[Deadbug]

Oddly enough, the only thing really hurting is his ego. Fair enough, that's to be expected. I'm sure his teeth are sensitive, but getting him to admit it is another story. I keep getting this manly "Didn't hurt at all" response. I'm not buying it.

I'd taken the entire weekend, going out of my way to compliment him on other things and shine a light on his abilities to soothe his confidence and self esteem. I think it's helping him get through this. Admittedly, I don't know how I'd react to the same traumatic experience. I'd probably curl up in the fetal position and refuse to get out of bed. Though, I have enough common sense not to engage in the same voracious activities that could potentially cost me life and limb. You know... the X chromosome that tends to cross out dangerous activities.

At some point, he'll see the dentist today and we'll know the extent of damage and his options. Unfortunately, it's not going to be an instantaneous fix. I'm hoping the damage is minimal and we're just looking at implants.

I am slightly moved by the poignant fact that I've reached the age where nothing surprises me anymore. My reaction to the whole event was more of a calm "Oh! Ok." 10 years ago I wouldn't have taken it in stride like I do now. Instead, I could easily picture me making a big deal out of the expense of it all, thus, making him feel even worse. With age comes wisdom, I suppose.

I'm rather convinced that middle age evokes some sort of regression in men. Their inner man pressures them to prove themselves in deeds and tasks their bodies just aren't capable of handling anymore. It's a sense of denial that leaves the rest of us scratching our heads, biting our lip, and hoping for the best possible outcome. We can't stop them from doing something they really want to do. With my dh, it was sudden. Almost as though someone had left a wild animal out of it's cage and it's now on a uncontrollable rampage. I fully understand the mental crisis. I, myself, have gone through one as well. But instead of jumping off of cliffs and engaging in activities that could potentially cost me my life, I bought a Porsche, a new wardrobe and a package deal with a plastic surgeon to rebuild what life tore down.

I'm still shaking my head.