July 4, 2013, twilight. Nora is attempting to sleep. While this round of chemo (the last we hope) is over, Taxol is a drug that just keeps on giving. This afternoon she got her hands dirty in the flower garden and enjoyed (while sitting) watching me spade up a few clumps of dirt, sweat pouring off me, to prepare a flower bed. The pain in her joints and muscles is supposed to go away soon. And I’m supposed to get in shape.

Across Boyd Creek there are some fireworks over the water. One long dock stretches out forever to the deep water and is lighted. A beautiful display of light, without explosions. With all the whooshes and pops there are no night birds. Our evening egret is in hiding. So are the dogs (3), under Nora’s bed.

We have the pleasure of our son, Aaron and his dog, Buddy, as guests this week, up from Aaron’s work in Orlando. He calls “The Ridge” home. That moves Nora. And me. Daughter Sarah, beau Jeremy, and spoiled (beautiful) dog Indy, are due this weekend. Full house, big breakfast, maybe some golf (9 holes).

Nora has finally broken down and is taking some Advil(!) for the pain. She can have stronger stuff but she hates to be under the spell of pills (though I very gently remind her about the stronger stuff).

Our June fund raiser, with the 50% added to each dollar incentive, was a big success. Thank you, everyone.

Today was a double holiday. This is the first time in five months we did not have to go to Savannah on Thursday. We learn more next week…surgery, radiation. Keep sending that positive energy, the prayers, the thoughts and notes, in whatever media.

I don’t necessarily like poetry, I just happen to write it. My first (and greatest mentor – in poetry) was Raymond Roseliep. If he had fame, it was his brilliant haikus. I was too stupid at the time to really appreciate what and who he was. And what he gave me, gave us all. Ray and I give this to Nora (and you):

“And I cut stars from sunlight
for your dream
and my night.”

— Raymond Roseliep, A Beautiful Woman

Paul