Palm Sunday and Selection Time

We return to things that are enjoyable, it's a natural thing. Today, it was even more special. My step-Dad had a great day. A nice trip to church, an active day, and a good afternoon walk resulted in a 'normal' day for Pop's brain. Stroke induced dementia is a terrible thing. It is a never-ending surprise as to who will show up today? The old adage 'take it one day at a time' has to be changed to 'take it one hour at a time' in order to survive emotionally. Church has a way of helping put things in perspective. My dad is a social animal. He loves to interact with his friends and he always benefits from tapping on my Mom's grave to give him strength for the week ahead. Tonight has been unfolding comfortably, his 'sundowner's syndrome' is very diminished, today. My Sunday prayers were recognized. I am thankful.
Time to turn to Selection Sunday. Wow, am I glad I don't gamble. This year's NCAA Basketball Bracket is a real toss-up. There's absolute parity across the brackets which will result in many upsets. My hunch is this year's champion will be a team who gets on a tournament roll and knows how to defend. I'm hoping for a mid-major like Drake to surprise but my hunch is it will come down to UCLA, North Carolina, or Tennessee. Tomorrow is St.Patrick's Day...don't overlook Notre Dame...the Irish just might have what it takes. It's a difficult task to say here are the 65 best basketball teams. Think about Illinois State, 22 wins and your not in. And Coppin State, 20 losses and your in. So much for March Madness, it's the best sports month, ALWAYS.
One last thought. Blogging works, do it often. We return to the things we enjoy.
Thanks be to God. Make it a good week, Ricky. Out.

It's March...and Madness Reigns Again

Hello Ms.Blog, long time no see, touch, or feel...but I'm back and I have a lot to tell you. First, all the themes of previous posts continue...only to a more drastic degree. My step-Dad's health continues to deteriorate daily. Since last December 28th, he has had three TIA's (mini-strokes), one major stroke, and one critical internal bleed. These events have left him quite weak, depressed, and definitely impacted by stroke-induced dementia. His days consist of mixed mental states, he can be lucid and social. And he can be confused and anxious as the day unfolds. It's similar to my Mother's last months...you just don't know what or who shows up from one hour to the next. It's very hard on those providing care and me. Right now I am in Stuart, FL, by his side. The last 3 months I have been alternating my time between Stuart and Glen Ellyn. I lost the last 10 games of my son's basketball season for which I am sorry. But family comes first in every decision. I tried to take a 10 day Colorado ski trip, but an emergency call from Florida resulted in me flying here with nothing but my toiletries kit. I must admit, I'm fortunate I have the time to help.
With regards to Lauren and Patrick, no news is good news. Both are doing well academicly which is the most important thing. Lauren has moved on to a new boyfriend which is a blessing. Patrick pulled a 2.85 grade point which is impressive considering his high school history. I'm very confident that both of my kids are maturing well. Only time will tell.
March...basketball's prime time. I enjoyed the CCIW tourney in Rock Island spending time with the Dennis and Kathy Lawson. Augustana's defense displayed the reason why they are 10th in the nation. Wheaton College was invited to the dance and is still alive in the Sweet Sixteen by defeating Loras. Greg Gorton really had a learning year and I would appreciate a chance to share with him my take on his program. My son shows signs that he's turning to body building instead of developing his basketball talents. It would be such a shame to waste such God-given abilities, but I do understand his reasoning. He thinks he's too low on the totem-pole to make varsity next year and he doesn't want to play JV two years in a row. Well, if he gives up on developing his shooting accuracy, he will realize his thoughts.
To close out this long-overdue post, I will say thank you to Chuck Barton, my retired pilot and homebuilder, who visited me in Stuart last week. He's a good friend and I will always be there if he needs me. I can't believe he's thinking about leaving Evergreen, CO, for south Florida. But as you get older, you definitely like the sunshine and warm weather found down here in God's Waiting Room.
It's a real trip to drive around here daily. The senior citizens who are still on the roads make this place the crapsshoot of automotive safety. Defensive driving is a life-saving necessity and 'Bluehead' madness reigns supreme.
Every day is a Blessing and an emotional roller-coaster. Hang on Ricky, enjoy the ride. God Bless y'all. Perfect Brackets and Peace to all, Ricky. Out.