Let's start with the bit of bad, then move on to all the good that's happened since the last time we chatted.
The bad? The test results and specialist referral did not go the way I hoped, which led to a downward spiral in which I spent many hours wondering just what the future was going to look like (and why I couldn't just have less physically taxing hobbies.)
So, that was fun.
But the good news is that I'm doing way better in real life than they thought it looked on paper, which means maybe I'll be lucky and that trend will continue. Yesterday I was able to navigate stairs solo, the feeling and strength is definitely returning to my legs and I'm a lot less wobbly walking around. I have another round of scans as a check in (and surgery if needed/I choose to) scheduled in two months-ish. Hoping for no surgery!
Anyway, funny/happy things:
My husband is the best. And he likes the ponies. He's been doing all the pony care for me the last couple of weeks (and spoiling them rotten) which equally makes me feel super guilty and also teary with gratitude.
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| Good ponies |
The ponies are amazing creatures. Much as husband likes them, he's not an overly experienced caretaker and yet they forgive him everything and are very patient and kind to him. Sophie especially can have some serious quirks and opinions but she's been an angel. The other night he was trying to let her into her stall (that had dinner ready for her) and she just stood quietly outside and wasn't going to move a step closer. I had to remind him to move well out of the way of the door first, because she was just saying she wanted to be polite and not crowd him when she walked by <3
He's somehow house trained Sophie? He's been annoyed at her stall habits for years (and I was like, it's horses, it's how it is) and somehow he's solved it. It sounds like she thought about peeing when he got there one morning but he made her go outside first and just told her what a good girl she was when she peed there. And now it's a bit of a thing, she pees before she goes in at night, and first thing when he lets her out in the morning. If you haven't guessed they're pretty much besties at this point and I'm told if I ever want to sell her I can't, he's keeping her as a pet.
That's great you're doing better than expected! One day at a time, follow Drs orders and maybe you will be an outlier.
ReplyDeleteYour husband sounds like a gem. So cute these guys who aren't horse people but love animals and do pretty well with the ponies.
Speedy healing!
Thank you! Yes, I'm very lucky to have his support!
DeleteOh my god, the peeing thing is amazing and adorable. I also hear you on the husband thing. We are very fortunate to have them in our life. I am so glad you are doing better than expected.
ReplyDeleteThank you! We're a couple more weeks in and it's definitely a thing, he's so proud of house training her 😁
Deleteugh my thoughts are seriously with you :( being sidelined ranks right up at the top of my list of existential demoralizers. glad you're taking care of yourself and have such a wonderful teammate with G, so that hopefully this period is transitory and recovery is smooth!
ReplyDeleteThank you. Yeah, I'm happiest when I'm busy so this not being able to do a ton of things, especially ride, is difficult.
DeleteYour husband deserves a gold star. What a guy! Glad your horses are treating him well and vice-versa, but I imagine you can't wait to get out there as the horses' primary caretaker once your healing progresses.
ReplyDeleteCrossing fingers I'm back at it soon without needing help, but for now I'm so grateful for the support
DeleteI'm so glad it is a good update on functionality! Also, totally adorable that your husband and the horses are working out so well together. Well done all around!
ReplyDeleteI've got a good team on my side <3
DeleteI know so many people that have suffered both acute and chronic back injuries, both in riding and strength sports (powerlifting), and they all made full comebacks with physical therapy. One of these examples was a trainer who ended up in a wheelchair with her injuries; she was told she eventually would not be able to walk anymore...with physical therapy, she is living a normal life now and is riding full time. I would search for a physical therapist specializing in sports medicine in your area. You might be surprised by the positive outcome. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! That's very inspiring! In a case of excellent luck, we have new neighbors, who are building a physiotherapy office on site and taking new clients! We were joking that worst case scenario I'll be able to roll down the driveway to get help...the ramp to their office aligns perfectly :) There's also someone new here (this is a small, isolated place so this is all super good luck) who used to work for our olympic hockey team doing physio so he's my next step once I'm more mobile.
DeleteGold stars all around for your husband and the ponies. The girls could have easily taken advantage of him but they haven't. What good girls. Your husband is awesome - not all husbands would have been up to taking over the daily chores. Fingers crossed that you continue on the path of recovery. Like another poster has said, please consult your Dr about adding some physio to the mix. My husband has a herniated disc in his back, and if he doesn't do regular chiro maintenance, then it flares and he is rendered almost completely immobile.
ReplyDeleteOh, your poor husband! That is part of what I've got going on and it was truly horrible pain (and mobility) wise at first. I'm very grateful the ponies and my husband have bonded, not only is it super cute, it's really nice peace of mind knowing they're so well cared for.
Deletehope you feel better and get back to riding soon!! You got this! And Sophie is perfect as is Bridget AND G! :)
ReplyDeleteSo much perfection ;)
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