My dear Ben, I didn't get to read this (well much of anything) last week, but I thought I'd respond later rather than never. As usual, you've said it all beautifully.
I must admit that you're flame thrower in the butt analogy made me think uncomfortably of the movie "Fanny & Alexander" where the children watch their uncle throw a blue angel 20 odd feet. For those who don't know what a blue angel is, it's when someone lights a fart. Honestly, this is physically possible.
But I digress.
Oh and as for Alice's Restaurant, I want the 8x10 glossy photos, darnit!!!
Oh, I digress again.
I'm so glad your enbrel experience has continued so well. Personally, I think 'mild' is far too subjective when it comes to assessing the severity of this disease. Your mild might be another person's severe. And vice versa. Regardless, you have experienced the miracle and I hope it allows you to continue gardening, maybe keep following your favourite band and doing the other things that you love to do ... erm ... chocolate comes to mind.
You are a treasure, my friend. And I hope upon hope that one day I will be able to say that to your face.
Warm hugs,
