As one who’s suffered two severe accidents that took a year (each) to recover, I always hurt for—and cheer on—people who must endure life-changing health events.

This lovely couple lives down the street from me. They came here from another country, and I’ve always admired their perpetual smiles and daily walks. They just seem more spiritual than most of us.

So my heart frowned when they disappeared for a while. And months later re-appeared with a slow gait, though now speeding up gradually. Cardio event? Stroke? Other? I still don’t know, but am so pleased to see them out again.

Savor today. As Kirby Puckett said in his way-too-early retirement speech, “Don’t take it for granted, because tomorrow is not promised to any of us.”

Even when the road seems longer, keep walking. And keep the faith.

We wish they’d go away.

I recommend carving out some time with family & friends every late October to bring pumpkins to life. Who knew these orange orbs had so much personality hiding inside?

According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend a frightening $13.1 billion on Halloween this year. That’s an average of $114 per person. And we wonder why we feel pinched! Oh well, people need a Breakaway from their routine and persona. I mean, who doesn’t love pretending you’re someone else for an evening? Even these lowly pumpkins agree…!…

Boo! I mean YAY! Photos can’t really capture the magnitude of this display. I mean, for example, dozens of life-size, wooden caskets surround the entire yard—which is 99% full of realistic, ghoulish stuff. Crazy? Maybe. But I applaud all efforts to create and connect.

When in Sioux City recently to visit ailing parents, my mom told me to drive past this house. So I did. And was so stunned (and a little spooked) that I hit the brakes and stopped. In the middle of the street. Yes, I have a soft spot for twisted-ness. But really, when someone has such passion and drive for something so unique, that’s inspirational.

Note to self and all selves: Don’t be afraid…Get off your phones and make something!

Roundabout, I have learned (usually) to keep some controversial opinions to myself. But truth be told, the MN State Fair doesn’t tickle my thrill bone the way it does most denizens. It is because I didn’t grow up in this state? My leg is full of metal, and I can’t walk and stand all day? I shun deep-fried you-name-it by the pound? Crowds scare me unless it’s for, say, Bruce Springsteen?

A: All the above. Still, when I DO go—and if I bring the good, big camera—the event may be the most photogenic day of the year. No wonder I seem to dig into the archives for a FotoFriday shot almost annually. Which reminds me…

I better go next year. I need some fresh shots. Meantime, I hope this young lady got a good nap.

I’ve written about (and then forgotten about) Slab City before—along with neighboring East Jesus, Salvation Mountain, The Salton Sea, and other freaky places near Palm Springs I visited in 2017. Yet when this picture came along today, the memories bubbled up fresh as a cold Coke. I’d say more, but the picture is worth 10,000 words, and I don’t have time to write that much today.