July 2017 - Valerie Archual

The Funeral Of A Stranger

July 21, 2017 Valerie Archual Comments 5 comments

I’ve been asked by friends on several different occasions to accompany them to events when they needed a last-minute escort. One time it was wedding. Wedding=food+cake. “Sure, I’ll go.” Another time, many moons ago, it was a blind date. Blind date=food+entertainment (for me anyway). “Sure, I’ll go.” If my bosom buddies happen to find themselves in a pickle needing a last-minute companion, if I’m asked, I’ll most likely go. The following was a particularly unusual circumstance… A friend called me…

Discharge, Attack Cats, Gangster’s Secrets, And Other Fun Stories Of A Heart Surgery Patient

July 13, 2017 Valerie Archual Comments 4 comments

Discharge Day When I asked my husband how he felt on my day of discharge, this was his response: “A little scared, unresolved, and confused as well. Actually, pretty close to when we brought home our first baby…” Well thanks…. Good thing I didn’t pick up on that at the time. He camouflaged it very well, thank God! “Let’s get the paperwork started to get you outta here!” Nurse Sherry said in her chipper voice. What I…

Surgery Day And The Days That Followed

July 5, 2017 Valerie Archual Comments 14 comments

It’s the morning of surgery, and our scene opens early in room 619 of the Tudor Arms Hotel. Our protagonist watches as the numbers on the digital alarm clock take their time to slowly change, making 10 a.m. seem unattainable… NOT! Stripped of all my narcissistic dignity, (no makeup, no nails, no toe nail polish, not even a stud of jewelry!) I decided to put what little effort I was allowed into, my hair. Curling it and throwing it up…