I was reminding my boyfriend to stay young at heart. He was getting a bit down thinking of a forthcoming birthday and the marked difference in how our bodies react and work.  

I can truly speak to the merits of this. I was only 23 years old when the doctors were shocked to see my neck x-rays. I was told that the arthritis in my neck was equivalent to the average 80 year old! My first reaction was relief as they were taking the x-rays to rule out brain tumors. And actually, the diagnosis really made sense to me. I had "complained" about joint issues since as far back as I could remember, which is odd for a young child. Many years of constant ballet and jazz dance and gymnastics combined with a hereditary component, my joints had no chance.  

I'm currently 52 years young and thanks to the miracle of the medical community I have a replaced hip, knee and a fully rebuilt foot. The foot is a story all its own as I had to endure three surgeries all during 2020 and the craziness of COVID. Seven months of the large hard boot, sleeping in the boot for 3 months, wheelchairs, crutches and lots of physical therapy. I remind myself how absolutely blessed I am to be living in a time and country where these miracles are available to me. In the days of the wagontrain I would have been left on a rock for the buzzards! I still have the other hip and knee to follow very soon, which will fulfill my childhood dream to be the "bionic woman"! 😁

I very much appreciate all the love, support and care my boyfriend, also known as "Ken Doll", provided me during the painstaking recovery. We realized our relationship had progressed to the highest level when he had to help me off the toilet! 😂 My mom was a lovely emotional support as well and I credit her positive thinking in helping me with my outlook on life. Love you both tremendously! 😘💜

The fact of the matter is it is up to ourselves to uplift our attitude. You can't rely solely on others, it needs to have some energy from inside. It's a beautiful thing to see this radiating from someone. This is why I am showcasing these photos I found. As much as I would love to do what this lady is doing with the skateboard, it will never happen. But this can't stop me from feeling this way in my heart and my actions. My body may limit me, but my mind is limitless.  

I wish everyone the ability to keep a bright fresh outlook in their heart and mind!  

Smiles, 

Joy