Yesterday reminded me of exactly why I hate being sick, or at least not 100%, and the upside is that my attitude has been adjusted.
I really prefer to pretty much ignore my body, unless I am hungry, thirsty, or needing the potty - well, you get the picture. Yesterday I was reminded that the body has an expiration date and I need to actually pay more attention to it.
Although everyone at the hospital was very kind, and they obviously are very competent, I thought to myself more than once, I don't like hospitals and I really don't want to come back here. I need to eat better and get more exercise.
Of course, the last time I spent much time in a hospital was in February 2011 when my mom had to get an emergency pacemaker. That was an ordeal for all of us.
I am lucky that my brother is always available to come over and help out. He can drive the car, cook meals, supervise schoolwork, etc. as well or better than I can. We had a shining example, growing up, because Dad could do almost everything Mom could do. He could [and often did] fix meals, check homework, supervise trips to the store, etc. He wasn't hung up on strictly adhering to the 1960's "Dad code" of letting mama do it all. He really helped. I think that's why they had a strong marriage and Bruce and I felt pretty secure.
Michael has a good example in Uncle Bruce of how a man should be. Tough, but loving and kind. They aren't contradictions. Michael can fix an omelet or fix his own bicycle, and he does his own laundry and puts it away. He's also very good with kids, and he has good manners.
Last night Bruce taught him how to sharpen knives the old-fashioned way, with a stone.
At 9 last night we were watching a DVD and I glanced over at Michael and he was sound asleep, on the couch. He had been very casual about me not feeling well, but his fatigue told me he didn't sleep well night before last.
My brother and I disagree and fuss sometimes, like all siblings. However, I know he always has my back, and I have his. If I do nothing else, if I can show my son how good families operate - pulling together during tough times - I will be happy.
above, my brother cooking
