mothers

I post today with possibly the worst headache I've had in ages. On Wednesday, as I stood outside at my newly revealed fenceline, I remember a tingling feeling along my legs. I told my mom I thought a bunch of spiders bit me.
I was wrong. I need to learn to distinguish spiders from the first sign of an allergic reaction to poison ivy. Which I got all over my face and neck. And into my left eye, which caused some major congestion. On Saturday at the After Hours clinic, I was given a cortisone shot for the immediate problem, followed by a round of antihistamines and prednisone.
It will get worse every year, or I will get better at recognizing the difference between a spider bite and a reaction. Those are about my only choices.
I'm also writing this at the conclusion of a memorable visit with my mother, who is possibly the neatest old lady I know. For two weeks, she gave me a gentle sorting out. And I liked it. Gardens were weeded, herbs were planted, vegetables and flowers were planted, branches were burned, potting soil was purchased, along with raised beds. Conversations were enjoyed, food was cooked, my kitchen was reorganized for a short person.
Memories were made. My mother even had a few slumber parties with friends here.
I think should have had stayed another week if she hadn't wanted to see the new floors back home (tile and hardwood).
So Friday night, I took her home. Saturday morning, mom and dad drove me to get my shots, and Saturday afternoon I crapped out in the guest bedroom, drugged out of my mind.
And now I'm home. And it's a little lonely. But I am definitely much better sorted out than before. I have my mom to thank for it. So to her and to all the other gentle sorters out there - Happy Mother's Day from those who gratefully accept your minstrations.

--Laura