Another Adventure

This week turned out to be a doozie for me. I had anticipated going for a follow-up on my knee on Monday, but instead ended up in the ER at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. The meds I was taking for knee pain started a bleed in my stomach, and that was totally unexpected. They kept me overnight so they could monitor me, and that actually turned out to be most of the day on Tuesday, as well. But I'm home now, feeling fine, on new meds, and no setback as far as the knee is concerned - just time out from my daily routine here at home. Plus, I really couldn't even complain about "hospital food" because I was on a liquid diet until noon yesterday. Then I had a very tasty roast pork dinner! That is one of my favorites, so no complaints whatsoever. And the staff at NVRH are all super nice, considerate and very competent. I'm so thankful we have such good medical care through NVRH.

I was a bit disappointed after the PA from Four Seasons Orthopaedics visited me just before I left the hospital. I had expected to graduate from the almost-full-length stabilizing cast to one that would let me bend my knee a bit, but she said I will need another two weeks with this one. That's ok - I want to do whatever is right so it will continue to heal properly. The dressing is off and that is great - a step in the right direction. These things take time.

Yesterday I learned that my dear neighbor, Julie Ackermann, died unexpectedly. Apparently she had a heart condition and it was mercifully quick, but so sudden, and she is young - about 60, I think. I have known Julie for a long time. Ben Ackermann, who did my pond a few years ago, is one of her sons. Such a nice family, and I'm sure they are devastated. Julie and Walt owned and operated Harry's Hardware in Cabot for many years, so just about everyone in town knows the family. My heart is full of sadness for them and for our community. Julie was a special soul and we will miss her greatly.

Our weather is very "fall like" and the leaves are coming off the trees in clouds. Today is quite windy and cold - I've got a temperature of 42F right now, at 11:15 a.m.  The forecast is for continued cool weather and there are even windchill reports on the local weather broadcasts now! Too soon for that!!!

Moose hunting season starts next week. This is a good time for a reminder to wear bright clothing when you are walking or biking in wooded areas, like along the rail trail or West Shore Road. Deer season is coming right up, too. Bear season is in play now, too, and that lasts to mid-November. There are a variety of "deer seasons" for youths, archers, muzzle-guns, and whatever else, and that is almost non-stop from now through Thanksgiving weekend. Be careful, be noisy, and be colorful! Stay safe!