I finally go to make my first trip to our little cottage in almost a year. It was amazing. As soon as my mind registered that we were getting in the car to go to the cottage, an instant feeling of calm and peace came over me. Just the feeling of heading out there stimulates a sort of restorative healing mental process. That little shack truly is our haven as a family. All 850 square feet of it up on a hill top with a small area of lake frontage on a clear, spring-fed naturally occurring private lake. Pure heaven.

We pulled up to the little driveway and I could see the clear blue water with fish swimming and birds hanging out. I could see our old pontoon boat with a faded yellow biminy waiting for us. Our little jet ski was also hanging out waiting to be ridden. Our used power boat froggy was also there waiting for us. I knew I wasn’t allowed to swim yet but nothing gave me more joy than watching my family and pets swim together. It just felt so good just to be there. Nothing else mattered.

We had simple hot dogs for lunch and I could almost taste them. That was amazing. My taste still hasn’t fully come back yet but every day I am getting closer. My mouth no longer feels like it is covered in some kind of dull film that blunts everything. It no longer hurts to swallow every bite and drop. All wins.

I actually made it up our steep hill about twelve times today. That was pretty amazing too. I am not saying that I didn’t get out of breath at all, but I made it. That was the point.

I actually took a power nap today. You know one of those naps that only lasts 45 min to an hour and is supposed to completely refresh you. Well I can tell you right now that I never believed in them nor found them refreshing but guess what, I had one today and it was amazing.

I know am getting repetitive but every step toward normal life is such a blessing. I will never forget where I’ve been and what I have been through but I am thoroughly enjoying each little step that I am able to master and each inch I creep toward normal life. Staying blessed and grateful. Take note of the little things in life. You never know how long they or you will get to stay.

Dr. Katz