Small Moments, Big Smiles: A Week of Family, Food, and Fighting Spirit

This week has been a bit quieter than most, a true stay-at-home kind of week, and honestly, that’s been a blessing. Sometimes slowing down is exactly what you need.

Most of our focus has been on helping Ted recuperate and recover, and thankfully, he’s doing a whole lot better. He’s still taking it easy, but you can tell the difference; he’s more alert, more himself again. I snapped a quick picture of him, and while it looks pretty similar to last week’s, the improvement in his energy is night and day. It’s always good to see progress, even if it comes in small steps.

While we didn’t go out much, we did manage to get a little sunshine and fresh air; and that’s when we stumbled across something unforgettable.

Now, anyone who knows Holly knows she’s a big Hello Kitty fan. She’s got mugs, pajamas, maybe even a blanket or two. But nothing could have prepared us for this: a Hello Kitty-themed Chevy Truck; pink, glitter, bows, the works. The entire thing was decked out from bumper to bumper in Hello Kitty designs.

I just stood there laughing because, you know how you think you’re a fan of something? Then you see someone else who takes it
to an entirely different level. That’s what this was. I told Holly it might be a bit over the top for me, but she was all in. She said she’d be happy to drive it every day; errands, dinner, everywhere.

What do you think? Too much, or is it so over the top that it’s actually awesome?

Apparently, it’s also local election season here in Fayette County. I didn’t even realize it until a friend of mine, who’s actually running for office, mentioned that early voting starts next week.

And sure enough, once you notice it, you start seeing campaign signs everywhere. Door knockers, flyers in the mailbox, folks putting out signs along the roads. I don’t know if it’s the same where you are, but it feels like local politics always sneak up on you. One day you’re just enjoying fall weather, and the next, your yard’s a debate zone.

If you’re local, make sure you check out who’s on the ballot this November. Early voting kicks off soon.

Our son Sam was home for a mid-fall break, which was great. Having the house full again for a few days always feels right. He flew back to High Point at the end of the week, and as always, saying goodbye is a mix of pride and that small ache every parent knows.

We snapped a quick photo of him walking out to the plane and it reminded me just how fast time moves. It feels like not long ago we were teaching him to drive, and now he’s flying off on his own for school breaks.

While we were out one afternoon, Holly and I wandered into Best Buy, which, let’s be honest, is always dangerous. I can’t step foot in there without getting flashbacks of Christmas shopping; bright screens, gadget deals, and of course, TVs stacked like mountains.

They already had some amazing displays set up, and the new curved computer monitors caught my eye. Those things are massive! They look like command centers for gamers and multitaskers. I’m still trying to decide if they’re actually practical or just cool to look at. Has anyone tried them? I’d love to know if they’re worth it.

It’s funny, standing in an electronics store surrounded by tech and bright lights, and all I could think about was how it’s almost the holidays again.

To wrap up the week, me and Holly decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner out. We went to Enzo Steakhouse in Trilith, right here in Fayette County. It’s one of those spots that’s both classy and comfortable. The kind of place where the lighting’s perfect, the food’s amazing, and you end up chatting with the people at the next table.

We happened to be seated next to a wonderful couple celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary. You could just tell how much
they still cared for each other; it was heartwarming. We congratulated them, and they shared a few stories from their years together. You don’t see that kind of longevity every day, and it was a nice reminder that love can really go the distance.

Back home that evening, it was time for one of my favorite weekend traditions, UFC Fight Night. Charles Oliveira was fighting, and man, did he deliver.

Oliveira has always been one of those fighters who can completely take over a match when
he’s on point. And this time, he was in full form. Dominant, calm, and laser-focused. It reminded me of seeing him in person at a UFC event a year or two ago and that same energy was there. It’s always great watching an athlete get that kind of redemption after a tough run.

To finish off the weekend, I hit the gym on Saturday with my dad. Lifting together has become something of a tradition for us. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about connection, about time. It’s one of those small rituals that keeps the weeks grounded.

All in all, it was a good one; steady, balanced, and full of small moments that make you grateful for home, family, and even the wild surprises (like a Hello Kitty truck).

Hope your week was just as good or at least filled with a few things that made you smile.

Until next time,
Shane

If you're navigating life after an injury, and need someone to fight for you while you focus on healing, In pain, call Shane.

Shane Smith Law | 980-999-9999