Another Day, Another Year
Another Day, Another Year – August 4, 2022
For me today it’s another day, another year in this world. Happy Birthday to me!
I know it’s going to be a good day. I checked the Washington Post, and my name was not in the Obits column. J I know it’s an old joke, but I like it, and it’s true!
First, shout out to other people who have a birthday today. My sister-in-law, M. Dell James, and former President Barak Obama also share the same day, and I know there is more. Happy Birthday to you all!
Over the past few years, my Birthday has been a time to take stock of my life. Due to working to upgrade my website, I’ve not posted anything on my blog recently. Today is an excellent time to update all that has happened this past year.
Taking Care of Linda
Since I retired, my number one job has been taking care of Linda and her long-term illness. That part of my life has not changed. As many of you know, Linda’s health has improved so much that she is no longer in Hospice. It’s the best birthday present anyone could get.
The best part is I have help now. Diane, a caregiver, has been a gift, staying with Linda one or more days a week. I use this time to play golf and do errands. Because of Diane, we have not had to call the PWC Rescue Squad this year. The best part is I think they like each other. Diane helped in so many ways. She takes Linda shopping or visits me at an art show. I’m lucky to have her as a part of my support system.
Golf
Again, this year I’m playing golf with my golf league on Wednesday –yesterday, I played with Mike Freeland! I’ve also played in a few VSGA one-day golf tournaments. It’s great to compete and see how I do against other golfers with similar skills.
P.B.S. Studios
It’s been a mixed year for my writer/photographer/digital painter company. I’ve published a few feature articles, including an interview and an article in AWAI Barefoot Writer Magazine (to read the published articles, check out the publication section of my website). I’m back taking online courses from AWAI, trying to learn copy and content writing. I need to feel comfortable with that style of writing before finding clients needing my copywriting services.
I’ve sold a few digital paintings, calendars, and book at art shows, and I’m adding more artwork for sale through my Etsy site. Although not very profitable (yet), the sales have been steady. Still, it’s enough to keep me excited. One reason is that P.B.S. Studios always take a backseat to care for Linda.
Look Up in Manassas
On the other hand, it still excites me as I drive down Church Street in downtown Manassas to see my banner in front of the Manassas Post Office. Remember, if you’re in the City of Manassas, look up. The city turned a digital photo painting of mine into a banner. “Dan Gibson Canoe in Sunset” flies high over the streets of Manassas in front of the Manassas Post office.
I’m always honored to have one of my digital paintings become a banner. You can purchase a print through my Etsy store. Go to the Gallery Section of my website to see the original painting. Click on the image.
Odds and Ends
Linda and I always look forward to my family’s weekly zoom video calls. We’ve always been a close family, and being spread across the country, these weekly calls have made us closer. I respect hearing their perspectives about life, our family history, and current events.
Every year I feel the need to thank our neighbors, Dan and Kathy, along with Susan, Elvan, John, and Madison have all been wonderful, assisting in different ways to help me with Linda.
Although there have been many challenges, overall, this past year has been ok. I’m still able to take care of Linda, but having the assistance of others has made my life easier.