Guess so, what with the thread about to drop off page 1 started by my fiancé. First off I just want to thank the sweet people that did wish me a happy birthday and please do not ask how many. You are so kind. I certainly do owe everyone a big THANK YOU and to not let that thread go without acknowledgement. That would make me an ungrateful stiff.

Given what has happened in the last 2 years I was in hopes I could escape putting something up here, which might appear to be a sympathy call to action. Lol Also, since some rumors have been floating around, I would like to give you a brief (if possible) excuse for my absence on the boards or any availability for that matter. For some my absence might be a blessing. lol

So, what happened early in 2010, I had a bout with cancer and left my job for good with a national company. Roto-Rooter took care of that cancer and I began to get life back together until tumors were suddenly discovered on my left kidney. That set in motion a lot of testing before they could do a needed kidney removal surgery. The final test was an angiogram. Well, I failed that puppy and the urologists said they could not do anything until I have a triple by-pass. WHAT? A back and forth and more back and forth went on until I finally got called to Los Angeles VA for more testing and consultation with heart surgeon. The doctor says I got bad news. WHAT? Seems I am too risky to operate on since he did not think I could survive the surgery. Well I flew home very depressed thinking okay, I am just going to hang and be “dead man walking”? not. I forced his hand eventually and would not take no for an answer. Guess he was somewhat impressed along with further data that came in he agreed to the surgery. So here I am waiting for the call to return to LA to get that carving job out of the way. Once I get healed (perhaps 6-8 weeks) I can then go into Loma Linda for the kidney removal. Hell ya only need one of those puppies.

So I will be back on the boards creating train wrecks, stirring the pot and also helping others that I feel I can help, in maybe 3-4 more months. I should be good as new. I have kept Little Phil up to date and he has been nice enough to maintain the secrecy. So much for that eh? So thanks again for the birthday wishes. We all know how in this thing of ours friends are an important part of it.