Almost one full year ago I was looking back on my 62 years of life - not counting, of course, my 9 month gestation period. Strange as it may seem, here we are a year later and my 63rd birthday is about to happen. I was prophetic in thinking that no one would be arranging a surprise birthday party last year. This year is not likely to be any different. So, no big event notices, no heavy drinking, no loud music will occur. The neighbors will be relieved.

Entering my 64th year I have decided, instead of looking back on my life, to ponder the future. Realistically, although in good health, a future career as a professional athlete doesn't seem to be in the cards. Let's face it, I have probably lost a step or too. I am too old to enter the "American Idol" competition (despite my melodious singing voice) and too nice to try out for "Survivor." Perhaps there is an opening for a senior superhero?

I think I will stick to photography and writing. Continued blogging is definitely an option. I have decided to cast aside my helmet and tackle the serious issues of our day head-on. Someone has to do it. There are always conspiracies to uncover, mountains to climb and local art shows to announce. Plus I enjoy the musings of Malchow, Boucher, Blake, Guthrie (where are you o' sage?), Neff and other Fellowship of the Blog members. They inspire, amuse and enlighten me daily. Dial, Brandstetter, Leonard, Robledo, Shultz, Henry, Smith and other brilliant literary minds share equal responsibility for my continued enjoyment of YourHub.com.

I have resolved to become more flexible in the coming year. A painful case of tendonitis on my right shoulder has resulted in having to take a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. The potential side effects include constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. The risk of serious and sometimes fatal heart problems, heart attack and stroke may also be increased with the use of this medication - according to the medical information provided. The good news is my voice is not likely to become high pitched nor will I be attacking anyone in a drug induced rage.

The up-side of this toxic medication is that my inflammation is becoming less painful and I am resuming a stretching regimen which promises to make me more flexible. At this time I am seeing real progress so please do not send get-well cards. Donations to a favorite charity would be better value.

My biggest resolution for the coming 365 days is to visit more often and spend more time with our grandchildren. Jan and I were able to see our five California grandkids, ages 1 to 6 years old (another lives closer, in Aurora), together last week. They are active, healthy, playful and loud and an inspiration to be around. At times I have an, almost, out-of-body experience when they are together. I get a warm, fuzzy, grateful feeling that almost brings tears to my eyes and this weird sensation of floating above the chaos. Surely these little people are the miracle that will keep us engaged and enjoying life for many more decades?

During our visit, my grandson, Chase McDaniel (almost 3 years old), brought me a Batman mask and said, "Grandpa, put this on." Of course, I complied. You see, grandparents have to be flexible. I instantly morphed into a kid, ready to fight evil-doers alongside Chase in his Spiderman suit. See photo. Chase's older brother Cameron (6 years old) was lurking in the house disguised as Darth Vader.

Could it be that Batblogger is born? What side effects might one experience from becoming a 63 year old superhero?