e are emotionally and physically ill-prepared for the weather we have today in Los Angeles. The forecasters feel that at last they are earning their keep. The sportscasters bemoan delays in games played outdoors. Traffic reporters get all hot-and- bothered about people getting all hot-and-bothered on our freeways. It is bumper to bumper from before sunrise until after sunset on our car-strangled-spanners. When they announced it was coming many said or thought, "we need it," "it'll overcome the forest fires." Very soon the thoughts turn to "when will it stop," "enough already," "there's sure to be mudslides."
It'll be back to textbook California weather by sometime tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Alana and I will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary this evening in front of a roaring fire, with a bottle of fine red wine and so many memories. Actually the anniversary was yesterday, when the skies were clear, but who said we couldn't take a little extra time to reflect on all that's happened for us, to us and to the world since 1965.

For the many who sent us good wishes from many places...at home and abroad...our heartfelt thanks.
To those who enquire about the latest news of Alana's recovery from the stroke she endured two years ago, let me share the latest with you. She has just started aquatherapy. Though paralyzed, still, on her left side, when helped into the swimming pool she was able to walk without any pain. It tells me that the brain is sending messages that, somehow, eventually we should be able to see on dry land.
We are also doing something less "regular," and that is using a Hyperbaric Chamber. Every doctor I know and respect has said that it will do nothing for her (except cost a lot of money). We are going to try everything possible. Her spirit still continues to astound me. We know that burn surgeons have hyperbaric chambers. USC and UCLA have them, and many other institutions too. It is unproven as to whether or not stroke victims can be aided. I'll let you know.
I see a break in the clouds.

P.S. If you have had any experience with a Hyperbaric Chamber, I would be most appreciative if you'd share your comments with us. Either as a doctor or patient, we'd love to hear your thoughts and findings. Just send your comments .