Perhaps life is just a series of obstacles, like a very long jumper course. There are places on the track to catch breath and regroup before facing the next obstacle. And, of course, there are parts of the course with related obstacles. Today we cleared the latest hurdle.
On New Year’s Eve, Harry went into atrial fibrillation again, and he did not spontaneously convert. We called Dr. Cooper’s office on Tuesday morning, and they were wonderful, arranging a cardioversion for Harry today in Bridgeton, since the wait at St. Luke’s would have taken us to January 16.
And so, although our life here has gone on as usual, this has been a very difficult week, and today seemed particularly long. The appointment was moved from 6:30 AM to 3 PM, and poor Harry couldn’t eat or drink all day. But the wait was worth it – the cardioversion went well, and Harry has returned to normal sinus rhythm, tired but back on the road to recovery from our horrible December.
As she always does, Jane came to the rescue, bringing the horses in and looking after dogs and cats while Harry and I had a long awaited meal on the way home. Night check in the barn this evening included a walk through gentle January snow coming down. I am feeling very tired, but very grateful. Harry is comfortably asleep.
Weedy and Eddy keep a close eye on Harry at the kitchen table. I don’t think they are worried about him, I think they are watching for food. I do NOT give Eddy food from the table, but he stays close to Harry, who is a softy for expressive faces.
The weather has been mild, but the birds are eating furiously, as are the squirrels.
The New Yorker had a very disturbing article about cats, which has given me much to think about, since our cats are “outdoor cats”. I guess I didn’t have enough to worry about. I do love the cats, and I do love the birds. I even love mice, but I am glad not to have any in the barn. Life is complicated!
Well, there is solace to be found with Eddy, who does not worry about anything.
The horses are still on vacation and very filthy, since the mild weather makes mud. But they are happy, and bring us great joy, even without climbing on heir backs.
There are some lovely fungi in the woods. Days are getting longer, and soon there will be flowers again.
There is beauty in every season.
Be safe, be well, be grateful and be kind. Slava Ukraini! Peace.
You’ve had a very exhausting month and I’m glad to hear that everyone is well. I hope this month brings you more peace and tranquility.
So glad Harry is ok and hoping and praying for a healthy rest of the year for both of you. Xoxo
Good grief! You guys have certainly been through a rough patch lately… The beautiful and tranquil photographs belie the turmoil you and Harry have been going through . I am hoping that this new year brings some peace and tranquility to your hearts. Your animal family seems to be doing quite well! Just know that I’m thinking of you from way out here in California and hope I can get home to visit again very soon.
You have had a terrible time. I am so sorry and I hope it’s all clear sailing ahead. It’s so nice to see your exuberant young lad enjoying life.
My favorite sentence is “Days are getting longer and soon there will be flowers again.” I pray this stands as a metaphor for yours and Harry’s 2024. Clearly Eddy remains happily aloof.
It is a challenging course indeed. We’re grateful for those who help you both to return home to heal. I shared your pictures with Ted. Eddy’s “Exuberant Sleeping” drew a big laugh out loud. I know he and Weedy and Roscoe and the gang are doing all they can to keep you in good spirits. And Jane’s friendship is a precious gift. Hang in there, spring is coming.
Slava Ukraini
Peace
Love
I continue to pray for Harry every day. Goodbye to 2023 which seems to have been an “Annis Horribilis” to quote the late Queen Elizabeth II.
I agree with Jane about your best and most hopeful observation: “Days are getting longer and soon there will be flowers again.”
It is a blessing for you and Harry that you live in an environment where Nature can “lift the shade of gloom”.
Here’s to a Healthy New Year, with much joy, and peace and tranquility for you both.
I’m so glad once again that Harry is getting better. I hope he continues in the right direction. All of your photos are fabulous but the one of the cardinal in the woods was amazing. You need to enter some photography contests!! Or….just keep sharing your photos with all of us! Happy and healthy 2024!!
yes. I agree with Gayle.
Also, LOVED the shot of Cora! She’s a smart fussy: never leaves the barn. Just eat, drink and be merry!
great to see these various stages of nature.