BS: 42 on D-day WW: 43 on D-day Together since '89; still working on what tomorrow will bring. D-Day v1.0: Jan '17; EA D-day v2.0: Mar '18; no, it was physical

It Hits a Little Different This Year

We are about a week out from the anti-versary of D-day v1.0 and in the thick of when Mrs. Cap was hot & heavy with her AP.

Last year, I don't recall thinking that much about any of it. However, a year ago, I was only a couple months out from nearly dying from a staph infection and having spent 2 weeks in the most expensive all-inclusive resort in Flagstaff (that would be the Flagstaff Medical Center for those playing along at home).

Somehow, my mind kept that away from me last year as I was working on learning how to simply live again. I was told that I was a Type I diabetic and would have to take insulin 5x daily the rest of my life (fun story...a year later and I'm not only NOT Type I, I'm not even diabetic), I was taking blood thinners to get rid of the clot the staph had caused in my heart, and I had only recently finished my 8-week round of antibiotics that I had to inject 3x a day through a PIC line in my right arm.

Needless to say...my mind was definitely busy elsewhere.

But this year, it has hit a little bit differently. I'm more aware (though not exactly moved emotionally) of what happened 7 years ago. I don't exactly dwell on it, but these days, my work and commute take me past several of their meet up places every day.

Time has caused a callous over the emotional blisters that were fully raw 7 years ago. Whether that's time by itself or the combination of all the work that has gone on over the years, it's simply better.

Over the years, many of you wonderful souls have helped center me, smacked me with 2x4s when needed, and even spent some time with me at my favorite establishment at 20th & Blake in Denver. To you all, I say a hearty "Thank you!" I certainly wouldn't have made it to where I am today without each and every one of you.

That even includes you, Unhinged.

Yes, it does hit a little different this year. Not worse...just different.

Hopefully those of you who are in those early years (and yes, it does take years...there are no shortcuts) can take solace in this: it can be better.

Whether you go the R or D route, better is possible. Take care of yourself. Take care of your kids (if you have them). Take to heart the collective wisdom of SI. And most importantly, take what you need and leave the rest behind. Not all the advice is perfect for your situation. But there will be some REAL pieces of wisdom that will aid in the healing process.

Hold on tight. It's a wild ride!

9 comments posted: Friday, December 29th, 2023