Tomorrow

Rea has her operation today. She said she was singing a Garth Brooks song in the shower: Country and Western. You know what they say about country music.. you play it backwards and get your wife, kids and dog back.

But it is time for her to be reflective. Cancer gives her the right to take stock of her life: to sing something by Garth Brooks. But she’s done that all along anyway. Rea has always lived the life she wants, needs and is meant to live. And she has always had her family beside her.. travelling a road with just enough bumps and curves to keep it interesting, rich and in focus.

Jana is having her baby today. This little girl is coming into the world on a schedule: that’s the plan anyway. Apparently she is getting ‘bumped’, so we shall see if she stays on schedule. This little one may not be as predictable as her brother. That is the thing about life: you never really know what is coming up next.

When dad had his stroke, most of us were pretty convinced that it was the end of his ritual of morning walks and afternoons in the shop. But, Jackie and dad are back at it. Mom figures he is happier than he was before the stroke, because now he has someone to share his love of art with.

Travis, Steph and baby Abby, will celebrate the start of their life together on a beach in Cuba. I mean, Vas is off to the Sally Ann for a new white shirt for the ceremony: it must be a big day! And how do I feel about it? Absolutely thrilled. Gabe and Nola taught me that weddings are milestones in life. They are celebrations of being.

I never dreamed I would be out of a job when I headed back to that part of the world. I never thought it was even possible for a person to go through the number of jobs I have been over the past three years. It has all been great.. I have almost learned a lot from my experiences. But I can’t help thinking that I am still missing something. Something besides the fact that I really don’t feel much like working anymore.. been there: done that?!

Life. What is it really all about anyway?

Anna seems to be exploring the world as only she can: full on. I think she knows a lot more than she thinks she does. One day she will let us all in on the great secret of life.

But then again, the secret is flexible, malleable, illusive. Values change as we go through different stages and just when we think we may finally have it all figured out, the rules change: it’s a different game.

Enough reflection. Enough Garth Brooks.

The truth is: one day at a time, and.. enjoy the ride!