Two weeks ago, I got hammered with one of this winter’s nasty “bugs”. I’m slowly recovering, but even now, am easily fatigued by normal tasks. The last two weeks have felt like a forced march, like walking under water with full pack.
During the work week, I’ve been getting home around 7 and, literally, collapsing. So, that’s left chores and general “running around” for the weekend.
This one was particularly busy because my nephew and his future bride’s shower happened yesterday, in a town some 2 hours away. It was a really nice party, and in spite of a minor snowstorm that took place during the event, travel back and forth was pretty easy, good roads and light traffic. Still, it was a full seven-hour commitment, and I didn’t have the energy to do anything else when I got back to the Cape.
That left usual weekend stuff for today, and I wasn’t finished with the list until about 5:15 PM: wrapping Emme’s birthday present, transfer station run, sweeping snow off the stairs and the deck, grocery shopping, haircut, car wash, laundry, a little housework. I had a couple of work-related items to deal with after that, which I’d figured to put off until tomorrow, but found the stamina to take care of tonight.
I’m relieved to have finished it all, although at times had to take breaks.
It’s bitter cold out, and a relief to be able to stay in, wrapped in a throw with my feet up on a hassock.
There are few things as good as being warm after you’ve been cold, and being able to rest when you’re tired. Those, and being able to enjoy a hot shower and clean, dry socks, make up heaven.
What “normal” American could ever see these things as significant, not-to-be-taken-for-granted pleasures? I must have, had to have been, a foot soldier in a former life.