are those with nothing on my calendar. Time to read and daydream when household and personal care chores are done.

Last edited Mon Aug 12, 2024, 12:57 AM - Edit history (2)

I have been stuck in the house with weeks of hundred degree or more weather. I've taken on a big downsizing project, like 10 years worth, plus whatever tonnage I brought here.

So I can move someday near the ocean (cool) and people and stores and medical facilities and be 200 miles nearer my family. It is a monster job, but must be done. My "Always ready" self geared up for 100 possible lifestyles when I moved here, but only one showed up. It consists of my top hobbies: piano and photography, which I do daily as chores and emergencies allow.

The heat wave seems to have broken. For now. At least, temps below 90 are predicted for a week. I took a walk tonight. Feels good for a change.

It never ends with me. Even if I simplify life by trading the 7 acres of hills for just enough to accommodate my proven needs, well, there will always be photo walks to take. I got great shorebird photos when I visited my daughter by the bay. And expeditions. And pieces I haven't learned to play.

Saint Peter, don't you call me, because I'm never finished.

Moving a piano soon ( not by myself).

Best to you.

can relate.

projects we need to tackle, esp downsizing, mostly books, papers, music and film media and extra household items. Try to cope is my attitude, regroup and start in again.

It does seem like I spend much more time now tackling annoying internet issues, lots more email bombs and texts which take time to handle, delete.

So it goes, do what you can & hang in there. Best.

I always say no because I'm fairly slow driver.

more, and then just respond to one or two points, and before I know it, it's after midnight here.

Okay, I'm going to head for it too.

I used to rail at the heavens, asking why was more continually put on my plate, when I thought I couldn't handle it.

Then one day I decided to react in a different way. I started laughing every time something new was put on that plate. I always get through whatever it is, and I know that I will. But in that moment, when something else is put in front of you, and you're already exhausted, you wonder, 'how will I do this as well?'

What taught me to laugh was realizing that I survived the worst thing that ever happened to me. I lost both of my parents in less than six months, after being their caregiver for seven years. I went from a 24/7 job to having absolutely nothing to do but grieve. I thought the grief would kill me, but it didn't. I survived it. That is my constant reminder that no matter what happens, I will get through it.

I allow myself to have my private pity parties when I need them, I allow myself the rest I need. I'm learning to take care of me, after forever taking care of everyone else.

On the hard days I learned that it's okay to take it minute by minute, or hour by hour, or whatever works for you.

It's not easy. But it can be done. I'm living proof.
And I never thought I would be able to say that.

And always find something kind to do for yourself. Because you deserve it.

Sending you hugs.

Hang in there!

I read the posts when I woke up. Sleep helped. Just takes me a minute to remember that I'll do what I can, till I can't.

I'll be going to stay with my sick friend on weekends as often as I can. I am usually free on weekends and will be home on weekdays for the things I do here. My ex b-i-l passed away over the weekend. We weren't close, but I met him the same day I met my husband in 1971, and that old gang is pretty well gone :/

One of my dear nephews is in the area and wants to meet up a day next week, so I want to make time to see him. He is such a sweetie. And one of the exchange students we hosted is planning a visit next May, so we were texting about that.

I let my local Dem h.q. know I'll be driving up to the Cleveland area in case I can run any errands on those trips. May as well add in as much volunteer effort as I can

Sometimes I feel like the leaf in Forest Gump. I'm at rest in a good spot and suddenly the wind blows me here and there. Who knows if it'll be good or bad.