It’s a big moment for me; the first bouquets were cut today from my garden (and a couple from Maria’s.) I plan to praise just about everyone I know over the summer.

The first one is going to my Amish neighbor and baker and mother, Barbara Miller, and her daughters. They love flowers but don’t grow any (too frivolous). The second one is from Maria, and it goes to me, right next to my computer.

 

Right after lunch, I’m going to the dentist, Dr. Merryman, for a cleaning session; they call it a hygiene visit. After that, I will see my primary care physician, Amy Eldridge. I look forward to seeing her; she’s checking me out after my virus strike.

I’m just beginning to grasp what a setback and knockout blow I took last month when I got sick. This infection affected every part of my body – limbs, joints, eyes, diabetes, balance, stomach, digestion, and energy. I had hives and clots that swelled like golf balls. I had trouble sleeping for weeks and still do sometimes, and difficulty digesting food.

I’m getting better all the time, but I also think I’ve been fighting for every part of me, which is exhausting and draining. Going to the gym is suddenly complicated. Honestly, I’m far better than I was, and I get a bit better daily. I’ve got more work to do before it’s over, and I’m weary of it.

I have very little stamina for anything but writing and visiting my flowers.

Maria, my blog, the dogs, the donkeys, my gardens, my books, and my photography are all very bright spots in my day and life. They sustain me and have kept me steady. So has my work with the Mansion residents, Bishop Maginn High School teachers, and students have me. There are many bright spots in my life.

But this virus caught me just as I felt strong and confident about my new focus on health and food. I just wasn’t prepared for it.

This virus knocked me for a loop, and I must be patient. Perhaps Amy has a special lotion for me to take. This is a new experience for me, and I’m eager to meet the challenge as soon as I can figure out what it is. It’s better every day; I’m regaining my strength and energy; frankly, I’ve never written better or more frequently.

I’m not sure how that works.

Maria is also getting better but still struggling a bit. We are lucky to have each other. On the way to the dentist, I’m going to stop and pick up some more Begonia bulbs from John at Country Power Products. It’s not too late to plant them (almost), and they are now my favorite flower.

Later.