calendulady

I hadn't planned on it, but today was a shopping day ... my husband took me out to buy a new handbag. I really didn't need one, or so I thought. But my husband explained to me that I needed a bag with an extra-long strap, so that I can put it over my head and across my body - that way I can carry my own purse hands-free. I guess my husband is tired of carrying my handbag when I insist that I can't leave home without it. Score one for the adult in the family without stroke deficits! I might have arrived at that solution on my own ... eventually. But who knows! It's a dark red bag with a little sass. Looks great with my sweatpants and tee-shirt uniform for physical therapy. I suppose I am going on and on about this purchase, because it is the one and only new thing I have bought since my stroke. Now I just have to find a dollar bill and a couple of coins to put in the zipper money pouch inside the bag. Funny, I haven't had my own money since the stroke, either. Oh, before I forget, does anyone need a new key ring? I just happen to have a new one, in a dark red color with a little sass.

Oh, it has been a busy day around here. My daughter finally moved the remainder of her belongings into her new apartment. Of course, Dad made several trips back and forth. The final trip came early this afternoon. I was fortunate to tag along and see the place for myself. I got the grand tour, while Dad finished setting up all the electronics for my daughter and her roommate. I gave a "thumbs up" to the place - the fridge was even stocked with healthy food. However, it was difficult to navigate my walker through some of the small door ways and I almost tripped over a number of scattered rugs. Finally, my husband parked me on the end of the futon in the den, while he and the girls put the finishing touches on the place. I won't lie and tell you that I am grateful the nest is empty - quite the contrary, I will miss seeing her pop in and out the door each day. And I always felt more comfortable when my daughter could be called upon to help out with me when my husband had to be away from the house in the evening. But I will adapt to this change. That's what parents do. One funny thing did happen - for 2 weeks my daughter has been begging me not to cry when she leaves. I'm so emotional these days, it wasn't easy keeping the tears at bay. So when it was time to say goodbye this evening, I gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek, and told her how proud I was of the woman she has grown to be. So how did my daughter react - well, I think she was rather hurt that I didn't cry and carry on. Kids! It doesn't matter how old they are, I still can't figure them out! :uhm: I'll probably spend the rest of the evening bouncing emails back and forth to my son. He is in the Marine Corps. On his way to Iraq four days ago, his plane brokedown and they had to land in Rota, Spain. He will be leaving Spain on or about Monday. In the meantime, he seems very bored. But I'd rather have him spend more time in Spain and less time in Iraq. It's time to say goodbye :Zzzz: - I'm tired and typing :Typing: is getting more difficult to do. Sweet Dreams :Neeeedsleeep: and here's to another day of recovery. Debbie

I used to dream of writing a book. Not sure what genre, but I felt as if I had a book inside me, probably down deep so it would take some time to surface. The only thing stopping me was having the time to commit to the craft. Until now ... Oh, I have plenty of time now. But since the stroke the problem is finding the right words combined with a creative voice. I'm not a quitter so I continue to set aside time for my daily writing prompts. Some days are much easier than others ... there are times when I sit in front of the computer screen for hours on end without completing a sentence. At other times the thoughts fly from my brain to my fingers, but watch out for spelling, grammar, and complete sentences. Another consequence is that it is now much more difficult to judge good writing from bad. Friends I used to depend on as my critics now applaud every little success that I have, not wanting to discourage me at any turn. For now I will keep my creative writing to myself as I work to improve my skills. But don't count me out completely ... because one day when you least expect it, I may just surprise you! Good Night All! :Neeeedsleeep: Debbie

January 20, 2006 Okay, this is my first attempt at blogging. I figure I will start out with what's heaviest on my mind right now. During the last 5 months I have gained so much weight. Yes, some of it is due to the medications that I am currently taking. But the rest is due to the dramatic change in my activity level in relation to the amount of food I eat on my Vegetarian, Low Fat, Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium diet. My husband does all the shopping, cooking, and serving of the meals because my balance, coordination, and tremor issues make those activities unsafe and out of reach for me at this time. But I still find it difficult to understand how I have gained the weight so fast. My food choices are healthier than before the stroke. My portions are measured. I have a schedule for my meals. I just can't seem to work out a healthy balance. I would be grateful to hear from anyone that might have some suggestions for me. I feel like I am the only one fighting this problem. Debbie