October 14, 2012

White Dog sat with me as everyone else napped this afternoon. This was not by any means the Sunday we had planned but Steve's continued back issues and Quinn's restlessness called for a quiet day of no stress and LOTS of relaxing calm.

The Little White Dog of My Heart and I watched as the shadows stretched inside through the windows and we listened to the leaves skittering down the street. The neighborhood quiet (Balloon Fiesta ended this morning and most head out of town by early afternoon) and gentleness of the late afternoon felt like the world understood the need of the WDA to hide way.

Steve is the "doer" of things in our house and to have him out of commission meant we either did without today or improvised. It is amazing how adaptable we really are when we have to be. Even Michael, normally pretty self absorbed as teens and those with autism can be, rose to the occasion offering help on things you don't think about until it hurts to do...like bending down to gather dog bowls for filling or taking Quinn out to handle "business."

The WDA totally understood the situation. They supervised and nursed Steve but knew to give him extra space when moving around. They gave extra love but in ways that did not require Steve to lean or bend down to acknowledge their kindnesses. Mostly they were just there...beside him, resting at his feet, showing their support but making no demands.

Tonight Steve is feeling slightly "looser." He has promised the White Ones a short walk. We will use the heat massager right before bed and he will take another round of  the ibuprofen he has kept up all day.

The true test will be tomorrow, his late night of teaching...10 hours at school might be a challenge but we pray not a setback. A slow Sunday out of time might have provided just the rejuvenation those muscles needed...at least that is our hope.