Out of the Bubble

Hello to all—

After a bit of a pause, we wanted to check in and share some smiles (and updates!) from our recent little getaway.

We’ve been quiet for a while—days blending into each other with errands (by bike, of course), doctor visits, and catch-ups with friends. Life’s been full, just a bit on fast-forward.

I took a week away to help my daughter and her family move into a bigger space—because they've grown from two to three (not counting their exuberant dog). My lovely granddaughter is now firmly in her “terrific twos,” and yes, I do mean terrific! She’s a whirlwind of joy, drama, and giggles. Being around her is like drinking sunshine—exhilarating.

James held down the fort with our wise old Coby, and though we missed each other, the break in routine turned out to be a sweet little reset. (Coby is working on his memoir titled "My Week with James"—he may share excerpts in a future update, if the mood strikes.)

We also met with our favorite neurologist to fine-tune James’s medication again. The ongoing stiffness, nausea, and those worrisome near-fainting spells are no fun—and still a bit of a mystery. But here’s a hopeful note: we’re four days into the new adjustment, and despite a bumpy spell yesterday morning, James is doing a bit better. His body may be frustratingly jerky and stiff, but his spirit? Still strong. Still James.

So, with cautious optimism and a need for fresh air, we packed up Coby’s trusted Subaru, Susie Q, grabbed two toothbrushes, some emergency chocolate, and took off for the Sierra Mountains.

No bikes or trikes this time—just mountain breezes, a few alpine lakes perfect for a splash,

and the warmth of James’s brother and his wife (plus their two hilariously enthusiastic doodle dogs) We enjoyed a delicious dinner by candlelight.

We were serenaded by birds we couldn’t name and even had a visit from a small (possibly confused?) bear. Yes, really. (Check out the video!)

It was our first real getaway together in a long while. Sweet, simple, and—of course—way too short. (Seriously, why didn’t we stay longer and just bum around the Stanislaus River a bit more?)

Now we’re back home,

and the housing uncertainty is still… well, uncertain. The owner hasn’t been very communicative, so we remain in limbo. It’s testing my patience, for sure, but I’m learning to breathe deeply and laugh anyway. Life isn’t waiting for stability—it’s happening now. And we’re choosing to enjoy the heck out of it, whenever and however we can.

And you—our friends, family, kind strangers, quiet cheerleaders—you are part of what makes that possible.

With so much gratitude, and a smile from our little crew to yours,
James, Margit and Coby

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