. He interviewed me for maybe an hour and then followed up with several telephone calls. I had no idea what the final column would look like because the interview was wide and covered several topics.
I was surprised and pleased when the article was published on Monday, March 24. It was a very lengthy article that featured a large photo of me in my home office. It was on a split page above the fold and the copy carried over inside the section for three pages with two more photos, (It must have been a slow news day.)
One of the sub-heads featured the line, "Dynamo Fred Ball says he's lousy at retirement." At the age of 81 years old, I miss work. I really do. Doug wrote about my past involvement win several projects: bringing the Utah Jazz NBA franchise to Salt Lake City, establishment of the Delta Airlines Hub to Salt Lake International Airport and the winning of the 2002 Winter Olympics to Utah.
He mentioned my meeting in the Oval Office with President Ronald Reagan regarding the request from the government to organize a chamber of commerce in the nation of Belize and my efforts to stimulate a very weak economy in the new country, That assignment put in contact with Vice president George W. Bush, Casper Weinburger and the Rockefeller Foundation.
Well, there was much more in the article. I was pleased. I probably received over 100 Emails from people commenting on the article and as many telephone calls and text messages. It's nice to know that you are not completely "Yesterday's News" after you leave the public arena.
Doug Robinson, feature columnist for the paper, called and requested an interview regarding my past civic involvement and an update on my life after retirement. He interviewed me for maybe an hour and then followed up with several telephone calls. I had no idea what the final column would look like because the interview was wide and covered several topics.
I was surprised and pleased when the article was published on Monday, March 24. It was a very lengthy article that featured a large photo of me in my home office. It was on a split page above the fold and the copy carried over inside the section for three pages with two more photos, (It must have been a slow news day.)
One of the sub-heads featured the line, "Dynamo Fred Ball says he's lousy at retirement." At the age of 81 years old, I miss work. I really do. Doug wrote about my past involvement win several projects: bringing the Utah Jazz NBA franchise to Salt Lake City, establishment of the Delta Airlines Hub to Salt Lake International Airport and the winning of the 2002 Winter Olympics to Utah.
He mentioned my meeting in the Oval Office with President Ronald Reagan regarding the request from the government to organize a chamber of commerce in the nation of Belize and my efforts to stimulate a very weak economy in the new country, That assignment put in contact with Vice president George W. Bush, Casper Weinburger and the Rockefeller Foundation.
Well, there was much more in the article. I was pleased. I probably received over 100 Emails from people commenting on the article and as many telephone calls and text messages. It's nice to know that you are not completely "Yesterday's News" after you leave the public arena.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
AGE IS AN INTERESTING THING.
Age is an interesting thing. Only children use fractions to tell their age. "I'm four and a half." You're never twenty three and a half or thirty six and a half.
You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You JUMP to the next number, or even a few ahead.
"How old are you?" "I'm going to be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16." and then, the greatest day of your life... you BECOME 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony...You BECOME 21! YES!!!
But then you TURN 30. Ooooh, what happened. there? He TURNED. We had to throw him out. There's no fun now. You're just a sour dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then your PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes. It's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.
But wait!! - You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would.
So, you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it is a day-to-day thing. You HIT Wednesday.
You get into your 80's and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into your 90's, you start going backwards. "I was JUST 92."
Then a strange thing happens. You make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half.
You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You JUMP to the next number, or even a few ahead.
"How old are you?" "I'm going to be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16." and then, the greatest day of your life... you BECOME 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony...You BECOME 21! YES!!!
But then you TURN 30. Ooooh, what happened. there? He TURNED. We had to throw him out. There's no fun now. You're just a sour dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then your PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes. It's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.
But wait!! - You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would.
So, you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it is a day-to-day thing. You HIT Wednesday.
You get into your 80's and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into your 90's, you start going backwards. "I was JUST 92."
Then a strange thing happens. You make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half.
Friday, November 15, 2013
SHAVING CAN BE A PAIN!
I can understand why young men today are opting to have facial hair. Shaving can be a pain. I personally like the clean shaven look but in talking to my family, the majority like the new style of having facial hair.
I have seen amazing changes in the tools that men use to shave. When I was a boy, my father used a straight edge razor. These were truly weapons! Dad would sharpen it with a razor strap (that also could be used as a tool to discipline bad behavior.) He would expertly run the straight edge up and down the strap or strop until it was extremely sharp. It was very easy to cut yourself by just touching your face with the razor so you had to be very careful. You would frequently see men with little wads of dampened toilet paper on a cut to stop the bleeding.
Then something very significant occurred. A gentleman named KING GILLETTE saw the mayhem caused by the straight edge and invented what he called the "Safety Razor." This was about 1901 but it took some time to wean men away from the straight edge. Gillette had a very limited range of products until 1934 when he introduced the "Aristocrat" model. This the one I saw my father transition to. Gillette had a great idea. He would practically give the safety razor away for free. He knew he would make his money by selling the razor blades that had a very limited use life. They would have to be replaced after one or two usages.
I would frequently go to the store to buy my father his needed blades. There were two styles offered. The Gillette Blue Blades were the best. They were sharper and would last for maybe three shaves. The Gillette Red Blades were cheaper. As I recall the Blue Blades sold for five for a quarter. The Red Blades were ten cents for five but they were painful to use and lasted for one usage,
Those prices seem very, very cheap but keep in mind this was 70 years ago. What a contrast to the blades I use today. I use the Fusion ProGlide Power razor. The blades last for 20-30 shaves (or more) and have eliminated "razor burn". They are also very expensive! My ProGlide is a special model and has a AA battery in the handle that causes vibration to the blades and produces a very excellent final result.
Yes. I have seen major changes in many products in my long life. Its amazing the giant strides in technology and creative thinking and innovation.
Life is so much easier today and I see dramatic improvement in so many facets of life. Shaving and razors is just one of many improvements but was brought to mind this morning when I discovered I had used my last Fusion cartridge and need to go to the store and get a new supply. (I hope I won't need to get a mortgage on my home to make the purchase.) King Gillette was absolutely right. Get the razor in mass distribution and make oodles of money selling the much needed replacement blades.
I have seen amazing changes in the tools that men use to shave. When I was a boy, my father used a straight edge razor. These were truly weapons! Dad would sharpen it with a razor strap (that also could be used as a tool to discipline bad behavior.) He would expertly run the straight edge up and down the strap or strop until it was extremely sharp. It was very easy to cut yourself by just touching your face with the razor so you had to be very careful. You would frequently see men with little wads of dampened toilet paper on a cut to stop the bleeding.
Then something very significant occurred. A gentleman named KING GILLETTE saw the mayhem caused by the straight edge and invented what he called the "Safety Razor." This was about 1901 but it took some time to wean men away from the straight edge. Gillette had a very limited range of products until 1934 when he introduced the "Aristocrat" model. This the one I saw my father transition to. Gillette had a great idea. He would practically give the safety razor away for free. He knew he would make his money by selling the razor blades that had a very limited use life. They would have to be replaced after one or two usages.
I would frequently go to the store to buy my father his needed blades. There were two styles offered. The Gillette Blue Blades were the best. They were sharper and would last for maybe three shaves. The Gillette Red Blades were cheaper. As I recall the Blue Blades sold for five for a quarter. The Red Blades were ten cents for five but they were painful to use and lasted for one usage,
Those prices seem very, very cheap but keep in mind this was 70 years ago. What a contrast to the blades I use today. I use the Fusion ProGlide Power razor. The blades last for 20-30 shaves (or more) and have eliminated "razor burn". They are also very expensive! My ProGlide is a special model and has a AA battery in the handle that causes vibration to the blades and produces a very excellent final result.
Yes. I have seen major changes in many products in my long life. Its amazing the giant strides in technology and creative thinking and innovation.
Life is so much easier today and I see dramatic improvement in so many facets of life. Shaving and razors is just one of many improvements but was brought to mind this morning when I discovered I had used my last Fusion cartridge and need to go to the store and get a new supply. (I hope I won't need to get a mortgage on my home to make the purchase.) King Gillette was absolutely right. Get the razor in mass distribution and make oodles of money selling the much needed replacement blades.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
HEALTH IS SUCH A BLESSING
Health is such a blessing. I have not been blessed with great health. For the past fifteen years it seems I have battled one ailment after the other. I haven't complained because I appreciate the fact that I am still vertical and still functioning and many of my friends and associated are no longer here.
It was fifteen years ago that I was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. This is such an insidious disease. So frequently, it is a death sentence. The doctors told me that I was to undergo a Whipple operation. This was, at the time, a comparatively new procedure developed by a doctor in Finland. I was told that there was a one in five chance to die on the operating table. Twenty percent chance that I would die not from the cancer but from the procedure. Frightening!
I was then told that I would have a 3% chance of living three months and a 1% chance of living for one year. I was also told that the procedure would remove my pancreas except for the stem, the gall bladder, most of my stomach and most of my lower or small intestine. It would ten take several weeks for my body to train itself to again function.
Well, it didn't take several weeks. It took six and one half months. I went 196 days with nothing to eat of drink. Not even a sip of water. I had tubes and hoses out of my body with input feeding tubes and drainage tubes for waste. I was given shots into my stomach each day.
BUT, I survived the surgery and became known as "The Miracle Man" for living longer than anyone previously lived after the Pancreatic Cancer procedures. That was 15 years ago and I'm still moving on.
As a result of the Whipple operation and the removal of so many of my internal organs, I was rushed to the hospital three years ago after experiencing severe stomach pains. The doctors discovered that due to the removal of so much of my small intestine, that I needed more major surgery. The average man has about 26 feet of small intestine/bowel. I had only eight inches remaining in my body and it had "died". A famed surgeon was going to attempt salvaging the little bit that still showed some color and function. After a very lengthy procedure my wife, daughters and grandchildren were summoned and told that the procedure failed and I would not survive. The family gathered around the bed to tell me goodbye. I was till unconscious but somehow felt their presence and knew the dire consequences.
Suddenly, a nurse quickly exclaimed, "Its turning pink. It's turning pink!" The few inches of bowel/intestine began to function and again I was blessed. It was and exceedingly traumatic experience for my family but great jubilation and happiness replaced the tears and trembling chins.
I now have Celiac Spru disease because I have no small intestine to absorb gluten. So - no wheat, grain or barley in my diet. No bread, pastry, pasta, gravies or sauces, donuts, cookies or cereals. Nothing with flour. That is not an easy diet to maintain and takes great training and will power to keep.
In between these two major ailments, I have had a total knee replacement, a hip replacement and other much smaller ailments and procedures. Needless to say, I am weary of hospitals, doctors offices, MRI's, CAT scans, Lab procedures and countless prescriptions. (I take 31 pills each day.)
My sweet wife has been practically a full-time care given but never complains.
Well, with the above recounting of my ailments, let me say I feel surprisingly good. I am active, involved and surprise many people when they see me. They expect to see someone who is feeble, wan, and weary. I'm not. I'm told I look good and I know that I feel good.
I'll be 81 years old in two weeks. I never thought I would reach 65 at the time of my cancer. Every day is a blessing and I am enjoying every day. Each day is a blessing. I am loving life.
It was fifteen years ago that I was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. This is such an insidious disease. So frequently, it is a death sentence. The doctors told me that I was to undergo a Whipple operation. This was, at the time, a comparatively new procedure developed by a doctor in Finland. I was told that there was a one in five chance to die on the operating table. Twenty percent chance that I would die not from the cancer but from the procedure. Frightening!
I was then told that I would have a 3% chance of living three months and a 1% chance of living for one year. I was also told that the procedure would remove my pancreas except for the stem, the gall bladder, most of my stomach and most of my lower or small intestine. It would ten take several weeks for my body to train itself to again function.
Well, it didn't take several weeks. It took six and one half months. I went 196 days with nothing to eat of drink. Not even a sip of water. I had tubes and hoses out of my body with input feeding tubes and drainage tubes for waste. I was given shots into my stomach each day.
BUT, I survived the surgery and became known as "The Miracle Man" for living longer than anyone previously lived after the Pancreatic Cancer procedures. That was 15 years ago and I'm still moving on.
As a result of the Whipple operation and the removal of so many of my internal organs, I was rushed to the hospital three years ago after experiencing severe stomach pains. The doctors discovered that due to the removal of so much of my small intestine, that I needed more major surgery. The average man has about 26 feet of small intestine/bowel. I had only eight inches remaining in my body and it had "died". A famed surgeon was going to attempt salvaging the little bit that still showed some color and function. After a very lengthy procedure my wife, daughters and grandchildren were summoned and told that the procedure failed and I would not survive. The family gathered around the bed to tell me goodbye. I was till unconscious but somehow felt their presence and knew the dire consequences.
Suddenly, a nurse quickly exclaimed, "Its turning pink. It's turning pink!" The few inches of bowel/intestine began to function and again I was blessed. It was and exceedingly traumatic experience for my family but great jubilation and happiness replaced the tears and trembling chins.
I now have Celiac Spru disease because I have no small intestine to absorb gluten. So - no wheat, grain or barley in my diet. No bread, pastry, pasta, gravies or sauces, donuts, cookies or cereals. Nothing with flour. That is not an easy diet to maintain and takes great training and will power to keep.
In between these two major ailments, I have had a total knee replacement, a hip replacement and other much smaller ailments and procedures. Needless to say, I am weary of hospitals, doctors offices, MRI's, CAT scans, Lab procedures and countless prescriptions. (I take 31 pills each day.)
My sweet wife has been practically a full-time care given but never complains.
Well, with the above recounting of my ailments, let me say I feel surprisingly good. I am active, involved and surprise many people when they see me. They expect to see someone who is feeble, wan, and weary. I'm not. I'm told I look good and I know that I feel good.
I'll be 81 years old in two weeks. I never thought I would reach 65 at the time of my cancer. Every day is a blessing and I am enjoying every day. Each day is a blessing. I am loving life.
Monday, August 5, 2013
THEN IT WAS WINTER
You know, time has a way of moving quickly and catch you unaware of the passing years. It seem just yesterday that I was young, just married and embarking on my new life with my mate. Yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went. I know that I lived them all. I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams.
But here it is, the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my youth do? I remember well seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that winter was so far off that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like,
But, here its is... my friends are retired and have gone grey. They move slower and I see an older person now. Some are in better shape and some worse shape than I am...but, I see the great change. Not like the ones I remember who were young and vibrant... but, like me, their age is showing and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we would be.
And so... now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability to go and do things that I wish I had done, and never did. Yes, I have regrets. But as Frank Sinatra sang, "Regrets, I have a few but then again too few to mention." I have led a full and happy life.
So, if you're not in your winter yet, let me remind you, that it will be here faster than you think. Whatever you would like to accomplish in your life, do it quickly. Don't put off things too lone. Life goes quickly. Do what you can today, as you can never be sure whether this is your winter or not. You have no promise that you will see all the season of your life... so, live for today and say all the things you want your loved ones to remember. Hope that they appreciate and love you for the things that you have done for them in all the years past. Life is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after. Make it a fantastic one. Live it well! Enjoy today. So something fun. Be happy. Have a great day. It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold or silver.
TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN. YET, THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE. So, enjoy this day while it lasts.
Going out is good. Coming home is better. Yes, sometimes, OLD sucks. But OLD is good in some things: Old Songs. Old movies, and best of all, OLD FRIENDS.
Stay well, Old friend.
But here it is, the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my youth do? I remember well seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that winter was so far off that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like,
But, here its is... my friends are retired and have gone grey. They move slower and I see an older person now. Some are in better shape and some worse shape than I am...but, I see the great change. Not like the ones I remember who were young and vibrant... but, like me, their age is showing and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we would be.
And so... now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability to go and do things that I wish I had done, and never did. Yes, I have regrets. But as Frank Sinatra sang, "Regrets, I have a few but then again too few to mention." I have led a full and happy life.
So, if you're not in your winter yet, let me remind you, that it will be here faster than you think. Whatever you would like to accomplish in your life, do it quickly. Don't put off things too lone. Life goes quickly. Do what you can today, as you can never be sure whether this is your winter or not. You have no promise that you will see all the season of your life... so, live for today and say all the things you want your loved ones to remember. Hope that they appreciate and love you for the things that you have done for them in all the years past. Life is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after. Make it a fantastic one. Live it well! Enjoy today. So something fun. Be happy. Have a great day. It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold or silver.
TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN. YET, THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE. So, enjoy this day while it lasts.
Going out is good. Coming home is better. Yes, sometimes, OLD sucks. But OLD is good in some things: Old Songs. Old movies, and best of all, OLD FRIENDS.
Stay well, Old friend.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
BUSY? OH YES!
I must confess. I was worried when I retired. Would I have enough to do? Could I keep busy?
Well, I needn't have been concerned. I was 78 years old - many years beyond the normal retirement age. I really didn't want to retire and still loved my work and my activities. But, health issues made the decision for me and retire I did.
I'm not bored. I'm not having withdrawal symptoms. I'm not finding too much time on my hands. In fact, I'm busy and happy. I decided to keep busy and ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
I don't miss the early morning breakfast meetings. For over 25 years I had a breakfast and lunch meeting practically every day. I then had three or four evening dinner meetings each week. Those make for LONG days. Now, I enjoy lingering over my morning paper and doing the daily crossword puzzles before I venture into the shower.
I know too many friends who retire, go home and die. Life is full and satisfying if you decide to make it so. A positive life and an enthusiastic outlook helps a great deal.
I needn't worry about keeping busy this summer. I have many family events and activities on the agenda. Three grandchildren all graduate from college this season. Kate Van Wagoner from the University of Utah; Matthew Van Wagoner from Westminster College and Olivia Diederich from Brigham Young University.
I have two Great Grandchildren expected this summer. Baby boys for both Oliver and Lisa Dibblee and to Beau and Sarah Boren. This will make five great grandchildren for me and Joyce.
I have two weddings this summer for grandchildren. Emma Dahlstrom and Steve Panos will wed in August and Olivia Diederich and Wil Gochner.
The Ball Family, (The Thundering Herd) is expanding! There will be 31 of us after the weddings and births. Wow. It's amazing how two young kids 59 years ago got married and now their posterity is huge. What a blessing.
I look forward to new experiences and trips. I will not venture out of the country any more. Travel is just hard work and the days of me traveling across oceans and sitting in an airplane for 20 hours are over. We will go to Las Vegas in July for our anniversary. We will go to Snowmass,, Colorado in July for the Utah State Bar conventions. Trips to Scottsdale, Arizona and San Francisco are in the planning stages. Notice that these trips are less than two hour in the air?
And, we look forward to our spending three months in the desert and avoiding the Utah winters. We will arrive in Palm Desert right after Christmas and come home in early April.
Busy? Yes. I am. It's a good kind of busy. No worry or pressure.
My life is good. Yep. The Golden Years can be golden.
Well, I needn't have been concerned. I was 78 years old - many years beyond the normal retirement age. I really didn't want to retire and still loved my work and my activities. But, health issues made the decision for me and retire I did.
I'm not bored. I'm not having withdrawal symptoms. I'm not finding too much time on my hands. In fact, I'm busy and happy. I decided to keep busy and ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
I don't miss the early morning breakfast meetings. For over 25 years I had a breakfast and lunch meeting practically every day. I then had three or four evening dinner meetings each week. Those make for LONG days. Now, I enjoy lingering over my morning paper and doing the daily crossword puzzles before I venture into the shower.
I know too many friends who retire, go home and die. Life is full and satisfying if you decide to make it so. A positive life and an enthusiastic outlook helps a great deal.
I needn't worry about keeping busy this summer. I have many family events and activities on the agenda. Three grandchildren all graduate from college this season. Kate Van Wagoner from the University of Utah; Matthew Van Wagoner from Westminster College and Olivia Diederich from Brigham Young University.
I have two Great Grandchildren expected this summer. Baby boys for both Oliver and Lisa Dibblee and to Beau and Sarah Boren. This will make five great grandchildren for me and Joyce.
I have two weddings this summer for grandchildren. Emma Dahlstrom and Steve Panos will wed in August and Olivia Diederich and Wil Gochner.
The Ball Family, (The Thundering Herd) is expanding! There will be 31 of us after the weddings and births. Wow. It's amazing how two young kids 59 years ago got married and now their posterity is huge. What a blessing.
I look forward to new experiences and trips. I will not venture out of the country any more. Travel is just hard work and the days of me traveling across oceans and sitting in an airplane for 20 hours are over. We will go to Las Vegas in July for our anniversary. We will go to Snowmass,, Colorado in July for the Utah State Bar conventions. Trips to Scottsdale, Arizona and San Francisco are in the planning stages. Notice that these trips are less than two hour in the air?
And, we look forward to our spending three months in the desert and avoiding the Utah winters. We will arrive in Palm Desert right after Christmas and come home in early April.
Busy? Yes. I am. It's a good kind of busy. No worry or pressure.
My life is good. Yep. The Golden Years can be golden.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
FOR THE SHAPE I'M IN
There's nothing whatever the matter with me,
I'm just as healthy as I can be
I have arthritis in both my knees
And when I talk, I talk with a wheeze
My pulse is weak and my blood is thin
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
My teeth will eventually have to come out,
And my diet I hate to think about
I'm underweight and I'm much too thin
My appetite's such that it's sure to win
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
Arch supports I have for my feet
Or I wouldn't be able to go on the street
Sleep is denied me night after night
And every morning I am such a sight
My memories failing; my head's is a spin
I'm practically living on aspirin
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
The moral is, as this tale we unfold
That for you and me who are growing old
It's better to say "I'm fine" with a grin
Than to let them know the shape we're in.
How do I know my youth as been spent?
Because my "get up and go" got up- and went,
But in spite of all that, I'm able to grin
Then think of where my "get up and go" has been.
I'm just as healthy as I can be
I have arthritis in both my knees
And when I talk, I talk with a wheeze
My pulse is weak and my blood is thin
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
My teeth will eventually have to come out,
And my diet I hate to think about
I'm underweight and I'm much too thin
My appetite's such that it's sure to win
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
Arch supports I have for my feet
Or I wouldn't be able to go on the street
Sleep is denied me night after night
And every morning I am such a sight
My memories failing; my head's is a spin
I'm practically living on aspirin
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
The moral is, as this tale we unfold
That for you and me who are growing old
It's better to say "I'm fine" with a grin
Than to let them know the shape we're in.
How do I know my youth as been spent?
Because my "get up and go" got up- and went,
But in spite of all that, I'm able to grin
Then think of where my "get up and go" has been.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
I DONT WINTER WELL.
January has been a brutal weather month in Salt Lake City. My family reports that it startin snowing on January One and hasn't quit and today is January 31. One solid month of snow, cold and dirty air. The temperature neared zero on many nights and the Highway Patrol has been busy with hundreds of snow caused accidents.
And here I am. Today I swam in a 91 degree heated pool with the temperature out of the pool at a pleasant 76 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. The seven day forecast is in the high seventies and clear skies.
I just don't winter well anymore. For the past four years I have spent the winter in Palm Desert or Puerto Vallarta. I do miss my home and my family but I encourage visitors and today I have granddaughters Amanda Dibblee and Grace Van Wagoner visiting and giving me welcome company.
I at one time welcomed winter. It was when I was an avid skier and enjoyed winter sports. After multiple ski accidents and surgeries, I don't look forward to the snow. People my age just can't afford falls. Three years ago I fell and broke my hip. You DO NOT want to be operated on in Mexico. I had a fine, young doctor but the facilities were less than desirable and the food and room were bad!
So, I worry about falling in the winter time. A family friend fell last week while putting ice melt on her driveway. She is in very bad condition in the hospital for what is feared to be a broken back.
The main effect of my age is the fact that I know I am weaker and more feeble. I have a hard time getting out of low, soft chairs. I don't move like I once did. I wobble a bit and am tentative in my actions. I try to resolve to stand erect, have good posture and move as I once did. But, I am not like I once was. I must be cautious. I must be careful.
So, I leave the comfort and happiness on my Salt Lake home and seek out the warmth and sun of places that cater to my generation. Great food. Fine lodging. Abundant golf courses and sweet, sweet sun.
So... here I am for a least one more month. Home sometime in March.
And here I am. Today I swam in a 91 degree heated pool with the temperature out of the pool at a pleasant 76 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. The seven day forecast is in the high seventies and clear skies.
I just don't winter well anymore. For the past four years I have spent the winter in Palm Desert or Puerto Vallarta. I do miss my home and my family but I encourage visitors and today I have granddaughters Amanda Dibblee and Grace Van Wagoner visiting and giving me welcome company.
I at one time welcomed winter. It was when I was an avid skier and enjoyed winter sports. After multiple ski accidents and surgeries, I don't look forward to the snow. People my age just can't afford falls. Three years ago I fell and broke my hip. You DO NOT want to be operated on in Mexico. I had a fine, young doctor but the facilities were less than desirable and the food and room were bad!
So, I worry about falling in the winter time. A family friend fell last week while putting ice melt on her driveway. She is in very bad condition in the hospital for what is feared to be a broken back.
The main effect of my age is the fact that I know I am weaker and more feeble. I have a hard time getting out of low, soft chairs. I don't move like I once did. I wobble a bit and am tentative in my actions. I try to resolve to stand erect, have good posture and move as I once did. But, I am not like I once was. I must be cautious. I must be careful.
So, I leave the comfort and happiness on my Salt Lake home and seek out the warmth and sun of places that cater to my generation. Great food. Fine lodging. Abundant golf courses and sweet, sweet sun.
So... here I am for a least one more month. Home sometime in March.
BUYING MEMORIES
Old age is an interesting time. You recognize that the days grow short and time is fleeting. You study your finances and calculate how much you can spend of your assets in a reasonable way. But, it is difficult because no one knows when their sojuurn here upon earth will end.
One friend said he wants his last check to bounce on the day he dies. Another told me how much he saves and scrimps because he wants to leave as much as possible to his children and grandchildren.
I personally am spending my money is a way that I think will please my posterity and at the same time provide pleasure for me and Joyce.
Last evening we had a delightful dinner with a granddaughter and her husband. It was rather expensive but I wanted to go a a fine resautarnt, enjoy a great meal and visit one on one with a special member of our family. Joyce said we "are buying memories." It's wonderful that our childrena and grandchildren want to be with us. We relish the oportunity to visit, reminise, plan the future and share feelings with our posterity.
"BUYING MEMORIES" is a good way to spend money. We established a family tradition of the entire family -32 of us- spending Thanksgiving at a beautiful mountain resort. I started hosting the gathering when we were few in number. As the size of our family has increased, the expense and costs have also increased. But, I can't stop this tradition. My family looks forward to being with aunts and uncles, cousins, grandparents, mom and dad in a setting that promotes conversation and togetherness. Our Thanksgiving gatherings are memories my family will always treasure and look back upon with quickened thoughts and quiet memories.
We have begun spending time in warmer climates during the Utah winters. I don't "winter" very well. I have never been too hot. I have been too cold many times. It's fun to see our daughters and their children line-up to establish dates when they can visit us in the Palm Springs area. We shop, we eat, and visit, we play games. we create lasting MEMORIES. Next winter we will extend our stay in the desert to accommodate more visits from the family. Isn't it great that they want to be with us?
Recently, Joyce and I were sitting in a restaurant and couldn't help over-hearing a gentleman at the next able telling how he hardly knows his grandchildren and can't remember the last time he saw them. How sad! We commented how fortunate we are to be so very close to each member of our thundering herd and how each family member loves the others and how they all enjoy each others company.
Yesterday, a granddaughter called and wanted to know if she could come over for a visit. She wanted us to become better acquainted with her boyfriend. They sat and visited with us for over two hours and upon leaving, they asked if they could take us to dinner on Wednesday. They wanted to continue the visit. I love that they want to be with the old man and his wife.
Yes. It will be nice if the opportunity and fate allows us to bequeth an inheritance to our loved ones. But, we will not scrimp and sacrifice pleasures whilie we are still here. We will continue to look for opportunities to BUY MEMORIES for our children and grandchilren to look back upon and perhaps someday say, "remember when Nana and Poppy took us here?" "Remember when all of our family did this?"
One friend said he wants his last check to bounce on the day he dies. Another told me how much he saves and scrimps because he wants to leave as much as possible to his children and grandchildren.
I personally am spending my money is a way that I think will please my posterity and at the same time provide pleasure for me and Joyce.
Last evening we had a delightful dinner with a granddaughter and her husband. It was rather expensive but I wanted to go a a fine resautarnt, enjoy a great meal and visit one on one with a special member of our family. Joyce said we "are buying memories." It's wonderful that our childrena and grandchildren want to be with us. We relish the oportunity to visit, reminise, plan the future and share feelings with our posterity.
"BUYING MEMORIES" is a good way to spend money. We established a family tradition of the entire family -32 of us- spending Thanksgiving at a beautiful mountain resort. I started hosting the gathering when we were few in number. As the size of our family has increased, the expense and costs have also increased. But, I can't stop this tradition. My family looks forward to being with aunts and uncles, cousins, grandparents, mom and dad in a setting that promotes conversation and togetherness. Our Thanksgiving gatherings are memories my family will always treasure and look back upon with quickened thoughts and quiet memories.
We have begun spending time in warmer climates during the Utah winters. I don't "winter" very well. I have never been too hot. I have been too cold many times. It's fun to see our daughters and their children line-up to establish dates when they can visit us in the Palm Springs area. We shop, we eat, and visit, we play games. we create lasting MEMORIES. Next winter we will extend our stay in the desert to accommodate more visits from the family. Isn't it great that they want to be with us?
Recently, Joyce and I were sitting in a restaurant and couldn't help over-hearing a gentleman at the next able telling how he hardly knows his grandchildren and can't remember the last time he saw them. How sad! We commented how fortunate we are to be so very close to each member of our thundering herd and how each family member loves the others and how they all enjoy each others company.
Yesterday, a granddaughter called and wanted to know if she could come over for a visit. She wanted us to become better acquainted with her boyfriend. They sat and visited with us for over two hours and upon leaving, they asked if they could take us to dinner on Wednesday. They wanted to continue the visit. I love that they want to be with the old man and his wife.
Yes. It will be nice if the opportunity and fate allows us to bequeth an inheritance to our loved ones. But, we will not scrimp and sacrifice pleasures whilie we are still here. We will continue to look for opportunities to BUY MEMORIES for our children and grandchilren to look back upon and perhaps someday say, "remember when Nana and Poppy took us here?" "Remember when all of our family did this?"
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
PACKAGING IS A PAIN!
Is it just me? Am I the only one who questions "packaging" of products?
I just left a fast food place that gives you the little packages of mustard, Ketchup, Relish in those little cellophane individual servings. How do you open the blasted things? I pulled, tore, swore, yanked and the packages wouldn't budge. Finally, I resorted to my teeth and attempted to chew my way into the confounding little container. Someone, some day is going to break a tooth but it appears that is the only way to open the little critters.
I recently bought a three pack of scissors. They were encased in a hard plastic shell with no visible means of opening the container. What I really needed was a pair of scissors to open the packet. However, if I had a handy pair of scissors I wouldn't have bought the new scissors. I pulled, ripped, sawed with a serrated knife and finally after ten frustrating minutes got a corner free that enabled me to pull with all of my strength to get at the containers contents.
Ever tried to open a CD or a DVR? Honestly, it's easier to get at the gold in Fort Knox. What is so precious inside those hard plastic shells that you need prying tools and a degree in engineering to open the blasted things?
I could go on but I'll bet you can come up with your own experiences with the frustrations of getting at items you have bought and wish you hadn't just because of the anguish at getting at your purchase. My frustration is not caused by my advanced age. I just queered three grandchildren to see if they too might have the same problem with opening certain packaging. Eureka! I'm not alone. They all smiled, and reaffirmed my contention. It's not only difficult but is some cases downright stupid to work so hard at opening purchased containers.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
CHRISTMAS - STRESSFUL? NOT REALLY
Christmas was yesterday. The Christmas season is a special time of year. Only the most cynical Scrooge thinks otherwise.
But, what makes it so special? After all. it is the most stressful of holidays, and according to experts, the most stressful time of the year. And yet, we find ourselves smiling more often, enjoying the lights, singing along with holiday music, and even getting a lift from jostling with busy shoppers in crowded stores and malls.
Perhaps it's because Christmas is the one time of year when we forget our differences and concentrate on our sameness. We give gifts...which means we have to consider the needs of someone else... to become more like that person.
We enjoy children..which means we let the beautiful child in each of us come to the surface and act out a heritage common to all adults. (and especially to seniors like me.)
We celebrate something and someone greater than ourselves...which means we acknowledge the weaknesses we share with every other human being.
We hang bright lights and open our doors to friends and neighbors ...which means we forget whatever petty disputes may have divided us during the year.
In other words, for one glorious season of the year we reject the things that separate us one from another, and rejoice in the things that bring us together.
Our likenesses bring joy. Our imagined differences bring distress. No wonder we consider this a special time of year.
A happy child once asked, "Why can't Christmas come every day?" Men of good will might ask the same question. There is no reason why the warmth and good feelings of Christmas have to disappear as fast as a drumstick on Grandpa's plate. Ben Franklin observed, "A good conscience is a continual Christmas." If we in America can develop the skill to make the iPhone, iPad and and the technical marvels of the day, can't we develop a spiritual force that will keep the spirit of Christmas alive for 364 more days?
Oh, and when you really want to know the true significance of the day, you must reflect on the very first one. That was the only Christmas. Over 2000 years later, we celebrate the anniversary of that great occasion every year.
But, what makes it so special? After all. it is the most stressful of holidays, and according to experts, the most stressful time of the year. And yet, we find ourselves smiling more often, enjoying the lights, singing along with holiday music, and even getting a lift from jostling with busy shoppers in crowded stores and malls.
Perhaps it's because Christmas is the one time of year when we forget our differences and concentrate on our sameness. We give gifts...which means we have to consider the needs of someone else... to become more like that person.
We enjoy children..which means we let the beautiful child in each of us come to the surface and act out a heritage common to all adults. (and especially to seniors like me.)
We celebrate something and someone greater than ourselves...which means we acknowledge the weaknesses we share with every other human being.
We hang bright lights and open our doors to friends and neighbors ...which means we forget whatever petty disputes may have divided us during the year.
In other words, for one glorious season of the year we reject the things that separate us one from another, and rejoice in the things that bring us together.
Our likenesses bring joy. Our imagined differences bring distress. No wonder we consider this a special time of year.
A happy child once asked, "Why can't Christmas come every day?" Men of good will might ask the same question. There is no reason why the warmth and good feelings of Christmas have to disappear as fast as a drumstick on Grandpa's plate. Ben Franklin observed, "A good conscience is a continual Christmas." If we in America can develop the skill to make the iPhone, iPad and and the technical marvels of the day, can't we develop a spiritual force that will keep the spirit of Christmas alive for 364 more days?
Oh, and when you really want to know the true significance of the day, you must reflect on the very first one. That was the only Christmas. Over 2000 years later, we celebrate the anniversary of that great occasion every year.
Friday, December 7, 2012
GUILTY AS CHARGED.
OK. I admit it! I'm old; crabby; out-of-it and square. I'm sometimes intolerant and unforgiving. I resist change and long for things as they once were.
I don't like the strong popularity of tattoo's. Years ago the only people who got "ink" or "tats" or whatever you want to call tattoos were drunken sailors. Now I see them on so many people that I would never imagine would accept the pain and expense to "decorate" their bodies. I know. I know. It is acceptable today. But.. I still have problems understanding the craze. I also wonder what these people will think in fifty years from now when they have to explain to their grandchildren what the significance of the tats are and why they had them in the first place.
A friend of mine now has a very lucrative business removing unwanted tattoos. It's painful and expensive to remove unwanted "ink." He tells me of his many customers have deep regret over their decision to get a tattoo. Frequently, the pain in endured to remove the name of a previous sweetheart who now is with someone else.
I marvel that the mostworld's most popular and admired soccer star is covered with tattoos. As he piloted the boat with the Olympic torch you could see his handsome face and marvelous physique and then know that he is covered from his neck to his toes with his popular "ink." America's most gifted NBA basketball player is covered with the tats. (As is many, many of his co-players in professional basketball.) These people along with many music, film, and other celebrates are all strong role models for their fans. Thus, a proliferation of more and more people are decorating their bodies with all kinds of "art." I don't get it.
I marvel that women seem to be getting tattoos more than men. In years past it was a "masculine" thing to do. No more.
Again, I'm out of touch. Forgive me for saying I don't get skin piercing. I surely understand pierced ears and the attractive earrings that are used. What I don't get are pierced tongues. I don't get pierced noses, cheeks, or five holes in each ear. Young people get nipple rings, belly-button rings and other metal decorations pushed through their skin in all kinds of places. Hey, that has to hurt! To me,it is not attractive. But.... again. That's me. I realize I'm old-fashioned and out of touch.
I don't get the "grunge" look. The more holes, tears, rips and frayed edges on a pair of jeans, the more fashionable and popular they are. That's attractive? You pay alot of money to get certain apparel items that have been washed, stained, torn and ripped to look old and tattered. Why?
Young men today are stylish if they have at least a three day growth of beard. It is the attractive, popular thing to do. To me, it's sloven and very unsightly. Special razors are available for these people to shave but still leave a stubble. What's wrong with appearing clean-shaven? When is the last time you saw a popular celebrity sit on the couch next to Leno or Letterman who doesn't appear to need to stand much closer to his razor? When was the last time you saw a late-night talk show guest have on a coat and tie?
Oh, and speaking of coats and ties - when did they become passe? In the past, when I would attend a symphony or a concert or a play, practically every man would be "dressed up." that's not the case anymore. I will look at the audience and see that I'm the only one with a coat. I see tank-tops, cut-offs, flip-flops, tee-shirts. Anything goes as far as apparel. I really notice it on airplanes. Years ago, air travel was a "dress up" event. Not anymore.
Yes. I realize that time goes on. Fads and fashion are so different now. I like to be up-to-date but really can't. After all, I have already admitted that I am old, and not quickly adaptable to change.
REGRETS AND RESOLUTIONS
REGRETS, I'VE HAD A FEW, BUT THEN AGAIN, TOO FEW TO MENTION.
I love the Frank Sinatra song, "I DID IT MY WAY." The above line is an integeral part of the lyric. I, like Frank, have had a few. But, they are trivial and have really no big dissapointments or consequences involved.
I recently read an article by Dieter F. Uchtdorf. The article was named, "OF REGRETS AND RESOLUTIONS." It appeared in the November issue of The Ensign Magazine.
President Uchtdorf tells of a nurse who cares for terminally ill seniors. She would often ask the older patients a simple question. "Do you have any regrets?"
Being so close to that final day of mortality often gives clarity to thought and provides insight and perspective. So when people were asked about their regrets, they opened their hearts. They reflected about what they would change if only they could turn back the clock.
When we are young, it seems that we will live forever. We think there is a limitless supply of sunrises waiting just beyond the horizon, and the future looks to us like an unbroken road stretching endlessly before us.
However, the older I get, and the more ailments and serious illnesses I have suffered, the more I tend to look back and marvel how short the road really is. It's amazing to me how the years have passed so quickly. I really think about the choices I have made and the things I have done. In the process, I remember many sweet moments that give warmth to my soul and I relish the quiet thoughts and quickened memories of my wonderful life. BUT, you sometimes remember the regrets - the things you could back and change.
The nurse recounted the conversations she had with the elderly, very ill patients. She reported that the most universal regret was that they WISHED THEY HAD SPENT MORE TIME WITH THE PEOPLE THEY LOVED.
The next biggest regret was: "I WISH I HAD LIVED UP TO MY POTENTIAL."
The next regret was: "I WISH I HAD LET MYSELF BE HAPPIER."
I have been pondering these oft-repeated regrets and have decided that they really don't apply that much to me. On the first regret, I admit I spent a great deal of time with work and following a most satisfying career path. But, I don't think I neglected my family and spending quality time and experiences with them. Could I have spent more time? Sure. But, the Ball family has been referred to as the "Thundering Herd." We spend quality and quantity time together. One son-in-law once said to me, "I believe in family togetherness, but doesn't the Ball family over do it?" My answer was "No."
The next regret oft told about living up to potential also would not be on my list. I never made a great deal of money and did not have what some might consider a great career. But LIVING TO POTENTIAL? I think I probably did. I was the first person in my family to attend college. I came from a humble, hard working family. I never received one penny of financial help for my education. I was self supporting from the age of 10. I never received one bit of advise or council regarding a career or of aptitude. I worked two or more jobs all of my early life and even after marriage and good jobs. Whatever I accomplished was probably more than I anticipated and perhaps deserved. I had three jobs in 53 years and I loved each of them.
The last "regret" the nurse heard the most was about how they wish THEY HAD LET THEMSELVES BE HAPPIER. Again, I have really pondered this and I think I have led a happy life. I'm the "glass is half full" kind of a guy. I love to laugh. I love to enjoy. I love to relish the great blessings of life. In my many years of life, I have generally been very happy. Life is good! I have been so blessed!
My REGRETS are different and really not too significant. I regret not leaning to play an instrument. I would like to have mastered a foreign language. I wish I had studied harder in school. I regret not getting good council early in my education years. None of these are earth-shaking.
Well, perhaps you might ponder regarding the question about regret in your life. After you do that, you might take the advise of President Uchtdorf and resolve to make the corrections that will turn the "regrets" into accomplishments. It's never too late. Spend more time with loved ones. Work now to improve talents and reach potential and for heaven's sake, be happy, If you ever think how unfortunate you are, just look around you at see how others live. See the burdens and ailments of others, You might discover you are blessed and have much to be happy about.
LIFE IS SO GOOD. REGRETS? Yes. we may have them but then again, they might be too few to mention.
I love the Frank Sinatra song, "I DID IT MY WAY." The above line is an integeral part of the lyric. I, like Frank, have had a few. But, they are trivial and have really no big dissapointments or consequences involved.
I recently read an article by Dieter F. Uchtdorf. The article was named, "OF REGRETS AND RESOLUTIONS." It appeared in the November issue of The Ensign Magazine.
President Uchtdorf tells of a nurse who cares for terminally ill seniors. She would often ask the older patients a simple question. "Do you have any regrets?"
Being so close to that final day of mortality often gives clarity to thought and provides insight and perspective. So when people were asked about their regrets, they opened their hearts. They reflected about what they would change if only they could turn back the clock.
When we are young, it seems that we will live forever. We think there is a limitless supply of sunrises waiting just beyond the horizon, and the future looks to us like an unbroken road stretching endlessly before us.
However, the older I get, and the more ailments and serious illnesses I have suffered, the more I tend to look back and marvel how short the road really is. It's amazing to me how the years have passed so quickly. I really think about the choices I have made and the things I have done. In the process, I remember many sweet moments that give warmth to my soul and I relish the quiet thoughts and quickened memories of my wonderful life. BUT, you sometimes remember the regrets - the things you could back and change.
The nurse recounted the conversations she had with the elderly, very ill patients. She reported that the most universal regret was that they WISHED THEY HAD SPENT MORE TIME WITH THE PEOPLE THEY LOVED.
The next biggest regret was: "I WISH I HAD LIVED UP TO MY POTENTIAL."
The next regret was: "I WISH I HAD LET MYSELF BE HAPPIER."
I have been pondering these oft-repeated regrets and have decided that they really don't apply that much to me. On the first regret, I admit I spent a great deal of time with work and following a most satisfying career path. But, I don't think I neglected my family and spending quality time and experiences with them. Could I have spent more time? Sure. But, the Ball family has been referred to as the "Thundering Herd." We spend quality and quantity time together. One son-in-law once said to me, "I believe in family togetherness, but doesn't the Ball family over do it?" My answer was "No."
The next regret oft told about living up to potential also would not be on my list. I never made a great deal of money and did not have what some might consider a great career. But LIVING TO POTENTIAL? I think I probably did. I was the first person in my family to attend college. I came from a humble, hard working family. I never received one penny of financial help for my education. I was self supporting from the age of 10. I never received one bit of advise or council regarding a career or of aptitude. I worked two or more jobs all of my early life and even after marriage and good jobs. Whatever I accomplished was probably more than I anticipated and perhaps deserved. I had three jobs in 53 years and I loved each of them.
The last "regret" the nurse heard the most was about how they wish THEY HAD LET THEMSELVES BE HAPPIER. Again, I have really pondered this and I think I have led a happy life. I'm the "glass is half full" kind of a guy. I love to laugh. I love to enjoy. I love to relish the great blessings of life. In my many years of life, I have generally been very happy. Life is good! I have been so blessed!
My REGRETS are different and really not too significant. I regret not leaning to play an instrument. I would like to have mastered a foreign language. I wish I had studied harder in school. I regret not getting good council early in my education years. None of these are earth-shaking.
Well, perhaps you might ponder regarding the question about regret in your life. After you do that, you might take the advise of President Uchtdorf and resolve to make the corrections that will turn the "regrets" into accomplishments. It's never too late. Spend more time with loved ones. Work now to improve talents and reach potential and for heaven's sake, be happy, If you ever think how unfortunate you are, just look around you at see how others live. See the burdens and ailments of others, You might discover you are blessed and have much to be happy about.
LIFE IS SO GOOD. REGRETS? Yes. we may have them but then again, they might be too few to mention.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
IT'S HOLIDAY TIME
Just some random musings on the holiday season:
One year I didn't have appropriate wrapping paper for Christmas. The paper I used said "Happy Birthday" on it. I didn't want to waste it, so I just wrote "Jesus" on it.
***********
I'm thinking about crossing a centipede with a turkey. DRUMSTICKS FOR EVERYONE!
*********************
Someone said the worst thing about a Christmas office party is looking for a new job the next day.
***********************
All of the Puritans arriving in the New World were not prudes. I understand one saucy lady "came across" on the Mayflower.
********************
When I was a little guy, Santa brought me my first bike. I couldn't learn to ride it. My father, who was always "tinkering": in the garage, took two wheels off an old wagon. He put them on some brackets and attached them to the rear wheel of my bike. The first ever TRAINING WHEELS. I wonder what would have happened had he taken out a patent on the strange, new device? I might be a rich man today.
***************************
When my children were very young, Kimberly pushed her sister Karalyn down.
"Kimberly, did you push Karalyn?' I asked.
"No."
"Kim, Santa can tell if you're lying."
She thought about the ramifications of this before asking, "Can you?"
*************************
Every other Thanksgiving, our entire family - 30 - of us spend the holiday weekend at the Stein Erikson Lodge in Deer Valley, Why EVERY OTHER Thanksgiving? The alternate years, my family spends with the in-laws. I sometimes wonder if some people wish they had married an orphan. That way they never have to spend boring holidays with the in-laws. Hey, sons-in-law, that's not nice to think that way.)
*************************
A friend who is a doctor in the Proctology Department thinks the holidays are a good time to look up friends.
****************************
If you like to ponder past Christmases, go back to the first one. Keeping Christmas is good, but sharing it is a great deal better. He who does not have Christmas in his heart will never find it under the tree. When we throw out the Christmas tree, we should be especially careful not to throw out the Christmas spirit with it.
*************************************
Last Christmas, a family member asked if he could borrow my newspaper. I told him I had received my iPad for the holidays. I told him I won't waste money on the newspaper but he was welcome to borrow the iPad. I can tell you this. That spider never knew what hit him.
***********************
Last Christmas eve, we had a new grandbaby at the family gathering. I held the little guy as he began to fidget and cry.One of my older grandsons said, "That baby is spoiled isn't he?" "No." I said. "All babies smell this way."
***********************
GIFTS: Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.
*************************
I have so much to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day. I'm thankful for the privilege and gift of living in a world filled with beauty and excitement and variety.I am thankful for the gift of loving and being loved.. I am mindful of the multitude of God's gifts, taken one by one. I have been blessed with the gift of life after tormenting ailments.It is important to thank God for health and strength by the care of and reverence I show my body and for the opportunity to live life to the fullest. I love life and am grateful for the opportunity to live it with joy and gratitude.
***********************
The holidays are a glorious time of year. May you have happiness and joy. May you be mindful of your blessings.
One year I didn't have appropriate wrapping paper for Christmas. The paper I used said "Happy Birthday" on it. I didn't want to waste it, so I just wrote "Jesus" on it.
***********
I'm thinking about crossing a centipede with a turkey. DRUMSTICKS FOR EVERYONE!
*********************
Someone said the worst thing about a Christmas office party is looking for a new job the next day.
***********************
All of the Puritans arriving in the New World were not prudes. I understand one saucy lady "came across" on the Mayflower.
********************
When I was a little guy, Santa brought me my first bike. I couldn't learn to ride it. My father, who was always "tinkering": in the garage, took two wheels off an old wagon. He put them on some brackets and attached them to the rear wheel of my bike. The first ever TRAINING WHEELS. I wonder what would have happened had he taken out a patent on the strange, new device? I might be a rich man today.
***************************
When my children were very young, Kimberly pushed her sister Karalyn down.
"Kimberly, did you push Karalyn?' I asked.
"No."
"Kim, Santa can tell if you're lying."
She thought about the ramifications of this before asking, "Can you?"
*************************
Every other Thanksgiving, our entire family - 30 - of us spend the holiday weekend at the Stein Erikson Lodge in Deer Valley, Why EVERY OTHER Thanksgiving? The alternate years, my family spends with the in-laws. I sometimes wonder if some people wish they had married an orphan. That way they never have to spend boring holidays with the in-laws. Hey, sons-in-law, that's not nice to think that way.)
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A friend who is a doctor in the Proctology Department thinks the holidays are a good time to look up friends.
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If you like to ponder past Christmases, go back to the first one. Keeping Christmas is good, but sharing it is a great deal better. He who does not have Christmas in his heart will never find it under the tree. When we throw out the Christmas tree, we should be especially careful not to throw out the Christmas spirit with it.
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Last Christmas, a family member asked if he could borrow my newspaper. I told him I had received my iPad for the holidays. I told him I won't waste money on the newspaper but he was welcome to borrow the iPad. I can tell you this. That spider never knew what hit him.
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Last Christmas eve, we had a new grandbaby at the family gathering. I held the little guy as he began to fidget and cry.One of my older grandsons said, "That baby is spoiled isn't he?" "No." I said. "All babies smell this way."
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GIFTS: Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting.
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I have so much to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day. I'm thankful for the privilege and gift of living in a world filled with beauty and excitement and variety.I am thankful for the gift of loving and being loved.. I am mindful of the multitude of God's gifts, taken one by one. I have been blessed with the gift of life after tormenting ailments.It is important to thank God for health and strength by the care of and reverence I show my body and for the opportunity to live life to the fullest. I love life and am grateful for the opportunity to live it with joy and gratitude.
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The holidays are a glorious time of year. May you have happiness and joy. May you be mindful of your blessings.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
GIVING THANKS
I think if we inverted the words to the upcoming holiday it would have more significance. "THANKSGIVING" has become a generic word that we use and fail to give significance to the day. What if we called it "GIVING THANKS DAY?"
Perhaps we would really pause between the great dinner repast and family gathering, and truly think, ponder and express what we have in our life; what blessings we enjoy; how fortunate we are and delight in our family, our friends and our circumstances.
My family has a great family tradition. Every other GIVING THANKS DAY, our entire family (30 of us) congregate at the beautiful Stein Erikson Lodge in Deer Valley to feast, visit, relax and enjoy the company of dear close family members. After dinner, we sit in a large circle and each person expresses what they are giving thanks for. (The reason we do this event every OTHER year is because our daughters and families go to the in-laws on alternate years.)
I am giving thanks this year for a multitude of reasons. I recently had a milestone birthday - 80. I'm thankful for reaching this milestone and for feeling good. The year 2012 was one of the better years health wise than previous years. I have been "unhooked" from the TPN feeding machine for all of 2012. Previously, I was attached to the machine for 15 1/2 hours a day for several years. I am maintaining my weight and hopefully can stay off the contraption. It was like being in prison hooked up for such a long time each day.
I'm so very happy and grateful for my four daughters. I see or talk to them each day. It's quite remarkable to say that never - never- have I ever had a disappointment, a concern, a cross word, or an embarrassment from these beautiful ladies. Now, two are grandmothers, all have wonderful marriages, beautiful children, fabulous homes, great lives and much happiness. That gives me much joy.
My grandchildren and great grandchildren fill me with excitement and pride. My posterity is assured. Two of my grandchildren are now parents. I remember so vividly when each of these grandchildren were born and now they have children of their own. Joyce and I watch with heart filled enthusiasm as these grand babies grow, mature, develop and expand their horizons,
I don't know many people who can say that they worked very hard their entire lives and enjoyed every single day of it. I had three jobs in 57 years and really loved each one. I spent 16 years in the common motor carrier field (Trucking), 25 years with the Chamber of Commerce and 16 years in banking. I retired at the age of 78 years old. I retired not because I wanted to but because of health reasons. Work was a joy. I give thanks for the great opportunities.
The greatest reason I have for giving thanks is Kathryn Joyce Worsencroft Ball. This great lady has put up with me for 59 years. What a joy and helpmate she has been. I am not the ideal husband. I have many idiosyncrasies that I'm certain are annoying. Joyce puts up with me, encourages me, councils me and has been a most willing caregiver. I love and appreciate her.
Yes. This holiday season lets emphasize the "giving thanks" part of Thanksgiving.
Do you have anything to be giving thanks for on this Thanksgiving? Be honest with yourself. If you don't believe you are blessed, just look around. See how others live and work. See the station in life of others. The Bible tells us that where much is given, much is expected. We have been given much and now much is expected of us.
Happy "GIVING THANKS DAY."
Perhaps we would really pause between the great dinner repast and family gathering, and truly think, ponder and express what we have in our life; what blessings we enjoy; how fortunate we are and delight in our family, our friends and our circumstances.
My family has a great family tradition. Every other GIVING THANKS DAY, our entire family (30 of us) congregate at the beautiful Stein Erikson Lodge in Deer Valley to feast, visit, relax and enjoy the company of dear close family members. After dinner, we sit in a large circle and each person expresses what they are giving thanks for. (The reason we do this event every OTHER year is because our daughters and families go to the in-laws on alternate years.)
I am giving thanks this year for a multitude of reasons. I recently had a milestone birthday - 80. I'm thankful for reaching this milestone and for feeling good. The year 2012 was one of the better years health wise than previous years. I have been "unhooked" from the TPN feeding machine for all of 2012. Previously, I was attached to the machine for 15 1/2 hours a day for several years. I am maintaining my weight and hopefully can stay off the contraption. It was like being in prison hooked up for such a long time each day.
I'm so very happy and grateful for my four daughters. I see or talk to them each day. It's quite remarkable to say that never - never- have I ever had a disappointment, a concern, a cross word, or an embarrassment from these beautiful ladies. Now, two are grandmothers, all have wonderful marriages, beautiful children, fabulous homes, great lives and much happiness. That gives me much joy.
My grandchildren and great grandchildren fill me with excitement and pride. My posterity is assured. Two of my grandchildren are now parents. I remember so vividly when each of these grandchildren were born and now they have children of their own. Joyce and I watch with heart filled enthusiasm as these grand babies grow, mature, develop and expand their horizons,
I don't know many people who can say that they worked very hard their entire lives and enjoyed every single day of it. I had three jobs in 57 years and really loved each one. I spent 16 years in the common motor carrier field (Trucking), 25 years with the Chamber of Commerce and 16 years in banking. I retired at the age of 78 years old. I retired not because I wanted to but because of health reasons. Work was a joy. I give thanks for the great opportunities.
The greatest reason I have for giving thanks is Kathryn Joyce Worsencroft Ball. This great lady has put up with me for 59 years. What a joy and helpmate she has been. I am not the ideal husband. I have many idiosyncrasies that I'm certain are annoying. Joyce puts up with me, encourages me, councils me and has been a most willing caregiver. I love and appreciate her.
Yes. This holiday season lets emphasize the "giving thanks" part of Thanksgiving.
Do you have anything to be giving thanks for on this Thanksgiving? Be honest with yourself. If you don't believe you are blessed, just look around. See how others live and work. See the station in life of others. The Bible tells us that where much is given, much is expected. We have been given much and now much is expected of us.
Happy "GIVING THANKS DAY."
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
AGE AND TECHNOLOGY
Years ago I was just about the only person my age involved with social media. It is common now for many "seniors" to be on FaceBook. When I first started years ago, Facebook was primarily for a handful of students. Now, one out of every seven people in the world use the medium. Isn't that amazing?
I just took delivery on my iPhone 5. This is my third iPhone and I like it fine. Don't know if it is that much better than my 4s but it has a slightly larger screen and the camera is better. I really like the "panorama" feature on the camera.
Apple has also just announced the new iPad mini. I'm not going the change from my iPad 2. Can't see the value or that much difference. I don't mind the current size.
I'm thinking of getting a new Kindle or a competing reader. I would like the ability to read at night or in a darkened room.I use the Kindle extensively but have not divorced myself from a good hard-cover book. I still haunt the aisles of Barnes and Noble and search for the very good discount tables they have. I like the feel of a good book and how they look on the shelves of my library. Also, my grandchildren like to borrow books and you can't do that with a reader.
A mystery has occurred with my Twitter account. I have no idea what happened but I one day discovered I had lost all of my tweets, followers, and following lists. I know it must be retrievable but thus far I have been unsuccessful. Suggestions?
Hey you seniors. Isn't fun to see the marvelous tools we have for communicating with friends and family? It is the best way I know to communicate with younger family members. I don't understand why young people won't answer a cell phone call but will instantaneously reply to a text message. (My kids tell their friends that "their grandpa has the fastest thumbs in the west for a grandfather.")
IT (Information Technology) is a great tool to stimulate the mind and keep abreast of this rapidly changing world. There are thousands of apps available that are free and can open the windows of the world.
I just took delivery on my iPhone 5. This is my third iPhone and I like it fine. Don't know if it is that much better than my 4s but it has a slightly larger screen and the camera is better. I really like the "panorama" feature on the camera.
Apple has also just announced the new iPad mini. I'm not going the change from my iPad 2. Can't see the value or that much difference. I don't mind the current size.
I'm thinking of getting a new Kindle or a competing reader. I would like the ability to read at night or in a darkened room.I use the Kindle extensively but have not divorced myself from a good hard-cover book. I still haunt the aisles of Barnes and Noble and search for the very good discount tables they have. I like the feel of a good book and how they look on the shelves of my library. Also, my grandchildren like to borrow books and you can't do that with a reader.
A mystery has occurred with my Twitter account. I have no idea what happened but I one day discovered I had lost all of my tweets, followers, and following lists. I know it must be retrievable but thus far I have been unsuccessful. Suggestions?
Hey you seniors. Isn't fun to see the marvelous tools we have for communicating with friends and family? It is the best way I know to communicate with younger family members. I don't understand why young people won't answer a cell phone call but will instantaneously reply to a text message. (My kids tell their friends that "their grandpa has the fastest thumbs in the west for a grandfather.")
IT (Information Technology) is a great tool to stimulate the mind and keep abreast of this rapidly changing world. There are thousands of apps available that are free and can open the windows of the world.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
MILESTONE BIRTHDAY
September 29, 2012 was a banner day in my life. It was my 80th Birthday. (Gasp!) 80!! I can't believe it and neither can my doctors.
On Saturday night, my four daughters and their husbands treated Joyce and me to dinner at my favorite Salt Lake City restaurant - The New Yorker. We had a private room and the management went to great lengths to decorate the table and provided a nice centerpiece with many balloons, Great food, great conversation and a memorable evening.
On Sunday, Kristy hosted the entire family for a barbecue at her lovely home. Twenty eight of us for dinner and visit. Each person went around the backyard after dinner and told an interesting tidbit about old Fred S. It was heartwarming and a little emotional for me as they talked about the things that were the most memorable about their relationship with their dad and grandpa (Poppy.)
It was interesting how no one mentioned the big things that I thought they would mention. The Disney family cruise for example. It pleased me that they things they mentioned were things like encouraging one of them to become a voracious reader and how I instilled a love of books a reading. Another talked about one on one dinners and deep discussions about school and careers and the value of education.Another remembered about letting them sit tall in my little Mercedes convertible and let the wind hit them in the face when they were little girls.
I had an absolutely great birthday. One of my dear neighbors, Hob Hobson, was on a cruise with his daughters but before he left he arranged to have a giant poster professionally made. It was on an easel at my front door with balloons attached. I was in the house and heard fireworks outside. I opened the door, saw the poster and suddenly a sound system began to play (very loudly)_ an original song with original lyrics about "Happy Birthday Fred Ball. All the neighbors were out in front and gave a cheer as I walked out. Over kill? Yes. But sure was fun and very appreciated./
Thursday, July 5, 2012
ANCESTORS
We are curious about our "roots" as we grow older. We want to know about our family and genealogy. Sometimes it isn't pleasant to read about "Bad Dan Tanner," a notorious horse thief or Belle Thornton, a famous Madame. You never know what you will find when you search your family tree.
My ancestors came across the plains in a covered wagon. If you could see pictures of them you would know why the wagon was covered. UGLY!!
One of my great grandfather's was not only ugly, he wasn't very smart. He was so dumb he organized a loan company, lent out two million dollars and then skipped town.
He organized his own mafia. He tied his victims together by their heads and shot them in the hands.
He was so dumb that he was told to blow up a car and burned his mouth on the tailpipe.
No one liked him. His mother tied a pork chop around his neck so the dog would play with him..
Once at Christmas he got an electric train and two miles of straight track.
One day he went to school and when he came home, his family had moved.
One of my great uncles was very tired of life. One day his wife came into the house and saw her husband with a rope around his waist. He told his wife he was trying to commit suicide. His wife said, "You're supposed to put the rope around your neck!" My great uncle replied, "I tried that but I couldn't breathe."
An old relative wearing a stovepipe hat, a waistcoat and a phony beard sat at a bar and ordered a drink. As the bartender set it down he asked, "Going to a party?" "Yeah," my ancestor answered. "I'm supposed to come dressed as my love life." "But you look like Abraham Lincoln," protested the barkeep. "That's right. My last four scores were seven years ago."
Yes. Maybe would be best if we didn't know about our ancestors. It makes you realize why you are the way your are. Not pleasant.
My ancestors came across the plains in a covered wagon. If you could see pictures of them you would know why the wagon was covered. UGLY!!
One of my great grandfather's was not only ugly, he wasn't very smart. He was so dumb he organized a loan company, lent out two million dollars and then skipped town.
He organized his own mafia. He tied his victims together by their heads and shot them in the hands.
He was so dumb that he was told to blow up a car and burned his mouth on the tailpipe.
No one liked him. His mother tied a pork chop around his neck so the dog would play with him..
Once at Christmas he got an electric train and two miles of straight track.
One day he went to school and when he came home, his family had moved.
One of my great uncles was very tired of life. One day his wife came into the house and saw her husband with a rope around his waist. He told his wife he was trying to commit suicide. His wife said, "You're supposed to put the rope around your neck!" My great uncle replied, "I tried that but I couldn't breathe."
An old relative wearing a stovepipe hat, a waistcoat and a phony beard sat at a bar and ordered a drink. As the bartender set it down he asked, "Going to a party?" "Yeah," my ancestor answered. "I'm supposed to come dressed as my love life." "But you look like Abraham Lincoln," protested the barkeep. "That's right. My last four scores were seven years ago."
Yes. Maybe would be best if we didn't know about our ancestors. It makes you realize why you are the way your are. Not pleasant.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
GOOD CHANGES
I was contemplating about some things that have changed during my nearly eighty years. They seem common and are taken for granted but have really made life more enjoyable.
REMOTE CONTROLS. Most people don't remember when we didn't have this great tool. It was just too much trouble to get out of the chair, walk to the TV and manually change the channel. So what did we do? Many times just sit and watch something we really didn't want to see but were to lazy to get up and change the channel. (Hey, I should also mention the television itself. I didn't see my first TV show until I was in college in 1952.)
POWER STEERING. It wasn't easy to make turns in your car as it is today. Depending on the make and year of your car, the steering was laborious.How impressed we were when automobiles first came with steering that you could turn with just a finger.
GARBAGE DISPOSALS. Your garbage cans filled up much faster before disposals and the odor from your garbage was bad just before pickup day. This marvelous invention is clean, quick and sanitary.
ELECTRIC DISHWASHERS. My sister and I would take turns either washing or drying the dishes every day. It would be an arduous task and not easy. The dish water would frequently have to be changed. (especially if dinner was spaghetti or some other dish that was colorful, greasy and left residue in the sink.) We would line up song sheets from that weeks radio program, "Your Hit Parade" and sing songs to help us keep our minds off the task at hand.
REFRIGERATORS. When I was a young boy we had an "Ice Box." The iceman would come by three times a week and bring big blocks of Ice to put in the box. A large "drip Pan" was placed underneath the contraption to catch the melted water from the ice. One small advantage - the iceman would use his ice pick to fit the ice in the box and always give the small fry a hunk of ice to suck on.
GAS OR OIL STOVES AND FURNACES. I never went to bed in my life as a young boy without first bringing a bucket and two lumps of coal into the house. The kitchen and front room coal stoves had to be "banked" at night so that it would start early the next morning by shaking the grate and adding more coal. It was necessary to take out the ashes and clinkers to the garbage cans and the dust that would fly up would be dirty and difficult to keep out of your eyes and nose.
CELL PHONES. I said at one time that I never wanted a cell phone. I didn't want to be that assessable. The first "portable" "cordless" phone I saw was the size of a brick and had very limited range. Besides, who could I call? I didn't know anyone else who had one. Today? Well, I couldn't function without it. I use it for texting, answering email, using GPS system, taking pictures, posting on Facebook and Instagram and so many other functions. I NEED my mobile phone!!
.Well, this is just a small list off the top of my head. There are many more wondrous things that have simplified my life and given me much pleasure. Can you thing of any others/
REMOTE CONTROLS. Most people don't remember when we didn't have this great tool. It was just too much trouble to get out of the chair, walk to the TV and manually change the channel. So what did we do? Many times just sit and watch something we really didn't want to see but were to lazy to get up and change the channel. (Hey, I should also mention the television itself. I didn't see my first TV show until I was in college in 1952.)
POWER STEERING. It wasn't easy to make turns in your car as it is today. Depending on the make and year of your car, the steering was laborious.How impressed we were when automobiles first came with steering that you could turn with just a finger.
GARBAGE DISPOSALS. Your garbage cans filled up much faster before disposals and the odor from your garbage was bad just before pickup day. This marvelous invention is clean, quick and sanitary.
ELECTRIC DISHWASHERS. My sister and I would take turns either washing or drying the dishes every day. It would be an arduous task and not easy. The dish water would frequently have to be changed. (especially if dinner was spaghetti or some other dish that was colorful, greasy and left residue in the sink.) We would line up song sheets from that weeks radio program, "Your Hit Parade" and sing songs to help us keep our minds off the task at hand.
REFRIGERATORS. When I was a young boy we had an "Ice Box." The iceman would come by three times a week and bring big blocks of Ice to put in the box. A large "drip Pan" was placed underneath the contraption to catch the melted water from the ice. One small advantage - the iceman would use his ice pick to fit the ice in the box and always give the small fry a hunk of ice to suck on.
GAS OR OIL STOVES AND FURNACES. I never went to bed in my life as a young boy without first bringing a bucket and two lumps of coal into the house. The kitchen and front room coal stoves had to be "banked" at night so that it would start early the next morning by shaking the grate and adding more coal. It was necessary to take out the ashes and clinkers to the garbage cans and the dust that would fly up would be dirty and difficult to keep out of your eyes and nose.
CELL PHONES. I said at one time that I never wanted a cell phone. I didn't want to be that assessable. The first "portable" "cordless" phone I saw was the size of a brick and had very limited range. Besides, who could I call? I didn't know anyone else who had one. Today? Well, I couldn't function without it. I use it for texting, answering email, using GPS system, taking pictures, posting on Facebook and Instagram and so many other functions. I NEED my mobile phone!!
.Well, this is just a small list off the top of my head. There are many more wondrous things that have simplified my life and given me much pleasure. Can you thing of any others/
Sunday, June 3, 2012
THE LAW OF THE BOOMERANG
Some have called it the Golden Rule. Some the Law of Retaliation. I call it the Law of the Boomerang. This law says, "Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do it even so unto them." If we could only learn to put this law into effect, it would transform our lives and the world in thirty days.
If you want someone to punch you in the nose, you don't need to make a formal request or argue or reason with him about it. The quickest and most certain method of getting this response is simply to punch him on the nose. If you want someone to send you a Christmas card, all you need to do is send him a Christmas card. If you want him to invite you to his house for dinner, you invite him to your house for dinner, and very shortly you will receive an invitation. If you want someone to like you, all you have to do is like her. If you want someone to trust you, trust him. We are all human magnets. Our deeds, attitudes and even our thoughts attract in kind. If you want smiles, give smiles. If you frown at someone, she scowls back at you. You can know in advance how everybody will react in a given situation. Therefore, a great power is placed in your hands if you choose to use it. Just figure out what you want, and then give accordingly.
Everyone gets back with compound interest exactly what he sends. The chickens come home to roost and bring their offspring along. If, therefore, you would like great personal power, if you would like to be trusted, respected, loved and followed, just learn to practice the Law of the Boomerang.
If you want someone to punch you in the nose, you don't need to make a formal request or argue or reason with him about it. The quickest and most certain method of getting this response is simply to punch him on the nose. If you want someone to send you a Christmas card, all you need to do is send him a Christmas card. If you want him to invite you to his house for dinner, you invite him to your house for dinner, and very shortly you will receive an invitation. If you want someone to like you, all you have to do is like her. If you want someone to trust you, trust him. We are all human magnets. Our deeds, attitudes and even our thoughts attract in kind. If you want smiles, give smiles. If you frown at someone, she scowls back at you. You can know in advance how everybody will react in a given situation. Therefore, a great power is placed in your hands if you choose to use it. Just figure out what you want, and then give accordingly.
Everyone gets back with compound interest exactly what he sends. The chickens come home to roost and bring their offspring along. If, therefore, you would like great personal power, if you would like to be trusted, respected, loved and followed, just learn to practice the Law of the Boomerang.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
LOOKING FORWARD
Seniors should always having something to look forward to. Sitting looking at the walls is a sure way to shrivel up and die. Be active. Have varied interests. Always have something planned that you look forward to.
TRIPS. I have decided that foreign trips are just hard work. Sitting on a plane for 16 hours after the hassle of the airport security and the jammed packed plans is no fun. I will always travel but foreign travel will take careful consideration. If I do cross the oceans I will absolutely sit in the front of the airplane. US travel is something else. Joyce and I have three great local trips on the agenda. Newport Beach/Laguna; Sun Valley; New York City. Also, we will winter again in Desert Island, Calif.
Another thing I recommend to senors is to be TECH-SAVVY" I love the technology of today. I wear out my iPhone, iPod, Kindle, and iPad. What a wonderful way to keep in contact with the family and the WORLD. I can call my grandchildren on the cell phone and they usually don't answer. But, I can send a text message and hear a response in minutes. Why? I have no idea. I think I have the fastest thumbs in the West for a grandfather.
The iPad has in many ways replaced my laptop for a lot of projects. It's light, handy, versatile and easy to use.It has wonderful photo taking capacity and other fun applications.
I was one of the very first seniors to be on Facebook. Years ago, it was primarily a tool for students to keep in touch with classmates. I was alone as a senior but now have a great deal of people my age as "friends" and I see more and more people of all ages on Facebook. I love the ap "Instagram." Have you seen it? Its a new ap to share photos and keep in touch. Facebook just purchased the ap from a couple of very young programmers for over $1 billion
. I don't have as many Facebook friends as I once had because somehow I accumulated contacts that aren't really "friends" and too many of my contacts were unabashedly using the site for business purposes. That's not why I log on to the site
BE ACTIVE. I try to keep busy but must confess I "run out of gas" a lot quicker than I used to. I'm sitting at my keyboard right now after 45 minutes of yard work. I came in to take a deep breath and regain my ambition. But, I love digging in the dirt and working in my yard. People kid me for washing my own car and shining my own shoes. I surely can pay to have it done but I like doing it myself. (and besides, I do a better job.) Have projects, realistic goals and objectives, things to do and places to go. Keep moving. I love a program offered by many insurance companies. It is a paid for exercise program called SILVER SNEAKERS. I go two or three time each week to work on strength, balance, coordination. Marvelous instructors guide the sessions and the program has been marvelous for me. Besides, I have met some fine, new friends.
Life is good. People say, "Fred, how are you?" I reply, "I'm below average but above ground." I've got a very big milestone birthday coming in September. Many people,, mostly my doctors.. didn't think I would see the big eight o. Surprise!
So... The Golden Years Can Be Golden.. ENJOY!
TRIPS. I have decided that foreign trips are just hard work. Sitting on a plane for 16 hours after the hassle of the airport security and the jammed packed plans is no fun. I will always travel but foreign travel will take careful consideration. If I do cross the oceans I will absolutely sit in the front of the airplane. US travel is something else. Joyce and I have three great local trips on the agenda. Newport Beach/Laguna; Sun Valley; New York City. Also, we will winter again in Desert Island, Calif.
The iPad has in many ways replaced my laptop for a lot of projects. It's light, handy, versatile and easy to use.It has wonderful photo taking capacity and other fun applications.
I was one of the very first seniors to be on Facebook. Years ago, it was primarily a tool for students to keep in touch with classmates. I was alone as a senior but now have a great deal of people my age as "friends" and I see more and more people of all ages on Facebook. I love the ap "Instagram." Have you seen it? Its a new ap to share photos and keep in touch. Facebook just purchased the ap from a couple of very young programmers for over $1 billion
. I don't have as many Facebook friends as I once had because somehow I accumulated contacts that aren't really "friends" and too many of my contacts were unabashedly using the site for business purposes. That's not why I log on to the site
BE ACTIVE. I try to keep busy but must confess I "run out of gas" a lot quicker than I used to. I'm sitting at my keyboard right now after 45 minutes of yard work. I came in to take a deep breath and regain my ambition. But, I love digging in the dirt and working in my yard. People kid me for washing my own car and shining my own shoes. I surely can pay to have it done but I like doing it myself. (and besides, I do a better job.) Have projects, realistic goals and objectives, things to do and places to go. Keep moving. I love a program offered by many insurance companies. It is a paid for exercise program called SILVER SNEAKERS. I go two or three time each week to work on strength, balance, coordination. Marvelous instructors guide the sessions and the program has been marvelous for me. Besides, I have met some fine, new friends.
Life is good. People say, "Fred, how are you?" I reply, "I'm below average but above ground." I've got a very big milestone birthday coming in September. Many people,, mostly my doctors.. didn't think I would see the big eight o. Surprise!
So... The Golden Years Can Be Golden.. ENJOY!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Remedies of yesteryears.
Joyce has a lousy cold. We were talking about remedies that were offered when we were younger. Does anyone remember a "Mustard Plaster?" This was a smelly concoction that was a cloth with lots of mustard and other items from the "Ice Box" that was secured to your chest at bedtime. Did it work? I can't recall. I know it made you sweat and the smell cleared up your nose.
Every cut, scratch or bruise was painted with "Iodine" or "Mircirachrome" (S?). The iodine stings more than the cut but it was the first remedy reached for. Do any of you have Iodine in your home. In later years, every home had a spray bottle of "Bactine." I think it is still available. I haven't seen any for years but it was a staple in our home when my daughters were young children.
Castor Oil! How nasty. I don't remember why my mother would make me swallow a large spoon full. I do remember it was foul tasting but was a usual rememdy for most ailments.
Every cut, scratch or bruise was painted with "Iodine" or "Mircirachrome" (S?). The iodine stings more than the cut but it was the first remedy reached for. Do any of you have Iodine in your home. In later years, every home had a spray bottle of "Bactine." I think it is still available. I haven't seen any for years but it was a staple in our home when my daughters were young children.
Castor Oil! How nasty. I don't remember why my mother would make me swallow a large spoon full. I do remember it was foul tasting but was a usual rememdy for most ailments.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
One of the great World Series of all time. The series was tied at three games a piece. The giants have runners in scoring position in the bottom of the ninth of the deciding seventh game. Willie McCovey is at bat and he hits a screaming line drive that appears to be the winning hit. BUT... Bobbie Richardson, the Yankee second baseman makes a leaping catch and game over. Disappointed? Oh, yes. I'll never forget the felling of utter disappointment. People filed out of Candlestick like it was a funeral.
What a great team. Willie Mays, Juan Marachal, Willie McCovey, Orlando Cepada, Stu Miller, the Alou brothers.
I know that series was 50 YEARS AGO. But I remember it like it was yesterday. One great benefit of growing old is having pleasant quiet thoughts and quickened memories. I have a big smile on my face as the reflect on those wonderful days in San Francisco and enjoying my Giants.
Monday, April 16, 2012
MY NEW VOICE MAIL MESSAGE.
This answering machine message could apply for all grandparents.
Good morning... At present we can't answer your call but please leave your message after you her the beep.
Beeeep
If you are one of our children, dial 1 and then select the option 1 through 4 in order of "arrival" so we know who it is.
If you need to us to stay with the children, press 2.
If you want to borrow the car, press 3.
If you want us to wash your clothes, press 4.
If you want the grandchildren to sleep here tonight, press 5.
If you want us to pick up the kids at school, press 6.
If you want us to prepare a meal at your home for Sunday, or have it delivered to your home, press 7.
If you want to come and eat here, press 8.
If you need money, press 9.
If you are going to invite us to dinner, or taking us to the theatre, start talking we are listening.
Good morning... At present we can't answer your call but please leave your message after you her the beep.
Beeeep
If you are one of our children, dial 1 and then select the option 1 through 4 in order of "arrival" so we know who it is.
If you need to us to stay with the children, press 2.
If you want to borrow the car, press 3.
If you want us to wash your clothes, press 4.
If you want the grandchildren to sleep here tonight, press 5.
If you want us to pick up the kids at school, press 6.
If you want us to prepare a meal at your home for Sunday, or have it delivered to your home, press 7.
If you want to come and eat here, press 8.
If you need money, press 9.
If you are going to invite us to dinner, or taking us to the theatre, start talking we are listening.
Monday, April 2, 2012
COLONOSCOPY FUN?? HILARIOUS.
About the author: Dave Barry is a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for the Miami Herald.
"I called my friend Andy Sable, a gastroenterologist, to make an appointment for a colonoscopy.
A few days later, in his office, Andy showed me a color diagram of the colon, a lengthy organ that appears to go all over the place, at one point passing briefly through Minneapolis.
Then Andy explained the colonoscopy procedure to me in a thorough, reassuring and patient manner.
I nodded thoughtfully, but I didn't really hear anything he said, because my brain was shrieking, "HE'S GOING TO STICK A TUBE 17,000 FEET UP YOUR BEHIND.
I left Andy's office with some written instructions, and a prescription for a product called 'Moviprep.' It comes in a box large enough to hold a microwave oven. I will discuss Moviprep in detail later; for now suffice it to say that we must never allow it to fall into the hands of America's enemies.
I spent the next several days productively sitting around being nervous.
Then, on the day before my colonoscopy, I began my preparation. In accordance with my instructions, I didn't eat any solid food all that day; all I had was chicken broth, which is basically water only with less flavor.
Then, in the evening, I took the Moviprep. You mix two packets of powder in a one-liter plastic jug, then you fill it with lukewarm water. (For those unfamiliar with the metric system, a liter is about 32 gallons.) Then you have the drink the whole jug. This takes about an hour, because Moviprep tastes - and here I am being kind - like a mixture of goat spit and urinal cleanser, with just a tough of lemon.
The instructions for Moviprep, clearly written by somebody with a great sense of humor, state that after you drink it, 'a loose, watery bowel movement may result.'
This is kind of like saying that after you jump off your roof, you may experience contact with the ground.
Moviprep is a nuclear laxative. I don't want to be too graphic, here, but have you ever seen a space-shuttle launch? This is pretty much the Moviprep experience, with you as the shuttle. There are times when you wish the commode had a seat belt. You spend several hours pretty much confined to the bathroom, spurting violently. You eliminate everything. Then, when you figure you must be totally empty, you have to drink another liter of Moviprep, at which point, as far as I can tell, your bowels travel to the future and start eliminating food that you have not even eaten yet.
The next morning my wife drove me to the clinic. I was very nervous. Not only was I worried about the procedure, but I had been experiencing occasional return bouts of Moviprep spurts. I was thinking, 'What if I spurt on Andy? How do you apologize to a friend for something like that? Flowers would not seem enough.
At the clinic I had to sign many forms acknowledging that I understood and totally agreed with whatever the heck the forms said. then they led me to a room full of other colonoscopy people where I went inside a little curtain space and took off my clothes and put on one of those hospital garments designed by sadist perverts, the kind that, when you put it on, makes you feel even more naked than when you are actually naked.
Then a nurse named Eddie put a little needle in a vein in my left hand. Ordinarily I would have fainted, but Eddie was very good, and I was already lying down. Eddie also told me that some people put vodka in their Movieprep. At first I was ticked off that I hadn't thought of this, but then I pondered what would have happened if you got yourself too tipsy to make it to the bathroom, so you were staggering around in full Fire Hose mode. You would have no choice but to burn your home.
With everything ready, Eddie wheeled me into the procedure room, where Andy was waiting with a nurse and an anesthesiologist. I did not see the 17,000 foot tube, but I knew Andy had it hidden around somewhere. I was really nervous at this point. Andy had me roil over on my left side, and the anesthesiologist began hooking something up to the needle in my hand.
There was music playing in the room, and I realized the song was "Dancing Queen' by ABBA. I remarked to Andy that, of all of songs that could be played during this particular procedure, 'Dancing Queen' had to be the least appropriate.
"You want me to turn it up? said Andy from somewhere behind me. "Ha Ha" I said. And then it was time, the moment I had been dreading for more than a decade. If you are squeamish, prepare yourself because I am going to tell you, in explicit detail, exactly what it was like.
I have no idea...Really, I slept through it. One moment, ABBA was yelling 'Dancing Queen, feel the beat of the tambourine' and the next moment I was back in the other room, waking up in a very mellow mood. Andy was looking down at me and asking how I felt. I felt excellent. I felt even more excellent when Andy told me that it was all over, and that my colon had passed with flying colors. I have never been prouder of an internal organ.
On the subject o colonoscopies, they are no joke, but these comments during the exam were quite humorous... a physician claimed that the following are actual comments make by his patients (predominately male) while he was performing their colonoscopies.
1. Take it easy Doc. You're boldly going where no man has gone before.
2. Find Amelia Earhart yet?"
3."Can you hear me now?"
4."Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet?
5."You know in Arkansas, we're now legally married."
6."Any sign of the trapped miners, Chief?"
7."You put your left hand in, you take your left hand out..."
8."Hey, now I know how the Muppet feels!"
9."If your hand doesn't fit, you must quit."
10."Hey Doc, let me know if you find my dignity."
11. "You used to be an executive of Enron, didn't you?"
12. Gad, now I know why I am not gay."
AND THE BEST OF ALL:
13. Would you tell my wife that my head is not up there?"
"I called my friend Andy Sable, a gastroenterologist, to make an appointment for a colonoscopy.
A few days later, in his office, Andy showed me a color diagram of the colon, a lengthy organ that appears to go all over the place, at one point passing briefly through Minneapolis.
Then Andy explained the colonoscopy procedure to me in a thorough, reassuring and patient manner.
I nodded thoughtfully, but I didn't really hear anything he said, because my brain was shrieking, "HE'S GOING TO STICK A TUBE 17,000 FEET UP YOUR BEHIND.
I left Andy's office with some written instructions, and a prescription for a product called 'Moviprep.' It comes in a box large enough to hold a microwave oven. I will discuss Moviprep in detail later; for now suffice it to say that we must never allow it to fall into the hands of America's enemies.
I spent the next several days productively sitting around being nervous.
Then, on the day before my colonoscopy, I began my preparation. In accordance with my instructions, I didn't eat any solid food all that day; all I had was chicken broth, which is basically water only with less flavor.
Then, in the evening, I took the Moviprep. You mix two packets of powder in a one-liter plastic jug, then you fill it with lukewarm water. (For those unfamiliar with the metric system, a liter is about 32 gallons.) Then you have the drink the whole jug. This takes about an hour, because Moviprep tastes - and here I am being kind - like a mixture of goat spit and urinal cleanser, with just a tough of lemon.
The instructions for Moviprep, clearly written by somebody with a great sense of humor, state that after you drink it, 'a loose, watery bowel movement may result.'
This is kind of like saying that after you jump off your roof, you may experience contact with the ground.
Moviprep is a nuclear laxative. I don't want to be too graphic, here, but have you ever seen a space-shuttle launch? This is pretty much the Moviprep experience, with you as the shuttle. There are times when you wish the commode had a seat belt. You spend several hours pretty much confined to the bathroom, spurting violently. You eliminate everything. Then, when you figure you must be totally empty, you have to drink another liter of Moviprep, at which point, as far as I can tell, your bowels travel to the future and start eliminating food that you have not even eaten yet.
The next morning my wife drove me to the clinic. I was very nervous. Not only was I worried about the procedure, but I had been experiencing occasional return bouts of Moviprep spurts. I was thinking, 'What if I spurt on Andy? How do you apologize to a friend for something like that? Flowers would not seem enough.
At the clinic I had to sign many forms acknowledging that I understood and totally agreed with whatever the heck the forms said. then they led me to a room full of other colonoscopy people where I went inside a little curtain space and took off my clothes and put on one of those hospital garments designed by sadist perverts, the kind that, when you put it on, makes you feel even more naked than when you are actually naked.
Then a nurse named Eddie put a little needle in a vein in my left hand. Ordinarily I would have fainted, but Eddie was very good, and I was already lying down. Eddie also told me that some people put vodka in their Movieprep. At first I was ticked off that I hadn't thought of this, but then I pondered what would have happened if you got yourself too tipsy to make it to the bathroom, so you were staggering around in full Fire Hose mode. You would have no choice but to burn your home.
With everything ready, Eddie wheeled me into the procedure room, where Andy was waiting with a nurse and an anesthesiologist. I did not see the 17,000 foot tube, but I knew Andy had it hidden around somewhere. I was really nervous at this point. Andy had me roil over on my left side, and the anesthesiologist began hooking something up to the needle in my hand.
There was music playing in the room, and I realized the song was "Dancing Queen' by ABBA. I remarked to Andy that, of all of songs that could be played during this particular procedure, 'Dancing Queen' had to be the least appropriate.
"You want me to turn it up? said Andy from somewhere behind me. "Ha Ha" I said. And then it was time, the moment I had been dreading for more than a decade. If you are squeamish, prepare yourself because I am going to tell you, in explicit detail, exactly what it was like.
I have no idea...Really, I slept through it. One moment, ABBA was yelling 'Dancing Queen, feel the beat of the tambourine' and the next moment I was back in the other room, waking up in a very mellow mood. Andy was looking down at me and asking how I felt. I felt excellent. I felt even more excellent when Andy told me that it was all over, and that my colon had passed with flying colors. I have never been prouder of an internal organ.
On the subject o colonoscopies, they are no joke, but these comments during the exam were quite humorous... a physician claimed that the following are actual comments make by his patients (predominately male) while he was performing their colonoscopies.
1. Take it easy Doc. You're boldly going where no man has gone before.
2. Find Amelia Earhart yet?"
3."Can you hear me now?"
4."Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet?
5."You know in Arkansas, we're now legally married."
6."Any sign of the trapped miners, Chief?"
7."You put your left hand in, you take your left hand out..."
8."Hey, now I know how the Muppet feels!"
9."If your hand doesn't fit, you must quit."
10."Hey Doc, let me know if you find my dignity."
11. "You used to be an executive of Enron, didn't you?"
12. Gad, now I know why I am not gay."
AND THE BEST OF ALL:
13. Would you tell my wife that my head is not up there?"
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
DAUGHTERS NOW GRANDMOTHERS
Wow. It's really hard to believe. Two of my daughters are now GRANDMOTHERS! Now that really makes you realize that time goes by so very quicky. Yesterday I had all three of my great grandchilren in my home at the same time. Little Jack Dibblee is in town from his home in Olympia, Washington and visited with Eloise and Theo Morrison. (Of course it wasn't a verbal visit. They can't talk yet.)
Kimberly Dahlstrom is the grandmother of Eloise and Theo and Kristy Dibblee is the grandmother of Jack. It was surreal as I sat and looked at my family and relished the great blessing of family. It seems such a short time ago that Kim and Kristy were little girls. Soon they married, then had children and now grandchildren. It was only an eye blink ago that I was holding my daughters when they were the same age as the little babies in my living room.
Fifty nine yeares ago, a couple of young kids fell in love and married. That union resulted in four lovely daughters, four fine sons-in-law, 15 grandchilren and now three great grandchildren. What a posterity. How blessed I am. How fortunate to have lived long enough to see the Ball Thundering Herd grow and mature. I am so happy!
Kimberly Dahlstrom is the grandmother of Eloise and Theo and Kristy Dibblee is the grandmother of Jack. It was surreal as I sat and looked at my family and relished the great blessing of family. It seems such a short time ago that Kim and Kristy were little girls. Soon they married, then had children and now grandchildren. It was only an eye blink ago that I was holding my daughters when they were the same age as the little babies in my living room.
Fifty nine yeares ago, a couple of young kids fell in love and married. That union resulted in four lovely daughters, four fine sons-in-law, 15 grandchilren and now three great grandchildren. What a posterity. How blessed I am. How fortunate to have lived long enough to see the Ball Thundering Herd grow and mature. I am so happy!
Monday, March 26, 2012
I DON'T MIND GROWING OLD.
Old age is winter, alas for many people. For those who are wise and optimistic, it is a happy and fruitful time of harvest.
Old age arrives suddenly, as does the snow. One morning, on awakening, one realizes everything is white.
If someone declares that he is able to do everything at age sixty that he was able to do at twenty, then he wasn't able to be doing very much at twenty.
As one grows old, one generally rids himself of his shortcomings because they no longer serve any useful purpose.
The good side of this, as old as you might be, is that one is now younger than he will ever be.
The person who considers himself too old to learn something has probably always felt that way.
Old age embellishes everything. It has the effect of the setting sun on the beautiful sunsets of autumn.
Old age arrives suddenly, as does the snow. One morning, on awakening, one realizes everything is white.
If someone declares that he is able to do everything at age sixty that he was able to do at twenty, then he wasn't able to be doing very much at twenty.
As one grows old, one generally rids himself of his shortcomings because they no longer serve any useful purpose.
The good side of this, as old as you might be, is that one is now younger than he will ever be.
The person who considers himself too old to learn something has probably always felt that way.
Old age embellishes everything. It has the effect of the setting sun on the beautiful sunsets of autumn.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
PANCREATIC CANCER
Yes. You CAN survive pancreatic cancer. That I should feel good and look good is still a mystery to some. Pancreatic cancer is generally fatal. Last year there were 37,680 patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. There were 34,290 people who died of the disease. Five percent are still alive after three months of the diagnosis. Complete remission is extremely rare. The staggering mortality rate makes pancreatic cancer one of the most common causes of cancer death.
There are two main reasons for pancreatic cancer's poor prognosis. First, it is an exceedingly difficult cancer to diagnose. By the time symptoms begin to appear - such as jaundice, pain in the abdomen or middle back, weight loss, digestive problems or a swollen gallbladder - the cancer is usually well advanced. In fact, about 85% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of the diagnosis.
Second, progress in treating pancreatic cancer has been exceedingly slow. In terms of research funding, pancreatic cancer has not kept pace with other cancers. One reason is that there are few survivors to champion the cause.
Of all patients with the cancer, just 15% of them are even candidates for surgery because most has become metastatic disease.
Some names that you will recognize who have had the disease include Randy Pausch, who spent the last days preparing and delivering the famous, "The Last Lecture." Luciana Pavarotti passed away three months after the diagnosis and Michael Landon died less than three months after his Whipple operation, One of my hero's, Steve Jobs, fought a valiant but losing battle against the disease.Patric Swayze did not make it. Ruth Bader Ginsberg of the Supreme Court is now fighting the fight.
The Whipple operation is the prime procedure to treat the cancer. In the early days of the Whipple, the mortality rate was very high. Up to 25% of patients died from the surgery - not from the cancer - but from the surgery. The experiences of the 1970's and 1980's is still remembered by some physicians who are reluctant to recommend the Whipple operation.
The Whipple operation saved my life. I was diagnosed early by a wonderful gastroenterologist and had a most able surgeon who is recognized for his great technical skill.
People tell me how lucky I am to have survived this terrible disease. I respond by saying, "I'm not lucky, I'm blessed." I truly am!!.
There are two main reasons for pancreatic cancer's poor prognosis. First, it is an exceedingly difficult cancer to diagnose. By the time symptoms begin to appear - such as jaundice, pain in the abdomen or middle back, weight loss, digestive problems or a swollen gallbladder - the cancer is usually well advanced. In fact, about 85% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of the diagnosis.
Second, progress in treating pancreatic cancer has been exceedingly slow. In terms of research funding, pancreatic cancer has not kept pace with other cancers. One reason is that there are few survivors to champion the cause.
Of all patients with the cancer, just 15% of them are even candidates for surgery because most has become metastatic disease.
Some names that you will recognize who have had the disease include Randy Pausch, who spent the last days preparing and delivering the famous, "The Last Lecture." Luciana Pavarotti passed away three months after the diagnosis and Michael Landon died less than three months after his Whipple operation, One of my hero's, Steve Jobs, fought a valiant but losing battle against the disease.Patric Swayze did not make it. Ruth Bader Ginsberg of the Supreme Court is now fighting the fight.
The Whipple operation is the prime procedure to treat the cancer. In the early days of the Whipple, the mortality rate was very high. Up to 25% of patients died from the surgery - not from the cancer - but from the surgery. The experiences of the 1970's and 1980's is still remembered by some physicians who are reluctant to recommend the Whipple operation.
The Whipple operation saved my life. I was diagnosed early by a wonderful gastroenterologist and had a most able surgeon who is recognized for his great technical skill.
People tell me how lucky I am to have survived this terrible disease. I respond by saying, "I'm not lucky, I'm blessed." I truly am!!.
Monday, March 19, 2012
AGE IN AN INTERESTING THING.
Age in an interesting thing. Only children use fractions to tell their age. "I'm four and a half." You're never twenty three and a half or thirty six and a half.
You get to your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.
"How old are you?" "I'm going to be 16!" ... You could be 13, but hey, you're going to be 16. And then, the greatest day of your life.... you BECOME 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony. You BECOME 21! YESSS!
But then you TURN 30. Ooooh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk. He TURNED! We had to throw him out. There's no fun now, What's changing?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.
But wait. You MAKE it to 60. and you didn't think you would.
So, you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-to-day thing. You HIT Wednesday.
You get into your 80's, and every day is a complete cycle; you Hit lunch; you TURN 4:30;
You REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into your 90's you start going backwards. "I'm just 92."
Then a strange thing happens. You make it over 100; you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half."
Thursday, March 1, 2012
SECRETS TO A LONG, HAPPY MARRIED LIFE
(I have recently neglected my blog. Been away.)
At St. Peter's Catholic Church in Toronto, the priest asked Giuseppe, who said he was approaching his 50th wedding anniversary, to take a few minutes and share some insight into how he had managed to stay married to the same woman for 50 years
Giuseppe replied to the assembled throng, "Wella, I'va tried to treat her nicea, spenda da money on her, but besta of all, I tooka her to Italy for our 25th anniversary."
The priest responded, "You are an amazing inspiration to all of us. Please tell us what you are planning for yur wife on your 5oth anniversary."
Giuseppa proudly stated, "I'ma gonna go back to Italy and pick her up."
At St. Peter's Catholic Church in Toronto, the priest asked Giuseppe, who said he was approaching his 50th wedding anniversary, to take a few minutes and share some insight into how he had managed to stay married to the same woman for 50 years
Giuseppe replied to the assembled throng, "Wella, I'va tried to treat her nicea, spenda da money on her, but besta of all, I tooka her to Italy for our 25th anniversary."
The priest responded, "You are an amazing inspiration to all of us. Please tell us what you are planning for yur wife on your 5oth anniversary."
Giuseppa proudly stated, "I'ma gonna go back to Italy and pick her up."
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