We Are Family

How could I have forgotten the healing power of a bath?

Me, the daily bather.

I did try one last week but I was still unsure of my body's strength and very protective of the shoulder.

I had apparently also forgotten that I had other muscles, like my legs and my core, that would have allowed me to relax all the way back in the bath and still to be able get out without using my right arm.

But I sat in the tub as still and stiff as a marble carving.

Last night Elle bought me a bath bomb from Lush. It was composed of lavender and chamomile, sandalwood and magic.

I dropped it under a gush of hot water and  watched  as it exploded into a sea of blue.

I climbed confidently into the tub, stretched all the way back, inhaled, exhaled and relaxed.

And when I climbed out, for the first time in two weeks, my neck, shoulder and even arm muscles were at ease.

Better than a Percocet, better than a Valium, another tiny step toward wholeness.

We're still  waiting for mother nature to bring that warm weather our way.

But a neighbor arrived at the door bearing gifts, a vase full of spring arranged by my favorite designer Betty.

No feel better soon card was necessary. The lavender bath, branches of dogwood and red anemones and another friend who dropped by and washed kitchen floor, cleaned litter box, took out trash and recycling and then took me grocery shopping made the written sentiment unnecessary.

 

When I walked into physical therapy the other day everyone asked my how I was doing.

I'm living the dream I told them. We all laughed.

But honestly, could it get any better than this?

I think not, well unless Susan was still here.

xo J

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