I’ve been having trouble with my right arm. The one I do everything with. It’s super convenient.
I saw a doctor who thought it was carpal tunnel, so I got a brace, wore it as often as possible, and put on a happy face through the pain. Which got worse. The aching became so severe that I finally swallowed my pride and took a (non crazy person forming) pain-killer. I did this every morning for three days, and nothing. It hurt when I kept it still, moved it, used it, didn’t use it.
You’re sick, baby? Take two of these and go clean your room. “Do nothing” my foot. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Side note: I was told by doctor to try not to use it. Umm, I have three children. You try not using one of your limbs, without it being physically restrained, and let me know how that works out for you.
The other day, the pain was in full force. At one point I looked like I was saluting someone because I was desperate to find a position that didn’t hurt. But, like any parent, there was work to be done. I can’t just not do things. So I made coffee, prayed, took an Aleve, and tackled the day, which included, but was not limited to:
- Dishes
- Laundry
- Baths for the minions
- Vacuuming the rugs
- Vacuuming cobwebs in the basement
- Purchasing items for the Girls Ministries Christmas party at my church
- Sweeping the living room, kitchen, and basement
- Organizing the entire laundry area
- Prepping meals
This all happened before nap time, when the following conversation ensued between me and Goo:
Goo: Mommy, where does your arm hurt?
Me: All over, on the inside, from my wrist to my shoulder.
Goo: The whole thing?
Me: Yup, the whole thing.
Goo: I wish my arm hurt, too.
Me: Why would you want that?
Goo: So I could do nothing, like you get to.
*She’s just a kid. She doesn’t know better. What you’re thinking right now is illegal in all fifty states.*
Me: *Hug* Mommy actually did a lot today. Remember how busy I was, and how much I did to take care of you?
Goo: (flippantly) Oh, yeah. I guess.
…
If those words were uttered by anyone over the age of 6, there would have been dire consequences. And some say parenthood is a thankless job.
