Friday, March 7, 2014

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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28 comments:

  1. You sure have some wonderful friends. Washed the kitchen floor AND did the "kitty bombs" - that's a friend for life!

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    1. And did it all dressed up and perfectly groomed!

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  2. Sounds like you are good hands. Hope you are feeling cared for and know that you'll be right as rain very soon ..

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    1. Being cared for is wonderful. It's nice to be able to give up control and let others do what i can't do for myself. Life lesson.

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  3. Here's to continued recovery. xoxox.

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  4. So glad you are doing well. The bath bomb sounds wonderful and the flowers look luscious! Keep on keepin' on! xoxo

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    1. I keep on trucking but it may be time to truck into the bedroom for a nap:-)

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  5. Top tip - Epsom salts (about 2 cupfuls) in a hot bath - excellent! Sounds like you have some good pals. Have a good weekend. Sunny here :). X

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    1. Epsom salts on my list next time someone clls and says do you need anything at the store....

      enjoy your sun.

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  6. And get some lavender flowers into the Epsom Salts jar while you're at it!

    Being unwell or incapacitated brings out the best in friends, doesn't it? Keep up the good work; you're doing so well.

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    1. I will. Did you read Janet's post? http://thegardenerscottage.blogspot.com/2014/03/lavender-scented-bath-salt.html

      All I need to know right there!

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  7. Pleased you're doing so well. Bit like a luxury stay at a posh spa, isn't it!

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  8. Anything from Lush is...well lush. I have tons of soaps from there, can't stop ordering. Yes, I am Amelia and I am a lushoholic, really I need to stop. Anyway, I'm happy you're feeling better and you got those LUSHIOUS (see what I mean?) flowers.

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    1. You are a lush, you'll have to join LA. I took a German mineral bath last night and it just wasn't the same...I understand your addiction.

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  9. Thoughtful friends, lovely flowers, relaxing in a way that brings you comfort...life is good! Continue to rest and recover! Our good thoughts are with you...Susan

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  10. You've come through!! Not surprising to me that you receive so much bounty and care from neighbors and friends. Very happy about your bath experience. Soon all your other limbs will kick in to support your shoulder until it is healed. You'll be gardening in no time!

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    1. I have, though if you could see me struggling to do the very simple at home PT exercises you would shake your head and wonder if I will ever pull a weed again. Step by step tho.

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    2. I'd cheer you on!!! 'member? been there, done that!! xoxox

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  11. a good bath and good friends...really, how lucky can one be. I'm so happy to hear that you're recovering very well. Just in time for spring.

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    1. Now I'm off to the farmers market with a friend. This feels very springy to me. and very unusual since i usually work saturdays! Fun in recovery.

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    2. Where's the farmer's market? We usually go to the Fairfax City one but that's not open until May.

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    3. Courthouse in Arlington has a year round one on Saturdays. Golden beets, spinach, baskets of kale and greens for stir fries. Eggs, meat and freshly made donuts. Yum.

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  12. I am not surprised that you are surrounded by good friends who care about you. Get well soon. Spring is coming.

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  13. You're up and about! Sounds really good, Jane. We are enjoying sun& warm temps here --,72 yesterday! ill arrange to send you some, ok? i leave soon for the other Arlington (MA) where its still gray & cloudy. I have a few tiny yellow crocuses in bloom -- yay! Love yr flowers & song titles; very fun & Cheery!
    D in D

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