Steps forward, steps back...

Reality check today. Thought I could manage to walk into town and back. I knew I'd be slow and I planned a cafe stop half way but actually 2/3 of the way there, I was struggling - just at the point of no return stage! I made it to the cafe...

...for an overpriced cup of tea but a delicious pastel de nata (which I'd already scoffed by the time I took the photo!) but had to call my son to come and rescue me 😞.

I am trying not to think how far away I am from when walking miles in the Lake District mountains 18 months ago and remember that less than 3 weeks ago I could barely stand. So I guess its progress. But the price of over ambition today was more pain and feeling shattered. So frustrating.

Oh well, smaller goals tomorrow.

S x

Happy New Year!

Almost 3 weeks ago, I had major surgery on my spine, which left me, temporarily I hope, with a numb and not very useful right leg. Post-op has been a bit up and down and although I knew the physical rehab would take a while, and is slowly improving, I hadn't accounted for quite how exhausted I would feel or what an impact a loss of independence has on your sanity and self esteem. Having been on my own for over 10 years now, being able to drive and do 'stuff' as and when you want to has become both essential and, I guess, an internal measure of how I am coping.

So, today, determined to get out and walk a bit as the sun was shining, I steeled myself, picked up the crutches and walked all of about 300 yards.  But I did it, it was cold and crisp and the fresh air did me good.

I confess by the last 50 yards, my legs felt like lead and there was an element of mind over matter, but, spurred on by the thought of a bowl of warming soup waiting, it was worth it. 

Baby steps...

S x