I am watching the live events from Massachusetts right now. I remember coming home from Nursing school in 1993, setting up my homework and then getting CNN live from Waco. After such a terrific day, to come home to this. I am pleased Law Enforcement had quick ending to Boston Marathon bombing. With all the new electronics and videos, once the suspects were pointed out, it was only a matter of time. But now, one still missing. And I can only pray for Law Enforcement and the public safety and some resolution. Bruce lived in Cambridge when he attended Brown. He knows this area.

So, most of you know, I had planned this outing when Erma could not come today. I just was too depressed to think about working Friday evening, even tho Cathy and Pema both offered to come. I did an extra shift during the week to make up my time and was determined that Bruce and I were going to have a fun day - no errands, no paperwork, no housework. Both Kira and Bruce have follow up appointments this next week. And depending on the results of both, I am sure we will all be back on the treadmill.

Bruce was funny last night at dinner. He knew it was a special day but asked me to please tell him. I realized that surprises are not good. Bruce has to deal with toiletting, fluid intake control, going into a Woman's bathroom. Control, Debbie, you idiot! Something he has been trying to get back for four years. So I told him.

Normal morning. Don't rock the boat. We hit the road at 9:30 am. About an hour drive. We choose Foxwoods because we know it. Bruce and I often discuss the changes over the past 20 years, plus it was my sponsor Casino for my Poker run.

We started with Bruce's favorite slots. These are old fashioned and eventually will be cycled out. We noticed today how few remained. I was amazed at how he transferred to the slot chairs. Even the beverage waitress mentioned it. We were lucky to find a Roulette table just opening, so Bruce could get a spot. Later a center spot on a Let it Ride table. Wonderful lunch.

This is tough on me in that pushing Bruce in the WC over carpet is tiring. Then the transferring. But Roulette is easy. Bruce plays the same five numbers every spin and the Croupier takes care of that. Let it Ride is different. He has to concentrate, look at his hand, make a decision and re-evaluate that decision two more times.

We had a blast. Bruce and I both agree it is easier with just the two of us. We are both exhausted. Bruce went to bed early and I am just waiting to medicate him, But I am so proud of him. And what amazes both of us, continually, is the help and compassion we see. People are just so wonderful. All the players at one table said to me, "go take a break, we'll help him." and Bruce was comfortable with that. I will play Roulette with him, because his numbers are set and the Dealer takes care of him, but other stuff, I just stand by and make sure he is OK. But these people had his back and to watch Bruce laugh and converse with strangers - so precious.

The one thing I do want to mention is the smoking. Bruce has been smoke free since the stroke and I only smoke in the addition or outside. Bruce's slots are in smoke free area, but just across the aisle is smoking and both areas of the table games were smoking. Bruce started to cough about a half hour in. I got a water right away, but we talked throughout the day about the coughing. It is certainly interesting that a man who smoked for 45 years could become so sensitve in four years.

So a terrific day. Both of us are totalled. And tomorrow it is business as usual, but just a reminder that a day off is terrific. Debbie