This wasn’t the best day. Scout went back to the vet today with another flare up of an issue that started earlier this year. It’s called Feline Idiopathic Cystitis or, in laymen’s terms, inflammation of the bladder wall.

So we got another round of medicine – a liquid and two pills to be administered a couple of times a day for the foreseeable future. He sang the song of his people all the way there and back but was a perfect little gent for the vet.

He was less gentlemanly as I single handedly wrestled him to the floor for his first dose.

I was having a “Calgon, take me away moment” tonight as I went through the mail. Seamless gutters, bill, bill, credit card offer… and a postcard! Not just any postcard but one that features a gorgeous painting by Florida Highwayman Alfred Hair.

My Pittsburgh pal, who I admired Highwaymen art with earlier this year, was recently in Florida and thought to send this to me. Did you read the story I wrote a few months ago? If you didn’t, you should because their art is magnificent and they painted prolifically. Click here to read about them.

She says the antique stores down there are like galleries of their work, something I would love to see someday.

Why do I tell you this? It’s just a gentle reminder that real mail from friends and family is still relevant and important. Birthday cards and thank you notes have been all but replaced by texts and Facebook greetings. Yet, there’s something special about opening your mailbox to something from a friend.

It tells me that, for a moment, the sender thought to buy a postcard, write a message, and take it to the post office. And during her vacation!

What a nice thought.

So, buy yourself a few stamps and some cards or postcards and send a note here and there. Brighten someone’s day! You never know the impact your actions might have.