Laugh, Laugh, I Thought I'd Die

Barbara (flipping the bird), Bettelu, Brooke, Jennifer (me in background) PHOTO: Bob Beverly

Thank you for your warm and encouraging comments following my last blog about my cellulitis staph infection triggered by a spider bite.

I am finally off antibiotics and slowly regaining my strength and mobility. In retrospect I realize even more the severity of my infection which was potentially life threatening.

A doctor friend of mine pointed out that cellulitis can "progress to necrotizing fasciitis or flesh-eating disease, which can be fatal."

In many ways I dodged the proverbial bullet.

I am so thankful for my family and friends and I realize how fragile life becomes as we age. Our health becomes paramount and each moment together is precious. Laughter is the greatest tonic, sharing moments, recognizing the ironies and silliness of this journey we call life.

Who should show up at my doorstep this week but my 97-year-young mother-in-law, Bettelu, with a suitcase. She was escorted to town by her son, Bob Beverly, his wife Jennifer and daughter Brooke. She's moved in for a few days, which has involved a bit of re-shuffling sleeping, furniture and bathroom arrangements.

I'm more invalid than she is.

Yesterday we gathered at the Makai restaurant on the Santa Cruz Wharf for an early dinner, followed by a hearty dose of tomfoolery as we attempted to shoot a group photo. I don't think we ever got a decent picture yet the attempt to arrange a shot, which rivaled a Seinfeld script, led to a few hearty belly-laughs. 

It's the journey not the destination. Make it be fun. Actually, that's a pretty good photo!