Mama’s tired tonight. After running errands this morning (during which time she left me at home, all alone, distraught, a nervous wreck), she returned home looking like she’d been rode hard and put away wet. (One of my horse friends is fond of this little saying.) Our conversation here is just between you and I. I wouldn’t intentionally hurt her feelings, but she looked bad. How many ways can one style a messy bun, don Walmart shopper’s apparel, no makeup, and expect to look respectable?
Exercise and fresh air would be good for her. At this point in time, her endorphins aren’t going anywhere. I continue to encourage her to take me, and a picnic, to the park, watch for bears, all the animals, and soak up vitamin D.
We miss our friend, who’d become almost like family. We worry about our friends. So we pray.
Her last knee repair, she told me about a guest who gave her crutch tips. This particular tip was for getting wine to the sofa, along with a wine glass. Mama today modified the sweet ladies suggestion: hang a grocery bag over your head, around your neck. Place your beverage of choice in the bag, along with a pretty, newly purchased, piece of glassware. Toss in a silicone tray of tiny ice cubes. Now, crutch to the bed where you can sit by an open window looking out at the mountain, and work on your computer.
She made it. She looked like a dang fool with that bag hanging from her neck, but she transported all supplies safely. Safety matters. She then was able to enjoy her soda in a beautiful glass. Ambience matters too.
I provide snuggles, George and I groom her, and I am the resident court jester, providing levity and laughs. So far so good. She’s been a good patient, following Dr. Hot Stuff’s orders, but she will admit to being tired and frustrated. Almost two weeks in, she’s doing great.
I helped clean up tonight, after she prepare riced cauliflower, portobello mushrooms, and spinach. A mighty fine meal, she ended up with crumbs of this and that everywhere, so I acted as a vacuum, suctioning everything up nice and clean. I try to be helpful. Tonight I’m snuggled close to her, keeping her warm.
Y’all sleep well.
xoxo
Maggie Rose, Schnauzer Nurse
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