LifeTides

Life goes on

We are still trying to squeeze everything in between hospital appointments and visitors. However, March has slowed me down a bit. My heart has been racing. Even when I was sitting quietly, I didn’t feel quite right. We saw my consultant after the blood test on 14^th March, and apparently, I needed some blood products because I was anaemic. That was fine and made sense as to how I’d been feeling. So they fitted me in for a transfusion the next day. The steroids were also changed to a lower dose but taken daily for a more even effect. Still not too bad I only take three tablets a day.

I felt better after the transfusion. It was great timing as we headed to Pitlochry for the weekend with friends.

Pitlochry was fun, with good company, food, and a few drinks. We stayed at Atholl Palace, a place we had stayed at before but many years ago.

Within the grounds of the Hotel, they had a mini Japanese Garden. And there were good routes to take straight from the Hotel.

Over the two days, we walked down by the River Tummel and up to see Black Spout Waterfall. I am a sucker for waterfalls. Richard and I coped well, even with his hips complaining. 

We also went down to Grandtully to see our next Hotel visit. The Inn on the Tay looks like an excellent place to stay. It does sit right on the River Tay, where the rapids are for white water Rafting and Kayaking.

We also popped into Iain Burnett Chocolate Shop. And we had hot chocolate, coffee and teas with chocolates on the side. Oh my goodness, it was delicious.

As part of my organisation for the future, I have now written my eulogy, which, of course, was very strange, but wanted to say a few words. My music choice is light, romantic and in no way sad.

I’ve also chosen a rose for Richard to plant, called “Bring me sunshine” from David Austin Rose’s. She will sit near the decking. I want some of my ashes mixed into the rose. It will be a very smiley rose.

As I write this month’s blog, I know I’m pretty tired, and my temperature seems to be at 37+dg most of the time. But I’m still here with a reasonable quality of life. I struggle to get on my indoor bike and ride in Zwift Land. It seems easier to go for a walk with the girls. But I’m hopeful I will regain my mojo and make a big effort.

We saw my consultant on the 28^th. My blood was borderline. So we decided to leave having any transfusion to see how I would get on. I got more steroids, as they are still helping. The Lymph Nodes in my abdomen remain enlarged. And they make me look pregnant. Thank goodness for elasticated waistbands. The nodes aren’t painful, but they ache sometimes. And the area is very busy and tight, causing a constant bloated feeling.

They will recheck my blood before we go away and top me up if needed.  

So the Inn on the Tay is booked for one night and then were back at Atholl Palace for two more nights just because they are in the same area. We are also looking to have a night in Edinburgh to catch up with some friends and do a show. It’s all very exciting making plans.

My business is now closed. It is strange as I thought it would see me into my retirement. Arr, those curve balls.

And now we are officially into Summer Time. I’m looking forward to some warm sun on my face and staying in my positive zone with Maisie and Gracie, who are very well and as loving as ever.

These flowers arrive from one of my clients. They are beautiful.

I know I’ve still got to catch up with some of you, don’t worry, we will.

Take care and stay in the current moment. That’s where you’ll find me!

Carole x