Cutting Remarks
Inertia can be defined as “the state of being inert; inability to move or act”. This perfectly describes my own state for the last month as well and is responsible for the dearth of posts here. I apologize for being a bad blogger but I have a good reason: On June 19th I’m embarking on another course of spinal surgery. More extensive than the one I had a year-plus ago, this one will again involve my lumbar area but include the installation of titanium rods, among other wince-inducing niceties. I put off my neurosurgeon for over a year but after enduring new and different pains in both my lower back and legs, and trying a number of remedies, I had to face facts. I’m sorry that my blogging duties have been derailed but I seem to need lots of time these days for just, er, being … visiting with friends and family and just plain resting before the big day. Unlike my other surgery, which I approached with virtually no trepidation, this one truly looms large in my mind. I ask your indulgence as I take this time before the date.
—O-O—
Post-surgery, the recovery period could be extensive; I might not post again for many months.
I’m pleased to know that even though I haven’t posted regularly for the last few weeks there are still a steady stream of readers stopping by. Some for current posts and some for posts now years old; some for posts that have taken on a life of their own with more than 10,000 views each …
There are over 500 posts in the archives so if you need to read something Rancho while I’m away, have at and leave a comment. To send a personal email use reubix@earthlink.net; to send a card, a good luck charm or a slim volume of naughty limericks (illustrated, please), my address is 4380 Isabella St., Riverside CA 92501.
I’ll see you when I get back — Reuben
o x o
Rancho Reubidoux 
Reuben, best wishes to you for a speedy recovery.
I appreciate it, Rebecca. Thanks! 😉
Good luck with your operation !
Thanksamillion, Gwen! 😉
So you are the one who bestowed the “inertia” virus upon me! I have every hope the surgery will be succesful and you will be back to your ususal peppy self. You have suffered tremendously for a long time now. Best of luck!
Ugh, inertia’s got me in its grip for sure! Thanks, Patty, from one survivor to another, your good wishes mean so much! 😉
Bill and I are always thinking of you and, you know, I’m only a stone’s throw away so, if you need anything, please call me… even if it’s just to chat. And, on another note, your surgeon has a great reputation so, I know you’re in good hands.
So sweet, thanks WF … you just might get that call! 😉
I do feel your pain. As I too have had the dreaded back surgery. Ugh get well soon and do try to walk…
Thanks so much, Paulette, I pledge to get on my feet as soon as I can! 😉
I’ll be sending good vibes often….
I value your vibes, and you know that, Guida! Thanks 😉
Aye yai yai…thank you for letting us know and the best of wishes for a successful surgery! (I’m sure your mailbox will be overflowing with entertaining things soon)
I appreciate it, Loree … thanks so much! 😉
No worries,,,regarding the posts, or lack therof,,,hope your surgery is successful and a speedy recovery. Thanks for the post (old) and link regarding
Tios Tacos in downtown Riverside…went there with hubby and WHAT A PLACE,,,so unique,words can’t describe the amount of “stuff” to look at and all made from recycled refuse….a MUST SEE !!!!! Pretty good food, and great margaritas!!!
Thanks, Debbie … I love Tio’s Tacos so much I fear it will “jump the shark” and tip into self parody. Here’s hoping it stays as good-trashy as ever, forever! 😉
Best of luck!Keep only positive thoughts in your mind.. it will help! (really, it will!) Also keep your sense of humor..”black” humor is highly okay too. Looking forward to your speedy recovery and return to blogging.
MMMmmm, black humor! Thanks, Cheryl, for the good wishes. I will use them 😉
We’ll keep you in our thoughts. I’m sure Paul and the pups will take good care of you!
Hi, Nancy, thanks! … They will do their best I’m sure; all too soon it’ll be back to me taking care of them again! 😉
Take care of yourself and I wish you the best. You are very brave! I wish you a speedy recovery and a pain free life. My Mom suffers from chronic spine pain and although I am not actually feeling her pain, to see her suffer is very difficult.
Thank you very much, Dana! I appreciate your comments and wish your mom the best. Reuben
First: all best wishes and super-strong SoCal mojo to you for a swift-as-possible and easy-as-possible recovery. You’ll be in my thoughts. Second: thanks so much for this great and inspiring blog — and for blog archives! Last,but not least: thanks for mentioning the recent Gates Cactus and Succulent Sale. I went, I bought, and the new ocotillo and agaves are doing well. Take care, rest, get better, and we’ll look forward to reading you when you’re ready.
Luisa, thanks for taking the time to leave such a sweet comment. I’m happy to have a reader like yourself! R 😉
Hey Reuben — good luck with the surgery. Maybe after this you will be like the $6 million dollar man? You and Jaime Summers can go play tennis together!
Here’s hoping, Dave — Now I’m gonna hear that shuddering sound effect every time I move today, thanks! 😉
Enduring some lower back pain myself these days, I can sure sympathize. Wishing you a successful surgery and quick recovery, Reuben.
Thanks so much, Pam! 😉
Good thoughts and prayers for you from Costa Rica. Living with pain each day can really take it’s toll on a person. Before too long you’ll be back up and around arranging and re-arranging things in your rancho
Now is the time to sit back and enjoy all the beauty you have created over the years.
Wishing you a very rapid recovery and as we say here…..”Pura Vida”.
You’re very sweet, Val. Thanks! 😉
I’m looking forward to seeing you with titanium-infused strength and energy. We all send our love and best wishes to our dear brujo of the Rancho. And Paul and the pups too.
From your fingertips to de Lawd’s earbuds, Denise — A multitude of thanks!
We have your back! (in our thoughts) After the surgery, mend quickly! Something you’ll enjoy to take your mind off of it: anslivingpictures: http://www.ansgroupeurope.com/ (Click on the 4 links under “Product Range.”) –John
Thanks, JR! for the good wishes and the cool pics 😉
Thinking of you.
Thanks, I appreciate that! 😉