Kip’s Comments - April 1, 2024

The Limits of Brotherly Love

Due to preventable circumstances I am looking at a third shoulder surgery in the next weeks or so. I had a hunch cutting and slicing might be coming again, but was hoping to not hear those words. When my orthopedic surgeon said them, I became frustrated, angry, and disappointed. That this entire process was preventable irritates me almost beyond limits. That my paddling this spring and summer may be in jeopardy is so very disappointing.

For some time my other brother Darrell and I have been planning a canoe trip to a new lake (to us) in the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness area. Unless we plan to only hike, paddling canoes will be necessary. Such an activity will be difficult, at best, with my arm in a sling. Knowing I may have serious limitations, I gave Brother Darrell a call to advise him of my situation. Without hesitation Brother Darrell agreed to paddle my sorry carcass in the BWCA if that was needed. What a guy! What a friend! Our trip remained on the calendar and the day started looking up.

As we discussed things, I reminded Brother Darrell that if I was lame, not only would I not be able to paddle much - if at all, but that I might need other help. Again, Brother Darrell was accommodating. But, such caring and helpfulness suddenly ended when I mentioned I will likely need assistance with hygiene issues. After all, I am right-handed and that will be my healing side. So much for Brother Darrell’s “no limits” assistance so we can go paddling!

So, I guess I learned the limits of brotherly love. Brother Darrell will paddle my lazy self around, but hygiene help will be a no go. Hopefully healing comes quick or things could get ugly.

Today’s photo has nothing to do with paddling or the outdoors. Time was limited so I worked a “high key” composition of one of Kristy’s orchids.

Blue Moth Orchid - Image 870544