I've been absent from this space for nearly six months, so I'll give a brief rundown on what's been happening. Despite back pain, I've tried to stay socially active by going to the senior center to play games and cards for an hour or two most days. I've tried to keep up with your blogs and comment when I could. Thank you to all who sent emails to check on me. I appreciate your friendship. January - Severe lower back pain made doing anything of substance difficult as the month plodded along. A lumbar ablation was scheduled for February 7, 2024, and I could do nothing more than pop Tylenol and gut it out. February - As the ablation date grew near, a small window opened up in the weather and road conditions. I drove to Fort Collins, and Brenda drove up from Denver to be my designated driver after the procedure. Six puncture holes in my back were the only evidence that anything had been done while I was unconscious. Ice, rest, and patience were necessary for the nex...