Turns out, one of the knitting groups we attend (attend several different ones) has informed me, my daughter is no longer welcomed.
I was stunned when we heard this. After all, we have been faithfully attending this particular group for years, and have bonded with many of those who attend.
Recently my daughter had to go to the front office to get something. One of the ladies in the group volunteered to help my daughter (who also sews) with her Serger machine.
We brought her machine with us this visit for the lesson. But did not have all the tools needed to thread the machine. When my daughter had to to go ask for a pair of tweezers, one of the head staff in charge was there. And I guess she'd never seen my daughter, who is a valued participant of this (and other groups).
This woman came into where we all were knitting, "who's child is this?" . "Mine" , I answered.
Woman went on about the activity is for seniors. "I'm no senior" I replied. "How old are you?", the woman inquired. "49, 50 this October". "Okay, I'll let you attend, but your daughter can not".
I was devastated. I take my kids wherever I go. I want them to learn and see what I experience. My daughter have helped some of the women there with their projects. They all love having her there.
Fortunately, my daughter is still welcome to the other groups we attend. Somehow, I'll adjust to not having her accompany me.
Monday, January 23, 2017
It has been over a week since my stitches and staples have been removed following fistula surgery. Remember, beginning of this year I had surgery on the aneurysm that had developed as a result of sticking huge, painful needles in my arm three times a week for necessary treatments. Enormous, grotesque knots develop, thus surgery.
During the election, I was hospitalized due to a fistula infection. This was not the cause of the recent surgery but infection had to be treated prior to surgery.
There has been a long wait to get back in the pool. I just had my first swim lesson over the summer and have been swimming {every non-dialysis day} since. So, I'm anxious for doctors to approve me to get back into the water. And of course, I'll soon be blogging about this joyous experience.
Now that my twelve year old daughter has had her menstrual cycle -- PMS for a couple of years now, my patient husband and impatient me have decided to give her (us) a week off during those days of pure chaos. Any reason or rationality goes out the door. Complete pandemonium.
This is one of the many benefits to homeschooling. I've noticed during my kids years of puberty and hormones, we all needed to step away from our usual routine. Either get more sleep, more food, more alone time, whatever.
My go-to remedy for when my kids behavior gets out-of-control, I do one or all of the following: Feed them. Focusing primarily on highly nutritious food. Because I suspect that maybe their temporary behavior issue is caused by an imbalance in their diet.
Next, I give them a long, warm, relaxing bath. Bathroom is scented with relaxing fragrances, lights are dimmed, etc. At some point, I'll gently clean their backs. Maybe even give them a quick foot rub.
And finally, I'll put them to bed. I believe sleep is crucial during their growing years. Preteens, teens are still going through growth spurts. And I noticed behavior changes during this time as well. Additional sleep helps them rest their body and mind. Eventually waking up behaving like their "normal sweet selves".
But, if "I'm hormonal too", this is a different story. There are times I may not have the patience needed to be more compassionate with "my own kids" during this challenging time. During those times, I may need... to eat, need a bath, need to sleep.
This is one of the many benefits to homeschooling. I've noticed during my kids years of puberty and hormones, we all needed to step away from our usual routine. Either get more sleep, more food, more alone time, whatever.
My go-to remedy for when my kids behavior gets out-of-control, I do one or all of the following: Feed them. Focusing primarily on highly nutritious food. Because I suspect that maybe their temporary behavior issue is caused by an imbalance in their diet.
Next, I give them a long, warm, relaxing bath. Bathroom is scented with relaxing fragrances, lights are dimmed, etc. At some point, I'll gently clean their backs. Maybe even give them a quick foot rub.
And finally, I'll put them to bed. I believe sleep is crucial during their growing years. Preteens, teens are still going through growth spurts. And I noticed behavior changes during this time as well. Additional sleep helps them rest their body and mind. Eventually waking up behaving like their "normal sweet selves".
But, if "I'm hormonal too", this is a different story. There are times I may not have the patience needed to be more compassionate with "my own kids" during this challenging time. During those times, I may need... to eat, need a bath, need to sleep.
One of the sweet, beloved older ladies from one of my knitting groups died last week. Just three weeks ago she told me, that she had six months. Thankful she trusted me with this disturbing news, first I was speechless. I informed her of my honesty, "I don't know what to say", as I squeezed her affectionately like I always did. Stoicly she was appreciative for my compassion.
Thinking back now, I've learned so much from this bittersweet experience. This Canadian, bilingual, french speaking woman taught me even more about tenacity. How to keep living through adversity. Though she knew she was dying, she continued on with her usual life routine.
Many of us ladies (my husband, and daughter included) valued her as a fellow participant. She was an extremely knowledgeable knitter. Many participants still have unfinshed projects she was graciously assisting them with.
This knitting group is not a class. All levels are welcomed. Whenever one of us is challenged by a stitch or project, usually another avail themselves to assist. Even myself, or my husband or even my twelve year old daughter helps someone with a challenge (and vice versa).
Looking back, I'm sure she suspected she had very limited time left. She expressed no fear
and a feisty determination to keep going with her life. She was there answering questions and also completing projects she was making for others.
It was such an honor to have experienced her. I loved her strength, her compassion. She always inquired about how I was feeling. Encouraged me to keep going and that I'd soon get a kidney. I even have a pink hat she gave me. And knitting books she gave me and my husband.
During meetups, I look over to her usual spot, where she sat. One leg was amputated, yet her son brought her to every knit activity. She was there. Continuing...
Message: keep going. Don't procrastinate. No one knows how long. She was told six months. But unfortunately, she had far less time. But with her time, she continued. Did what she wanted. Helped others. Was kind, regardless of her fate.
Thinking back now, I've learned so much from this bittersweet experience. This Canadian, bilingual, french speaking woman taught me even more about tenacity. How to keep living through adversity. Though she knew she was dying, she continued on with her usual life routine.
Many of us ladies (my husband, and daughter included) valued her as a fellow participant. She was an extremely knowledgeable knitter. Many participants still have unfinshed projects she was graciously assisting them with.
This knitting group is not a class. All levels are welcomed. Whenever one of us is challenged by a stitch or project, usually another avail themselves to assist. Even myself, or my husband or even my twelve year old daughter helps someone with a challenge (and vice versa).
Looking back, I'm sure she suspected she had very limited time left. She expressed no fear
and a feisty determination to keep going with her life. She was there answering questions and also completing projects she was making for others.
It was such an honor to have experienced her. I loved her strength, her compassion. She always inquired about how I was feeling. Encouraged me to keep going and that I'd soon get a kidney. I even have a pink hat she gave me. And knitting books she gave me and my husband.
During meetups, I look over to her usual spot, where she sat. One leg was amputated, yet her son brought her to every knit activity. She was there. Continuing...
Message: keep going. Don't procrastinate. No one knows how long. She was told six months. But unfortunately, she had far less time. But with her time, she continued. Did what she wanted. Helped others. Was kind, regardless of her fate.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
What a privilege to go to bed, wake up knowing those most important to me are safe and well. I'm in good health and spirits. We all have the things we need - each other, quality friends, food and shelter. And what an extra bonus each year to go to sleep New Years Eve and wake New Years day to continued Twilight Zone episodes. Regardless of seeing repeats, each viewing is as enjoyable as the first time.
About 10:00 pm, New Years Eve, instantly I had a brief bout feeling melancholy. Sort of frightened by another new year fastly approaching. "Did I accomplish all intentions in 2016?" I quietly wondered. No, I no longer write down resolutions each year. But I do "think" about those things I'd like to happen (and what I intend to do to bring my desires into fruition).
Mentally listing all the life lessons I've learned. All the amazing experiences I was fortuned. Inspirational people who've touched my life. New friends and relationships that have developed.
Time seems to be racing by. And there are so many moments I just want to last. For instance, my daughter and I snuggled in bed this morning chatting, she, knitting while we both watched Twilight Zone. She's twelve and I'm so thankful she still wants to be under her mom (and dad).
And my son, he's been home for about a week, This trip, he relaxed more and was more himself. Usually when he comes home from the academic intense college he attends and he's stressed. Naturally he's a laid back, affable person. Thankfully this is who he was this trip. Hopefully he's adapting to the stress he endures at school as he aims to do only his best. His dad and I reminds him that we are truly proud of who and what he is.
I'm having surgery (fistula) tomorrow. Luckily I feel limited to no anxiety about the upcoming procedure. My surgeon is awesome and knowing that I'll be in good hands keeps me calm. I'm in the care of amazing doctors to which I'm grateful.
That's all for now. I know it's been a while since I've last blogged. Thing is, I often have interesting ideas and content in my head. By the time I find the time and energy to write, I'm no longer inspired. Hopefully this all changes in this new year. I'm a creative person and happiest when I'm creating and sharing. May my readership grow this year and years to come. And may I become a much better blogger.
Happy New Year!
About 10:00 pm, New Years Eve, instantly I had a brief bout feeling melancholy. Sort of frightened by another new year fastly approaching. "Did I accomplish all intentions in 2016?" I quietly wondered. No, I no longer write down resolutions each year. But I do "think" about those things I'd like to happen (and what I intend to do to bring my desires into fruition).
Mentally listing all the life lessons I've learned. All the amazing experiences I was fortuned. Inspirational people who've touched my life. New friends and relationships that have developed.
Time seems to be racing by. And there are so many moments I just want to last. For instance, my daughter and I snuggled in bed this morning chatting, she, knitting while we both watched Twilight Zone. She's twelve and I'm so thankful she still wants to be under her mom (and dad).
And my son, he's been home for about a week, This trip, he relaxed more and was more himself. Usually when he comes home from the academic intense college he attends and he's stressed. Naturally he's a laid back, affable person. Thankfully this is who he was this trip. Hopefully he's adapting to the stress he endures at school as he aims to do only his best. His dad and I reminds him that we are truly proud of who and what he is.
I'm having surgery (fistula) tomorrow. Luckily I feel limited to no anxiety about the upcoming procedure. My surgeon is awesome and knowing that I'll be in good hands keeps me calm. I'm in the care of amazing doctors to which I'm grateful.
That's all for now. I know it's been a while since I've last blogged. Thing is, I often have interesting ideas and content in my head. By the time I find the time and energy to write, I'm no longer inspired. Hopefully this all changes in this new year. I'm a creative person and happiest when I'm creating and sharing. May my readership grow this year and years to come. And may I become a much better blogger.
Happy New Year!
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