A teeny, tiny land snail.
You’d think since the snail was sitting still, I’d be able to get a nice clear photo – but you’d be wrong. I bent as low as possible and couldn’t keep the camera from jiggling slightly. I used the non-shake setting on the camera. I used both the macro and non-macro modes. I tried putting the camera on the ground but then the angle was too low to get a good view of the snail’s head. Nothing worked to my satisfaction.
sigh
Part of the problem is that my left leg no longer bends the way I want it to, and if I try to force it, it locks. When not bent, it simply hurts.
I told all this to my prior family doctor, and his response was that I’m just too fat and should join a gym. I told him I can’t afford a gym. His reply was perhaps I could hire a personal trainer. Really? And he wonders why I changed physicians.
My new doctor listened, examined my very swollen leg, and sent me for a dopplar study, which showed some circulatory issues. An ultrasound which had been done previously showed arthritis in the knee. Combined, these problems make it difficult, and painful, to go out walking with my camera like I did not all that long ago. I suspect any underlying problems increased when I was rear-ended at a stop light a few years ago.
It’s a bit of a Catch 22 – walking would help with the weight gain and mobility issues, but the pain keeps me from walking more than a very short distance.
Fortunately, my new doctor understands, without making snide comments. He recommended compression stockings. When I explained that I had tried those before and found them extremely uncomfortable and difficult to put on and off, he suggested zippered compression stockings. I didn’t know there was such a thing!
The stockings work! I’m still not out jogging, but at least I can move around a bit more. It’s amazing how much the pain has been reduced in that left leg.
Now if only that doctor can find a way to help me take better photos of tiny outdoor critters.
By the way, I “boosted” this photo on YouPic, and it has now become my highest “liked” photo, even beating out my deer pictures:
That little turtle was only about an inch in diameter and was sitting on a branch about six feet from the bank of the pond. I always thought that shot turned out well, despite the lighting problem on the shell. I especially love the reflection in the water. It’s good to know others think so, too.
For those of you who prefer “pretty” pictures, I offer a new shot of Lathyrus (Perennial Sweet Pea) that I found hanging near the snail:
If the weather is nice wherever you are, get out and enjoy it. I intend to.
__________
I love to hear from my readers. You may comment on this post, comment on my Facebook or Twitter pages, or email me at cordeliasmom2012@yahoo.com
__________
Images by Cordelia’s Mom/TeddyRosalieStudio
Cordelia's Mom, Still 
Sorry about the leg, but glad the stockings help. Great pictures.
LikeLike
Thanks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Zippered ones – now that’s really an improvement for so many. Glad they help.
(I like the turtle reflection – but also his neck and expression. It is a cool image)
LikeLike
Thanks you. I always loved that photo and couldn’t understand why everyone else didn’t. Maybe because people don’t like reptiles or amphibians?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your snail photo might be slightly out of focus, but it’s still good – and the turtle photo is a treat. I like the sweet pea too. I haven’t been taking photos like I used to – not quite sure why. I’m glad you have a new doctor that is less judgmental and more professional, doing what a doctor is supposed to do. My daughter was telling me about an article she read yesterday about how some people’s bodies are meant to be heavier, and how very few people that diet don’t regain the weight in a relatively short period of time. It’s a conundrum.
>
LikeLike
My old doctor was not only somewhat judgmental, I think he was fairly incompetent. He told my husband he had a “muscle strain” when, in fact, it was a ruptured appendix. That was the final straw. As for the weight, as long as I feel well most of the time, I don’t worry about it. And when I feel well, I’m able to get out and do more.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am so glad that you now have a doctor who listens and actually cares 💜💜
LikeLike
So am I. That last doctor also wouldn’t treat my high blood pressure, and that’s how I wound up in the hospital. The new doctor got me on medication right away.
LikeLike
I can’t understand the attitude of some doctors they think they are God! ….tin pot god’s maybe! Keep well! 💜💜
LikeLike
Thanks, Willow. You keep well, too!
LikeLike
Hugs 💜🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am so glad to hear that you’ve found a new doctor who listens to you all the way through, CM, not one who immediately tries to shove your story into his easy and always read template of explanations. May the zippered compression socks lead to better and better comfort and health!
Your, photos, I think, always rock.
And this Maryland Terrapin will fall for the turtle every time.
Have a great week.
LikeLike
Thanks, Mark. If only those stockings could make me younger, but I’ll take what I can get.
LikeLike