The Most Marvelous Time

I know that is the beginning of a phrase from a Christmas tune, but here in the midst of May in South Dakota, the phrase equally applies. The flowering trees are in full bloom, the tulips are beginning their yearly show just as the daffodils being to fade. The grass is green and each day brings new delights to the eye. In addition it is often decent weather in which one may walk around and enjoy the beauty.

¶ Except, and there are always exceptions, for Thursday night when the storm struck. It turned black as night, rained copiously, and the wind blew and blew. A good number of trees succumbed to the wind. In some areas of town people were caught in their cars while downed power lines entrapped them. There seemed to be minimal damage in this neighborhood for which we are grateful. There are some branches down but few whole trees. The winds were estimated at 100+MPH at times. There were straight-line winds in the city. Tornados struck other parts of eastern South Dakota. ¶

This was another medical event week. The Gamma Knife procedure was accomplished without incident on Monday. I had several headaches this time around which I’d not experienced previously but no other seeming side effects. ¶ Thursday was another medical event day beginning with labs at 10:15, followed by a doctor’s appointment, followed by the infusion. I finally finished about 3:30 in the afternoon. The side effects from the infusion do not seem as intense as after the first infusion. So far there haven’t been any significant incidents. The fourth day is tomorrow. It was on that day the last time around that I found myself totally exhausted. I haven’t had a lot of sleep, probably due to the steroids in the IVs and those I take at the doctor’s direction. So, I’m hoping and praying this will be the new normal. I made it to my volunteer position yesterday and did quite a bit of walking. Today I was in attendance at a funeral and luncheon which was a three hour affair. I did need a nap upon returning home.

¶ The planned excursion to the Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha has not yet taken place. On the one day when it was possible the forecast was for 94º there. That temperature is simply not a pleasant experience there with its penchant for high humidity. I’m sure that day fried the daffodils so that field trip while have to be delayed until next year. There is still hope for the Tullipaloosa in Brookings which I suspect will climax in the next week. ¶ I just heard that is safe to put out one’s bird feeders, so I must do that for the birds’ sake and Sophia’s entertainment. Squirrels are good but both squirrels and birds are better. We can also fill our bird baths so herself can be lifeguard once again. She feels that is an important duty. ¶. I’m doing well taking into consideration age, illness, and other factors. Thank you for all your support and prayers. It’s wonderful to hear about all those who are praying for me. I know you are concerned about others as well, and it most kind of you to give me a share in that concern. I can’t tell you how grateful I am. Thank you, also, for reading.