2017-02-14 – Shaking for the camera.

Card – check!  Flowers – check!  Chocolates – check!

Okay, I’m ready for Valentine’s Day.

I am determined to start filming my “DBS on/DBS off” video today.  Even so, it’s mid-afternoon before I have decided upon the shots I am going to take, cleared the dining table and set up the camera and tripod.  I turn my DBS off and start shaking for the camera.  I try mapping my tremor again, trying to draw a straight line (freehand, with no support to my hand or arm) alongside a ruled line, then I try drawing a spiral (again, freehand, with no support to my hand or arm).  I produce a sample of my handwriting, and then attempt my signature – both are appalling!

DBS off and DBS on - drawing a freehand straight line
DBS off and DBS on – drawing a freehand straight line

I switch my DBS back on again. Phew!  What a relief!

DBS off and DBS on - drawing a freehand spiral
DBS off and DBS on – drawing a freehand spiral
DBS off and DBS on signature
DBS off and DBS on signature

I repeat the previous exercises with the benefit of a couple of volts of electricity and, although my handwriting isn’t great and my signature is a scrawl, the difference is absolutely amazing.  I had been noticing some tremor breaking through in my right arm and my left leg this morning – this really puts it all into perspective.

DBS off and DBS on handwriting
DBS off and DBS on handwriting

I clear the filming paraphernalia out of the way, and then the dog takes me out for some exercise.  The day has passed in a flash, and I really don’t feel that I have done very much.  I have done something, though, and that’s the main thing.  I split some logs, fill the log basket and lay the fire for this evening.

I chill the champagne, wrap the chocolates and wait for my wife to return from work.

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