In a bittersweet plot twist, my grandmother has returned to the apartment. According to her doctor she now has only about five months to live, and she has chosen to come home to finish out her days. A brave choice, which I respect. At the same time though, it puts a burden back on me. I have helped to take care of her for years and I am more than ready to move on with my life. It may sound cold to some that I say that, but consider what I have given up. It's hard to date when you can't really bring a girl home because you know you can be interrupted at any point and there are things I haven't done because it conflicted with the care taking. I tell myself to hold on and enjoy the time I have left with her, but she can be very pessimistic despite how she clings to life. Ask her how she is doing at any given time and she just tells you how miserable she is. Then there is always the possibility the doctor is wrong and she will be alive longer than his prognosis. That is why I have to let go and just live my life. A choice not everyone will understand, but I've made it. Some of the family has finally come up to go through the things she has accumulated which will make things easier for me when she does finally pass, Old photos that were found have brought up old memories, reminding me to cherish the new ones I make everyday.

     On to brighter subjects, like the nearly nine mile hike I took at Cronan Ranch Saturday. Despite the threat of rain I headed out, prepared for a downpour. Instead I was rewarded with spectacular autumn colors and amazing views of the South Fork. I also did some geocaching while I was out and about, discovering one of the best hidden caches I have yet found, and also a pirate themed cache.

     Thanks to all my recent mountain biking adventures, I recently passed the 1000 mile mark on my mountain bike. It took a while, but I am glad I finally hit that milestone. Here's to the next 1000! Hopefully it won't take as long as the first 1000!

     Until next time, keep in mind tomorrow isn't promised today so