Struggles

Generosity

There is always something new to learn about people. I had the joy of talking with a friend for a long time today. I knew she had a rough time when she was a child, but she told me about some specific moments that were pretty traumatic. And yet, she is one of the most […]

Taking It Easy

I had a very hard time getting up this morning, even though I went to bed on time and think I slept ok. It was below freezing outside all day long, so we didn’t have anywhere to go and that was fine with me. I barely got dressed and did a little exercising with my […]

Setting My Mind Aright

I have been replaying the events of the last few weeks over and over in my head. I wonder if I could have and/or should have done something different to affect the outcome. I try to remember that I did the best I could and that God is God and I am not. Today I […]

The Great Exodus

The day after my dad’s funeral was the great exodus. I was grateful that my out of town family had stayed for 3 weeks, but it was time for everyone to make their way back home – except for one. I asked my brother if he would stay a few more days so we wouldn’t […]

Spiritual Perspective

My dad had been declining since his big fall on Friday. He ended up back in the ER yesterday. This afternoon I had a conversation with the doctor about decisions that will need to be made regarding his care once we see if or how much he may recover. After our talk I had to […]

Positive Resolutions

My mom and I made it up to see my dad this afternoon. He looked pitiful but got in a chuckle or a smile every now and again. I spoke with the director, caregivers, and his PCP. I was surprised to learn that by law the doors to the courtyards must remain unlocked at all […]

Another Painful Experience

It’s been a rough couple of days. On Friday afternoon, I was able to finally get my COVID booster. Planning ahead, my sister was coming to stay with my mom and I for the weekend. It had just started to snow when she left for her normal 1 1/2 hour drive. Just as my mom […]

Better

I have been dragging the last couple of days – physically, mentally, energetically. Perhaps it’s coming off the holidays. Perhaps I’ve been neglecting to do what I need to take care of myself. I suppose that’s why it seems necessary to make a new year’s resolution. In any case, I resolved to get my diet […]

Overwhelmed

I can all too often find myself feeling overwhelmed. Such was the case earlier today. I thought I was starting the year off on a good path, when a phone call and conversation set me off. When I realized where my emotions were heading, first thing I did was walk away and take a time […]

New Year’s Prayer

A friend shared a prayer for the new year that I thought was fitting and beautiful: Thank you God for giving me.   The brand new year ahead.  Help me live the way I should.     As each new day I tread.  Give me gentle wisdom.   That I might help a friend.  Give me strength and courage.   […]