Just an update: Well, just talked to Dad.... the "Spot" is indeed cancer, but they'll have to do wait for other test results to discover if it's small-cell or non-small-cell cancer, to determine the type of treatment. And they want to do a CAT scan, or somesuch, just to make sure it hasn't gotten into his brain. But dad got the feeling that is more precautionary, rather than something done in a panic.

In any case, his doctor is fairly optimistic about his chances, because, really, he is in over all good health, and he has the immune system worthy of an army tank, if army tanks ever needed one (His sister, who had died of lung cancer, had a much more advanced case, and she had been smoking longer, and had been smoke-free for a shorter amount of time).

We also admitted to each other that we've both been thinking its about time he sold the house up there and moved into this area. After all, 30,000 sq. feet and 27 acres is a bit much for one old man and his old cat (who'd be just as happy in one room, thank-you-very-much).