Keeping it real . . .

Yesterday was not a good day. My feet and ankles were badly swollen. My lower back ached more than usual. I was exhausted all day, and a 90-minute nap did nothing to change that. I was physically, mentally, and emotionally drained. This was the first day that I did not feel like leading the charge up the hill. I briefly considered going back on Lasix. Some days you gain ground, some days you retreat.

Cecily prepared and applied buckwheat plasters to my feet and a taro root plaster to my kidney in the early evening. I watched a DVD called “What the Bleep Do We Know!?” It explored the neurological processes and “quantum uncertainty” of life. In essence, the film examines what is being discovered about the world via quantum physics and posits that our thoughts and expectations may have a profound influence on eventualities. It appealed to me because of my interest in quantum physics and certainly left me pondering the possibilities . . .

Last night we slept indoors for the first time in two weeks. It was my idea. Yes, I was that demoralized. And I justified the decision by noting that the commercial vineyard at the base of my property is beginning harvest. That means the nighttime picking of premium wine grapes when they are chilled by the cool air. It also means a parade of diesel tractors towing rickety trailers mounted on what sounds like square wheels. And lots of “bucket of bolts” noise at the doorstep of the open tent. Of course, to hedge my bets I insisted that all the windows in the house be opened fully.

But I'm on the advance again today. I’ve felt strong and upbeat the entire day. No swelling of feet or ankles. I had an acupuncture session to address the kidney pain. The practitioner used a cupping (suction) process in the area of my left kidney. It raised a big welt that has given way to an impressive hickey, but so far so good. Much less discomfort. We’re off to a birthday party this evening. I love celebrations.