The Bucket List--Revisited

In a previous post from this year I wrote about the tendency of middle-aged folks to reflect on the things they wish they had done or hoped to do before they die. At one time I guess I composed such a list in my mind although I don't remember ever writing one down. It would have included things I would like to be able to do (such as play the guitar or fly an airplane) but to which I have absolutely no intention of devoting serious time or effort. But a brain tumor is a very helpful device for drilling closer to the center of priorities. My bucket list suddenly got much shorter and turned to focusing on things that "need" to be done. So for the first time, at least in my recall, I am writing my list:
1. teach Elisabeth to cook,
2. read The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings into an audio recording machine of some sort-- maybe that's selfish: I would like my children and grandchildren to remember my voice,
3. meet Katie--I know that one's selfish!
4. I'll be glad to go to Great Britain and to teach biology in the fall, but those will just be bonuses.

My External Hard Drive

For the past ten years or more, according to Dr. Olivi, my brain has been harboring a small, benign (we hope) tumor on its surface. As it has gradually grown, it has pushed the brain aside to make room for itself. Now, the brain is fighting back with edema; it has swollen near the tumor, which is on the top left side of my brain, just about in the middle of the top of my head. Because of the location, near a major vein and between two "tributaries", the doctor believes it is best to remove it sooner than later. There is a clear definition to the tumor which should make it easier to remove without damaging the surrounding brain tissue. Pop and I have been planning a two-week trip to Great Britain, as you know, and the doctor says that may go ahead as scheduled. I need to be careful to rest when tired (when have I not done that!) due to a slight possibility of seizures. So, we leave for London on July 21st and return home on August 6th. I will be scheduling the surgery for the week of August 17th, if the doctor's schedule allows.