You are looking at my 87 year old mom's broken ankle. Not very pretty, very painful and she would be upset if she knew that I am blogging about her misfortune!! This week has not been very good for mom and last week was even worse; as that was when the accident happened! In a nutshell she tripped and fell in the house. The doctor says she will need to sport this style-less boot for about 3-6 weeks at best. And will need to use a wheel chair when not in bed. At age 87 you do not heal as well as someone much younger....so recovery will be slow.
OK! So, here's the deal. Because mom is laid up and can not take care of herself and my father (remember him? He is 90 years old!) it has fallen on my sister and I to take turns over at their house to help them. I have taken the day shift and my sister stays during the night. My poor mother cannot even get out of bed on her own and so therefore is totally reliant on us. This also means that meals need to be prepared so, I am doing the dinner shift and my sister prepares breakfast.
My father has become quite the character in his old age and thanks to his sense of humor, I am holding up better than expected - under the pressure of trying to take care of a many times difficult and demanding mother - who when well can try the patience of Job let alone when she is under the weather. He is a bit of a snitch and never misses a chance to tell on someone.
The other morning, my sis forgot to put the eggs in the pan to boil and instead just boiled the water. Well, he didn't know that there was a monitor in the kitchen as well as in mother's room. So, he shuffled over to her room and he told mom what happened. He did not know that every word could be heard in the kitchen as they were having a good laugh at my sister's expense. Another day he went to mother's room and pointed at her saying "Old lady I hope you never get out of that bed!" I said "pop that is not nice" he turned around and told me that he is enjoying all the attention and having us around. He is also enjoying all the great meals he is getting! Today, I made a delicious chicken stew, (pollo guisado con arroz) with white rice, sweet plantains and french bread. Well, he sat down to eat and I went on to feed mother in her room. When I came back to the dining room. He looked at me very seriously and told me that he did not like his dinner and that it did not taste very good. When I walked over to him and looked at his plate it was totally clean and the chicken bones looked like someone had bleached them.....he gave me a sly look and began laughing.......he then said dinner was "beautiful and delicious"........
I find myself reciting the Serenity Prayer on a daily basis and at the same time looking forward to each day and the new adventure that awaits me in the life of my parents. Many people would not take on the responsibility of caring for their ailing elderly parents. It is hard, thankless and grueling work. I say thankless not to be mean.....what I mean is that they are not even aware of what we do sometimes and almost expect the care we provide. It doesn't occur to them that most elderly wind up at nursing homes. As long as we can provide the care, our parents will never have to worry about ending up in a nursing home with strangers around them. But, I will admit at the end of the day, I go home and really enjoy my glass of wine; as I soothe my weary soul and tired body......... know what I mean? Got to love them..........lol
About Me
- Angela Zechinato
- Viera, Florida, United States
- Living the Florida Lifestyle with my husband Max and enjoying my life with 2 furry poodles Sissy and Missy who I call my children. My human children are all grown and on their own. I am a proud grandmother of 5. We live in Sunny, Central Florida in a gorgeous house on a lake. I am blessed to have overcome my abusive upbringing and have decided that it is time to write about it to help others who experienced the same physical and emotional abuse. This Blog is dedicated to those who have remained silent!!
Thursday, August 04, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Yellow Cake and Fresh Oranges!
It's been said that as your parents age the roles between them and their children change. The children start behaving like the parents and the parents start behaving like the children. Suddenly you find yourself speaking differently to them because maybe their hearing has changed or their eyesight is faltering. At times you have to speak more slowly in order for them to understand what you are telling them. Telling them a story might take a little longer because of all the interruptions and all the questions they ask. It actually gets to be quite comical when you consider it's your parents you are dealing with. The ones that raised you and were the pillars of strength; the ones you always looked up to, were now looking up to you!
My parents are in their late 80's and I can honestly say that I am truly enjoying them more now than ever. Keeping in mind that the parent/child relationship while I was growing up, was absolutely awful and memories and my past will remain as such as I have no desire to rehash them. All of the forgiving has taken place and besides with my parents being in their 80's, they really don't remember too much so what's the point. They are very different now from the way they used to be. Now, when I stop by to visit them, they are like little kids because I hardly ever visit them empty-handed. For instance, mom loves to play scratch off lottery tickets. So I buy some for her and surprise her. Or maybe I stop by the grocery store and call her to ask her if she wants or needs anything. Due to their age, getting out and about is very difficult.
My focus is to bring them "goodies" they would not otherwise purchase for themselves. They live on a fixed income and mom tends to be very frugal. What's funny is that when I stop by, dad is usually in the bedroom and comes right out to see what I brought for him. He has quite a "sweet-tooth" and although he has to watch it due to his health, that doesn't stop him for craving cake, cookies and fruit. My philosophy is that at age 89 he should be able to eat whatever he wants within reason. This week I decided to make them a plain yellow cake and I also had these gigantic oranges the size of grapefruit that I knew they'd love. My dad is always amazed at my timing. Mom has just fixed him a cup of coffee and here I had cake for him. He says that I have ESP which I do because I always seem to know when he has a taste for a treat.
And just like two little kids they starting arguing about how many oranges each would get. And by the way, as I was leaving my dad said that he's been having a craving for coconut cookies. So guess what I'll be taking them on my next visit!
My parents are in their late 80's and I can honestly say that I am truly enjoying them more now than ever. Keeping in mind that the parent/child relationship while I was growing up, was absolutely awful and memories and my past will remain as such as I have no desire to rehash them. All of the forgiving has taken place and besides with my parents being in their 80's, they really don't remember too much so what's the point. They are very different now from the way they used to be. Now, when I stop by to visit them, they are like little kids because I hardly ever visit them empty-handed. For instance, mom loves to play scratch off lottery tickets. So I buy some for her and surprise her. Or maybe I stop by the grocery store and call her to ask her if she wants or needs anything. Due to their age, getting out and about is very difficult.
My focus is to bring them "goodies" they would not otherwise purchase for themselves. They live on a fixed income and mom tends to be very frugal. What's funny is that when I stop by, dad is usually in the bedroom and comes right out to see what I brought for him. He has quite a "sweet-tooth" and although he has to watch it due to his health, that doesn't stop him for craving cake, cookies and fruit. My philosophy is that at age 89 he should be able to eat whatever he wants within reason. This week I decided to make them a plain yellow cake and I also had these gigantic oranges the size of grapefruit that I knew they'd love. My dad is always amazed at my timing. Mom has just fixed him a cup of coffee and here I had cake for him. He says that I have ESP which I do because I always seem to know when he has a taste for a treat.
And just like two little kids they starting arguing about how many oranges each would get. And by the way, as I was leaving my dad said that he's been having a craving for coconut cookies. So guess what I'll be taking them on my next visit!
Labels:
adult/child relationship,
aging parents,
sweet-tooth
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Complicated Grief :Also Known as Prolonged Grief Disorder
Many years ago, I worked as a Family Service Counselor for a major Cemetery/Funeral Home Company. My job was to help families make final arrangements for the funeral and burial of their loved ones. From the minute they walked into our facilities, I was responsible for everything from supervising how their loved ones were "waked" to arranging of the type of graveside service requested. My job was to make sure that everything was done as specified and to make sure that the families were not inconvenience in any way. After the burial, I also helped in the bereavement process. By that I mean that if counseling was needed, I helped the families find the appropriate agencies. Everyone mourns in their own way!
When a loved one dies, there is a natural process of grieving that takes place. One of the worst things that can happen to anyone, is to have to bury a loved one be it a child, parent or spouse. And with each situation, the process varies. What I mean is that if we lose a parent who has been aged and in ill health, the loss is great but might not be as traumatic as the loss of a child; young or older. Nobody wants nor should have to bury a child. However life isn't fair and it happens. Sometimes we lose a spouse and again the grieving depends on how long the illness or whether it was sudden or due to aging.
In every instance the level of grieving varies. Many of us are able to move on from our loss within a certain amount of time and many times we are unable to move on period; while others are unable to get on with thier lives without great difficulty. What determines what is the right amount of time to grieve a loss? Is there a time clock that goes off and says alright enough of this, get back to your life and shake it off? I know that sounds a little harsh but I say that to make a point.
I have not been immune to loss as I have helped my own son bury his beautiful wife at the young age of 28 in 1997. My older brother lost a son the following year to violence. And last June, I received that dreaded phone call that my handsome, talented 27 year old Nephew was found deceased in his condo. As traumatic as this was to me, the level of pain and suffering experienced by his loving parents was no comparison. He was my younger brother's oldest son of two sons.
It's important to point out that my brother is a well known Senator in the state of Illinois and to protect his privacy, I will leave it there. He spent most of his career working in his community to help protect the young and doing all within his power to help everyone who sought him out. How was he to know that his background and experience would in no way prepare him for the brick wall of suffering he would crash into.The amount of grief and pain that he and my beautiful sister-in-law would encounter was unbearable then and still is today!
I know it's been 9 months and maybe it's time to get over it and on with their lives-right? Wrong!!!!!!
Over all these long months, my dear brother has been stuck in the limbo of the worst grief and suffering and physical pain anyone could ever be expected to tolerate. He has talked, cried and talked some more until he had no one else who would listen. After awhile most people unable to deal with this type of grief, became uncomfortable whenever he called or went to see them. FAMILY included! The average person is totally unprepared to help someone who is "stuck" in this hell! As his older sister, I am feeling so helpless at not knowing how to help him and it's killing me to feel his sadness! My fear has been that he would not be able to survive this and that the next phone call would be about his death. This thought has haunted me for months!
To his credit, he recently sent me a text telling me to google a paper that the Mayo Clinic wrote about Complicated Grief. Now, there was a name for what he was experiencing and also treatment! After all these months, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and a tremendous sense of hope!!! He is getting medication and whatever help he needs to get out of this hell which has kept him a prisoner for too long! He knows that I will be there for him no matter how long it takes and he will always have a sounding board in me. The important thing is that he is seeking a way out of his pain and suffering and for that I am very proud of him!
If you or a loved one is "stuck" and unable to move on from the loss of a loved one, maybe this might be of help. I am including the link to the Mayo Clinic paper. Please share this with everyone you know. This article is comprehensive and lists symptoms and what to do to get help.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/complicated-grief/DS01023
There is treatment and hope to help people with complicated grief come to terms with their loss and to help them reclaim a sense of joy and comfort.
When a loved one dies, there is a natural process of grieving that takes place. One of the worst things that can happen to anyone, is to have to bury a loved one be it a child, parent or spouse. And with each situation, the process varies. What I mean is that if we lose a parent who has been aged and in ill health, the loss is great but might not be as traumatic as the loss of a child; young or older. Nobody wants nor should have to bury a child. However life isn't fair and it happens. Sometimes we lose a spouse and again the grieving depends on how long the illness or whether it was sudden or due to aging.
In every instance the level of grieving varies. Many of us are able to move on from our loss within a certain amount of time and many times we are unable to move on period; while others are unable to get on with thier lives without great difficulty. What determines what is the right amount of time to grieve a loss? Is there a time clock that goes off and says alright enough of this, get back to your life and shake it off? I know that sounds a little harsh but I say that to make a point.
I have not been immune to loss as I have helped my own son bury his beautiful wife at the young age of 28 in 1997. My older brother lost a son the following year to violence. And last June, I received that dreaded phone call that my handsome, talented 27 year old Nephew was found deceased in his condo. As traumatic as this was to me, the level of pain and suffering experienced by his loving parents was no comparison. He was my younger brother's oldest son of two sons.
It's important to point out that my brother is a well known Senator in the state of Illinois and to protect his privacy, I will leave it there. He spent most of his career working in his community to help protect the young and doing all within his power to help everyone who sought him out. How was he to know that his background and experience would in no way prepare him for the brick wall of suffering he would crash into.The amount of grief and pain that he and my beautiful sister-in-law would encounter was unbearable then and still is today!
I know it's been 9 months and maybe it's time to get over it and on with their lives-right? Wrong!!!!!!
Over all these long months, my dear brother has been stuck in the limbo of the worst grief and suffering and physical pain anyone could ever be expected to tolerate. He has talked, cried and talked some more until he had no one else who would listen. After awhile most people unable to deal with this type of grief, became uncomfortable whenever he called or went to see them. FAMILY included! The average person is totally unprepared to help someone who is "stuck" in this hell! As his older sister, I am feeling so helpless at not knowing how to help him and it's killing me to feel his sadness! My fear has been that he would not be able to survive this and that the next phone call would be about his death. This thought has haunted me for months!
To his credit, he recently sent me a text telling me to google a paper that the Mayo Clinic wrote about Complicated Grief. Now, there was a name for what he was experiencing and also treatment! After all these months, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and a tremendous sense of hope!!! He is getting medication and whatever help he needs to get out of this hell which has kept him a prisoner for too long! He knows that I will be there for him no matter how long it takes and he will always have a sounding board in me. The important thing is that he is seeking a way out of his pain and suffering and for that I am very proud of him!
If you or a loved one is "stuck" and unable to move on from the loss of a loved one, maybe this might be of help. I am including the link to the Mayo Clinic paper. Please share this with everyone you know. This article is comprehensive and lists symptoms and what to do to get help.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/complicated-grief/DS01023
There is treatment and hope to help people with complicated grief come to terms with their loss and to help them reclaim a sense of joy and comfort.
Labels:
complicated grief,
death,
loss,
prolonged grief,
sorrow
If You Have Ever Bargained With God For Better Health.......You Need To Read This!
(March 8, 2011 - Originally posted July 30, 2009)
Have you ever bargained with God for better health? I have and this is a true story. Isn't it time to really do something about it. For two years I suffered as a virtual invalid due to Fibromyalgia, and Spinal Stenosis due to complications of back surgery with low energy and no stamina to even get out of bed. I started using MaxGXL in March of 2009 and even my own Doctor didn't believe it when he saw me in May. (Now actual results vary from person to person)
This is the March 8, 2011 and I am still totally medication free and my bed gets made up everyday as I no longer need to stay there all day). If you need verification my phone number is at the end of this post and I WILL be happy to tell you more about me and my experience,
Wouldn't it be great if you truly had a product that people wanted? (It works so well for me I decided to become an Associate and feel it is my responsibility to tell everybody about this marvelous and amazing product).
A product that was so unique that customers could only get it from you?
The company owned by Guthy-Renker (Pro-Activ) and Steven K. Scott (Total Gym) currently has several breakthrough products that are changing the way people build their home based business.... MaxGXL, MaxOne, Max-N-Fuze and recently added Visible Solutions Skin Care line.
MaxOne, for example, is a glutathione (Your Body's Miracle-Working Super-Protein) accelerator. Intracellular glutathione fights inflammation, preserving cellular health. It also works to help improve mental functions, increase energy, improve concentration, support increased exercise and improve heart and lung function-just to name a few of its benefits! The more glutathione a cell has, the better it can perform its function. Say NO to Accelerated aging and Say Yes to More Energy and Better Health!
The Wellness Industry is growing at a rate of $250 million a day, driven by the Baby Boomers, Gen X and Y and is now a $500 Billion industry on it's way to one trillion dollars. Best Selling Author, Paul Zane Pilzer says this:
"Let's take a look at two of the emerging powerhouse industries of today and
tomorrow-direct selling and wellness-and why, instead of simply
making a few dozen Henry Fords, Bill Gateses or Michael Dell rich, they are
creating fortunes for millions of home-based entrepreneurs."
If you are ready to begin to change your life, check out why doctors as well as athletes are embracing this product while at the same time creating your fortune in these emerging industries, click here to take the Max System Tour.
http://angielovesmax.com
Our team uses the best of technology to build at a rapid pace, but nothing beats speaking with a live person to get your questions, so feel free to give me a call.
Sincerely,
Angela Zechinato
Max International Independent Associate
P.S. Did you know that some of the richest people in the world own Network Marketing companies, including Richard Bronson, Warren Buffett and Donald Trump?
Contact ME:
Angela Zechinato
321-459-0402
azech49@gmail.com
http://angielovesmax.com
Have you ever bargained with God for better health? I have and this is a true story. Isn't it time to really do something about it. For two years I suffered as a virtual invalid due to Fibromyalgia, and Spinal Stenosis due to complications of back surgery with low energy and no stamina to even get out of bed. I started using MaxGXL in March of 2009 and even my own Doctor didn't believe it when he saw me in May. (Now actual results vary from person to person)
This is the March 8, 2011 and I am still totally medication free and my bed gets made up everyday as I no longer need to stay there all day). If you need verification my phone number is at the end of this post and I WILL be happy to tell you more about me and my experience,
Wouldn't it be great if you truly had a product that people wanted? (It works so well for me I decided to become an Associate and feel it is my responsibility to tell everybody about this marvelous and amazing product).
A product that was so unique that customers could only get it from you?
The company owned by Guthy-Renker (Pro-Activ) and Steven K. Scott (Total Gym) currently has several breakthrough products that are changing the way people build their home based business.... MaxGXL, MaxOne, Max-N-Fuze and recently added Visible Solutions Skin Care line.
MaxOne, for example, is a glutathione (Your Body's Miracle-Working Super-Protein) accelerator. Intracellular glutathione fights inflammation, preserving cellular health. It also works to help improve mental functions, increase energy, improve concentration, support increased exercise and improve heart and lung function-just to name a few of its benefits! The more glutathione a cell has, the better it can perform its function. Say NO to Accelerated aging and Say Yes to More Energy and Better Health!
The Wellness Industry is growing at a rate of $250 million a day, driven by the Baby Boomers, Gen X and Y and is now a $500 Billion industry on it's way to one trillion dollars. Best Selling Author, Paul Zane Pilzer says this:
"Let's take a look at two of the emerging powerhouse industries of today and
tomorrow-direct selling and wellness-and why, instead of simply
making a few dozen Henry Fords, Bill Gateses or Michael Dell rich, they are
creating fortunes for millions of home-based entrepreneurs."
If you are ready to begin to change your life, check out why doctors as well as athletes are embracing this product while at the same time creating your fortune in these emerging industries, click here to take the Max System Tour.
http://angielovesmax.com
Our team uses the best of technology to build at a rapid pace, but nothing beats speaking with a live person to get your questions, so feel free to give me a call.
Sincerely,
Angela Zechinato
Max International Independent Associate
P.S. Did you know that some of the richest people in the world own Network Marketing companies, including Richard Bronson, Warren Buffett and Donald Trump?
Contact ME:
Angela Zechinato
321-459-0402
azech49@gmail.com
http://angielovesmax.com
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Girly Things: The Importance of Female Bonding!
My memories of my childhood are quite vague and sparse. I don't remember if I had any close friends or kids I played with. I have visions of when I started school and being in first grade. The classroom had lots of fun things to do and we sang songs and played games. But, no memories of other little girls. I was not allowed to have little friends or play outside or to even invite them home. My father and mother were very strict and so we never had friends come over to play.
The other day I watched the movie "Precious" for the first time and let me tell you this was not a pleasant experience as I found myself reflecting back to my own childhood and family life. Precious was abused, sexually and physically and had an awful childhood. Her life was absolutely nightmarish! My own childhood was definitely not a walk in the park and watching this movie, I wondered how I was able to withstand all that I suffered and all the abuse. Although, I admit my life was not as horrid as that lived by "Precious." But, it was my reality and to me it was horrible!
It was difficult to form friendships and to bond with other children when all I can think about is when will my father find me and beat me to a pulp. How can you enjoy gossiping and playing make-belief and doing girly things when you are trembling in your shoes about even being outside the house. I was expected to always stay inside the house and don't let him find me being idle. No, there was never to be any levity or playtime let alone female bonding.....
This past Friday I was invited to a get together at a friends' home to celebrate Valentine's Day and to also check out some new make-up being demonstrated by our other friend who sells cosmetics. Well, it turned into a fantastic girls night out with about 15 ladies showing up and ready to party! These were all neighbors of the hostess and I was impressed with how close they were. They all made me feel right at home and I was able to feel like I've known them all my life! We drank wine, sampled many delicacies, tried on different makeup and told funny stories. I crave this bonding and find myself wanting more. Most of my adult life, I have gotten by with little or no friends. I didn't know how to meet new friends and sustain relationships of any kind-let alone female friendships.
Next week is my 62nd birthday and in recent years I have been experiencing many firsts. To many people, 62 is old to start doing things for the first time. You might think that there are no new challenges and that I should have a "what's the use" attitude. I've got news for you-my life is just beginning! There was so much I didn't get to enjoy or experience as a child. But, that doesn't mean that I can't enjoy them now! My goal is to meet and bond with as many new female friends as I can. I will make up for all the little girls I didn't get to meet and play with when I was a little girl. This time I don't have to be afraid either!
By the way, if you haven't seen the movie "Precious" I highly recommend it!!!
The other day I watched the movie "Precious" for the first time and let me tell you this was not a pleasant experience as I found myself reflecting back to my own childhood and family life. Precious was abused, sexually and physically and had an awful childhood. Her life was absolutely nightmarish! My own childhood was definitely not a walk in the park and watching this movie, I wondered how I was able to withstand all that I suffered and all the abuse. Although, I admit my life was not as horrid as that lived by "Precious." But, it was my reality and to me it was horrible!
It was difficult to form friendships and to bond with other children when all I can think about is when will my father find me and beat me to a pulp. How can you enjoy gossiping and playing make-belief and doing girly things when you are trembling in your shoes about even being outside the house. I was expected to always stay inside the house and don't let him find me being idle. No, there was never to be any levity or playtime let alone female bonding.....
This past Friday I was invited to a get together at a friends' home to celebrate Valentine's Day and to also check out some new make-up being demonstrated by our other friend who sells cosmetics. Well, it turned into a fantastic girls night out with about 15 ladies showing up and ready to party! These were all neighbors of the hostess and I was impressed with how close they were. They all made me feel right at home and I was able to feel like I've known them all my life! We drank wine, sampled many delicacies, tried on different makeup and told funny stories. I crave this bonding and find myself wanting more. Most of my adult life, I have gotten by with little or no friends. I didn't know how to meet new friends and sustain relationships of any kind-let alone female friendships.
Next week is my 62nd birthday and in recent years I have been experiencing many firsts. To many people, 62 is old to start doing things for the first time. You might think that there are no new challenges and that I should have a "what's the use" attitude. I've got news for you-my life is just beginning! There was so much I didn't get to enjoy or experience as a child. But, that doesn't mean that I can't enjoy them now! My goal is to meet and bond with as many new female friends as I can. I will make up for all the little girls I didn't get to meet and play with when I was a little girl. This time I don't have to be afraid either!
By the way, if you haven't seen the movie "Precious" I highly recommend it!!!
Labels:
female bonding,
girlfriends,
make-up,
physical abuse,
sexual abuse
Friday, February 04, 2011
My New Shiny Bicycle!
Young people and kids today have it made! They have every imaginable gadget ever invented; cell phones, flat screen tv's, mp3 players, computers, ipods and ipads-you name it they have it! Their self-image depends on how much they have. When I was growing up, we were very poor and definitely did not have the luxuries the kids have today. We were lucky to have dime store toys to play with. We were happy to have friends who felt sorry for us and let us play with their toys.
We made go-carts out of pieces of wood found in the garbage, broken skates and any rope we could find. I remember riding these go-carts down the street going like a bat out of hell with no brakes and screaming my head off from the excitement. There were kids in our neighborhood that would lend us their bikes and their skates and anything else so that we could play with them. I never owned a bicycle of my own. Only learned to ride by borrowing an English Racer from a friend and teaching myself to ride.
So fast forward to today! For the first time in my life I now own a bicycle. I am 62 years old and just recently decided that I needed to have a bicycle to ride around the neighborhood and get some exercise. After all the many years in between raising children and trying to survive and exist, I never had the opportunity to have my own bicycle.
Today was a beautiful sunny day in central Florida. The weather up to now has been very cold and uncomfortable. I have been looking forward to the temperature getting warmer and more pleasant so that I could ride my, shiny new bike. You would think I was a little girl or something like that. So, today I rode around the neighborhood with my husband.
Oh, by the way, my husband gave me this bike for Christmas!
Today, I proudly rode my shiny, new bicycle around the neighborhood and I felt like a kid again. But, this time I get to keep the bicycle and ride it again tomorrow!!!
We made go-carts out of pieces of wood found in the garbage, broken skates and any rope we could find. I remember riding these go-carts down the street going like a bat out of hell with no brakes and screaming my head off from the excitement. There were kids in our neighborhood that would lend us their bikes and their skates and anything else so that we could play with them. I never owned a bicycle of my own. Only learned to ride by borrowing an English Racer from a friend and teaching myself to ride.
So fast forward to today! For the first time in my life I now own a bicycle. I am 62 years old and just recently decided that I needed to have a bicycle to ride around the neighborhood and get some exercise. After all the many years in between raising children and trying to survive and exist, I never had the opportunity to have my own bicycle.
Today was a beautiful sunny day in central Florida. The weather up to now has been very cold and uncomfortable. I have been looking forward to the temperature getting warmer and more pleasant so that I could ride my, shiny new bike. You would think I was a little girl or something like that. So, today I rode around the neighborhood with my husband.
Oh, by the way, my husband gave me this bike for Christmas!
Today, I proudly rode my shiny, new bicycle around the neighborhood and I felt like a kid again. But, this time I get to keep the bicycle and ride it again tomorrow!!!
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Feeling Out of Sorts - Something Just Ain't Right!
Unless you've been living under a rock, you are aware that the weather has been acting weird and strange over most of the United States and also in other countries. Poor Australia has been flooded and also recently slammed by Tropical Cyclone Yasi. There are Volcanos erupting in Japan and God only knows what else is brewing that we are unaware of. So, have you felt the uneasiness and discomfort in the air? Are you experiencing headaches and unexplained body aches?
Many people I've spoken to have expressed irritability and tension in their households. They mention that there is more bickering going on than normal. And depression is running rampant! Some of my friends and neighbors are feeling ill and lackluster and not quite knowing what is wrong. Personally, I have had headaches which I don't normally suffer from. I do however, have Fibromyalgia and severe low back problems which up to now have been under control. Out of the blue a couple of weeks ago, I've started experiencing pain in my hips, legs and back severe enough to make walking difficult. The other strange thing I've noticed is that I've lost motivation to do all the things I normally enjoy. So, what could be causing all these things health issues. The weather?
In one of my previous blogs, I talked about Chemtrails-large white smoke streaks criss-crossing in the sky on any given day. There seems to be heavy spraying going on in the Florida area and I'm sure other places in the US and World! What about the awful storms which covered over 2500 miles across America? Is someone or something manipulating our weather? To my understanding these storms are very suspicious in origin as opined by reliable sources. Why is our weather going crazy all of a sudden and why are we being bombarded with these Chemtrails? I have lots of questions and few answers.....Who do we ask???
Many people I've spoken to have expressed irritability and tension in their households. They mention that there is more bickering going on than normal. And depression is running rampant! Some of my friends and neighbors are feeling ill and lackluster and not quite knowing what is wrong. Personally, I have had headaches which I don't normally suffer from. I do however, have Fibromyalgia and severe low back problems which up to now have been under control. Out of the blue a couple of weeks ago, I've started experiencing pain in my hips, legs and back severe enough to make walking difficult. The other strange thing I've noticed is that I've lost motivation to do all the things I normally enjoy. So, what could be causing all these things health issues. The weather?
In one of my previous blogs, I talked about Chemtrails-large white smoke streaks criss-crossing in the sky on any given day. There seems to be heavy spraying going on in the Florida area and I'm sure other places in the US and World! What about the awful storms which covered over 2500 miles across America? Is someone or something manipulating our weather? To my understanding these storms are very suspicious in origin as opined by reliable sources. Why is our weather going crazy all of a sudden and why are we being bombarded with these Chemtrails? I have lots of questions and few answers.....Who do we ask???
Labels:
aches and pains,
chemtrails,
fibromyalgia,
headaches,
illness,
severe weather
Friday, January 28, 2011
What Does Your Self-Talk Sound like: Is It Positive or Negative?
This morning I was speaking on the phone with my best friend in the world, Jeanie. She is my next door neighbor and is one of the nicest and most gregarious ladies I know. I love her laugh and enjoy talking to her. My husband and I moved next door to her in November 2007 but it feels like we've known each other for centuries. I believe we have! I love her like a sister!! Anyway, we speak on the phone everyday and are involved in community events as well. We were discussing how our self-talk pays a very important role to maintain positive mental attitudes and also keeping our bodies healthy. For example: if you are feeling down in the dumps and tired and keep repeating how down you feel and how tired you are, then you will continue to feel as such. The next thing you know you are in bed with the covers over your head thinking that your life sucks and that your life is over!
I used to think that my life sucked - Big Time! Many days, I did just stay in bed and cried until I could no longer. I prayed that something would happen that would take me out of my misery. This was a long time ago and when I think back to that time, I am reminded of the earliest times as a child when I first felt such misery. Many things are forgotten and gone. My memory is not good about my childhood. This is not unusual for abused and mistreated individuals. We tend to put out of our minds those things which were unpleasant and caused pain. Anyway, the earliest time I can remember where I had a negative mind-set was when I developed a cyst on my thyroid gland. My mother was combing my hair and when I tilted my head back she saw a huge lump pop out in the front of my neck. Being a firm believer that as we think we become and that thoughts are things; we manifest our reality and all that stuff. As a child I must have manifested this goiter in my throat out of frustration for not being able to speak for myself. Now I was very young about 11 years old at the time. There were to be many instances of illnesses that I would get and interestingly enough they usually involved my throat. I had swollen glands and sore throats alot. I had no voice in anything that happened in my young life!
It was until several years ago while trying to understand fibromyalgia and what seemed like arthritic pain, that it became clear to me that I was allowing what I experienced externally to affected me internally. I had become an expert at allowing my self-talk to make me sick, I was able to actually slow down my heart beat to such low levels that I needed to be hospitalized in order to monitor my heart, The Cardiologist treating me told me that I was carrying enough stress to kill an elephant and that I needed to start thinking healthy thoughts. In all fairness to myself, I realize that my upbringing and constant fear and physical abuse molded my thoughts and personality. Yes, I could blame everything on someone else. But I don't!
The mental work is ongoing and will be life long. Things do not change and get better over night. It takes lots of hard work and constant pushing by ME in order not to fall back on old patterns. The triggers are always hanging over me like a shadow reminding me of that little girl who needed help and protection. I am able to help her now and I can keep her safe! I am clear of the fact that it's up to me and my thoughts to never feel pain or hurt again!
So, I have some questions for you? What is your self-talk like? How are you feeling physically? Do your knees and legs hurt because you find it difficult to go forward with something in your life?
Did you know that fibromyalgia, at least in my case, was most severe when I had less control over my life? Yes, there are external factors involved liked the weather and overdoing, but mostly for me it has been allowing others to control me and my life.
Pay attention to what is going on your life and what illnesses are afflicting you. It's time to start thinking kinder and gentler thoughts. You can heal your life!!
Louise Hay and her books have been instrumental in my healing and well being.
I used to think that my life sucked - Big Time! Many days, I did just stay in bed and cried until I could no longer. I prayed that something would happen that would take me out of my misery. This was a long time ago and when I think back to that time, I am reminded of the earliest times as a child when I first felt such misery. Many things are forgotten and gone. My memory is not good about my childhood. This is not unusual for abused and mistreated individuals. We tend to put out of our minds those things which were unpleasant and caused pain. Anyway, the earliest time I can remember where I had a negative mind-set was when I developed a cyst on my thyroid gland. My mother was combing my hair and when I tilted my head back she saw a huge lump pop out in the front of my neck. Being a firm believer that as we think we become and that thoughts are things; we manifest our reality and all that stuff. As a child I must have manifested this goiter in my throat out of frustration for not being able to speak for myself. Now I was very young about 11 years old at the time. There were to be many instances of illnesses that I would get and interestingly enough they usually involved my throat. I had swollen glands and sore throats alot. I had no voice in anything that happened in my young life!
It was until several years ago while trying to understand fibromyalgia and what seemed like arthritic pain, that it became clear to me that I was allowing what I experienced externally to affected me internally. I had become an expert at allowing my self-talk to make me sick, I was able to actually slow down my heart beat to such low levels that I needed to be hospitalized in order to monitor my heart, The Cardiologist treating me told me that I was carrying enough stress to kill an elephant and that I needed to start thinking healthy thoughts. In all fairness to myself, I realize that my upbringing and constant fear and physical abuse molded my thoughts and personality. Yes, I could blame everything on someone else. But I don't!
The mental work is ongoing and will be life long. Things do not change and get better over night. It takes lots of hard work and constant pushing by ME in order not to fall back on old patterns. The triggers are always hanging over me like a shadow reminding me of that little girl who needed help and protection. I am able to help her now and I can keep her safe! I am clear of the fact that it's up to me and my thoughts to never feel pain or hurt again!
So, I have some questions for you? What is your self-talk like? How are you feeling physically? Do your knees and legs hurt because you find it difficult to go forward with something in your life?
Did you know that fibromyalgia, at least in my case, was most severe when I had less control over my life? Yes, there are external factors involved liked the weather and overdoing, but mostly for me it has been allowing others to control me and my life.
Pay attention to what is going on your life and what illnesses are afflicting you. It's time to start thinking kinder and gentler thoughts. You can heal your life!!
Louise Hay and her books have been instrumental in my healing and well being.
Labels:
cardiologist,
fibromylagia,
healing,
mental abuse,
pain,
physical abuse,
self-talk,
thyroid
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Congestive Heart Failure? We Thought He Had A Cold!
I walked into his room where he was sitting in his recliner. His face was red and he looked bloated as he struggled to breath and talk at the same time. As I greeted him, the next thing I noticed was the "rattle" in his voice which came from deep in his chest. Pop told me that he was suffering from a cold for sometime and that he also had bronchitis. This is not unusual as he is now 89 years old and it is becoming increasingly difficult for him to stay healthy. It seems like once a week for the last couple of months, he's either been to the doctor's office or has taken a trip to the emergency room. So, when I was told by my sister a week later that he had been to the doctor's office again and that he was having difficulty even getting in and out of the shower, my husband and I decided we needed to bring him to our home to watch over him until we know more about the many tests he had been subjected to and the results.
One thing was certain, he was obviously unable to care for himself. Upon trying to take a shower, his breathing became more labored and almost collapsed! Pop and Mom still live on their own and have done well to car for themselves albeit with help from my sisters and myself. However, my Mom's health is also fragile and her mental capabilities are diminishing. She is very small and petite and would not be able to lift him if he should fall.
So, as I mentioned before, we invited him to come home with us so that we could keep a close eye on him and told Mom that this would be a good break for her and she could focus on herself and not have to worry about Pop. At first, she was happy with the idea but as the days went on, she became somewhat jealous of all the attention being doled on Pop. They become like children the older they get. Anyway, we had him with us for two days before he started to get sicker and developed even more difficulty with his breathing. That weekend was one of the worse weekends I've had in a long time. We were using a baby monitor to listen to him as he slept and in case he needed us, he would be able to call out to us. Listening to him breath all night I felt like he would not make it through the night!
(No matter how much he mistreated me or abused me as a youngster, I have forgiven him and vowed that I would always be there to care for him and to make sure that he never suffers. I can't stand to see him sick or suffering.)
Sunday morning we made the decision to take him to the hospital which was the best thing we could do as he had Congestive Heart Failure which is basically fluid around his heart and has lots of water throughout his body. This is why he was so out of breath and feeling so poorly. The doctors were able to relieve him of his water buildup and swelling with medications and flushing his systems with IV's.
The good news is that after spending a couple of days in the hospital and with some medication changes, he is now home and although he is still sick, he is feeling much better and appears to be breathing easier. He is actually back at home with Mom for now! We visited with him today and my husband gave him a haircut!
I am so grateful that he is doing so much better!
One thing was certain, he was obviously unable to care for himself. Upon trying to take a shower, his breathing became more labored and almost collapsed! Pop and Mom still live on their own and have done well to car for themselves albeit with help from my sisters and myself. However, my Mom's health is also fragile and her mental capabilities are diminishing. She is very small and petite and would not be able to lift him if he should fall.
So, as I mentioned before, we invited him to come home with us so that we could keep a close eye on him and told Mom that this would be a good break for her and she could focus on herself and not have to worry about Pop. At first, she was happy with the idea but as the days went on, she became somewhat jealous of all the attention being doled on Pop. They become like children the older they get. Anyway, we had him with us for two days before he started to get sicker and developed even more difficulty with his breathing. That weekend was one of the worse weekends I've had in a long time. We were using a baby monitor to listen to him as he slept and in case he needed us, he would be able to call out to us. Listening to him breath all night I felt like he would not make it through the night!
(No matter how much he mistreated me or abused me as a youngster, I have forgiven him and vowed that I would always be there to care for him and to make sure that he never suffers. I can't stand to see him sick or suffering.)
Sunday morning we made the decision to take him to the hospital which was the best thing we could do as he had Congestive Heart Failure which is basically fluid around his heart and has lots of water throughout his body. This is why he was so out of breath and feeling so poorly. The doctors were able to relieve him of his water buildup and swelling with medications and flushing his systems with IV's.
The good news is that after spending a couple of days in the hospital and with some medication changes, he is now home and although he is still sick, he is feeling much better and appears to be breathing easier. He is actually back at home with Mom for now! We visited with him today and my husband gave him a haircut!
I am so grateful that he is doing so much better!
Labels:
congestive heart failure,
hospital,
ill,
swelling and bloating
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Manipulation-Are You Easily Manipulated?
My disposition is very laid back; a little excitable, but in a good way! Takes lots to rile me or to upset me; not easy to anger. Compassion is my middle name. Maybe too easy-going! If I have something you need-it's yours. I've given away many prized possessions just because I know someone else liked them. So yes, I am also very generous. I'm usually the one who drops money into collection containers outside shopping centers and grocery stores. But, I wouldn't say that I am a patsy-or that I am easily manipulated! At least I didn't think so until recently!
Yet, that is exactly what I've allowed to happen recently. My story is actually too lengthy to go into here. It involved a very loved and close family member who I believe now is very coy and knows exactly what is being done. I allowed the fact that this individual has suffered greatly and is also ill (mental health) to taint my thinking. In all fairness to myself, my judgment was clouded by how I feel for this person. However, this person's action hurt several other family members at a time of the year-Christmas Holidays-when we needed to be loving and caring toward one another. Needless to say, the holidays were marred and less than festive. Not to mention that it left a lasting impression on my psyche and I will not be caught off guard again anytime soon.
I played right into this person's hands and without knowing the whole story immediately went to her defense and lashed out at the accused. I am not proud of this-but, I feel like I've been blind-sided! The hurt feelings on the faces of loves ones is too much to bear when an injustice has been committed. Who ever coined the phrase "All Is Fair In Love And War" was not a very compassion person. In my opinion, whenever love is involved, be it the love between lovers, siblings or parent/child; the cost is great if it involves betrayal or manipulation. Whenever an individual pushes certain buttons to achieve a result in their favor, the consequences to the recipient are severe; maybe even devastating.
Something I did immediately when I realized something was wrong was to call someone else I trust and discussed the situation. This enabled me to diffuse it and to keep others from getting hurt. Now, the person who started all this isn't aware that I am on to the game and that now I am armed with better tools for coping next time without blowing everything out of proportion.
So what did I learn from this experience. Well many things:
Yet, that is exactly what I've allowed to happen recently. My story is actually too lengthy to go into here. It involved a very loved and close family member who I believe now is very coy and knows exactly what is being done. I allowed the fact that this individual has suffered greatly and is also ill (mental health) to taint my thinking. In all fairness to myself, my judgment was clouded by how I feel for this person. However, this person's action hurt several other family members at a time of the year-Christmas Holidays-when we needed to be loving and caring toward one another. Needless to say, the holidays were marred and less than festive. Not to mention that it left a lasting impression on my psyche and I will not be caught off guard again anytime soon.
I played right into this person's hands and without knowing the whole story immediately went to her defense and lashed out at the accused. I am not proud of this-but, I feel like I've been blind-sided! The hurt feelings on the faces of loves ones is too much to bear when an injustice has been committed. Who ever coined the phrase "All Is Fair In Love And War" was not a very compassion person. In my opinion, whenever love is involved, be it the love between lovers, siblings or parent/child; the cost is great if it involves betrayal or manipulation. Whenever an individual pushes certain buttons to achieve a result in their favor, the consequences to the recipient are severe; maybe even devastating.
Something I did immediately when I realized something was wrong was to call someone else I trust and discussed the situation. This enabled me to diffuse it and to keep others from getting hurt. Now, the person who started all this isn't aware that I am on to the game and that now I am armed with better tools for coping next time without blowing everything out of proportion.
So what did I learn from this experience. Well many things:
- Remember that there are two sides to every story.
- Don't be too quick to judge.
- Don't be too quick to over react without having all the facts.
- Think about what motives might be in play.
- Consider the individual telling or making accusations.
- Who loses or gains?
- Make sure you are not being used or manipulation.
- If you do fall for the ploy-be big enough to apologize to all parties involved/wronged!
- Address situation immediately-don't let hurt feelings linger!
Labels:
emotional,
forget,
forgive,
love,
manipulation,
mental health
Monday, January 03, 2011
What Are They Spraying? Look Up And Pay Attention!
I found this interesting article regarding Chemtrails. Are you familiar with them? Last week, while I was looking up at the sky, I noticed the familiar tracks in the sky that even overlapped and cris-crossed over the skies of central Florida. I commented to my husband that there appeared to be an unusual amount of Chemtrails in the sky. Later on I read online comments made from other Floridians who were questioning what was going on, and today I received a newsletter and lo and behold one of the articles is about Chemtrails!
http://davidicke.com/headlines/42673-the-chemtrail-conditioning-program
So, this is not the normal thing I discuss on my blog, however, since I am very concerned for my health, I find it is very important to bring awareness to this phenomenon. I find it particularly interesting that every time I am out after the skies have been aerosol sprayed with possibly aluminum, barium and who knows what else, that my fibromyalgia acts up and I also develop respiratory problems (asthma). I haven't felt well for a couple of days after going to bed feeling perfectly well the night before; the day before I was outside when I noticed the tracks in the sky. Is this being done intentionally to make us sick. I'm not the paranoid type, but I'm beginning to wonder! It is distressing to me to think that I have no control over what they are spraying over our homes and land.
The article says that more than 90% of the population are unaware of the spraying that is taking place. And did you know that Alzheimers is on the increase? Apparently, according to the powers that be, the spraying is to prevent global warming. Yeah, right! Why are trees dying and birds falling out of the sky, etc. Please do yourself and your children a huge favor and research or take a look at what is being said regarding Chemtrails. Education is key.......we can make a difference!
http://davidicke.com/headlines/42673-the-chemtrail-conditioning-program
http://davidicke.com/headlines/42673-the-chemtrail-conditioning-program
So, this is not the normal thing I discuss on my blog, however, since I am very concerned for my health, I find it is very important to bring awareness to this phenomenon. I find it particularly interesting that every time I am out after the skies have been aerosol sprayed with possibly aluminum, barium and who knows what else, that my fibromyalgia acts up and I also develop respiratory problems (asthma). I haven't felt well for a couple of days after going to bed feeling perfectly well the night before; the day before I was outside when I noticed the tracks in the sky. Is this being done intentionally to make us sick. I'm not the paranoid type, but I'm beginning to wonder! It is distressing to me to think that I have no control over what they are spraying over our homes and land.
The article says that more than 90% of the population are unaware of the spraying that is taking place. And did you know that Alzheimers is on the increase? Apparently, according to the powers that be, the spraying is to prevent global warming. Yeah, right! Why are trees dying and birds falling out of the sky, etc. Please do yourself and your children a huge favor and research or take a look at what is being said regarding Chemtrails. Education is key.......we can make a difference!
http://davidicke.com/headlines/42673-the-chemtrail-conditioning-program
Labels:
alzheimers,
asthma,
chemtrails,
fibromyalgia,
respiratory
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