The “C” Word – Day 271 Settling down and relaxing

We were very fortunate that the shingles ended fairly quickly.  The sores healed up within about 10 days.  George’s face is still tender so he cannot yet use his CPAP machine, but he has been managing okay in spite of that.  The only weird thing we encountered was when the MD asked if we had told the oncologist.  We were puzzled by this but did what he asked and scheduled a follow up with the oncologist along with lab work.  All involved were curious that George had a second outbreak of shingles (his first one being about 30 years ago) and more puzzled still that it was in a different location.  Apparently if you have a second outbreak it should be in the same location as the first one.  The oncologist suggested that the regular doctor do an immunological test whenever the next labs are ordered up.

An evening caregiver is now in place and after having to stay home at night because of the shingles, we are now able to get out and about for a little bit in the evenings during the week.  How nice it is to be able to come home and just make dinner and relax for the evening.  A welcome respite for me, indeed. 

I had my own health issues in recent weeks having to do with intestinal tract stuff.  So far it appears to be nothing serious - - and could actually be that my diet needs to be the exact opposite of George’s.  Mine being high fiber and his being low fiber.  I have to figure out how to “marry” these two needs and come up with a plan that satisfies both without too much extra work.  Guess I have to go back to planning out meals accordingly. 

This weekend George has resumed going out “man land” and doing some small wood working projects.  We found out yesterday that his favorite store to find good wood is closing at the end of June.  Not a happy day for him!  It is good to see him absorbed in his hobby – time certainly flies by more quickly for him when he is busy doing what he loves. I have had to go out and remind him that it is time to eat or time to come in for the night! 

And me, I get to go on vacation at the end of this week.  Much deserved and much needed time off from all responsibilities for 9 days.  I will be travelling “home” which for me is Connecticut, and visiting family and friends during my stay.  It has been nearly two years since I have had a vacation and, while I will not be able to replicate all the plans I had for last fall, I will be seeing a handful of them.  I look forward to these little reunions and visits very much.  I am sure the time will quickly fly by.  I so look forward to being able to relax and just enjoy having only me to take care of - - and come back home rejuvenated after a very stressful nine months.