Mr. Joyce Takes on the World

Nothing But Heart My heart is the strongest organ I have; both literally and physically. Don't get me wrong, I'm a thinker. Come to think of it I think too damn much. I over analyze things sometimes. Or, as I told a friend recently, I will flog a dead horse. I will continue to flog it, even after the horse has been removed, and placed in its grave. I think I do that because when something bothers me, it really bothers me until is resolved. I like a sense of resolution to conflicts and other problems that occur in life. I don't like loose ends or ambiguity. I have to know, and I have to know above all else. But I'm not all brain games. While I enjoy contemplating life, the universe, and everything, I know when to switch from brain to heart mode. As an example I've often said, “Writing is an emotional exercise, not an intellectual one.” The intellect part comes when you're fixing things up to look presentable to readers. If the heart isn't ...

I'm taking a long-awaiting trip to the U.K. this week. In preparation I compiled a list of things to do while I'm there.  10. Get Daisy Ridley's number, er, autograph! Ask to meet Rey's parents.  9. Find out if Emilia Clarke really does have pet dragons.  8. Have Wicker Man style shindig at Stonehenge. A BYOS party: Bring Your Own Sacrifice. 7. Find the best brownies in Glastonbury; both the confection, and the fey folk.  6. See if Chris Hitchin's liver was preserved after death.  5. Create a black hole with Stephen Hawking, using household items.  4. See if Platform 9-and-three-quarters leads to an enchanted disco bar, as well as Hogwarts Express.  3. Rent the Tower of London for recreational purposes. Ravens included!  2. Ask Kate Winslet about the end of Titanic. Leo could have totally fit on that door!  1. Find excalibur. Extract from watery tart in a lake. Become king. Smite my enemies.  Bonus goals: Find...

My Mother's Passing (Part One) The first scare I had concerning my mother was about two years ago. That was when I found her slumped behind the steering wheel of her car, as she tried to catch her breath. She refused treatment, but was eventually taken to hospital the next day. She fought like hell with the doctor and nurses. Mom was discharged early then, because she refused all treatment; including a much needed heart catheterization. We don't know why she refused it. Myself and my sisters got on her case about it, but to no avail. She was diagnosed with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder) and sent home. With her in tow was various medications, and an oxygen machine. I likened it to the life support systems in sci-fi movies; as it took carbon dioxide from the air, and made it into breathable oxygen. I set up a list of medications, and what times to administer them. I also keep a close eye on her, to make sure she didn't smoke again. This was in Febr...