I am blessed...

As the taxi driver was rolling me out of the back of the van, she whispered into my ear, "You're very blessed. Your family really loves you."

"Yes, I know..." I responded.

As we entered the apartment building again and we took the elevator upstairs, and I was lifted back into my comfortable bed, I began to think that I really am so very lucky. The word "BLESSED" is only the beginning of the gratitude that I feel— not just on special days like my birthday, or an anniversary, but every day. It shouldn't take the words from a taxi driver to remind me of this fact, I need to remember to live with gratefulness every moment.

I had a very good birthday— fifty-seven years. I received lots of birthday cards and well wishes – thank you all very much, each and every message meant a lot to me. I received a few lovely new plants, which I always enjoy. My lovely wife got me a couple of African Violets, another friend gave me a beautiful Orchid, and my son's girlfriend gave me a very unique Bromeliad. I was actually quite surprised. Of course, my family treated the day extra special.

Saturday, my family took me to Ala Moana Beach Park— that's when I encountered the friendly and observant taxidriver. It was great to get out of the apartment, and wonderful to see the ocean. The park was crowded with people— lots of family celebrations, barbecue parties, tents, music, games, joggers, yoga, swimmers, sunbathers, paddle boarders, boats, fishing... It was fun for me to observe everything going on. Local people here in Honolulu really like to get outside. It was beautiful. We stayed for just over an hour, which was perfect for me, as I didn't want to get too tired. It was very special to be outside with my small family. I felt very happy and grateful to be alive with loved ones.

I'm doing a very well these days. We have gotten into a routine for my feeding. It takes about sixty minutes for one meal– about 650 calories, three times a day. My body is adjusting to the new nutrition, feel like I am getting stronger every day. It did take a full three weeks to recover from the hospital – that was a terrible four-day experience. I have started to work on my stories/writing again, so that makes me very happy. I have to rest more often, and the words come more slowly, but my imagination still flourishes.

I am blessed.