Tuesday, Nov 18 and still here

Well, it has not been long since my last update, but I still check to see if anybody stills reads. Sallie sent me a reply to my last one and reading her comments always makes me feel loved and happy. I talked with several people that know me from work but are not there to see me daily. I speak to Randy on the phone pretty regularly and he is always so helpful to me. It amazes me that he recognizes my voice on the phone. We discussed how I am and how I am progressing. He does not hesitate to remind me just how lucky I am to still be here breathing and able to do a lot of the things I can do. Talking about it makes me remember just how lucky I really am. I have known Randy for about 4 or 5 years, mostly over the phone. I have met him a couple of times, but he is a jewel at his job. In my old position, I talked to him anywhere from two to ten times a week. Jennie is another one of those people I deal with over the phone, too. She also recognizes my voice. She is another one of those people that tells me regularly that I am one of the lucky ones. These comments always pick me up no matter where I am, but just to know they still think about how I am means so much. I have also met with her a couple of times, but mostly deal with her on the phone. She was concerned for me for next week because she would be off on vacation. I told her this would not be an issue because I am off, too. We both got a good laugh over it. I must have one of those voices that are easy to pick up on because Jeremy is another one who recognizes my voice. I am sure the phone system helps all three of them know where it is coming from, but to recognize a voice is one of those rare things.
Another thing I get asked a lot is how come I am always in a good mood. People don't realize how bright the light is unless you are real close to the train. It almost got me so everyday is great now. Smile and move forward. I have people tell me a lot that I am so easy and pleasant to work with and that is because I try to treat people how I want to be treated. Just after my accident, one of my co-workers told me I could have my old job back because there were so many people involved that were hard to work with. I never had this issue before and wondered how this would work out. So many told me that they were SO glad I was back. What should this tell me? I may be a little slow, but not THAT slow...
Life is good and life is great, but having special friends and family is always a great thing. Just think, in a few months I will start using my new name. Grandpa is one of those "old fashion" names that I am looking forward to.
My love to all of you that still read this. Whether you write back or not does not matter. In my heart, you are there in that special place. Until I decide to bother you again, I am still breathing on my own. May God be there for you as He was definitely there for me and my family. Makes this holiday season a special time for you and your loved ones.
Mark 11/18/08