These were the best of times, these were the worst of times. My apologies to Charles Dickens, but his words seemed apropos to the latest happenings in major league baseball. My beloved Red Sox must face off against the Detroit Tigers in the American League Championship Series. Only one can emerge as the eventual pennant winner. Following a 3 - 0 victory over the As, the Tigers must now go through the Red Sox to reach the World Series. They begin their series on Saturday at 8:00 PM. I guess in one way I can't lose. I have a horse in the race. Since I can't root for the Cardinals of the National League, I have to go for the eventual American League winner. That's better than being a Cubs fan and having to wait until next year.

In any event, I started out with sports because I never do. It is just past 1:30 AM here in "The City" and the current temperature is 54 degrees under clear skies. No precipitation in the forecast until the 70% on Saturday. Temperatures look to be in the 70s for today and tomorrow. Sugar the Weather Dog will want to go for a long walk today, and I'll be happy to oblige her.

As I mentioned in my previous blog, Thursday was my day for doctor's visits. All went well. Podiatrist, internist, MRI. However, after a flu shot in my left arm and the dye injection in my right, both of my arms are sore. I am reminded of that old joke, where a comedian says, "I just flew in from (fill in the blank) and are my arms tired." I did get to ask the doctor who administered the dye a question when he said, "You'll be sore for one or two days, but then you should be able to resume your regular activities." I just had to ask, "Will I be able to play the piano?" He assured me I would, to which I replied, "Funny, I couldn't before."

That's an old one, but I'm an old guy. Of course he had to wear a lead apron to avoid the effects of x-ray exposure and I just had to say, "Yes, you don't want to glow in the dark." I liked his bedside manner.

Today, I don't anticipate doing much of anything. I just don't have the strength. I do have to call the neurosurgeon's office, again, to see if he has had time to read the latest MRI on my head. But other than walking with Sugar, that's about it. I'll do more highlighting for the boss, because that requires very little in terms of physical strength.

A quick mention that the train flew by about an hour ago. I say flew, because the speed with which the horn faded into the distance told me that he was making good time as he headed north.

I hope that all of the important people in our lives are doing well. Too many to mention, but you know who you are. My bed awaits. It will be...Tea time soon enough too, and then a walk in the park with Sugar. Ciao.