I’m into casual. And that is what I thought of when I was editing this photo of the guy in a pair of jeans surrounded by a formal event. There were some people really styling away at the National Harbor this past weekend. Saw several events I guess at the Gaylord hotel that looked like a real gala.

National Harbor is an interesting place. High-end luxury and sports cars and motorcycles, people dressed to the 10s and bling. At the same time, some people are just down for the day to catch a snack or take a break from the Casino. People attending conventions/seminars being held at the wonderful hotels in town.

I like it because it’s an easy place to walk around, grab a snack, ice cream, or a fine meal. There really isn’t a lot that warrants a long visit.

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The real appreciation for feeling good comes from having felt bad. I thought I used to have an appreciation for waking each day and being capable of doing whatever I choose. I was wrong. Till you experience some setbacks be they temporary, intermittent, or permanent, your mind will be changed about appreciation.

It’s a nice combination, feeling good physically and mentally. I haven’t been able to sync the two on a daily basis for a while. So maybe this is the start of a good streak. And really having the proper perspective helps also. For instance, my foot hurts but it doesn’t keep me from getting around. So life is good. Now if I wanted to go out and play competitive basketball it wouldn’t be good enough and that would frustrate me.

But hell, I’m in my mid-60s and what do I need with competitive hoops at this age. That doesn’t mean I don’t want to get out and practice a bit which I hope to pull off this week.

Today I read a note from a friend fighting cancer. And I mean fighting but it’s a heavyweight bout. And my appreciation grows exponentially again.

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Random Thoughts of the Day

• NBA lesson of the season. It isn’t the best decision to hitch your wagon to a few superstars instead of having a full team of talent. Goodbye Nets. And the Lakers didn’t even make the dance.
• Someone said something about rain and cooler temps tomorrow. Sounds like good sleeping weather to me.
• If you’re at peace with yourself, I find that to be a major accomplishment.
• I heard a story about a lot of people not taking vacations because of money being tight the last few years. Another thing I didn’t have to adjust to not having many resources for vacations most of my life.