Four things that are saving my life right now
Anne Bogel from Modern Mrs. Darcy occasionally does "What's saving my life right now" posts. They're not meant literally, of course...they're just lists of things that are making her life better right now.
(Here's one of hers from this year.)
I randomly felt inspired to write one of these, so it's what you get today. 😉
Here's what's helping my life feel better right now:
1. Getting up a little earlier
I have always been kind of an early bird person, but for the last five years or so, the husband's work schedule has not been on the early side.
Over the years, I've usually melded my schedule to match his, and that worked fine when he had an early shift. I got up with him and after he left for work, I had some quiet time before the day started.
But with the more recent sleeping-later schedule, I was not getting any quiet time to read my Bible, pray, and just not talk to anyone for a little while.
To solve this, we've been going to bed a little earlier, and I end up waking up on my own around 6:00 or 6:30, at which point I tip-toe out and spend time reading and praying.
I know I could technically read and pray at any time of day, but as a morning person, the earlier hours just flat-out work better for me.
And since I can choose to operate this way (no babies or toddlers need me!), I'm choosing it, and it's helping me feel better prepared for my day.
2. Uninstalling Instagram every day
Of all the social media platforms out there, Instagram is the worst time suck for me.
(I don't really enjoy Facebook, and Twitter doesn't really suck me in either.)
But Instagram? That app can make me waste a lot of time, especially if I click over to the explore page.
So, I've been installing Instagram, putting up a post, and then immediately uninstalling the app.
The benefits:
- I'm producing more than I'm consuming (always my goal on the internet)
- I'm wasting less time
- I'm less distracted
- The longer I do this, the the weaker the pull Instagram has on me
Of course, it is inconvenient to reinstall the app. That's kind of the point!
But the two minutes I spend doing an uninstall and reinstall? That's way, way less than the amount of time I'd waste if I kept the app on my phone.
I can still access my Instagram account on my computer, so I respond to comments that way, even when the app isn't on my phone.
Social media apps are far less distracting when you have to use them on a computer, so this is working out just fine.
(If you want to follow me on Instagram, I'm thefrugalgirl just like I am on all social media platforms.)
3. Thinking, "this is what we are doing for now"
I think it was Kelle Hampton who posted this thought on Instagram (ha!) and it was a good reminder for me.
Sometimes, in the midst of all this upheaval (working from home, online school, so many things cancelled", I start to sort of forget that this is not permanent.
One day, one way or another, we will not be dealing with the coronavirus at the level we are now.
One day, we will get to have gatherings and regular church and we'll get to hug people and go to classes in person and have conferences and things will be more normal.
What we have to do right now is temporary. It's probably a long temporary, but still; that's different than permanent.
When my kids were little and were going through some particularly annoying phase, I often would remind myself, "Everything is a stage. It doesn't last forever."
So. That is what I am trying to remind myself of now.
This is a stage.
It is temporary.
There's a lot I don't like right now, but it is just what we are doing for now.
I don't have to do this forever; I just have to do it right now.
On a very similar note, the fourth thing saving my life right now is:
4. Focusing on today
When I was pregnant and sick (I had hyperemesis all four times), sometimes the days of nausea stretched out before me like a seemingly endless road, and I just wanted to give up mentally.
But when I shortened my focus and looked only at the day before me, I was much more able to hang in there.
I think of it like the verse in Matthew: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
I don't have to think things like, "How will I keep doing Thing X for 5 more months/two more years?"
I can just get up each day and think, "Ok, what's before me today?"
Really, items #3 and #4 on this list are both about staying in the moment rather than mentally living in an uncertain future.
It's hard to do, but when I am successful at it, life feels much more manageable.
It is tough, you are right. Since we are in our 70's we have to be extra careful and do not leave home except to meet the delivery person downstairs with our grocery cart or to do a distant outdoor visit with grandkids. It's gotten so that we have to jump start our car when we do use it--it sits idles for long periods--and that going to the bldg's basement with garbage or to get mail is an outing! Believe it or not, the small things just listed are what gets me through--seeing the kids. (not small, this one), leaving the apt. for whatever domestic reason, and lately going for walks outside now that it's not stinking hot/humid.
Also, reading blog posts like yours, reading period, esp. mysteries, and HGTV (gave up news--too frustrating) add to the day. Cooking is still usually enjoyable, but they don't always deliver exactly what I ordered, and there's no once-a-week break of a meal out with the kids any more, so it is a bit tedious.
Above all, my husband of 50 years keeps me going and grateful that I am not going through this isolation alone. It's great to have a friend.
Gail, I too am so lucky to have a friend in my husband of 30 years, what a blessing! Kristen-Love this post, a great reminder to start the day. I use this mantra when I spiral outward: "Hey, Day tight compartment" It has been working.
My father always prayed, Lord give me the time today to do what you want me to do today.
My art is always my constant. I've painted my way through A LOT over the years. It gives everything that's bubbling inside somewhere useful--and hopefully beautiful--to go.
On a related note, I focus on what is actionable. What can I actually DO, not just for me but for others? Donating, loaning items, ding-dong-ditching or sending care packages to friends in quarantine, phone calls, etc. When my husband had a major health scare several years ago, I kept myself grounded by focusing on what I could do--research, paperwork, wrangling doctors--and was overwhelmed by the number of friends who stepped up to help with errands, dropped off groceries or gave us grocery gift cards. It's my life-long duty to pay that forward.
I'm especially grateful for the oasis that is the local cemetery, weird as that probably sounds. My husband works there as a groundskeeper (think lawn and garden, plus tombstones), and I've hiked there almost daily for years. The grounds and wildlife are very beautiful, and there's no "Hey, baby" nonsense when I'm just trying to frickin' exercise. It's my alone time at the start of the day--I often joke that it's my "meditation in motion." I hike until I'm a sweaty, panting mess, stopping only to enjoy the beautiful foxes (several families live there). One can just feel troubles slip away. Conversely, if one's reached the point where crying is the only thing that will do, one can do so in peace; should the rare person happen by, they're not going to think twice about someone crying in a cemetery. (I found refuge there often when my husband was ill--I didn't want him to see me cry). The built-in social distancing means that our rhythms of life have remained surprisingly normal despite it all, a stability for which I'm grateful.
For what it's worth, I also pay it forward to the cemetery by picking up litter and reporting any vandalism to the staff.
N, several years ago I lived near a cemetery and it was my favorite spot for bike rides. No foxes, but lots of deer. It was absolutely gorgeous, especially in autumn. I like your "meditation in motion" idea--I'm similar--prayer and meditation is much easier for me when I am physically moving. Somehow the activity slows my mind. All to say--I don't think it's strange at all that you find solace there.
As far as today's topic--the past couple of months have been very difficult due to my mother's ongoing health problems. Friday we moved her to a new assisted living facility as she was done with her hospital stay and just about everything that could go wrong, did go wrong with the process. What "saved my life" were my husband who dropped everything to help .... my bosses who were completely understanding and supportive when I needed to leave work early .... my friends who provide ongoing support .... the beautiful fall weather that lifts my spirits ... in-person church where I can worship corporately .... my cuddly cat and the neighbor's cat (who came over to visit me while I was sitting outside last evening--he cuddled next to me and purred--is there anything more soothing than a cat's purr??).
Someone mentioned "chapters" of life in the comments. I think of it as seasons. Just like sometimes I long for the end of winter dreariness or the chill in the air after sweating all summer, I also long for life to stabilize. I've seen enough cycles in life to know that eventually things will change. It may (probably will!) take a lot longer than I wish it would, but circumstances aren't forever.
HUGS to you, Kris, for yourself and for your mom. Hopefully all the gremlins were worked out during the move between facilities so that you can both enjoy some peace and calm.
Thanks, N.
"Mediatation in motion"--I love that concept. I've also heard some people say, "Move the stress through" as a description for what exercise does for them. Movement is good for me--to help me think, focus and destress.
“Move the stress through” is an excellent way to put it! I can definitely feel my mood falter when inclement weather keeps me from the cemetery for too many days in a row. I have a freebie exercise bike as a back-up, but it’s hardly the same.
That sounds like a very lovely place to hike!
I get up early too! I have a 3 and 5 year old that we homeschool and if I don’t get up for some quiet time before they wake up, I feel it all day. Even when I want to hit snooze, I know I’ll regret not getting out of bed. I know this is a phase too and one day I’ll have to drag them out of bed so I’m appreciating my current stage of life!
1) Books, the ultimate escape for me. I've been re-reading the Anne of Green Gables series, which is very restful, albeit a bit boring sometimes. But boring isn't always bad. Especially now. 🙂
2) A couple of TV shows. I'm extremely picky, and mostly feel like TV is a waste of time and don't watch it at all, but in the past couple of months I've rewatched "Sherlock" and "The Musketeers," both of which I enjoyed again the second time around. (Although it still felt like a waste of time. 🙂
3) My job at the school. It's only two days a week, and working in an elementary school was never a job I sought, but it is good for me to get out of the house and be busy all day with other people. And then it feels particularly nice to be home again the days I don't work.
4) Plotting with my husband about how to fix up the abandoned adobe house we bought next door. I don't know if it will ever actually get done, but it's fun to flip through adobe books and imagine how we could use some of those design elements in our house.
5) The garden. It's winding down for the year, but yesterday I went out to thin and transplant some overwintering sprouting broccoli plants, and it made me happy. Growing my own food has been a constant now for fifteen years, and it makes me feel much more in control in a wider world that rarely feels that way.
iPhone's new update now has some great features in the "Screen Time" section of settings. You can set time limits for specific apps or can even set "Downtime" so that only apps you chose and phone calls will be available during the set times. I can relate to the pull of Instagram and these settings can really help out with time spent on the phone 🙂
My problem is...I'm the one in charge of my screen time! So if I set a limit for Instagram, it's very easy to just click the "ignore time limit" button and keep on scrolling.
True confession time. 😉 Ha.
If ever you need to go more hardcore, I actually had my husband password block Facebook on all of my mobile devices, as it had turned into a mood-busting time suck. Since only my husband knows the magic word, I can only access social media via my laptop now. I only check twice a day for five minutes or less. It's been remarkably freeing!!!
Sunday School with classmates in teacher’s beautiful back yard. What’s amazing with even Texas hot summer days Sunday mornings at 9:45a were all pleasant (back yard heavily shaded) and with a breeze!
“Real” church (of course with masks and distancing) but to see my church family weekly makes the week seem more normal and days not all roll together.
My bird feeders that I put up for first time in April and watching the birds’ actions and interactions. Had a red bird nest in area near my watching-the-world go-by window and so exciting to see mama and daddy bird take care of things.
I hate gardening BUT decided to see what would happen if I grew tomatoes and it’s been “exciting” to watch them grow! I landscaped barren area from big tree shade and enjoy looking at it everytime I’m outside.
Work is saving my life right now. If it were not for working three days a week, I would spend three more days sitting on the couch or in bed. I lost my sister to ALS just over a year ago (going home anniversary was the 6th of this month) after helping her 6 days a week from 9a to 1p (many times after working night shift as a nurse in a nursing home). Was with her all night and most of the day in her final days. I do not regret one minute of that time, but it has been an adjustment being without my best friend and her two dogs. After 6 mo. of minimal ambition, I started an antidepressant and it helped my mood, but I still do not get after laundry, dishes, house cleaning, cooking and order, all of which I generally enjoy. The COVID thing has compounded the situation...and yet I know God is in control. My church family is also saving me right now. I know they love me and care about me.
Many hugs to you, Chrissy. I am so sorry for your loss. And I know anniversaries of hard things are just so tough.
Much love to you.
Chrissy, you have certainly had a lot on your plate! I am glad you are finding some small comforts! This is a supportive group here..we’re all in this together. Sending you virtual hugs and support!
Chrissy, i lost my wife just over a year ago so I know how you feel. After about 10 months my doctor persuaded me to try anti- depressants. While not a cure they do seem to have made it slightly more bearable. I do still think about her almost every minute of every day - made far worse by the Covid virus as I can’t get out and about and meet and hug as I was able to do at first after she died. I need a job, because 4 years of her cancer depleted our considerable savings to almost nothing - after which of course the medical community said, you have no money left? Sorry we can’t help you any more., but as I am old I would be more vulnerable to the Covid. So I’m trying to decide which is more important, money or my life!
Chrissy and David, I am so sorry for your losses. I know that I have felt losses hit me much harder during this semi-isolation, and mine aren't nearly so close. And David, I feel for your position - it is a hard dilemma; good luck as you have to think all this through.
I’m also using the tactic of only looking forward for a short period of time.1.In my part of Texas that means knowing the Fall and Winter are the best times to live here, so walks and bike rides around my very pretty neighborhood will be enjoyable, sitting outside with a cup of coffee will be possible again! 2. “Banning” myself from time suck websites, 3. Continuing to declutter in preparation for relocation. I haven’t made a concrete decision, but if/when I do it will be easier to show my home and pack. 4. Tracking my meals in the WW app, I keep losing weight if I plan my meals and snacks and that brings me closer to my healthy weight goal.
1. Silly TV shows. A waste of time, I know, but sometimes they're just what I need for a pick-me-up.
2. Going for walks. They clear my head some, and put my problems a little more into perspective.
3. My to-do list. Again it seems silly, but I like to see the tasks I need to do in written form, and get them done. I can't solve the world's problems, but I can get the bills paid or send an encouraging note to someone or tidy up an area of my house that's had a pile of stuff there for too long. And I've always loved the feeling of crossing things off my list.
BJS, I also find myself turning to sitcoms instead of drama and true-life crime. They're good for a laugh and help ease the stress of dealing with COVID and other issues in life right now.
Things saving my life:
1. The internet. I can work effectively from home along with the rest of my company. It has been seamless, and without it, I would be on a train heading into Chicago every day and very concerned about my and my family's health as a result. It is also saving me via online shopping for almost everything. About every other week I go to the grocery store, but on the off weeks, I order and pick-up or have it delivered. Aside from that I've not been in many stores since mid-March.
2. Bloggers who post recipes. I like to find new things to cook since we are eating at home so much. I've found some really great posts especially from Whole30/Paleo bloggers as I'm trying to get more vegetables (in quantity and variety) into my diet. I'm not actually doing a Whole30 right now (have done in the past) but I figure if I embrace it for dinner (and then lunch leftovers) I've made a big step in the right direction.
3. Yoga pants. In Chicago, we're having beautiful fall weather and my yoga pants for my WFH day to day are awesome!
4. Daily calls/texts/photos from my college kids. I miss them and am worried about their mental and physical health this semester, so when they reach out, it eases my heart a little bit. I so appreciate that they make a point to connect.
I, too, like to get up earlier than everyone in order to have quiet time and to study my Bible. Life has been difficult at time for me. I have come to the point that I look to the day and near future and what needs to be done-- I can do just about anything for two weeks. Praying for your peace.
Thank you! Numbers 3 and 4 were desperately needed for me today!
This us such a refreshing post! Since baby number 4 arrived in June, waking up and being able to read by bible alone has been difficult, to say the least. Now that he’s sleeping well, I can adjust my time to allow that super peaceful start to the day. It’s truly the best way for me to start the day and makes me a better person. If anything, this pandemic has reminded us to be thankful for the little moments that make a big impact.
That sounds like a great prayer to calm the frantic rush in my head. What wisdom from your father! Thank you.
Sorry, I meant that in response to Momma L’s father’s prayer.
My husband, daughter, and funny dog help me stay grounded. I’ve also been enjoying reading all the back posts of Kristin@goingcounty. Now I’m back to working on the back posts for FrugalGirl. Thank you to you both for your excellent writing.
1. Working... 3 days facilitating remote school for a friends younger child (my kids dont need my help) and the option to sub my other 2 week days.
2. Looking forward to some upcoming travel (though hoping those states fall off of our red list!)
3. Enjoying a show on Netflix with my family.
4. It's apple season. I live on a farm with many apple orchards. After they pick an orchard I go pick what they left behind 🙂
What is saving my life right now
1. Creative friends with creative ways to “get together”. One friend built an outdid movie screen on her small farm and hosts fundraiser movie nights for small local charities. Another friend moved his weekly Friday night drop in social gathering to Zoom, while a third friend encourages friends to schedule an evening to hand out with her in her beautiful urban garden.
2. Our pets! On top of all the critters we already had we added Chickens to our crazy zoo crew this summer.
3. We bought a used camper and parked it in a private camp ground 20 minutes from home. A quick quiet escape but I can still zip home every day to feed the Zoo Crew!
4. Family that agrees to participate in my crazy attempts to create levity during this trying time.
5. The ability to work from home and that we were already homeschooling.
I've been a reader of your blog for over a year now (and love it!), but this is my first time posting. Things that are saving my life now are also #1- my husband. He was hospitalized for 2 nights a couple of weeks ago and I am so thankful that he is ok now. I realized how much I appreciate all the little, daily things he does such as taking out the garbage, mowing the lawn, etc. that I needed to do when he was in the hospital. It is a little shocking when the guy who never complains and is never sick is down. #2- Our son. He lives 2 hours away and works in a job where he has been exposed to covid. He was quarantined and thankfully tested negative. He is making a point of keeping in touch with us frequently. #3-Reading books and blogs like this one really help the time go by until we can return to a more normal life. #4-Walking outside and exercising has helped me keep energized and hopefully limit the damage from all the extra baking I have been doing. Again, I so enjoy your blog and all the comments here.
1. Going to bed early. I am a night owl by nature, but find I am handling life much better going to bed at a decent hour.
2. Weirdly enough, pulling weeds. When I can't leave home and everyone is standing on my last nerve, I go into our jungly back yard and pull weeds, chop vines and mutter a lot.
3. The internet, which makes it possible for my husband to work from home and us to have lots of entertainment for a little money.
4. Our three rescue dogs, who are are a lot of work but an endless source of fun, walks and snuggles.
Things that I am enjoying during this COVid time in no particular order.....
1. My garden. We enlarged the garden this year and had a wonderful Spring crop. I have planted my first ever fall garden and am really looking forward to all the bounty it will bring. Working in my garden and being outdoors in general reminds me that some things are still the same - the sun still rises, seeds still grow and there is life all around us even in the midst of so much turmoil.
2. Church. Whether online or in person, church sermons, worship, prayer has never been more important to me. It calms, soothes and reassures me and helps me to focus on my one true hope.
3. Time with family. Working from home means no commute time and plenty of time to can, make good dinners, watch Tom & Jerry with my son and tickle him to enjoy those great belly laughs from a 4 yr old.
4. Preparation and Completion of tasks. I know this seems odd but preparing our pantry for another possible shutdown so we are not faced with unmanageable shortages is soothing to me.
Marking things off our project to do list that result in a cleaner, more organized home relax me immensely. Plus when you are spending 90% of your time at home you tend to look around and realize that things could be spiffed up a bit.
Howdy Kristen!
I feel like a night owl but am trying to become an early bird-just out of curiosity-to get up at 6 am-what time do you normally go to bed?
Since FB owns Insta-can't you like your Insta page to your FB page and then be able to post from the FB page? I haven't done it personally bc I am not on Insta so not sure how it works tbh lol
I really do best with eight hours of sleep, so if I want to wake up at 6, I try to be in bed at 10 pm.
I wish I did not need eight hours, but alas, I am not a person who thrives on less.
I have my Insta and FB pages linked, but the way it works is that my Instagram posts publish on my Facebook page, and not the other way around. I don't even know if you can do it the other way!
OK bc it was driving me crazy not to know if it was possible (plus I really can't stand the idea of you having to install and uninstall an app just to post a pic lol) I signed up for an Insta account just to see if I could figure it out lol You *can* post from your FB page to your Insta page!!!!! *If* you have a biz FB & Insta pages and use the "publishing tools".
Phew. Now I will be able to sleep tonight lol
And speaking of sleep...I guess I should start going to bed earlier if I want to get up earlier : )
My life-saving list:
1) Being able to go to church. I was so happy when it opened and our new priest is very welcoming and relatable. It makes a big difference in my life.
2) "Always Be Prepared" is a Boy Scout motto that I'm following. I've been stockpiling shelf stable foods and feel better knowing that I can donate it if it doesn't get used.
3) I bought a house generator. I have piece of mind if the power goes out this winter. This machine can power up our major appliances so I don't throw away precious food. It was super budget friendly, too.
4) I learned a new skill that I was always afraid of trying, but can now feel semi-confident in potentially saving our lives, if the need arises.
5) Having a late work schedule has allowed me to get things done during the day but also sleep in, if I feel like it. Of course, that means that I'm a night owl, but that's ok.
I also am trying to take the long view.It’s harder,because I am older, and retired now, a young at heart and physically and socially active 67 year old..I feel like time is being “stolen” from me! I want to be out at the art galleries, the beading and jewelry making groups, the movies!!! Happy Hour with girlfriends!!!!
That said, I have always believed life has “CHAPTERS” and we can find a way to appreciate each one.
What’s
SAVING ME” right now:
1. ZOOM: My art group, book club and spiritual group all meet once a week on Zoom and it gives me a sense of being with my friends/my tribe. I can hear and see them laughing,making art, and we exchange ideas like we use to do in person.
2. MOTHER NATURE: I am sooo blessed to live in Arizona where we can be outdoors all year round, or I would be bonkers! Local parks, river swims, the swimming pool, my own back yard, and abundant sunshine all keep my mood up.
3. MY KITCHEN: My kitchen is my happy place.I love to cook,experiment with new recipes, and putting a good meal on the table, while my husband dials up a pandora station..all help me get through..dinner time can be like a “date..” at least most nights.Some times we eat pizza and watch a movie! .
4. PRAYER,MEDITATION and SPIRITUAL READING:
My husband and I meditate together twice a day.I also start my day with spiritual reading and a gratitude journal.
Of course, Some days,despite all this,I am still in a slump.I turn to facebook friends,favorite blogs,poetry, or a nice long nap...THIS TOO SHALL PASS!!!!!!!!!!
Chapters...I like that concept.
There is a podcast with Crystal Paine, and she does what is saving my life as well. 🙂
Currently, more time off of work is my biggest saving my life event. Muh less stress.
Meal planning for two weeks is saving my life every day at dinner time. Such a difference when I know how to plan the day before!
Our library has opened up for curbside pick up!
My clothesline. It may take some time hanging the clothing, but it is relaxing to me and I'm so happy I got one this year.
Coworkers I am friends with outside of work.
Thanks for this post, Kristen! It's good to focus on the positive. My 4 things:
1. I started running again. Even though I can only run for a few minutes at a time, and it makes me so dang sore, I look forward to this moving meditation time.
2. Bike rides with my daughter. It's new for us (she just learned how to ride her bike this past summer), and she chats my ear off the whole time, but it's time for us to connect.
3. Chats with my best friend-whether on FB or over the phone. She's finally back from Japan after a 2 year stint, and having her on the same time zone is delightful.
4. Keeping to a daily schedule. I initially chafed at the schedule my daughters' school sent home, but have since realized that needing to have them online at certain times helps us segment the day and helps us be more accountable, and ultimately, more productive. Sometimes what you need isn't necessarily what you want!
1. My Bible-in-One-Year app. I've never tried reading the Bible in a year before (and I'm currently behind) but the app reads it to me and has a commentary on each section. This has been so life-giving for me! I listen while I wash dishes or fold laundry and it also brings joy to those chores.
2. Getting to go for walks most days again. I still miss my gym and the community there, but each morning after school drop-off my youngest 2 hop in the stroller and we walk a mile on a path behind the school. Being outside, getting exercise, and having the time to talk and sing with my littles has been wonderful.
3. Having my oldest back in school. This has been SO good for her and I'm enjoying having naptime back to get some alone time at home again. I also wouldn't be able to take those walks as easily if all 3 were home.
4. Knowing that things are ever-changing and having that experience of our strict stay-at-home order for so long is really making me appreciate things now. It's not a guarantee that my child will be in school in-person all year. I know that winter's coming and it'll be tough to get as much outdoor time as we have now. I know that there's a chance that kids ministry at church may struggle to stay open in the winter. So for now I'm really soaking in the blessing of having all of these things, even though there's still a lot of my life that's not normal yet and won't be until at least next fall. So I guess "thankfulness" is what's saving my life right now. 🙂
1. My daughter's school. She has classes 2 days a week and I do instruction the remaining 3. The school is designed to work with parents, so there's very good communication, and a clear expectation as to what we are to do, with loads of support. Right now, my daughter is going to class via Zoom, and even that is working beautifully. The school has helped us with routine and structure and making sure I'm teaching my kids what is important. It's making Pandemic Schooling feasible for our family.
2. Low acid decaf coffee. I've given up caffeinated coffee in the hope that when I get migraines caffeine will be more effective treatment. But I love coffee, and this low acid decaf stuff hits the spot with less caffeine.
3. Fall weather. I want to spend all my time outside, and getting sun has been good for my soul (not so much my shoulders though).
4. My husband's irregular work schedule. Ironically, it's the most predictable his schedule has ever been, but Monday is the only 8-5 day. Other days are either super late, or moderately late days. It makes it possible for me to get errands/appts done in the early morning before he goes in and have time by myself after the kids go to bed and before he gets home.
Hi Kaitlin,
I used to suffer from migraines too, particularly during my main child-bearing years. For me caffeine and a dose of Children’s Dimetapp usually helped. I could not keep pills down thanks to the nausea but the super sweet kids antihistamine also worked to settle my stomach in addition to dilating my blood vessels. Hang in there and take it day by day as Kristen says.
Grandma Shelly
Children's Dimetapp? Would never have thought to try that! Thanks for the tip.
(1) The home care agency and aides with whom I work on DH's behalf, and who are making my life with DH's Alzheimer's more bearable. The agency is always helpful and responsive; the three aides who are "Team DH," though they are very different individuals, are all dependable and bring different skills and talents to the job. Bless them all.
(2) Local cemeteries, which do me good for the same reasons mentioned by N in her comment.
(3) The amazing neighbors on our cul-de-sac, who continue to be amazing as described in my comments on earlier posts.
(4) The lovely sunny weather we've enjoyed so much of this summer and into September (although, as a gardener, I could also have used a bit more rain). The abundant sunshine is keeping my mind off the fact that autumn in Upstate NY is invariably followed by our well-known Upstate NY winter.
I'm glad someone else "gets" what is so special about cemeteries. 🙂 HUGS to you always. Though I only started posting her recently, I've followed your story for as long as we've had frugal blogs in common (I read the Non-Consumer Advocate as well). You are an AMAZING person. HUGS again.
Friends who listen, once I get over the very-large-to-me barrier of calling them.
I am the same way. It is for me a fear of bothering them or intruding. Yet, when they call me, it's fine with me!
So am I. It's good to her I'm not the only one.
This is such a weird time right now, but my parents lived through the Depression, polio outbreaks, WWII and Korea, rationing, and atomic bomb drills for their little kids at schools. Surely I can live through this - one day at a time, just as you said, Kristen. You are so right.
I've mentioned this one before, but I'm glad to have our dog, the dog I didn't want to get, but my husband did anyway. She is such a good companion for him! I know it would be very difficult for me to go to work every day if he had nothing but an empty house to face all day, but she keeps him entertained and keeps him company.
My sister is keeping me sane - she has graciously listened to me when the stresses of life overcome me. She prays for me every day.
Books, for reasons that are obvious to anyone who likes to read.
My container garden. It's been disappointing a few times, but I've still been able to get some nice produce out of it, and I'm starting the fall garden now.
The weather - by the time September is in full swing, with tropical storms, hurricanes, humidity and stubborn won't-go-away-heat, I'm usually heartily sick of it all and a little depressed over it. This sudden cooling off we are having now has done wonders for my mood and sleep. We had the upper-60's at night the last two or three nights, for the first time in months! We were having mid-to-upper70's as our low at night, when this front moved in this past Friday.
Boy, so true about what our parents survived -- that is a great perspective!
Umm let's see.
Watch Parties (of sorts) Every week on YouTube I watch a couple of different shows. One of them is a livestream of silent comedies with live music on them.
I've tried setting up individual watch parties but got zero responses from my online "friends" since I kind of have unique tastes I guess.
Also being able to go to church in person again. I have to sit in the back (which is okay)
Other than that, not much I guess.
"This is what we're doing for now." I like that!
I've said (for decades!), "It's only temporary," and that's the name of my blog.
That's how I got through a divorce, two pregnancies, financial crises, bad jobs, and medical difficulties (that's the current issue).
And you know what? It IS only temporary. So far I've come through all the past difficulties, and I fully expect to come through the current one, and any that crop up in the future.
God gets us through!
1. Prayer, everyday and several times a day if I have the opportunity.
2. Star Trek Deep Space Nine on Netflix. It's a show from the 90's that is maybe more relevant today than back then. It shows humans have any amazing future ahead of us and is the only Trek that has an ongoing theme of religion and faith.
3. The BBC farm series: Medieval Castle, Tudor, Stuart, Victorian, Edwardian, Wartime. These series show the history of how we lived and farmed through the centuries. I found these on Youtube.
4. Going for walks, on today's walk I saw a fox. It's a clear crystal blue sky today.
I have been teaching chemistry for 27 years. All at public schools.
Virtual teaching of chemistry to 160 students is NOT WHERE ITS AT so I am using humor!
Humor is getting me through. And personal pep talks to myself. And prayer.
I can imagine that online chemistry is massively difficult!
1. Praying for a new job. I have been a nurse for 26 years and the last 7 years have been miserable. I am hopefully going back to what I loved to do which is Oncology nursing. I would love prayers that God would answer my prayer. I have no peace in life about being a nurse and having 13 years before I retire. I would like to find my home and new family in my career.
2. My girls are 12&16. I have 2 years left before my oldest one leaves. She is very ready, but I am not. I am a single mom by choice and adopted my girls as babies from China. We have had the most beautiful life and I feel alone at times when they are not around. I will still have my youngest, but I will need to find things to do.
3. I am very thankful for my job and that I am able to provide my family. I do not make much but we have done well regardless.
4. For my faith in God.
5. Thank you Kristen for your blog. I love the community of people here.
I'm so sorry your current job has been so hard! Since I'm looking into nursing, I'm curious...what has made your current job bad? And what makes oncology nursing a good nursing job?
If you are interested in oncology nursing you will no doubt find a job quickly.I am a retired Nurse.I had moments of burn out over the years, but took little breaks and also changed departments.. went back to school.. to enjoy a 30 year career in nursing,for the most part. One of the best parts of nursing is the variety within in!!!!!! I pray you get some relief.This covid time is making every little thing a little harder to deal with isn’t it.Sending you support, one nurse to another! Hugs.
1. My meditation teacher is re-starting her weekly class through Zoom. It will be so nice to see my friends there again, even if only online.
2. I usually don't watch much TV, if any, but now being at home so much I have been watching a bit after work, mostly Hallmark Channel movies. True they have very predictable plots, but they allow me to escape in a similar way books do for a little while when I need to.
3. We are very lucky to have a balcony. We are at higher risk and live in a crowded city so we have chosen to stay home as much as we can. Being able to sit in the fresh air and sunshine really helps my mood.
4. Coffee/tea time each day with my husband. I take a short break from work each afternoon to sit with him for a few minutes. It gives our day a bit more structure and gives me a little pick-me-up I need to stay productive until it's time to log off.
5. The exercises and stretches my physical therapist taught me. They help keep my legs and back strong and encourage me to move my body more. The stretches help to relax me at night before bed.
I really enjoyed reading everyone’s comments here! Here are mine:
1. My 4th and 10th grader have been managing their remote learning with little direction or need for me to help them. My special Ed 5th grader has been going to in person school in the mornings with minimal at home work. This is so much different than how things went in the spring. I don’t know if we could have made it if that wasn’t the case.
2. This probably sounds weird but watching clean with me YouTube videos. I don’t know why I find them so soothing but I do. Bonus...they also inspire me to get a lot of things done around my house.
3. Our puppy. My husband and I are not really animal people but about a year ago we got a puppy for our kids with the hope that he would be helpful with our special needs daughter. Well, that didn’t happen but this silly dog does a lot for my oldest’s And my mental health. I guess I like animals more than I thought (but this is it the only pet we will ever have lol).
4. The cool fall weather. The older I get, the hotter I run and the less I can handle the heat. I love love love these cool days and nights.
1. That Fall is on its way. It’s like on big giant sign of relief for me. I can’t stand hot weather. I come alive in Fall. I love everything about it.
2. My bed. We invested in a good mattress a couple years ago. Worth every penny. We laugh at how many times we say: Why did wait so long?
3. Blog recipe ideas. I love to cook but love the inspiration.
4. My coffee grinder. I splurged and purchased a coffee a grinder. Worth every penny to feel so pamper every morning when I sit alone. I also want to try to remember to use that try to do a little Bible reading.
1. The library, which only closed for a very short time before it figured out how to get books to us within virus protocols.
2. I am not a lover of comedy but someone recommended two Canadian comedies, Corner Gas and Kim's Convenience on Netflix. For some reason they make me laugh and we have been watching one half hour show a night right before bedtime to end the evening with a laugh. Kim's is about Korean immigrant parents but their humorous oddities remind me of my parents and all the Eastern Europeans I grew up around. Or maybe as the election nears and I get ever more fearful my need for humor is overriding my usual tastes. Maybe I should try I Love Lucy, which I saw once and hated...
3. Our dog, who is always up for any activity. On days when I am in my wheelchair I take him out and run it full speed and he runs along side. When I stop, he tries to lick me to death. I prefer to interpret this as thanking me for a good time. On days when I can hardly move, he lies down next to me and just waits.
4. The skills of cooking and baking. I am not world renowned chef material but I am a pretty good amateur and some days it is very calming to stay in there and cook or bake up a storm.
We stumbled on to Corner Gas and it was cute and entertaining. Will try Kim's convenience!
Comedy suggestion (also Canadian!) : Schitt's Creek. It's on Netflix.
Another Canadian gem is the Red Green Show. I love it.
Good evening, this is my first post. Chrissy and David, I am so sorry for your losses.
1.My Family, dear hubby, 3 adult children,8 grandchildren. 3 are Army kids.
2. My church
3. Zoom for church and my blind groups. I have low vision.
4. Gardening and filling the freezer, caring for my home.
I am retired, live in a small town.
1. Prayer & Bible
2. Watching reruns of Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and Bob Ross every week.
3. Classical music
4. My soap operas
I am truly struggling. I am stuck at home a lot and I need some time and space away. One day it will happen.
I'm with you on this one as I am sure many others are too. Hang in there.
Nice timing on the post. It has been a rough week.
Thankful our younger pup now sleeps in past 5:30 -6 am.
That the kids call and I get to Facetime the grandbaby. I am sure she thinks grandmas are in telephones.
Our temps are to rise again so not so cold.
That is all I have, I could list 5.2 million that I am not thankful for. But that is for another day. Just remember we are all in this together.
I love this with the instagram! Although I have to admit mine is just deleted and then I hear about people posting and I'm like I should go back but honestly I love being off.
If I did not have a blog, that's what I would probably do as well. But it's a little tough to be a blogger these days without also doing social media.
Back in 2008 when I started blogging, it was so different. All you did was...write blog posts. The end.
Thank you for #3 and 4! I really needed these as reminders to look ft me out of my funk!
Great idea!
1. My husband is very patient and computer savvy and has saved my bacon from March on when we went long distance. He is my personal IT guy at home and I honestly would not have been able to function in my job without him.
2. So true about "this is just for NOW" -- I have to adopt that, too. COVID will pass -- eventually - and all the good stuff will still be there. Must. Keep. Repeating. 🙂
3. Library open for pick up only - yahoo! It's the big LA public library so you can usually get anything, if you are patient. My go to break of the day is a shady spot under an oak up near the Mission and it's nearby park.. I sip my iced tea, eat my snack, and read my book, even on hot days there is usually a breeze. Totally forget everything else for a bit.
4. Exercise -- Since i discovered that my phone obsessively tracks steps every single day,
I have been using it to make me walk more. And that really improves my mood.
5. Making this list!
I'm late to to party, but here's what saving my life right now :
- Open public library. Me and the kids read a lot, so it's very nice to be able to borrow books
- Opened schools!!!!!!!! My #1 at the moment. I have a 3rd and and 5th grader, they are very happy to be back in school and so am I!
- Reliable car : because without, it's a nightmare
- Having enought savings throught frugal ways to allow me to work only 3 days a week
I learned how to crochet via YouTube and started making chemo caps. I had no idea crochet CAN be beautiful!!! Not being able to get out and minister to people has been the hardest part of the quarantine for me. I love that I can do this and ship them to a nonprofit who distributes them to cancer centers. ❤️