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| Our Tree |
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| View from our front porch |
Soon there was a knock on the door. Two firefighters told me that there was a gas leak in the street and residents were to be evacuated. Turns out the gas company guys were digging a new line and hit an old one and now they couldn't find the shut off valve!
So, we had to leave and of course, just that minute, Bob had to pee. And couldn't. And the firefighters are getting antsy, pounding on the back door. So I had to hustle Bob out of the house without peeing and to make matters worse it was a "real underwear day" and so I spent the whole time worrying about him having an accident. OK, not the whole time, because I was also worried about Boomer, Zenith and Ripley who were still in the house. I'd asked the firefighters if I could back in to get them and was told no--but that they would be all right in there.
So, we sat outside on the sidewalk across the street for over two hours before they let us go back in the house. One of the neighbors was kind enough to bring me a chair to sit on.
We also met a new neighbor, down the block, which brought up an situation I've not had to deal with in the past, i.e. what exactly do you say, if anything, to someone you've just met about Bob?
It seems awkward, to say the least, to tell them all about his stroke and that he has aphasia, especially with Bob sitting right there. But at the same time, I worry that they'll think Bob rude because he didn't speak, or worse, they'll think he's mentally retarded. I didn't know how to broach the subject, so I didn't and we mainly chatted about what idiots the guys at the gas company were and how many tax dollars were being wasted.
And luckily, Bob did not have an accident.
Well, that's enough excitement for awhile. Looking forward to a, hopefully, calmer week.
5 comments:
Well, that's one way to meet and greet the neighbors. I'm glad it wasn't more serious, and of fairly short duration. Have a good week. Hugs, Dan
Always something, isn't it?
I remember feeling that way for a long time about Geoff (not feeling like I should talk about him in front of him). But, I finally started telling people, "My husband had a stroke and it's difficult for him to speak." It turns out that Geoff didn't care at all that I told people this, and in fact I think he appreciates it. And every single person I've told that to -- waitresses, store clerks, etc. -- are extremely understanding. Many people have known someone who has had a stroke, as it turns out.
Totally agree with Janet. It's amazing when you explain about stroke nearly everyone knows or has heard of someone that has suffered one. You are so strong D. Love, Patricia
I saw on the news about the gas leak and wondered if it was near you, well i guess so! That made for a crazy day. I too am never sure what to say about Tom and his recovery either. I am having some work done on our home and people come in and see some crazy notes around like "sit to pee" on the toilet and "don't go out with out wallet and cell phone" ect..Wonder what they are thinking.... Oh well,
Alice
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