August 4, 2024, Another Day, Another Year

Well, it is August 4, 2024, another day; another year has passed. A lot has happened in the past year. Birthdays are a time to review, so here is my review of the past year.

Since I retired, my number one job has been caring for Linda and her long-term illness. That part of my life has not changed much. Once again, having Diane Mossimann as Linda’s caregiver has been an invaluable assistance. Knowing she is with Linda while I’m out of the house is comforting. I’m honored to have her as part of my family and how they have accepted Linda and myself into her family.

Golf

The best diversion from taking care of Linda is playing golf. Again, this year, I’m playing golf with my best friend, Mike Freeland, as part of my golf league on Wednesday. Overall, my golf game is going well. The lack of practice time has made some inconsistent play, but I feel great hitting the golf ball. Once in a while, everything comes together, and I shoot a low score. That happened a few weeks ago.

Writing

While Linda rests, I’ve been busy writing (or trying to write) articles for newspapers and magazines this year. Earlier this year, I published my second book, “Creating Digital Paintings,” on Amazon. Sales are slow but steady, and I’ve gotten some excellent reviews from magazines and customers.

P.B.S. Studio is still working through online courses presented by the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI). I’m in the middle of their SEO Content Writing course and have read many of the Barefoot Writer special reports. The goal is to expand my writing skills to include copywriting, SEO, Website Audit, and case studies writing projects for myself and other companies.

P.B.S. Studios built a website for John Smolens (johnsmolens.com). Maintained and expanded my website (pbsstudios.com) using WordPress. I hope to expand my print sales vehicle through my Etsy store (Etsy.pbsstudios.com)

Look Up in Manassas

Remember, if you’re in the City of Manassas, look up. This year, they turned three of my digital photo paintings into banners flying high over Manassas’s streets. You’ll find “Andy Portrait” on Center Street, “Flower & Butterfly” on Church Street, and a digital painting of my brother’s Johns dog called “Waiting for His Master” on Prince William) have been the highlight of my year in painting. My digital painting of a couple of Flamingos called “Necking” is hanging in BRUU, my church. Go to the Gallery Section of my website (pbsstudios.com) to see these and other original paintings.

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Family and Friends

Linda and I are thankful for family and friends who have helped us cope with the many challenges.

I have had (and look forward to) weekly Zoom video calls with my family this past year. Since we are spread across the country, we use video to visit and see each other.

For another year, I want to thank our neighbors, Dan and Kathy, along with Susan, Elvan, John, and Madison, who have all been wonderful and assisted in different ways.

Although there have been many challenges, this past year has been ok overall. I have not found my name in the obit column (yet). I can still care for Linda, but having Diane and Nelque Hernandez’s cleaning group assist has made my life easier.

Thanks to the PWC Rescue Squad (18 & 26). Every time we’ve called, they have been professional and accommodating. I can’t thank them enough. Since Diane has come into the picture, we’ve not had to call them often, but it’s nice to know they’re available when we need them. The same could be said of Sentara Hospital. They cared for Linda earlier this year when she was hospitalized with an illness. The follow-up from Sentara Home Health Group provided valuable tips.

Since the pandemic, I have (and look forward to) weekly Zoom video calls with my family. Being spread all across the country, we use video we have been able to see each other.

In closing, this past year has been okay overall. I have not found my name in the obit column (yet). I’m able to take care of Linda. We’ve grown closer because of the challenges we’ve faced these past few years. I get to play a bit of golf and still try to write articles that editors and companies find interesting.