Chapter 1: The Unvarnished Truth of Aging

Aging is a natural process that requires no effort on our part; it simply unfolds biologically. However, it can be quite challenging. Recently, I've had a few unsettling experiences that remind me just how tough growing older can be.

Once upon a time, I roamed freely across the countryside, exploring rural sites and indulging in my passion for photography. Those days are behind me now, as I find it increasingly difficult to navigate my own yard without stumbling.

To provide some context, let me share a bit about Our Dawny's fuchsia tulips. These flowers were lovingly planted by her in 2015 as a housewarming gift when we moved into our home. Their color beautifully complemented my Stargazer Lilies, which bloom later in the season. It created a lovely little flower patch.

After Our Dawny passed away in 2016, my parents brought back some vibrant purple irises that had flourished in their garden. I was given the option to take them home, but I wasn't keen on revisiting that side of the family. After my father’s passing in late 2021, my sister made sure I received some of those irises, which were planted in a new flowerbed near my porch.

In 2022, I didn't expect the irises to bloom, and when they didn’t in 2023 either, I began to worry they might remain mere green fronds. However, this year they bloomed spectacularly, coinciding perfectly with the tulips' arrival. It felt as if Our Dawny was smiling down upon our garden.


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alt:	Vibrant irises blooming in the garden

Feeling inspired, I decided to take some photographs, hoping to capture the beauty and perhaps find inspiration for a new painting. I even ventured out through the garage, avoiding the steps, to photograph the irises.

Everything was going smoothly until I decided to take a closer shot of a blooming tulip. If I had just stopped there, all would have been well. But my desire for the perfect angle got the better of me. I noticed an overgrown patch of weeds invading my flowerbed and, against my better judgment, I bent down to pull them out.

Unfortunately, my body had other plans. My knee and hip protested, and before I knew it, I was on the ground. I struggled to get back up, using my cane to no avail. Crawling towards the porch railing seemed like my only option, but even that proved fruitless.

Just then, a car approached, and I called for help. The driver simply ignored me, leaving me feeling frustrated and helpless. However, luck was on my side when my neighbor Patrick appeared, who I rarely see during the day. He rushed over, helped me to my feet, and walked me back to my garage.

I’ll always be grateful for his timely assistance—my very own Angel of the Moment.

To anyone who crosses your path, strive to be an angel in someone else's life.

Chapter 2: Ongoing Health Struggles

As my readers know, I’m currently navigating a difficult situation with my health insurance provider regarding my essential asthma medication, Dulera. Aetna, which is owned by CVS, has been pushing outdated alternatives on me, and my doctors are still fighting through the appeals process.

Additionally, I’m facing challenges with my diabetes medication, Trulicity, due to supply issues affecting similar drugs. My doctor has temporarily put me back on Victoza, but that too is at risk of being discontinued.

There's also a complication with my Diclofenac, which I rely on for pain and inflammation. Its sudden popularity is perplexing, especially since it's a long-standing non-narcotic medication.

For further insights into these challenges, you can explore my previous writings.

If you appreciate my work, feel free to support me on KoFi.

Denise is the owner/editor of the WE PAW Bloggers publication, a platform for members of the Facebook group, WE PAW Bloggers. This community fosters growth through networking and mutual support among writers.

Chapter 3: Exploring Cakewalk by BandLab

In the first video, titled "Cakewalk By Bandlab No Longer Free??," the creator discusses potential changes to Cakewalk's pricing model and what it might mean for users.

The second video, "Working on 'Same Old Selves' in Cakewalk (yep, still using Cakewalk)," showcases a creative process while using Cakewalk, demonstrating its continued relevance in music production.