What a day we had yesterday! It was truly a day away from work for me (quite a rarity) as our Spanish friend took us from Barcelona to Algemesi to visit his family! The drive was stunning as we wound our way past rich, lush orange and olive groves, wineries and castle ruins from the 16th century. Our friend is a lively story teller and an avid historian; we are now well informed of the local history! Algemesi holds a festival every year that is now a UNESCO Cultural Heritage activity – looks like an event not to miss. Named the Muixeranga, it pays tribute to local music, art, the Spanish athletics of ‘human towers’ and their patron virgin of health, Mare de Déu de la Salut. I thought it interesting that I would meet her now …..
This patron was the catalyst for a building project in 1550; a Roman Catholic Church that has recently been named a Basilica by the Pope. Whatever your beliefs, the stories etched into this building are enchanting. For example, famous organist Josep Prades i Gallent (1689-1757) was music director, composer and chapel master here, leaving a significant legacy of music and tradition. The architecture and adornment is breathtaking. Just the maintenance and upkeep of such a structure is overwhelming; I can’t imagine the building of it, so many hundreds of years ago. I’ll load pictures of this, if I can figure out how (Randall?).
And finally – the people were true to my perception of this culture and out did themselves as hosts! We had private tours of both the church and the local museum, were treated to traditional paella and sweet treats for dinner, and embraced like family. In fact, our tour organizer at the museum said “there will always be a place for you in Algemesi” and we were made honorary members of our host family. We felt right at home.
So, will the real placebo affect please stand up! I felt great all day – I think. Or just too busy and having too much fun to notice. Or maybe it was the short naps I had in the car going and coming. Or the lack of wheat and dairy. Or the ProArgy9. Or the walking I did the day before.
Today was catch-up and get ready day. Slept in, did the laundry, relaxed sea-side and repacked. The ‘hes’ are currently off swimming before we go to our favorite restaurant for dinner. And today is the day to do the required ‘before’ video and post to you tube …. I don’t really want my inabilities to be ‘set in stone’ but I’m sure I can find the delete button later. Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY9YyfksPGQ.
Hands and feet: Hands feel somewhat stronger today but completely numb from knees down.
Hips, ankles and knees: Joints unusually sore – been walking a lot and in the sand on the beach (with help). Likely a bit more than I’m used to – need 360 stretching tonight.
Gait: Average wobble but feel like I’m walking on sponge – i.e. some rebound sensation with every step.
Fatigue level: Low – feeling very good.
Cognition: Feel mentally tired – would rather not have to think.
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