My Head Has Been Swirling

So much has happened during  the past seven days and my emotions have swirled the full spectrum.

First off, I want you to know that even though it has been an unusual week I still remind myself, on a regular basis throughout each day that My Gratitude List is long!!!

Yesterday, the Advisory Evacuation was lifted for my area. The firemen have done an exemplary job. I imagine some of them will be traveling to the Valley Fire. I sure hope they are getting enough rest. This was at one of the many staging areas.

Next, I would like to show you a picture that I find absolutely stunning, for lack of a better descriptor. Look at the tire tread rubber. It almost looks like art work! Perhaps like a springy slinky! I hope you do not think I am weird, just looking beyond the severe reality of the disaster.

I continue to be in awe with the devastation and hardship from the fires. Neighborhoods have been completely annihilated. I certainly am thankful for my safety and house. This was an experience that I will never forget. Last Saturday was particularly difficult for me. On that day I felt so much uncertainty and dismay.

Moving right along with a different topic. I have spent two days in doctor's offices this week specifically for my chronic back issues which have increased significantly starting approximately two months ago. I will try to make this succinct as I can. The characteristics of my back pain have changed markedly. It is constant and burning and travels down my leg. For the past month I have  been taking a new medication. The same medication was prescribed several years ago and I was unable to tolerate the side effects. Well, this time I am determined to make it work for me. The first couple weeks I was totally useless and wanted to sleep all day and night. The pain level is less and that is a real motivator. The dosage is being increased gradually as the side effects are less. I guess I am getting accustomed to feeling light headed. I do not like it and I have to be very careful that I do not fall. The pain had been so bad before this medication and this is encouraging. My MRI shows increased deterioration of my spine along with the scoliosis. The surprising item is that the lumbar spine has rotated 45 degrees. More nerves are being compressed. No wonder my pain has changed. In addition, during the past year I have lost one and a half inches in height! Next time I will talk about what the Physiatrist/Rehabilitation Specialist had to say.

This beautiful red rose named Oklahoma was blooming during the fires. During the early morning each petal was glistening with the nights dew.

I continue to enjoy my garden and especially the recent blossoming gladiolas. Pink glads are starting to peek out in the center bottom of the photo.

Glorious.

Beautiful Pastel Blue

The White Autumn Clematis is at its peak of gloriousness.

I am so blessed that the ash has stopped falling.

That's all folks. Thanks for listening.
Mary