It’s weird/funny how we sit here and look around and things look so much like normal. Things look like they looked last week . . before Vince’s heart scare. But so much is different. Gradually we’ll return to “normal” but some things may never change. Our eating and exercise habits have to change. Since Vince went to the doctor two weeks ago with the first signs of chest pain, he’s lost 20 pounds. A lot of that happened simply because he’s had two hospital stays that allowed nothing by mouth for several days at each hospital.
Today, I wondered why it takes a life changing event before we do the things we already know we need to do. I guess that’s our nature.
Vince is suppose to walk a little each day so he did that today. It will be a couple of weeks before he can get the cardiac rehab going and he will do that for 12 weeks.
I look back at recent changes around here – Rita’s blindness, Speck’s passing, Vince’s heart issues, retirement coming sooner rather than later, and who knows if we’re staying here or moving on. That’s a lot of change in a short time but . . we roll with the punches and learn to appreciate our eyesight, appreciate life, appreciate our ability to adapt to whatever comes our way and are so thankful that Vince’s heart issues weren’t worse. He did not have a heart attack and there is no heart damage. I’m so thankful that he paid attention to the signs and we went from doctor to doctor and hospital to hospital til he got the help he needed.
Rita
What isn’t normal . . Rita sitting with Vince. She’s been in this position all day. That is so weird because she does not like sitting close to anyone. I wonder if she knows she could have lost him or if she just missed him for the few days he was gone, or maybe she’s just reached that point where she’s trusting us more. Who knows . . whatever it is, Vince is loving having her sit with him.
Teri says
AWWW such a sweet pic of Vince and Rita! Amazing he has already lost 20 pounds, that’s fantastic. Also, through all of this I think you are showing how brave you are Judy.
Sue Edberg says
Judy, this picture is really sweet. I believe dogs can sense when something happens and they respond accordingly. I once had a dog that instinctively knew when something happened. She became calmer and more loving knowing we all needed some extra loving. Rita knew Vince wasn’t home and when he came home things are slightly different. She is giving Vince the love and care that only she can give! The 2 of you have shown fantastic resiliency and is fantastic.
Thank you for sharing so much with us. I am relaying your posts to my husband because I see the same thing happening to him if he doesn’t change his attitude and ways. It is scaring me to death.
Pam says
Vince, his sweetie, and his quilt. Aren’t you glad you finished the quilt?
Here is to a new normal. Hugs to all.
Susan says
I’m glad the outcome is positive and things are already changing for the better.
Liz Rogers says
Keep up the good work. Caring for each other. Liz
Sherrill says
That is a HARD way to lose weight!! But it’s a good start and the trick’ll b keeping it coming off. Hope V behaves. That really is a cute picture. I bet Rita’s catching up on sleep lost while u guys were gone.
Ellen says
So glad Vince is well and making the lifestyle changes to improve his health and his future. Dogs and cats are highly intuitive. My Mom’s cat became VERY clingy and guarded her when she got super sick.
Becky says
So glad Vince is better! Love the quilt and sweet Rita. You take care of them both so well.
montanaclarks says
So glad Vince is OK–so very glad!
Swooze says
Did you get the pictures I sent you a few weeks ago?
Mary M says
To the start of new beginnings!
Erin says
Here’s to a new phase in life may you all be healthy happy and have fun while making the changes! So glad Rita is also a cuddle bug lately! That will help Vince and you!!!
Cindy F says
I’ve just gotten caught up with your unexpected events and so glad to hear all is on the right track!
Teri says
I’m so glad Vince is on the road to recovery….darling picture….
Joyce says
The two of them look good together! Glad Vince is doing better.
Diann says
Glad Vince’s health is improving and it’s just WRONG that men can drop weight so fast but I’m happy for him. Rita is tight w/ Vince and I love that photo. Glad things are working out the right way.
Kathleen says
I’m glad Vince has no lasting damage and is getting better. Here’s hoping for good things to come your way.
Ruth says
Vince looks so comfortable under that quilt and with Rita beside him, you standing near. May you be able to keep near each other for a long time!
Jackie says
So good to hear and see Vince is on the road to recovery. How fortunate that he listened to his body and you both went to get him cared for, most men don’t want to admit something isn’t right and end up having a heart attack. Love the picture.
Nelle Coursey says
Dogs have an instinct that something is wrong and I am sure she is scared because he was gone. Also losing Speck was hard on her as well. She is trying to make Vince better because she loves him and you. This is a great picture!
cassews says
What a wonderful picture !!! Dogs sense things for sure ..
So glad his heart wasn’t injured and they caught it now and can take care of things.. Life does change, attitudes do change after a scare and it makes us all wake up and realize things will never be like they were.
So Glad all was caught and life is now a new normal for you three.
Robin Crittenden says
It’s so sweet seeing Rita with Vince. I wondered how she would do with you and Vince gone for a few days. Animals are very smart and know things are different. We were out of town for 12 days when Ray had Cancer surgery at Johns Hopkins, our 3 cats about had a fit when we came home. They are different. More needy. I know Vince loves having her sit with him. I understand all your trials. Ray had 5 bypasses years ago and he has had many other issues. Life if precious. Everyday I’m thankful for all of it.
I’ve been praying for you both and will continue. Take care of yourself too.
Pam C says
I am glad things turned out like they did. There were a lot of people praying for a good outcome for Vince. Now the hard part begins-lifestyle changes. Best of luck with that.
Pat says
I’m behind on my blog reading so just read about the heart scare. My husband (now 67) had his first heart attack at the age of 46 and his second the following year. He had three stents put in in Dec of 1999. The cardiologist recently told him that there is no sign of damage to his heart. Quite miraculous. Of course, we were in a bad car accident in April of 2016 so have other issues we are dealing with, but we are very thingful for his heart. So, I hope you find this encouraging. Also, dogs are very sensitive to illness…there are even dogs who can warn an epileptic person that they are about to have a seizure. Truly man’s best friend! Sounds like you have both made dramatic lifestyle changes and I’m sure you’ll both be fine. You might want to read up on the benefits of apple cider vinegar. I will be honest and tell you it is some vile tasting stuff, but has so many health benefits.