I asked over on instagram (@stroke and mirrors and @theBenRM respectively) for guidance on what to write. I mentioned life is pretty ‘boring’ now with: work, rehab, sleep, reading, rugby and health all just existing. I was asked by a friend to elaborate on them all so here.

Work

I’m 6 months in to my new role, still adore it, the place is amazing (please note I don’t ever state where I work), it’s big enough to keep me busy and engaged but small enough for me to show my skills, build a reputation and feel like I belong.

I get the feeling I’ll be there for a long time to come.

Rehab

Still mostly self guided although I might be getting a little bit of nhs support soon but I’ll not hold my breath.

I see my neuro physio S2 alternate weeks, we message constantly and he’s able to target specific things I want (eg moving quicker) and encourages me when I ask to do something out of my physical range.

I continue with my soft tissue therapist monthly too, I’d love to see J1 more frequently but time / money.

Sleep

I’m managing the fatigue side so much better intact I’m often very early for work which is unheard of, ever.

I am having some trouble getting to sleep but my mind is constantly running, add silence and it goes more. One big help recently has been that I’ve really cut down on my beer intake. I’d realised I was drinking beer to sit, alone, in peace at night time often deep in my thoughts and those things shouldn’t go hand in hand. I’m allowing 2 nights a week, no wine, just low strength beer, I feel better rested for it too.

Reading

Since Christmas I’ve really fallen back in love with reading. I really miss the tactile feel of holding a book and turning pages but a touch screen kindle works neatly with one hand.

I’m reading after work, in bed at night, when I wake up on weekends. I don’t think I’ve read this much in my adult life.

I’m currently on the final book of the Wayward Pines trilogy which I somehow stumbled in to.

Having a kindle means I can load up books to read in the future too. Current queue:

Infected 2008, which I initially read around its release, a graphic alien body snatcher sci fi thriller.

Lovecraft, the complete collection. I’m not sure I’ll love it but it’s been on my radar so long I feel I have to try. I’m told I will hate some racial undertones but enjoy the weirdness. I’ll update in the future.

Rugby

Training is back. Dark, cold nights on a Friday should not be spent outdoors but I don’t make the rules. First session back I was a bit rusty and found myself getting a bit frustrated and sweary (at myself) then having to calm down and apologise to my team mates. It’s rare my mask slips like that but I’ll own my actions when it does.

Matches start in April, I’m hoping nicer weather will have arrived by then. More consistent players and plays with the team should help us this season. It’s nice to be back with my boys.

Health

Without tempting fate, I’m pretty ok at present things are holding well, I feel ok,

Misc

The background things I can’t discuss still rumble on.

Driving is still a no go until the summer unless the dvla perform a miracle.

We’ve got a few breaks and holiday type things planned.