Ten minutes to write. Less time to read.

We spent part of the day taking down our Christmas decorations and returning to pre-holiday normal. For a week, that is. Then the new normal will be governed by my daily radiation schedule, starting January 15. It’s all very strange.

While we were packing ornaments, Earl’s friend E called to say her husband was in the hospital. He’s been battling lung and brain cancer since spring, but now time seems to be running out. Another part of all very strange.

And today is the 75^th birthday of another friend, one I’ve known almost fifty years. He’s celebrating with his wife, sons, their wives, and seven grandchildren.

Finally, my son – whom I’ve known almost fifty years too – bought a brand-new car for the first time in his life.  He lives lightly on the land, so I’m sure he purchased a stick-shift if it was available. And that he’ll keep it forever.

In one day, so much happened.