Adventure Awaits
With only the birds chirping around the cabin as the soundtrack, on this foggy morning, I'm sitting here curled up in warm blankets staring at the outline of the blue ridge mountains from a large picture window. I can see a hint of orange on the large trees that surround the property, as the seasons begin to change. This is what my soul needed. A peaceful adventure 9 hours from where I call home. Let's talk a bit about how I got here...
At 9 month's post-surgery, I am still feeling drained. I work a stressful job, I am dealing with a physical set back with my residual limb and my personal projects are not getting as much attention as they should. With my wedding anniversary approaching, my husband and I both were looking to get away. We knew our options would be limited with us still in the middle of a pandemic and my need to bring too many medical devices and medications to count. We decided it would be best to drive somewhere so we could fill the car with whatever we needed. We weren’t sure what my pain level would be throughout the trip so we chose a cabin where we could relax in front of the fire if I was hurting too much to go exploring. Asheville, NC was an easy choice with it's bohemian laid back vibe which spoke to me.
The packing...Anxiety kicked in a full 4 days out. What If I forgot something important?! Was I crazy to think I was ready to travel? My heart raced as I thought about ruining the whole trip because I didn't remember to bring everything I needed. I laid out what seemed like a million outfits to try on, knowing I would only end up actually wearing a handful. I needed to know what I could comfortably fit around my prosthetic. There were grunts and curse words flying, I even fell over a few times trying to get pants on. Then I began making piles of; yes, maybe, no. A few days later, I finished my selections and stuffed my carry on and arm bag full to the brim with options. I counted out my daily meds and set aside my alcohol spray bottle that I use to slide on my silicone liner. My husband loaded up the trunk and back seat with my wheelchair, shower chair, walker and crutches.
After a long scenic drive uphill, we finally arrived. The cabin was cozy and had everything we needed and more. Including a chilled bottle of Biltmore Estate Vineyard Pinot Grigio awaiting us in the fridge. While unpacking it hit me... I. FORGOT. THE. CHARGER. I'm not talking cell phone charger... I forgot the charger for my LEG! This is exactly what I was worried about. I drenched my sorrows in a glass of wine realizing I would have to drag my leg all over town like a zombie or spend the whole trip in the wheelchair. Eventually, I shook off the disappointment and remembered I had 5 days to spend in this magical place and I was not about to waste it being sad about a charger. If you are on the fence about taking a trip as a new amputee or while recovering from something, I encourage you to take the leap. And if you forget an essential item, work with what you have and make the best of it.
