Down Days

Iowa weather continues to be a roller coaster of variety. A week ago today, it was warm and pleasant weather. However, after more rain, the temps dropped again for the rest of the week. Tuesday through Friday had highs only in the mid to low 60's and lows in the 40's.

On Thursday, I had my monthly hair cut at a place I've been going for years. I ran a few errands, then arrived more than 15 minutes early to my appointment, which is highly unusual. My barber was with another client yet, so my caregiver and I waited up front.

Just above where I was sitting, a ceiling fan was running on a low speed. Even though I was wearing jeans and a long-sleeve shirt, the cold breeze got to me. I had my caregiver grab my coat, but it didn't help much. By the time my barber was ready, I felt like an ice cube and was absolutely miserable.

When I get my hair done, I am usually the only male in the entire place. The beautician I normally use is pretty well always hot and has a fan on. I have concluded some her fellow employees are at the same stage in life where a fan is a constant companion.

I said something about the cold fan upfront and was thankful the ceiling fan in the back where we were was off. My barber responded that it gets so hot due to hairdryers, that they have to keep the fans going. With this revelation, a small older woman setting in the chair next to me gave a look like she had to be kidding.

Thankfully, I left about 45 minutes after arriving and was thankful for slightly warmer outside air. Even the cloudy day with a temp around 60° felt warmer than inside. Unfortunately, the time under the fan had taken it's toll and even after extended time under blankets at home, my temp didn't even rebound up to 97°. Friday was also spent warming and just not feeling great. Saturday was a little better, but still very tired and not feeling right. If I arrive early again and can only be under a fan, I think my caregiver and I will pop outside and wait by a nearby bench.

This weekend is also the time to reflect on the ultimate price some have paid to keep America's freedoms. As the country celebrates its 250th year, we cannot forget that freedom is never free. In some areas of the world, a simple thing like getting your hair cut isn't allowed. Quadriplegics, and other person's with disabilities, are often secluded from society in government run health facilities. They are given the absolute basic of care to maybe survive a few years, if even that long.

Thank you to families who remember their loved one who never came home. I greatly appreciate your sacrifices and will not forget them this week, or any other.