August 2, 2026

Back From Vacation

Two days in Maine, four away (two in a car), now here we are back home in Spruceton. With the exception of medical appointments, I’ve barely been out of our valley for two years. When we discussed where to go on our vacation it became apparent why we stick so close to home: there may be places on earth as beautiful but none more beautiful than where we live. Spruceton Valley. The Hamlet of West Kill. The Catskills. Mountains carved by rushing water not tectonic heave. Storied forests. Vast shades of green. Farm fresh for real, folks, farm fresh for real. Living the rural life has its difficulties, true, but hauling fire wood and braving the occasional ice storm are well worth it. Really, we want nothing.

Was it worth being two days in a car? Sure was. Surrounded by folks you love dearly in a party mood? Why not? Bombarded with treats you wouldn’t let in the house? Yeah. Watching my grandson clamber around a dripping tide pool? Oh, yeah. Gorging on lobster?Come on.Fried clams? Please.

Now, as far as medical stuff goes, good news. Had an oncology appointment just before vacating, and my numbers couldn’t be more perfect. It will never go away, however, as long as the stats stay put, it won’t be the cancer that kills me.

Stay tuned.