Well, here we go. I've made my lists and keep checking them, twice and thrice. Kay is going to be picked up at 10:00ish this morning, so my first priority is getting everything together for her. We found a wonderful facility here in Anacortes that will take care of her while we're out of town.
I can't believe that Tim and I will be on plane tomorrow morning and that we'll be away for a full week! The morning schedule as of late has been difficult. Just getting her out of bed, fed and changed is a struggle. I pray that all goes well today. I have a feeling that once the "transfer" happens I'll come home and take a wonderful nap.
So, this is what's happening...Tim and I are flying to AZ to share Thanksgiving festivities with my sister and her in-law family and then meet up with friends and drive to Mexico to relax and play. As much as I'm looking forward to getting away, it's still an odd feeling. The house is quiet at such an early hour but I know that things need to happen soon to get ready. Packing count down.
Big breath, hot tea, oatmeal for me and away we go. Kay will be taken care of, well! Another big breath.
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Dangerous Sport of Lavender Trimming
Greetings and salutations once again from the chapters of Blog, it has been a long time since we posted anything here. We have been using email for all of our updates regarding Mama Kay and our situation, but Sarah and I have agreed that we will start blogging our updates again and let folks seek out the info instead of forcing it upon your email. Check us out whenever you feel inclined, we will try to post more often so you will have something new to read.
Why the strange title for this post, you may ask? Well Sarita had a bit of a tumble this past Sunday while trimming the Lavendar in front of our house, and lost a battle with the large yard waste recycle bin. She sustained a large gash on her forehead that required many layers of stitches and gave us quite a scare, to say the least! After a couple of rough days of misery, she is doing much better and should have the stitches taken out tomorrow. The dual shiners look pretty cute now that the swelling has gone down a bit. Photos will be posted later...maybe? Be careful out there people, it's a jungle! You may want to consider wearing a helmet next time you do any yard work. Ya never know!
Why the strange title for this post, you may ask? Well Sarita had a bit of a tumble this past Sunday while trimming the Lavendar in front of our house, and lost a battle with the large yard waste recycle bin. She sustained a large gash on her forehead that required many layers of stitches and gave us quite a scare, to say the least! After a couple of rough days of misery, she is doing much better and should have the stitches taken out tomorrow. The dual shiners look pretty cute now that the swelling has gone down a bit. Photos will be posted later...maybe? Be careful out there people, it's a jungle! You may want to consider wearing a helmet next time you do any yard work. Ya never know!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Whirlwind of curly hair
It's been a while since I last posted a note. I just don't seem to have the right words to write all of the time. Or the time, for that matter. Wait a minute...I have plenty of time, I just don't use it well.
Before I decide to delete this, I'll write a brief summary of the week. We had a visit with my niece. She stayed with us for a week +. Her name is Paige. She will be three years old on 7/23 and has the most amazing curly, blond hair. The delight in her eyes for simple things reminded me to enjoy simple pleasures. Paige and Grandma Kay had wonderful conversations together. It was sweet to watch. I imagined Kay as a caretaker and mom. That is a part of her that I never knew. Wait another minute...she's still a caretaker and a mom!
My youngest sister just told me that she is pregnant and I'm fighting the battle between being happy for her and being jealous at the same time. I want to be a mom some day. I just can't take care of a mom and be one at the same time.
I'm reeling from the energy of a little one running through the house. It felt good! I miss her.
Before I decide to delete this, I'll write a brief summary of the week. We had a visit with my niece. She stayed with us for a week +. Her name is Paige. She will be three years old on 7/23 and has the most amazing curly, blond hair. The delight in her eyes for simple things reminded me to enjoy simple pleasures. Paige and Grandma Kay had wonderful conversations together. It was sweet to watch. I imagined Kay as a caretaker and mom. That is a part of her that I never knew. Wait another minute...she's still a caretaker and a mom!
My youngest sister just told me that she is pregnant and I'm fighting the battle between being happy for her and being jealous at the same time. I want to be a mom some day. I just can't take care of a mom and be one at the same time.
I'm reeling from the energy of a little one running through the house. It felt good! I miss her.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Random thoughts about something or nothing
I'm going bowling this afternoon with my mom. She's picking me up when the respite caretaker shows up. I look forward to fish and chips and a chipped, twelve pounder to throw in a gutter. We'll have fun!
My next random thought brings me to a parking lot. I pulled into my space with precision (there was a bird sitting outside of the right boundary line) and got out of my car. I assumed the bird flew away as any bird would do seeing something as unnatural as a car coming their way. A man started walking towards my car, like a hungry cat. I didn't know if he was looking at the perfect lucky penny or a diamond ring or if I had a flat tire that he was inspecting. He had this quiet look in his eyes as he slowly, slowly leaned down and trapped the bird with his big hands. The bird chirped in confusion and the lanky hero put her in the bushes and proceeded to go into the store. I applauded silently and smiled. I witnessed someone gently saving one of God's creatures. You don't see that on the news everyday!
Hmmm...last but not least...I think I'm going to get those mop socks. You just put them on and slide around the floor. Yep...why not spend that stimulus payment!
My next random thought brings me to a parking lot. I pulled into my space with precision (there was a bird sitting outside of the right boundary line) and got out of my car. I assumed the bird flew away as any bird would do seeing something as unnatural as a car coming their way. A man started walking towards my car, like a hungry cat. I didn't know if he was looking at the perfect lucky penny or a diamond ring or if I had a flat tire that he was inspecting. He had this quiet look in his eyes as he slowly, slowly leaned down and trapped the bird with his big hands. The bird chirped in confusion and the lanky hero put her in the bushes and proceeded to go into the store. I applauded silently and smiled. I witnessed someone gently saving one of God's creatures. You don't see that on the news everyday!
Hmmm...last but not least...I think I'm going to get those mop socks. You just put them on and slide around the floor. Yep...why not spend that stimulus payment!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Welcome Monday!
I'm glad it's Monday. Tim worked Friday and Saturday which is unusual and I was thrown off schedule. I've become a bug of routine lately. Now it's a new week and I know what dish towel to use!
Kay and I went to the church on Friday for a "Young at Heart" luncheon. One of the couples just recently came back from a dream trip to Israel and had a slide show with a beautiful sound track. Kay sang through the entire show. It was a little distracting for me but the people at our table didn't seem to mind. One of the couples we sat with had fond memories of sharing time with Waldo in Alaska and visiting Kay and Waldo in Mexico to help build a church. Bill and Jan/Jean (?)...I'm glad I didn't call her by name because I was pretty sure it was Betty.
Then comes the Friday date night. Tim was rushed getting off work but we were able to go out for dinner and then...wait for it...we went grocery shopping. We were a little crazy too, because we didn't even bring a list!!! I tell you, sometimes it feels good to be wild.
Let's see what this week will bring.
Happy Monday!!!!
Kay and I went to the church on Friday for a "Young at Heart" luncheon. One of the couples just recently came back from a dream trip to Israel and had a slide show with a beautiful sound track. Kay sang through the entire show. It was a little distracting for me but the people at our table didn't seem to mind. One of the couples we sat with had fond memories of sharing time with Waldo in Alaska and visiting Kay and Waldo in Mexico to help build a church. Bill and Jan/Jean (?)...I'm glad I didn't call her by name because I was pretty sure it was Betty.
Then comes the Friday date night. Tim was rushed getting off work but we were able to go out for dinner and then...wait for it...we went grocery shopping. We were a little crazy too, because we didn't even bring a list!!! I tell you, sometimes it feels good to be wild.
Let's see what this week will bring.
Happy Monday!!!!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Crazy lady in pajamas and two saints
First of all, let me tell you that we had a wonderful visit with friends this past weekend. Our house was filled with the smell of tacos and the delightful sound of laughter. Heidi and Don were the friends that introduced Tim to me. They were married on May 2nd. Finally!
Now, the pajama story. Tim left for work at six a.m. as usual. He kisses me goodbye...I go back to sleep. At seven a.m. I hear a knock at the door. It's too early for the Jehovah's Witnesses! Panic sets in. With morning eyes and tangled hair, I jump out of bed trying to tell myself that I'm not crazy and this isn't just a dream. Rub the eyes...go to the door...passing Kay's bedroom...she's not there! I know what's coming. Our quiet, sweet neighbor was at the door asking me if I knew that Kay was down the street. No!!!
Out the door I go. (I've been up for twenty seconds!) Slip on shoes...coat on...PJs on. I found her. I saw her fall trying to pick up a leaf. Now the saint comes in. Some angel stranger stopped her car in the middle of traffic, rolled down her window and asked if we needed help. All the ferry traffic was rolling by and she just stopped! Some commuters might have been upset, but I'm now thirty minutes awake, in my morning garb, on a sidewalk, trying to get Kay up. She was tired from her walk, but I am thankful for the quick knock on the door and the stopping of traffic to check for help. I would have slept through a nightmare.
All is well now.
Sarah~
Now, the pajama story. Tim left for work at six a.m. as usual. He kisses me goodbye...I go back to sleep. At seven a.m. I hear a knock at the door. It's too early for the Jehovah's Witnesses! Panic sets in. With morning eyes and tangled hair, I jump out of bed trying to tell myself that I'm not crazy and this isn't just a dream. Rub the eyes...go to the door...passing Kay's bedroom...she's not there! I know what's coming. Our quiet, sweet neighbor was at the door asking me if I knew that Kay was down the street. No!!!
Out the door I go. (I've been up for twenty seconds!) Slip on shoes...coat on...PJs on. I found her. I saw her fall trying to pick up a leaf. Now the saint comes in. Some angel stranger stopped her car in the middle of traffic, rolled down her window and asked if we needed help. All the ferry traffic was rolling by and she just stopped! Some commuters might have been upset, but I'm now thirty minutes awake, in my morning garb, on a sidewalk, trying to get Kay up. She was tired from her walk, but I am thankful for the quick knock on the door and the stopping of traffic to check for help. I would have slept through a nightmare.
All is well now.
Sarah~
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Date night
What to write? Hmmm. I don't want to gross anyone out. I'll spare some details!
Let's see...Tim and I had calamari and oysters last night. Yum! Every other Friday we have the chance to "do something". A respite caretaker comes in for three hours. (Actually two hours, after we update her before we leave and she updates us when we get home.) We don't have enough time to drive to Burlington to return a two year ago purchase, but it's nice to be able to get out...together...alone.
The last Friday we had the chance to get out, we had dinner and walked it off by climbing the stairs of the old Majestic hotel. There is a little room at the top called the crow's nest. You can see all of old town Anacortes. It's very peaceful...after you catch your breath.
I enjoy sharing time with Tim. It's easy to lose yourself in the daily routine, whatever that routine is. I forget that it is not that difficult to change the routine. Maybe, we'll go somewhere else to eat next date night.
Sarah~
Let's see...Tim and I had calamari and oysters last night. Yum! Every other Friday we have the chance to "do something". A respite caretaker comes in for three hours. (Actually two hours, after we update her before we leave and she updates us when we get home.) We don't have enough time to drive to Burlington to return a two year ago purchase, but it's nice to be able to get out...together...alone.
The last Friday we had the chance to get out, we had dinner and walked it off by climbing the stairs of the old Majestic hotel. There is a little room at the top called the crow's nest. You can see all of old town Anacortes. It's very peaceful...after you catch your breath.
I enjoy sharing time with Tim. It's easy to lose yourself in the daily routine, whatever that routine is. I forget that it is not that difficult to change the routine. Maybe, we'll go somewhere else to eat next date night.
Sarah~
Monday, April 7, 2008
Brain Food
I think I'll renew our subscription to Smithsonian magazine. We'll just have to keep a lexicon near the toilet!
I'm feeling a little un-educated and/or under-stimulated these days. I never went to college, but I can recite almost every line of Little House on the Prairie episodes. I can sing Happy Birthday in harmony with Kay. I make a mean grilled cheese sandwich. I know three names of candidates for the presidential race but only because they are talked about on day time talk shows. I know that gas prices are high and my house needs to be cleaned.
My mother's father, after dropping out of school in the sixth grade to tend to the farm, educated himself by reading Reader's Digest. I never met him. He passed away when my mom was eighteen. From what I've heard, he knew vocabulary and how to use it. I have a difficult time knowing when to use who or whom or a coma verses a ;
I loved learning when I was in school to become a massage therapist. I never read the required reading, but I learned by watching and listening and doing. I want to learn and know more about everything, however that takes place.
I look forward to helping my children with their history lessons. Okay, I'll try helping with math and English! I look forward to learning again!!!!! Spanish lessons, perhaps? Guitar?
I'll start with reading the new Smithsonian issue. Maybe, I'll learn something about prehistoric fish or land mines in countries I've never heard of or photographers who are well known, but nobody knows. Maybe, just maybe, I'll learn something fantastic about the corn fields in Iowa.
I'm inspired to get my lexicon...and a map.
Sarah~
I'm feeling a little un-educated and/or under-stimulated these days. I never went to college, but I can recite almost every line of Little House on the Prairie episodes. I can sing Happy Birthday in harmony with Kay. I make a mean grilled cheese sandwich. I know three names of candidates for the presidential race but only because they are talked about on day time talk shows. I know that gas prices are high and my house needs to be cleaned.
My mother's father, after dropping out of school in the sixth grade to tend to the farm, educated himself by reading Reader's Digest. I never met him. He passed away when my mom was eighteen. From what I've heard, he knew vocabulary and how to use it. I have a difficult time knowing when to use who or whom or a coma verses a ;
I loved learning when I was in school to become a massage therapist. I never read the required reading, but I learned by watching and listening and doing. I want to learn and know more about everything, however that takes place.
I look forward to helping my children with their history lessons. Okay, I'll try helping with math and English! I look forward to learning again!!!!! Spanish lessons, perhaps? Guitar?
I'll start with reading the new Smithsonian issue. Maybe, I'll learn something about prehistoric fish or land mines in countries I've never heard of or photographers who are well known, but nobody knows. Maybe, just maybe, I'll learn something fantastic about the corn fields in Iowa.
I'm inspired to get my lexicon...and a map.
Sarah~
Friday, April 4, 2008
Colorful Oscar R. I. P.
We said goodbye to our friend Oscar on Wednesday this week. It seems a little odd that you can develop a connection with a Beta fish, but we seemed to have bonded with the little guy in that peculiar human/pet sort of way. He liked Sarah way more than he liked me! When she came up to his bowl and said his name, he would waggle those fins and swim around in full flowing Beta splendor. When I poked my mug over the rim he would take that fight posture with the flared out gills and swim around the arena preparing for battle until I would sprinkle a small peace offering into his turf and he would decide to let me live another day.
We're not really sure what led to his demise...too many marbles in the bowl, too few? Too many drops of special Beta water treater, too few? Too much food? Not enough food? Too hot? Too cold? Wrong type of water plant? We just don't know!! And you think a fish is a low maintenance pet...think again. Sorry we let you down buddy! We'll try to do better next time. Live and learn. Sleep well Oscar...we miss you!
We're not really sure what led to his demise...too many marbles in the bowl, too few? Too many drops of special Beta water treater, too few? Too much food? Not enough food? Too hot? Too cold? Wrong type of water plant? We just don't know!! And you think a fish is a low maintenance pet...think again. Sorry we let you down buddy! We'll try to do better next time. Live and learn. Sleep well Oscar...we miss you!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Easter Sunday
I can't sleep. Thoughts race through my mind. A cup of tea might help. Mmmmm.
Good Easter Morning! Of course, it's an odd hour, but worth greeting. The wind is beating against our windows reminding us of God's power and strength. My cat just attempted to jump on my lap reminding me of her power and strength...or lack there of at the ripe old age of fifteen! I seem to relate to my cat better sometimes. I'm tired,too.
How tired Jesus must have been, hanging on the cross. I can't imagine.
I can't imagine the anguish and burden of everything that led up to His ultimate sacrifice. I don't have bible verses or amazing speeches. I am just filled with awe.
I am filled with amazing grace!
God bless you all! HAPPY EASTER!!!
Sarah~
Good Easter Morning! Of course, it's an odd hour, but worth greeting. The wind is beating against our windows reminding us of God's power and strength. My cat just attempted to jump on my lap reminding me of her power and strength...or lack there of at the ripe old age of fifteen! I seem to relate to my cat better sometimes. I'm tired,too.
How tired Jesus must have been, hanging on the cross. I can't imagine.
I can't imagine the anguish and burden of everything that led up to His ultimate sacrifice. I don't have bible verses or amazing speeches. I am just filled with awe.
I am filled with amazing grace!
God bless you all! HAPPY EASTER!!!
Sarah~
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Weekend Get Away
Good morning! I am slowly waking up. I have my morning cocktail of Breathe Easy tea warming my belly and coating my throat. Tim and I have both been fighting the "crud". Other than a hospital stay for Kay, she seems to be the healthy one around here. Funny, isn't it? We are blessed with her ability to bounce back and stay healthy.
Tim and Kay had quality time together this past weekend. I went to Vashon island with my Aunt for an art workshop. What a hoot! The first day we collected leaves, branches, bark, etc. and pressed images using five different colors. My neck ached from bending over and looking down. The second day was making a collage with the prints. I have to say...I was pleased with my finished piece of art. It felt good to be artsy fartsy! You can view some pieces at www.briggs.typepad.com/workshop One of my creations was May '07. It's the one with the simple green leaf print in the middle.
We stayed at the Betty MacDonald Farm, established in 1949. Betty MacDonald is the NW author of "The Egg and I". Have you seen the movie or read the book? If you ever want to get away...check this place out. There is a fully furnished, cozy, quaint cottage with views of Mt. Rainier and eagles in the trees. I guess you could say it's rustic. Creaky floors, wood stove, fresh eggs (you cook) in the morning, claw foot tub, books, games, you name it. Don't count on room service but once you're in you feel like you could stay in your PJs forever! Movie in, hot cocoa, feet up....aaah. Sleepy time. We only stayed one night, but it felt like I had been away for days. http://www.bettymacdonaldfarm.com/
Anywhoo, it was good to get away and good to get home. Tim and Kay survived without me. Sometimes it's a nice reminder to get over myself. The grass was mowed, the lavender pruned, laundry cleaned, cat fed...smiles all around. Thank you, Tim!
Tim and Kay had quality time together this past weekend. I went to Vashon island with my Aunt for an art workshop. What a hoot! The first day we collected leaves, branches, bark, etc. and pressed images using five different colors. My neck ached from bending over and looking down. The second day was making a collage with the prints. I have to say...I was pleased with my finished piece of art. It felt good to be artsy fartsy! You can view some pieces at www.briggs.typepad.com/workshop One of my creations was May '07. It's the one with the simple green leaf print in the middle.
We stayed at the Betty MacDonald Farm, established in 1949. Betty MacDonald is the NW author of "The Egg and I". Have you seen the movie or read the book? If you ever want to get away...check this place out. There is a fully furnished, cozy, quaint cottage with views of Mt. Rainier and eagles in the trees. I guess you could say it's rustic. Creaky floors, wood stove, fresh eggs (you cook) in the morning, claw foot tub, books, games, you name it. Don't count on room service but once you're in you feel like you could stay in your PJs forever! Movie in, hot cocoa, feet up....aaah. Sleepy time. We only stayed one night, but it felt like I had been away for days. http://www.bettymacdonaldfarm.com/
Anywhoo, it was good to get away and good to get home. Tim and Kay survived without me. Sometimes it's a nice reminder to get over myself. The grass was mowed, the lavender pruned, laundry cleaned, cat fed...smiles all around. Thank you, Tim!
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Confusion
It's quiet now. It wasn't when Tim was ushering Kay to the bathroom. He's sleeping with her and I'm on the couch. Well, I was. She is very confused. She is confused about wearing her pink slippers. She is confused about how to walk from carpet to a hard wood surface. It's kind of cute, really. Like a show pony, she lifts her knee high and steps over the line. I mean that with the utmost respect!
She is confused about sitting on a porcelain bowl filled with water. She is confused.
Let's just see how confused she is later this morning when toasted English muffins are adorned with egg and crab! I think Kay will rise to the occasion.
Signing out and back to the couch I go...
Sarah~
She is confused about sitting on a porcelain bowl filled with water. She is confused.
Let's just see how confused she is later this morning when toasted English muffins are adorned with egg and crab! I think Kay will rise to the occasion.
Signing out and back to the couch I go...
Sarah~
Friday, February 29, 2008
Kay's back!
Well, we're back! It's been awhile. I don't feel the need to summarize the whole previous month. Other than the opportunity for Tim and I to go to Phoenix for a weekend, things have been pretty normal. Oh, and we started a relationship with a respite care facility which provides 11-12 hours a month so we can get out and about. We're still getting things smoothed out with scheduling, but it will certainly help.
Then we come to this past Monday evening. For those of you who haven't heard the story, I'll get you up to speed. For those of you who have been informed, I'll try to summarize.
Tim and I were alarmed when Kay complained of a sore right foot. We investigated and found that she certainly had swelling, redness and extreme tenderness. Kay does not usually complain about discomfort. Tuesday I took her to see the doctor and he confirmed that it was indeed cellulitis, just as we guessed. Antibiotics were administered and prescribed. Wednesday morning Tim was leaving for work and Kay was not responding well and was unable to get out of bed. She usually is up and about at odd hours and early in the morning. I let her rest and called the doctor. He was concerned and recommended that she be taken to the ER. The redness was spreading and weight bearing was impossible. In come the paramedics and away we go. I'll spare you the details of my frustration of sitting in the lobby being over looked because when I was finally let in I found Kay alone behind a curtain with the IV tube in her hand, dripping, not in her arm!
She was admitted after several hours. She was very lethargic and slept the day away as her body was trying desperately to fight this infection. It had spread at an alarming pace reaching towards below the knee. Thursday morning I was happy to find her sitting up, eating and being her ornery self. For the rest of the day she was in and out of sleep which was to be expected. Tim and I visited this morning to find out, "someone stole the back of this thing!" (Her gown). She wants to go home and I think that is a possibility. We were able to walk her to the bathroom...that is a good sign. I'll be visiting again at lunch time and try to connect with a doctor that shows up whenever, prepared with a bag of clothes.
Until we speak with someone with answers I won't have any more information. Prayers are requested and appreciated for today and the days to come.
I just got a call from the hospital...gotta go. The doctor is in and Kay's ready to strip that gown!
It is now 3:00pm. We are home. Apple juice down. Sound of Music on. Sleepy time on the couch, yep! Tim bought some crabs to boil and movies to watch so we're going to hunker down, crack claws and figure out who's going to sleep on the couch tonight and listen for movement. Kay has been complaining and giggling...so she's back!!!
Sarah~
Then we come to this past Monday evening. For those of you who haven't heard the story, I'll get you up to speed. For those of you who have been informed, I'll try to summarize.
Tim and I were alarmed when Kay complained of a sore right foot. We investigated and found that she certainly had swelling, redness and extreme tenderness. Kay does not usually complain about discomfort. Tuesday I took her to see the doctor and he confirmed that it was indeed cellulitis, just as we guessed. Antibiotics were administered and prescribed. Wednesday morning Tim was leaving for work and Kay was not responding well and was unable to get out of bed. She usually is up and about at odd hours and early in the morning. I let her rest and called the doctor. He was concerned and recommended that she be taken to the ER. The redness was spreading and weight bearing was impossible. In come the paramedics and away we go. I'll spare you the details of my frustration of sitting in the lobby being over looked because when I was finally let in I found Kay alone behind a curtain with the IV tube in her hand, dripping, not in her arm!
She was admitted after several hours. She was very lethargic and slept the day away as her body was trying desperately to fight this infection. It had spread at an alarming pace reaching towards below the knee. Thursday morning I was happy to find her sitting up, eating and being her ornery self. For the rest of the day she was in and out of sleep which was to be expected. Tim and I visited this morning to find out, "someone stole the back of this thing!" (Her gown). She wants to go home and I think that is a possibility. We were able to walk her to the bathroom...that is a good sign. I'll be visiting again at lunch time and try to connect with a doctor that shows up whenever, prepared with a bag of clothes.
Until we speak with someone with answers I won't have any more information. Prayers are requested and appreciated for today and the days to come.
I just got a call from the hospital...gotta go. The doctor is in and Kay's ready to strip that gown!
It is now 3:00pm. We are home. Apple juice down. Sound of Music on. Sleepy time on the couch, yep! Tim bought some crabs to boil and movies to watch so we're going to hunker down, crack claws and figure out who's going to sleep on the couch tonight and listen for movement. Kay has been complaining and giggling...so she's back!!!
Sarah~
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Take a deep breath
I'm calm now.
Kay has been walking around (4:30am), lounging on the couch, turning on the lamps, opening the freezer. Opening the front door! In a way...she's a great alarm clock. Why should I complain?
When I was a little girl, a man from our church made an "anger/resolution parrot". I think his name was Leroy. The man, not the parrot. Basically, before you lost your temper, or say things you'd regret, you would rock this wood cutout and it was perfectly balanced so it would take a long time before it stopped rocking. The intention was...wait, and take a deep breath before you act. Take time to think about what you want to say. Think about how your words or actions will affect the other person. By the time the parrot stopped rocking, my bother and sisters and I were too bored to fight.
I've taken a deep breath.
I'm ready to remind Kay that she HAS eaten in the last three days. (Very well!) I am ready to explain, again, that nothing is going on down the street, around the corner or "over there". I am ready to take on this day. I pray for patience and understanding.
Sarah
Kay has been walking around (4:30am), lounging on the couch, turning on the lamps, opening the freezer. Opening the front door! In a way...she's a great alarm clock. Why should I complain?
When I was a little girl, a man from our church made an "anger/resolution parrot". I think his name was Leroy. The man, not the parrot. Basically, before you lost your temper, or say things you'd regret, you would rock this wood cutout and it was perfectly balanced so it would take a long time before it stopped rocking. The intention was...wait, and take a deep breath before you act. Take time to think about what you want to say. Think about how your words or actions will affect the other person. By the time the parrot stopped rocking, my bother and sisters and I were too bored to fight.
I've taken a deep breath.
I'm ready to remind Kay that she HAS eaten in the last three days. (Very well!) I am ready to explain, again, that nothing is going on down the street, around the corner or "over there". I am ready to take on this day. I pray for patience and understanding.
Sarah
Monday, January 7, 2008
Empty nest syndrome
Often times I wonder...what will our life be like when Kay isn't living with us anymore. Will I have to get a job? Will I clean more? Cook better? Will Tim and I remember how to be newlyweds? Will I ever be a mom?
Then the feeling of guilt seeps in. I realize that I use Kay as an excuse to do, or not do, so many things. It's not fair to her. I get upset when she sleeps on the couch all day and then I get upset when she does get up and attempts to help in the kitchen by moving dishes around in a method that doesn't suit me. Who will I blame when I can't find a past due bill or a magazine article? Who's fault will it be that I'm not taking better care of myself or get the laundry put away? These are all valid questions. All of them have a very simple answer...I'm just scared to admit it.
I love Kay. She's the only mother-in-law I've got. She brought Tim into this world and greeted me with a Texas hug the first time we met. She giggles from the depth of her belly when I fake a hiccup. Her eyes light up like a little girl when I bring her ice cream. She sings and claps her hands at Hallmark commercials, or Taco bell commercials. She greets everyone with a smile...anywhere! Her middle name is "Go".
Whether she knows it or not, I have been truly blessed. The lessons I have learned were not intentionally taught. Kay has been and will always be a true caretaker.
Then the feeling of guilt seeps in. I realize that I use Kay as an excuse to do, or not do, so many things. It's not fair to her. I get upset when she sleeps on the couch all day and then I get upset when she does get up and attempts to help in the kitchen by moving dishes around in a method that doesn't suit me. Who will I blame when I can't find a past due bill or a magazine article? Who's fault will it be that I'm not taking better care of myself or get the laundry put away? These are all valid questions. All of them have a very simple answer...I'm just scared to admit it.
I love Kay. She's the only mother-in-law I've got. She brought Tim into this world and greeted me with a Texas hug the first time we met. She giggles from the depth of her belly when I fake a hiccup. Her eyes light up like a little girl when I bring her ice cream. She sings and claps her hands at Hallmark commercials, or Taco bell commercials. She greets everyone with a smile...anywhere! Her middle name is "Go".
Whether she knows it or not, I have been truly blessed. The lessons I have learned were not intentionally taught. Kay has been and will always be a true caretaker.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
A distinguished gentleman, a tear, and smiles
So, here it goes...HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
I hope everyone had pleasant holidays!
I had a date tonight with my parents. I missed being with Tim, but he gave me a "free card". Thank you, Sweetie!!! Guess who we went to go see. My brother-in-law, Vernon Nicodemus. What a singer!!! Center stage, top shelf, and engaging. He really was the most distinguished man on the stage and he gave me a wink when we were applauding in the balcony. I might be biased or delusional. The concert was great and I enjoyed the time that I spent with my mom and dad. (By the way...the first time I met ANY of Tim's family was at a choral concert that Vern was singing in.)
Ruth, my mom, and I cried. The music was moving. Bernie, my dad, reminisced about...well, whatever! (He might of cried, too.) I smiled and wiped my tears. And, we all enjoyed watching the gentleman center stage and listening to wonderful voices all around! Beautiful and breath taking!!!
I hope everyone had pleasant holidays!
I had a date tonight with my parents. I missed being with Tim, but he gave me a "free card". Thank you, Sweetie!!! Guess who we went to go see. My brother-in-law, Vernon Nicodemus. What a singer!!! Center stage, top shelf, and engaging. He really was the most distinguished man on the stage and he gave me a wink when we were applauding in the balcony. I might be biased or delusional. The concert was great and I enjoyed the time that I spent with my mom and dad. (By the way...the first time I met ANY of Tim's family was at a choral concert that Vern was singing in.)
Ruth, my mom, and I cried. The music was moving. Bernie, my dad, reminisced about...well, whatever! (He might of cried, too.) I smiled and wiped my tears. And, we all enjoyed watching the gentleman center stage and listening to wonderful voices all around! Beautiful and breath taking!!!
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