AT 78 1/2 (halves count at both ends of the lifeline) I am thankful I developed first a tolerance for physical and mental activity and then an absolute like for it. It built a structure I am taking full advantage of now. Nevertheless, I am having to adjust to the Go Slow part of life.

After my spine trauma and two surgeries, the second of which was a bit over three years ago and gave me a 9 hour drug induced nap while the doc played, I have to acknowledge my body is as good as it is going to get. A few dents in the legs, some droopy toes, one leg a third smaller than the other, and so forth tell me the machine just isn't what it used to be. So, from a guy who was living off the road system in Alaska in his 50's and 60's to a city dweller who is very appreciative of a neighbor who helps with the heavy stuff I am sailing on the river of life.

A bit of humor: You ought to see the look on people's faces when I ride up on my bike, struggle to get off due to weakness in my toes and the balls of my feet, grab my cane and head off. Not as much fun as it used to be when I fell off.