Here's to life and love!

The other night, after the show upstairs in the Crystal Room at La Te Da, Debra and Patrick were making such wonderful music downstairs that we had to stop and listen.

We learned, too -- with a wonderful reminder why every day can be a cause to rejoice.

Next to us were a terrific couple from Colorado, Laurie and Brant. Married less than two years, they were in Key West for a celebration. Laurie's breast cancer, treated and apparently eradicated eight years before, had recurred early this year. When the chemo cost Laurie her hair, Brant shaved his head in solidarity.

But finally -- finally! -- the new rounds of radiation and chemo were over, and it was time to give three cheers in the sun.

A critical care nurse, Laurie appreciates more than most what she's been through and may yet face. But face it she and Brant do, with grace, humor, and a zest for the sweetness of life that follows a very sour patch indeed.

Here's to you -- and come back soon.