Bob,
I'm trully sorry to hear about your cancer. 53 is still very young but it looks like god might have some special plans for you up stairs. Perhaps he needs a good intro instructor for the newbie pilots just starting to learn up there. From listening to your post I can tell you are enjoying every minute of your life now. Something we all should do, without the threat of dieing to cause us to do so. I have a extremely strong faith in the lord and the way he uses people.
To be in your shoes and knowing that I will be leaving my family and love ones soon would be overbearing. But to have the knowledge that soon you will be going to a much better place, and keep in mind that you WILL once again be united with your loved ones in that place.
Bob I'll send many prayers for you. And keep you in mind while at church.
May the remaining time you have here be filled with smiles, happiness and great memorys.

God bless you
Shaun Russell

P.S.
Save a spot up there for me