Was at the Center at 7:30 yesterday morning hoping to get blood work done via the port, but it wasn’t meant to be. Access was made through veins in the arm, much to everyone’s dismay. It had to be done. Maybe by Thursday things will be better.
Due to the recent parking problems and missed appointments I received an approved application for a Handicap Parking Placard for the car. I was surprised and shocked that I would even be eligible for one of the things. This reality (my new disability) is taking a long time to sink in. I can’t help feeling ashamed that I should have to use one.
I know, I know. I need to get over that. This is my present and probable future. Like it, or not. I drove out to the DMV and picked it up. I drove back to the beach staring at the thing on the seat beside me feeling very depressed. At least I won’t have trouble parking at medical facilities anymore.
Then friend Jeffery sent a text yesterday afternoon (co-worker and friend; drove me to and from hospital for the port surgery in April) suggesting we meet for lunch today. His one weekly day off during the season. I was flattered that he’d want to share part of the precious day in my company, so I immediately said, “yes!”
 |
| The Pork Flatliner! Any questions? |
Of course, dining in town was out of the question with crowds and parking at a premium, so we opted for the sister of one of the restaurants outside of town. This one is on the Coastal Highway and, unlike her in-town sibling, open for lunch every day.
Rather than having him fight traffic in town to pick me up, we decided to meet at the restaurant, which turned out to be best for both of us.
The place was busy. Seems other locals had the same idea because we ran into quite a few folks we know from town who were either at the bar, or in the dining room enjoying a non-frazzled lunch break. And, of course, the 2 flat screen TV sets were tuned to the World Cup and the bar was rocking. Who’da thunk it?
It was great fun. Jeffrey and I caught up on our news and his recent eastern European holiday. Aside from my riveting medical experiences there was little for me to share, so he did most of the talking. That was fine with me.
Lunch was a fine time, too. We each tried new items on the menu - time to move out of the comfort zone for a day - and each enjoyed a “flight” of 3 new micro-brews along with it; in three 4 oz. glasses. Why not go whole hog with the new stuff, I always say. Well, I do.
We munched, laughed, rattled, and hummed for 2 hours. Time went quickly, it felt like a half hour. Fortunately, the staff know we’re restaurant folks, too, taking a summer breather, so while attentive, they didn’t bother us.
We parted as he made his way to meet other friends to watch the USA vs Belgium match this afternoon. Mercy! The World Cup fever has invaded the gay community of Rehoboth Beach and things may never be the same. Still, I like this football much better than the American version, so I guess it’s a win-win all round.
Jeffrey wanted me to join the group (mostly co-workers from Dos Locos) but my energy isn’t very high and I have to be careful in large groups and crowds, so I begged off. It would have been a festive, gay old adventure any other time…but not until I’m well, again. Still, it was good company, took my mind off that damned Handicap placard, and a chance to get out of the house again. Any port in a storm, I always say…
And so it goes.
*
yes, you need that card. but only use it for the hospital. put it in your glove box and fuhgettaboutit until the next medical procedure. love you!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you had a fun lunch.
ReplyDeleteBest,
Calvin
Commiserations on USA's exit from the World Cup. Must have been especially galling to have come at the hands/feet of tiny Belgium (Tee hee!) - though this time your team managed to get much further than dismal's England's did, so reason to hold heads high..
ReplyDeleteAh, looks like the Pickled Pig had a busy afternoon that included you and your party. Well done. Good food, sir.
ReplyDeleteE.S.