It’s been a minute since my thoughts have graced these pages.

How’s everybody been?

Truth be told it was Beyonce, which first prompted a text to Editor, Marg Jackson, inquiring when deadline was for a ‘Musing’. That was weeks ago now and while my opinion on the misstep of the 67th Annual Grammy Awards still holds much passion, complete column space on the subject seems a waste.

Simply put, awarding the most talented vocalist with Country Album of the Year, was most definitely a worldwide example of the “everybody gets a trophy” movement. There is no disputing Carter’s talent. The woman can absolutely sing and as former awards would exemplify, she does it well. That being said, after taking the time to actually listen to the award-winning album, as a fan of all genres (especially country) this win was a definite miss.

A former colleague went as far as salute the artist and justify her award for taking a chance and stepping outside the box. That however, is not what the award is. If it were a “Best Effort by an R&B Artist” award then we just may have had something. “Best Country Album,” however gets a hard no from this country music fan.

Watching the reaction of country fans nationwide, it’s fair to say my summary is indeed beating a dead horse which has been overridden by a talent whom hopefully is not now encouraged to produce a second album in this genre.

I miss this.

The opportunity to share some random thoughts, aka ‘Musings’ with our community.

As many of you know, I’ve been away battling cancer for believe it or not a fourth time.

Days before my children turned 17 and 20, we heard for the third time, the cancer I had begun battling in April of 2020 had returned. One initial diagnosis, followed by three recurrences. This came along with news that it had spread to my pleura, promoting my case from Stage 3 to Stage 4. Good times.

So at the encouragement of my medical team, life as I’ve known it had to slow down and stress put at bay. That was eight months ago. Most days I feel “like myself,” although a chemotherapy regimen of three times a month does find me napping more than ever. For those familiar with chemo cycles my regimen is two weeks on, one week off, repeat.

For those a bit slower on the uptake this would also serve as explanation for the new column photo. As someone pointed out recently, while I was out having lunch with a friend, I no longer looked like the photo which was here before. Five years and four cancer battles will do that to a person.

As a single mom of two kids, I would be remiss if I did not share the reducing stress piece of this journey would not have been possible had it not been for this generous community and some incredible women I call “friends.”

The outreach of this community, well into Modesto and beyond last summer and early fall left our family speechless. Fundraisers, flowers, cards, meals … The love and outpouring of support were the type I normally write about for others. Being on the other side of the story as a recipient was touching and most appreciated.

My medical team is at UCSF, a trip I wouldn’t be able to make if it weren’t for my girls. The team of women who have stepped up and been by my side each and every visit are truly invaluable to me (and my family).

As crazy as it might sound, we’ve made the most of it.

Think about it, how often does one get the chance to have five plus hours of uninterrupted time with their gal pals? It’s a great time of catch up, laughter and undisputable love, disguised as a trip to the City for treatment. Lucky me.

True Angels among us. From the community that gathered and rallied for our little family, to the selfless ladies who show up each and every week to deliver me to infusion. Just as I know without God none of this would be possible, that holds equally true for the above-mentioned Angels.

So, here’s to weeks ahead and an occasional Musing or two. My return to my Newsroom still remains a bit in the distance, but we’ll get there. Until then, I leave you all with my favorite quote given to me years ago by my then six-year-old son: “Remember, today is a gift, that’s why it’s called the present.”

Teresa Hammond is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Escalon Times and The Riverbank News. She will continue to contribute occasional columns.