A Red Letter Day

Ruby Laden Down With Groceries and Such...

Today was an exhilarating day!

I've spent several of the past years housebound a lot of the time and very dependent on others whenever I've needed things from the 'outside world'.

When it became very difficult to climb the stairs leading out of our previous apartment, the world became a much smaller place.

Recently we moved to a suite without stairs and it has become possible for me to take my motorized scooter, Ruby, outside. Today was the first time I ventured out on my own to the small shopping centre a few blocks away.

It probably sounds like a small accomplishment for someone in their early 30's who has already lived a full life! I'll try to explain a bit why it is a huge step for me...

You know how in some suspenseful movies there are scenes at amusement parks or parades where the director is trying to convey confusion, huge crowds are shown and everything is really noisy? There are usually lots of lights - some bright some dimmed - and usually things are filmed sort of Topsy-turvily.

Since I've been having neurological issues, that is sort of how my brain feels all of the time. I think that is why I I find it less tiring to communicate by email than on the phone. So, to drive alongside the noisy traffic on the very busy road we live on was an intimidating prospect. Even watching for cars along the driveways and street corners takes a lot of extra concentration for me.

I had the rubber grips from Ruby's handles imprinted on my palms when I finally arrived...I had been holding on to her for dear life! People in vehicles are in such a hurry, they seem loathe to wait the time it takes for me to cross the street, so I have to be very attentive.

But, it was so worth it! The feel of the warm sun on my face, and the breeze in my hair! Getting to leisurely peruse everything in the grocery store... Finding a darling little neighborhood bakery with home-made curry chicken pasties someone brings in, fresh-made pizza dough and chocolate eclairs!

I am so thankful for Ruby. The streets are quite hilly and some spots are under construction so they are horribly rocky. Even though she isn't meant for much outdoor riding, she has handled beautifully. When we got back home I felt as if I should give her some carrots or sugar cubes as a reward, but sadly I know such things mean nothing to her. I guess I will just recharge her batteries.

I had my camera with me to take some pics of neat things I saw along the way, but I ended up deciding I had better pay attention to the traffic. I will take pictures of the surroundings another time for another post...

I'm thankful to R and F2 for walking with me to the mall when they were here as that made it a little less scary today. Now I am excited to get out again and have more independence during these beautiful summer days!

Have you done anything lately that scared you?