I had imagined having a relaxing summer. After a very busy spring I was looking forward to enjoying a few weeks of tranquility. I envisioned coffee on the deck, puttering in my garden, going for walks and generally “vegging”. As often happens when I wish for something, the wish comes true only not quite as I imagined.

I had a relaxing few weeks in July and August, but it was an enforced rest as a result of a concussion. For several weeks I took two long naps each day and my activity was very restricted – no reaching over my head, no pulling weeds. Gradually I have been adding activities back into my routine.

You see I stubbed my toe and fell at a friend's house. It was an accident that could have happened anywhere. One moment I was upright and the next I was headed for the ground. As I was falling I thought, "Don't extend your arms or you will break your wrists." Unfortunately there wasn't enough time to also think that I would land on my head.

At first I thought I had just broken glasses and split my lip but soon realized (was told) that I had a concussion, a wrenched neck and perhaps a hairline skull fracture. My wonderful physio, Mary Young, advised that for the best result I should rest. She said it might take up to 12 weeks to fully recover.

I have rested. I consider myself very lucky to be able to take the time to recover. I have thought many times about how hard it would be to heal if I had small children to look after or a job that could not wait.

Needless to say there has been no creative work in the last few weeks and I have had to put my on-line coaching for textile artists program on hold. After sewing, computer work is the next worst thing I can do. Both put stress on my neck and back.

I can tell I am getting better because I am now mildly crabby about the whole thing. I am committed to resting and doing my exercises. However, as I watched Gary moving plants around the garden last week I felt frustrated and a bit guilt ridden. It takes considerable willpower to make my health my first priority. I trust that the benefits will soon be evident.

In the meantime, I am eager to get back to work and I am enjoying the last days of summer. My exercise program requires three short walks each day. It is lovely to be outside. I like walking in my neighbourhood. It is always fun to see the new renovations and landscaping projects.

In the spaciousness of this enforced rest I am also enjoying extra time with Gary. He keeps me company on my walks and we have been exploring some unfamiliar parts of Edmonton. We have found new bakeries and coffee shops, but more important, we have had many good conversations.

I would have preferred a relaxing summer without the pain of a concussion. However, I doubt that I would have slowed down enough to really rest. It is not what I am best at. So with only mild crabbiness I am choosing to be grateful. I have rested. I will recover. Nevertheless, I have decided not to wish for anything anytime soon.

© C O P Y R I G H T   2 0 0 7.  Mary Sullivan Holdgrafer ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.