Friday....... last Friday of June, 2012..... The long weekend is upon us. I'm not sure if I am working on Monday or not. Will have to check when I go to work (or in my case, play) today. So I'm sitting at my computer, waiting for 8:30 am (B.C. time) to roll around. I've got to make a call to Patrick's university and find out about two courses he didn't get registered in. I really did try to take care of the problem on line, but my lack on knowing what the heck I was doing, forced me to call and ask for help. As I'm waiting, I thought I would check out my fav. website - RedFlagsDeal.com. For those of you who don't follow it, you can find some great deals. For example - On July 11, it is Free Slurpee Day at 7-11. Who doesn't enjoy a free slurpee. And if Slurpee's are a little below your class, then at 2nd Cup, from now until July 29th you can get an Italina Soda for $1.00. And to celebrate Canada Day, at Harvie's, if you wear some piece of red clothing, you can get a free hamburger from June 30th til July 2nd. (buy one get one free thingy) I love Red Flag. I usually go one at the end of each week to see what deals are out there. Some of my better deals from there include my big discount on my train trip last year to Nova Scotia. I would have never found the website that shows you what great deals you can get via train. The most recent deal was my glasses. Now I have seen the Clearly Contacts advertisements for quite awhile now, and I was never convinced you could get a good quality pair of glasses over the internet. Then about a couple of months ago, I watched a 60 minute; 20/20; fifth estate type of program (I believe it was a Canadian program) about why glasses cost so much when you can get them so cheap on line. The LensCrafters and Optical stores could not clarify why they charged so much for glasses, except for the fact that when you add in the fancy dancy brand names, prices go up. Makes sense to me. So I did a little experiment. I need new prescription sun glasses. But I didn't want to pay too much and not get what I really wanted. So Clearly Contacts offers a free pair of glasses (24.99 is as close to free as you get with shipping etc.) I did my research and tried to get a pair as close as possible to what I am wearing now. So at least I would have a back up pair for my everyday glasses. They are really fast and took less than two weeks (although they sat in my house mailbox for another two weeks because - really I don't ever check there) I've been wearing the new glasses and they are great. So now, I'm waiting for another coupon (won't be free but hopefully less expensive than going to a store) and I'll order the same glasses but in sunglass format!!!!! I'll keep you posted on how that turns out.
Ooooooo, I just got an email from Starbucks - $1.00 off a Frappucinno for me and my friend, if bought before July 1st. Another Canada Day special. Too bad I don't do coffee!!!!!
Anyway it's. now 9:30 or 8:30 BC time. I better bite the bullet, call the University and plead my clueless case.
Enjoy the amazing day.
Stacey
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Day 11 of June
Wow, it's 84 degrees already and it's only 5:45 am in the morning. Oh wait, that's not here, that's in Dallas where my girlfriend (with the swimming pool) lives. That was the first thing I read this morning. If we're lucky here, we might hit 16 here by afternoon. I'm seriously thinking of making Dallas (or the cabin near by) my winter home.
So I had a little surprise last night. I'm on my cell phone talking to my girlfriend (yes I have more than one) and we are conversing about our up and coming camping trip. (more on that in a later blog) I'm checking out the campsite on the computer, going in and out of my emails, and all of a sudden I see an email from the son- "Sitting at an internet cafe and still safe" and he used our code word!!!!!! I quickly go onto Facebook, because there may be a chance he's there too. Sure enough he is. I squeal into the phone like a mother who hasn't seen or heard from her child in over a year (it's only been a week) Poor Janice, she gratiously offers to talk later so I can bombard my son. (If it's any consolation Janice, you were the first to know that the son had made contact) Here is a short synopsis of the conversation (mostly what he said) : yes; yes; love you too; too much to tell on Facebook; having the best time; teaching English to kids and painting a school; I'm pretty good at it - from watching you - people are impressed!got to go; byebye; WHAAAAAAT; shit. Of course those are just his answers. My questions were much much longer. See if you can follow along: Are you doing well? Are you taking lots of pictures? I love you lots! Is there anything exciting you want to tell me? Are you having fun? What exactly are you doing? I have tears in my eyes - I am so proud of you. K bye. Hey, you got your first speeding ticket in the mail! It was only for 85.00. Stay safe.
Now I did leave out a little bit of conversation, but it had to do with University and the classes I was supposed to register him in. That was about the only time there was any flow to the conversation. But, when he told me about working with the kids and his compliment (I think it was a compliment - because of course in writing you can take things so many ways.) I had tears in my eyes. It was actually one of those ahahah moments. You don't think your kids have any idea of what you do in your job. And with Patrick he is always teasing me about how I talk to him or kids. But wow. I was just blown away.
I sit here with a smile on my face - still. But I better get on the treadmill before the temperature gets too warm (jk jk jk de) And if that darn laundry fairy doesn't do her job in the middle of the night, she is going to be fired!!!!
Have a great Thursday.
Stacey
So I had a little surprise last night. I'm on my cell phone talking to my girlfriend (yes I have more than one) and we are conversing about our up and coming camping trip. (more on that in a later blog) I'm checking out the campsite on the computer, going in and out of my emails, and all of a sudden I see an email from the son- "Sitting at an internet cafe and still safe" and he used our code word!!!!!! I quickly go onto Facebook, because there may be a chance he's there too. Sure enough he is. I squeal into the phone like a mother who hasn't seen or heard from her child in over a year (it's only been a week) Poor Janice, she gratiously offers to talk later so I can bombard my son. (If it's any consolation Janice, you were the first to know that the son had made contact) Here is a short synopsis of the conversation (mostly what he said) : yes; yes; love you too; too much to tell on Facebook; having the best time; teaching English to kids and painting a school; I'm pretty good at it - from watching you - people are impressed!got to go; byebye; WHAAAAAAT; shit. Of course those are just his answers. My questions were much much longer. See if you can follow along: Are you doing well? Are you taking lots of pictures? I love you lots! Is there anything exciting you want to tell me? Are you having fun? What exactly are you doing? I have tears in my eyes - I am so proud of you. K bye. Hey, you got your first speeding ticket in the mail! It was only for 85.00. Stay safe.
Now I did leave out a little bit of conversation, but it had to do with University and the classes I was supposed to register him in. That was about the only time there was any flow to the conversation. But, when he told me about working with the kids and his compliment (I think it was a compliment - because of course in writing you can take things so many ways.) I had tears in my eyes. It was actually one of those ahahah moments. You don't think your kids have any idea of what you do in your job. And with Patrick he is always teasing me about how I talk to him or kids. But wow. I was just blown away.
I sit here with a smile on my face - still. But I better get on the treadmill before the temperature gets too warm (jk jk jk de) And if that darn laundry fairy doesn't do her job in the middle of the night, she is going to be fired!!!!
Have a great Thursday.
Stacey
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Day 10 of June
I am on a roll!!! (sorry De)
Believe it or not, I have nothing to rant about today, only observations and ponderments (sp).
Well it has been a week since the son left on his exciting journey. I haven't heard from him yet; and I really don't anticipate hearing from him until after two weeks at least. The first two weeks he is helping a community become sustainable and I'm sure checking in with Mom is probably the last thing on his mind. Although I must admit, every time I check my emails, there is that little bit on excitement that maybe, just maybe he had access to some communication device and thought of me. Ahhhhh - to dream. I have been spending some time each day working on the son's room. Why? Because somewhere in there I'm sure there is a bed that should be changed. I see a small speck of white coming from what I believe to be the sheets. Hopefully by the weekend, I will have rescued the sheets and given them some TLC in the washing machine. Now usually, I don't venture into the "uncharted" rooms of the off spring, but I did warn the son, that if his room wasn't clean before he left, I have owner rights to enter (at my own risk) and remove anything that I deem unnecessary to survival of a human body. I'm not sure how many juice containers I've removed so far. And, I've already filled one box of "unused" clothes. I'm willing to bet that the son has more clothes in his room (I'd say closet, but not all are in the closet ) than most teenage girls. Besides T-shirts, how many hoodies or soccer jersey's does one person need? I will keep you posted on any valuable finds that I may come across. One thing I did find, and this was a little scary. As I was washing up some pants, as I emptied the pockets (that's where I usually find my Tim Hortons hot chocolate money) I did come across two ticket stubs for Zoo Lights from January 2012. They were in excellent condition, which means, these pants have not seen the inside of a washing machine in almost 7 months. To be fair, these pants might have not been worn in almost 7 months either. Because, believe me, he has enough pairs of pants that he could rotate for almost 7 months.
It looks like the rain has finally stopped. What to do first - mow the lawn, pull weeds or wash my car? So many things - so little time before the next rain comes. Actually from what I remember on the news last night, we might be in for a few days of sunshine. Thank goodness because the rivers around here are ready to flood and it could be a disaster for lowing lying homes.
I have lots more to talk about, but will leave for another day, as laundry calls (or it might be Maya wanting upstairs).
Enjoy the rest of your day.
Stacey
Believe it or not, I have nothing to rant about today, only observations and ponderments (sp).
Well it has been a week since the son left on his exciting journey. I haven't heard from him yet; and I really don't anticipate hearing from him until after two weeks at least. The first two weeks he is helping a community become sustainable and I'm sure checking in with Mom is probably the last thing on his mind. Although I must admit, every time I check my emails, there is that little bit on excitement that maybe, just maybe he had access to some communication device and thought of me. Ahhhhh - to dream. I have been spending some time each day working on the son's room. Why? Because somewhere in there I'm sure there is a bed that should be changed. I see a small speck of white coming from what I believe to be the sheets. Hopefully by the weekend, I will have rescued the sheets and given them some TLC in the washing machine. Now usually, I don't venture into the "uncharted" rooms of the off spring, but I did warn the son, that if his room wasn't clean before he left, I have owner rights to enter (at my own risk) and remove anything that I deem unnecessary to survival of a human body. I'm not sure how many juice containers I've removed so far. And, I've already filled one box of "unused" clothes. I'm willing to bet that the son has more clothes in his room (I'd say closet, but not all are in the closet ) than most teenage girls. Besides T-shirts, how many hoodies or soccer jersey's does one person need? I will keep you posted on any valuable finds that I may come across. One thing I did find, and this was a little scary. As I was washing up some pants, as I emptied the pockets (that's where I usually find my Tim Hortons hot chocolate money) I did come across two ticket stubs for Zoo Lights from January 2012. They were in excellent condition, which means, these pants have not seen the inside of a washing machine in almost 7 months. To be fair, these pants might have not been worn in almost 7 months either. Because, believe me, he has enough pairs of pants that he could rotate for almost 7 months.
It looks like the rain has finally stopped. What to do first - mow the lawn, pull weeds or wash my car? So many things - so little time before the next rain comes. Actually from what I remember on the news last night, we might be in for a few days of sunshine. Thank goodness because the rivers around here are ready to flood and it could be a disaster for lowing lying homes.
I have lots more to talk about, but will leave for another day, as laundry calls (or it might be Maya wanting upstairs).
Enjoy the rest of your day.
Stacey
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Day 9 of June
Change - has many definitions:
To alter; to make different; to cause to pass from one state to another; as, to change the position, character, or appearance of a thing; to change the countenance.
To alter by substituting something else for, or by giving up for something else; as, to change the clothes; to change one's occupation; to change one's intention.
Specifically: To give, or receive, smaller denominations of money (technically called change) for; as, to change a gold coin or a bank bill.
To be altered; to undergo variation; as, men sometimes change for the better.
To pass from one phase to another; as, the moon changes to-morrow night.
Any variation or alteration; a passing from one state or form to another; as, a change of countenance; a change of habits or principles.
A succesion or substitution of one thing in the place of another; a difference; novelty; variety; as, a change of seasons.
Alteration in the order of a series; permutation.
That which makes a variety, or may be substituted for another.
Small money; the money by means of which the larger coins and bank bills are made available in small dealings; hence, the balance returned when payment is tendered by a coin or note exceeding the sum due.
Then throw in a few quotes by some famous people:
Things don't have to change the world to be important.
Steve Jobs
If you accept the expectations of others, especially negative ones, then you never will change the outcome.
Michael Jordan
I am invariably late for appointments - sometimes as much as two hours. I've tried to change my ways but the things that make me late are too strong, and too pleasing.
Marilyn Monroe
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.
John F. Kennedy
All great change in America begins at the dinner table.
Ronald Reagan
It behooves every man who values liberty of conscience for himself, to resist invasions of it in the case of others: or their case may, by change of circumstances, become his own.
Thomas Jefferson
I'm not going to change the way I look or the way I feel to conform to anything. I've always been a freak. So I've been a freak all my life and I have to live with that, you know. I'm one of those people.
John Lennon
The truth is that we can learn to condition our minds, bodies, and emotions to link pain or pleasure to whatever we choose. By changing what we link pain and pleasure to, we will instantly change our behaviors.
Tony Robbins
No where could I find the definition - "something women go through after their childbearing years, that can bring the most uncomfortable symptoms upon oneself." Also known as THE CHANGE, or MENOPAUSE! Now in the grand scheme of things, I really don't have a whole lot to complain about. If you think about all the illnesses and diseases out there. But this is my blog, so I can vent. I have come to accept the fact that even in the -40 winter days, I will not be wearing a sweater. But really, when it's plus 15 (that's our average Calgary summer temperature) could I at least have the luxury of wanting to keep my clothes on. I get out of the shower this morning, and prepare to get ready for the day. I'm a little dripping still, so I dry off, and I dry off, and I dry off....still dripping. It must be the towel. Drop it to the floor (thank goodness I didn't have my glasses on) Take another towel and dry off. Hmmm, maybe it's because my hair is still wet. Give it a little toweling off - nope, still dripping. Bring out the hair blower. At one point, the hairdryer loses power (too hot I guess - the hair dryer, not me) Finally I finish putting my make-up on. 20 minutes later, I'm not sure how much make up is still on. Well I can't wait around and do nothing - I dress (partially) and open the back door (carefully as I'm only half dressed) Thank goodness the golf course people are busy mowing the green) So now I'm running around half dressed or half naked, depending on your perspective (half full, half empty) Will I make it through the day? Only if swimsuit attire is acceptable at both jobs!
Short of making a Dr. appointment (to tell me what - I'm going through something) and getting hormones (which I don't want), I guess I better make some fruit slushies and stick them in the freezer - it's going to be a long summer!!!!!!!!
Off to put my pants on!
Later
Stacey
To alter; to make different; to cause to pass from one state to another; as, to change the position, character, or appearance of a thing; to change the countenance.
To alter by substituting something else for, or by giving up for something else; as, to change the clothes; to change one's occupation; to change one's intention.
Specifically: To give, or receive, smaller denominations of money (technically called change) for; as, to change a gold coin or a bank bill.
To be altered; to undergo variation; as, men sometimes change for the better.
To pass from one phase to another; as, the moon changes to-morrow night.
Any variation or alteration; a passing from one state or form to another; as, a change of countenance; a change of habits or principles.
A succesion or substitution of one thing in the place of another; a difference; novelty; variety; as, a change of seasons.
Alteration in the order of a series; permutation.
That which makes a variety, or may be substituted for another.
Small money; the money by means of which the larger coins and bank bills are made available in small dealings; hence, the balance returned when payment is tendered by a coin or note exceeding the sum due.
Then throw in a few quotes by some famous people:
Things don't have to change the world to be important.
Steve Jobs
If you accept the expectations of others, especially negative ones, then you never will change the outcome.
Michael Jordan
I am invariably late for appointments - sometimes as much as two hours. I've tried to change my ways but the things that make me late are too strong, and too pleasing.
Marilyn Monroe
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.
John F. Kennedy
All great change in America begins at the dinner table.
Ronald Reagan
It behooves every man who values liberty of conscience for himself, to resist invasions of it in the case of others: or their case may, by change of circumstances, become his own.
Thomas Jefferson
I'm not going to change the way I look or the way I feel to conform to anything. I've always been a freak. So I've been a freak all my life and I have to live with that, you know. I'm one of those people.
John Lennon
The truth is that we can learn to condition our minds, bodies, and emotions to link pain or pleasure to whatever we choose. By changing what we link pain and pleasure to, we will instantly change our behaviors.
Tony Robbins
No where could I find the definition - "something women go through after their childbearing years, that can bring the most uncomfortable symptoms upon oneself." Also known as THE CHANGE, or MENOPAUSE! Now in the grand scheme of things, I really don't have a whole lot to complain about. If you think about all the illnesses and diseases out there. But this is my blog, so I can vent. I have come to accept the fact that even in the -40 winter days, I will not be wearing a sweater. But really, when it's plus 15 (that's our average Calgary summer temperature) could I at least have the luxury of wanting to keep my clothes on. I get out of the shower this morning, and prepare to get ready for the day. I'm a little dripping still, so I dry off, and I dry off, and I dry off....still dripping. It must be the towel. Drop it to the floor (thank goodness I didn't have my glasses on) Take another towel and dry off. Hmmm, maybe it's because my hair is still wet. Give it a little toweling off - nope, still dripping. Bring out the hair blower. At one point, the hairdryer loses power (too hot I guess - the hair dryer, not me) Finally I finish putting my make-up on. 20 minutes later, I'm not sure how much make up is still on. Well I can't wait around and do nothing - I dress (partially) and open the back door (carefully as I'm only half dressed) Thank goodness the golf course people are busy mowing the green) So now I'm running around half dressed or half naked, depending on your perspective (half full, half empty) Will I make it through the day? Only if swimsuit attire is acceptable at both jobs!
Short of making a Dr. appointment (to tell me what - I'm going through something) and getting hormones (which I don't want), I guess I better make some fruit slushies and stick them in the freezer - it's going to be a long summer!!!!!!!!
Off to put my pants on!
Later
Stacey
Monday, June 25, 2012
Day 8 of June
Ok, lets just acknowledge the elephant in the room. I called my mom yesterday. I had to. The good daughter in me couldn't punish mom or myself. (although my mom might not think of not talking to me as punishment but more of a blessing some days) And sure enough, Mom was quite content, watching tv, of good nature. I asked a couple questions about the garage sale, but she seemed quite oblivious to any negativity from the day before. I will keep searching for solutions - and hopefully Dr. Phil will answer my email. (yes I emailed Dr. Phil and yes, I used the phase "let's get real")
So I have been tired and tired and retired over the past week or so. I've been blaming my eating habits, and of course my "change" (but we'll get into that on a different blog). Then last night, I realized my tiredness is being contributed to, by both the husband (Shaunan get your mind out of the novel 50 Shades of Grey) and the dog. (don't even go there) So I am in bed around 10:00, playing on my new Ipad, and Bill and Maya come to bed. Lights out and I don't even remember counting sheep. Then at 2:30, I feel the bed shaking; it's Miss Maya. She's decided it plays time and is wrestling with some blankets. She only does this in the middle of the night when Bill has gotten up. Sure enough I turn over and there's an empty pillow. Now Maya sees me awake and thinks I want to play too. She jumps off the bed but wants her toy she let behind. So I throw it to her and she scampers off to find Bill. I'm not sure what the two of them do next, because I roll over and have no trouble falling back asleep (really tired). Fast forward ahead to 5:00 a.m. I'm comfortably asleep and dreaming - I hear Mom,,,,zzzzzz, Mom,.......zzzz, Mom,.......I think it is Patrick calling me. Then I awake from my dream. I listen and I still hear Mom,....zzzz, Mom, ......zzzz. I remember thinking to myself, Patrick's not home, he must be in trouble where ever he is..... I keep listening, and as I become more alert, I confirm with my self that I am awake, and so I couldn't be hearing Patrick. So it must be Ashley calling me. Mom,....zzzzzzzz, Mom,.......zzzz. But Ashley's not home either. I'm still laying down on my pillow. I adjust my head to make sure I'm hearing what I'm hearing. I've accounted for both kids not being home, but who could be calling me. I listen a little longer and I finally turn over to see what Bill is doing. He's SNORING... what sounds like Mom,.........zzzzzzzz, is Bill breathing in zzzzzzz, and out Mom - through his nose. Really, I wish i had taped it - it sounded like Mom, not Mommmm, or Mmmmm. So still being tired, I'm going back to sleep - someone forgot to tell my tummy it's only 5:00ish. Supper was 11 hours ago and I'm hungry. I could fight the feeling, but then how much time would I spend fighting. So I get up, grab the paper, my milk and a granola bar. (I'm trying to trick my tummy this early in the morning) I eat, read and my eyes say, 30 more minutes. I grab the blanket I've left on the couch and quietly lay on the couch and cover up. Apparently I wasn't quiet enough, because Maya hears me, and of course she knows I must be napping without her. She comes clicking out of the bedroom (I knew I should have cut those nails shorter) and before she reaches me, her super chihuahua senses come to life. She either hears something or smells something, but this gurgling growl erupts from her tiny tiny mouth and she wanders from window to window to see the culprit. After about 10 minutes (I'm too tired to stop her) she joins me on the couch and we cuddle in for our nap (who naps before 7:00 am) And just after 7:00 Bill is up and ready for work (how come one look so put together in under 10 minutes) He actually walks to the couch and gives me a kiss (if I'd seen what I looked like, I wouldn't have wanted to kiss me). K, now I'm awake. My day needs to start because I've got lots to do. Bill will be a little late tonight and he doesn't need supper, so Maya and I are going to be able to sneak another nap in before 7:00 pm this time.
I had so much more to say, but I'll save it for another blog.
Enjoy your Monday - I'm going to try to.
Stacey
So I have been tired and tired and retired over the past week or so. I've been blaming my eating habits, and of course my "change" (but we'll get into that on a different blog). Then last night, I realized my tiredness is being contributed to, by both the husband (Shaunan get your mind out of the novel 50 Shades of Grey) and the dog. (don't even go there) So I am in bed around 10:00, playing on my new Ipad, and Bill and Maya come to bed. Lights out and I don't even remember counting sheep. Then at 2:30, I feel the bed shaking; it's Miss Maya. She's decided it plays time and is wrestling with some blankets. She only does this in the middle of the night when Bill has gotten up. Sure enough I turn over and there's an empty pillow. Now Maya sees me awake and thinks I want to play too. She jumps off the bed but wants her toy she let behind. So I throw it to her and she scampers off to find Bill. I'm not sure what the two of them do next, because I roll over and have no trouble falling back asleep (really tired). Fast forward ahead to 5:00 a.m. I'm comfortably asleep and dreaming - I hear Mom,,,,zzzzzz, Mom,.......zzzz, Mom,.......I think it is Patrick calling me. Then I awake from my dream. I listen and I still hear Mom,....zzzz, Mom, ......zzzz. I remember thinking to myself, Patrick's not home, he must be in trouble where ever he is..... I keep listening, and as I become more alert, I confirm with my self that I am awake, and so I couldn't be hearing Patrick. So it must be Ashley calling me. Mom,....zzzzzzzz, Mom,.......zzzz. But Ashley's not home either. I'm still laying down on my pillow. I adjust my head to make sure I'm hearing what I'm hearing. I've accounted for both kids not being home, but who could be calling me. I listen a little longer and I finally turn over to see what Bill is doing. He's SNORING... what sounds like Mom,.........zzzzzzzz, is Bill breathing in zzzzzzz, and out Mom - through his nose. Really, I wish i had taped it - it sounded like Mom, not Mommmm, or Mmmmm. So still being tired, I'm going back to sleep - someone forgot to tell my tummy it's only 5:00ish. Supper was 11 hours ago and I'm hungry. I could fight the feeling, but then how much time would I spend fighting. So I get up, grab the paper, my milk and a granola bar. (I'm trying to trick my tummy this early in the morning) I eat, read and my eyes say, 30 more minutes. I grab the blanket I've left on the couch and quietly lay on the couch and cover up. Apparently I wasn't quiet enough, because Maya hears me, and of course she knows I must be napping without her. She comes clicking out of the bedroom (I knew I should have cut those nails shorter) and before she reaches me, her super chihuahua senses come to life. She either hears something or smells something, but this gurgling growl erupts from her tiny tiny mouth and she wanders from window to window to see the culprit. After about 10 minutes (I'm too tired to stop her) she joins me on the couch and we cuddle in for our nap (who naps before 7:00 am) And just after 7:00 Bill is up and ready for work (how come one look so put together in under 10 minutes) He actually walks to the couch and gives me a kiss (if I'd seen what I looked like, I wouldn't have wanted to kiss me). K, now I'm awake. My day needs to start because I've got lots to do. Bill will be a little late tonight and he doesn't need supper, so Maya and I are going to be able to sneak another nap in before 7:00 pm this time.
I had so much more to say, but I'll save it for another blog.
Enjoy your Monday - I'm going to try to.
Stacey
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Day 7 of June
First, please read the below article:
CBN.com – Today’s society has lost a huge part of its compassion. The world of media brings loss, pain, and tragedy into our lives at an overwhelming rate. As a people, we’ve become desensitized to the core values we were taught as children.
Baby Boomers were raised by parents or loved ones who believed in the validity of a handshake and the importance of treating others as they themselves expected to be treated. The golden rule we learned as children, carried meaning to our parents and grandparents. They held tight to work ethic, honesty, integrity, faith, and dignity.
As our parents age, they are faced with the realization and loss of these basic staples of life. It’s a painful process when they must accept the inability to stand alone, loss of their independence or worse, the need to depend on someone else to do what they value as important.
When patience runs low or feeling of deep frustration strike, step back and reflect on the dignity that is owed to aging parents. Keep in mind what is hard for us as children is tenfold for our parents. The aging process brings with it seasons of joy, but it also carries fear and loss of personal worth. The “what if’s” of life become vivid reality and the aging parent find themselves torn between dependence and independence.
Learning the process of aging takes time. It requires family involvement; children and siblings must find ways to explore the changing needs of our seniors in order to make the transition of seasons smooth and less stressful.
As parents age, our own sense of reality is affected. The parents who willingly helped us along the way, suddenly require our help. Tasks that were once easy for them become labored or fall to the wayside, and we’re taken back by their loss…our loss.
Preparation and education are necessary evils no one wants to face. But following these reminders will help family members reserve the dignity of their elderly.
Repetition is not uncommon. Remember as parents grow older and begin to repeat questions, there was a time when we, as children, constantly asked “Why?” Keep in mind the patience our parents exemplified in teaching us and exercise that same diligence with them.
When they can’t seem to recall your name, remember there was a time when the only name we could repeat, was theirs. “Momma, Daddy.” When their movements are slow and tedious, keep in mind, it was their loving hands which steadied us as we toddled. If a meal ends up on their clothes instead of in their mouths, don’t forget who patiently taught us to feed ourselves and then gently swiped the goo from our fingers.
As our parents continue to grow older and personal cleanliness becomes a problem, it was they who walked us through potty training and who bathed the mud from our childhood antics, then re-cleaned the tub for the ump-teenth time. And when they lose their confidence after a fall, remember the numerous times they held us close after a tumble, then encouraged us to forge ahead. It was our parents who cheered us through the rough times as a child and who allowed us to lean against them as adults.
When the frustration of the added “stuff”—walkers, canes, or wheelchairs which have to be lugged out the door and to the car just to take them to the post office, remember the diaper bags, the bottles, the extra clothes, snacks, and “stuff” they toted off their shoulder, while you rested on their hip, legs dangling, and arms squeezing their necks. It was a chore then and it’s still a chore, but worth the effort—worth the love.
And most of all, when they meet with the fears of forgetfulness and the anxieties of being in unfamiliar surroundings, remember how they stood in the background, just in view, encouraging you to step forward, “You can do it!”
Finally, when the reality they cannot be left alone digs deep into their hearts, remember they never left us alone, afraid, or ignored us as small children, but they kept us close at hand, always watching, always present…always there.
When the roles reverse, remember to love and treat our aging seniors with dignity and honor—for without them, we would be nothing. Scripture instructs us to “Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise: 3 If you honor your father and mother, "things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth." (Eph. 6:2-3, NLT). Our obedience to this commandment comes with a promise that things may go well for us when we do so. Preserving the dignity of our seniors as they succumb to aging is the most important thing, we as children can offer our parents. After all, everything we learned…we learned from our parents. If for nothing else, they have earned the right.
Ok, I get this article and I totally agree with it. But no where could I find any information on how to deal with a rude or disrepectful parent. Lets just leave my friend out of it this time, and get to the point. I am talking about my Mom. I understand she is probably experiencing that is stated in the article. I get that she probably even has to deal with some rude people herself where she lives. I get that she may resent not being able to do things she used to be able to do. The article talks about how our parents looked after us when we were little. Would they have put up with rude and disrespectful behaviour? Does gettting old give people the right to treat other people in nasty ways. Now if I were dealing with one of my children, I certainly would never (and did never) let them talk to people that way. But they were young - they hadn't earned the right? In the same breath, I as my mother's daughter, do not want to lecture my mom on her negative attitude. Or as my Mother's daughter - should I. Should I be the one to mention to her that she is becoming "like mother's before her." Does she even realize she is being like this? I don't know! Here is an example. (just one of many) I was visiting with my mom yesterday at the Manor's garage sale. A lady walked by and mom explained how this lady must have got up on the wrong side of the bed, because she said the garage sale was going to be cancelled because of the rain. Mom in turn told her, "Oh I don't think it is!" I honestly sat with my mom agape - not from the comment so much as, that mom didn't realize that maybe she was the one that got up on the wrong side of the bed. K, that wasn't a very good example. Let's try this one: When I arrived at the manor yesterday morning, Mom was not in her room. But her room mate was. So we started talking and in walks my mom with her walker and two items she had purchased at the garage sale. The first was a picnic basket (that looked like it had been through world war I) - but I kept that thought to myself. We asked Mom what she had. She said a picnic basket for either me or Tracey. I told her that Tracey could have it as I didn't need one (maybe my mistake). And secondly she had a box with 3 cats in it. (we couldn't see the cats because the picnic box was sitting on them.) Now what would be the first thing you would ask? ..................... Well Mom's room mate asked "What kind of cats?" And before I could ask the same question, Mom answered "Well they're not real, do you think I would put a picnic basket on top if they were real!" - now repeat that last sentence with a snarky voice. I said Mom, it could have been stuffed cats (cause that's what I would have thought) - "Well they're not!" Well pore Bev - she smiled at me and hightailed it back into her room. Now I have tried to understand Mom's moods - attitudes - off days; but when and should I have spoken up.
I'm at a loss. I should phone her today, because I do every day, but I am having a hard time doing so. I'm not sure if I can bite my tongue. Having said that, chances are Mom might have forgotten the entire situation - or in realilty, didn't even know there was a situation. Maybe it's time someone wrote a book on the best approach. We have resource books for kids with all sorts of disablilities, and issues. I'd write the book myself, but I don't have the solution, only the problem. But I will search my Google and the library and see what I can find. Maybe I need to send a quick note to Dr. Phil - bet he hasn't dealt with this problem on his show. Then again, maybe there is no problem and I just need to close my eyes or better yet, shut my ears. And people wonder my I think 65 is a good age to find other alternatives.
Back to laundry and cleaning.
Stacey
CBN.com – Today’s society has lost a huge part of its compassion. The world of media brings loss, pain, and tragedy into our lives at an overwhelming rate. As a people, we’ve become desensitized to the core values we were taught as children.
Baby Boomers were raised by parents or loved ones who believed in the validity of a handshake and the importance of treating others as they themselves expected to be treated. The golden rule we learned as children, carried meaning to our parents and grandparents. They held tight to work ethic, honesty, integrity, faith, and dignity.
As our parents age, they are faced with the realization and loss of these basic staples of life. It’s a painful process when they must accept the inability to stand alone, loss of their independence or worse, the need to depend on someone else to do what they value as important.
When patience runs low or feeling of deep frustration strike, step back and reflect on the dignity that is owed to aging parents. Keep in mind what is hard for us as children is tenfold for our parents. The aging process brings with it seasons of joy, but it also carries fear and loss of personal worth. The “what if’s” of life become vivid reality and the aging parent find themselves torn between dependence and independence.
Learning the process of aging takes time. It requires family involvement; children and siblings must find ways to explore the changing needs of our seniors in order to make the transition of seasons smooth and less stressful.
As parents age, our own sense of reality is affected. The parents who willingly helped us along the way, suddenly require our help. Tasks that were once easy for them become labored or fall to the wayside, and we’re taken back by their loss…our loss.
Preparation and education are necessary evils no one wants to face. But following these reminders will help family members reserve the dignity of their elderly.
Repetition is not uncommon. Remember as parents grow older and begin to repeat questions, there was a time when we, as children, constantly asked “Why?” Keep in mind the patience our parents exemplified in teaching us and exercise that same diligence with them.
When they can’t seem to recall your name, remember there was a time when the only name we could repeat, was theirs. “Momma, Daddy.” When their movements are slow and tedious, keep in mind, it was their loving hands which steadied us as we toddled. If a meal ends up on their clothes instead of in their mouths, don’t forget who patiently taught us to feed ourselves and then gently swiped the goo from our fingers.
As our parents continue to grow older and personal cleanliness becomes a problem, it was they who walked us through potty training and who bathed the mud from our childhood antics, then re-cleaned the tub for the ump-teenth time. And when they lose their confidence after a fall, remember the numerous times they held us close after a tumble, then encouraged us to forge ahead. It was our parents who cheered us through the rough times as a child and who allowed us to lean against them as adults.
When the frustration of the added “stuff”—walkers, canes, or wheelchairs which have to be lugged out the door and to the car just to take them to the post office, remember the diaper bags, the bottles, the extra clothes, snacks, and “stuff” they toted off their shoulder, while you rested on their hip, legs dangling, and arms squeezing their necks. It was a chore then and it’s still a chore, but worth the effort—worth the love.
And most of all, when they meet with the fears of forgetfulness and the anxieties of being in unfamiliar surroundings, remember how they stood in the background, just in view, encouraging you to step forward, “You can do it!”
Finally, when the reality they cannot be left alone digs deep into their hearts, remember they never left us alone, afraid, or ignored us as small children, but they kept us close at hand, always watching, always present…always there.
When the roles reverse, remember to love and treat our aging seniors with dignity and honor—for without them, we would be nothing. Scripture instructs us to “Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise: 3 If you honor your father and mother, "things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth." (Eph. 6:2-3, NLT). Our obedience to this commandment comes with a promise that things may go well for us when we do so. Preserving the dignity of our seniors as they succumb to aging is the most important thing, we as children can offer our parents. After all, everything we learned…we learned from our parents. If for nothing else, they have earned the right.
Ok, I get this article and I totally agree with it. But no where could I find any information on how to deal with a rude or disrepectful parent. Lets just leave my friend out of it this time, and get to the point. I am talking about my Mom. I understand she is probably experiencing that is stated in the article. I get that she probably even has to deal with some rude people herself where she lives. I get that she may resent not being able to do things she used to be able to do. The article talks about how our parents looked after us when we were little. Would they have put up with rude and disrespectful behaviour? Does gettting old give people the right to treat other people in nasty ways. Now if I were dealing with one of my children, I certainly would never (and did never) let them talk to people that way. But they were young - they hadn't earned the right? In the same breath, I as my mother's daughter, do not want to lecture my mom on her negative attitude. Or as my Mother's daughter - should I. Should I be the one to mention to her that she is becoming "like mother's before her." Does she even realize she is being like this? I don't know! Here is an example. (just one of many) I was visiting with my mom yesterday at the Manor's garage sale. A lady walked by and mom explained how this lady must have got up on the wrong side of the bed, because she said the garage sale was going to be cancelled because of the rain. Mom in turn told her, "Oh I don't think it is!" I honestly sat with my mom agape - not from the comment so much as, that mom didn't realize that maybe she was the one that got up on the wrong side of the bed. K, that wasn't a very good example. Let's try this one: When I arrived at the manor yesterday morning, Mom was not in her room. But her room mate was. So we started talking and in walks my mom with her walker and two items she had purchased at the garage sale. The first was a picnic basket (that looked like it had been through world war I) - but I kept that thought to myself. We asked Mom what she had. She said a picnic basket for either me or Tracey. I told her that Tracey could have it as I didn't need one (maybe my mistake). And secondly she had a box with 3 cats in it. (we couldn't see the cats because the picnic box was sitting on them.) Now what would be the first thing you would ask? ..................... Well Mom's room mate asked "What kind of cats?" And before I could ask the same question, Mom answered "Well they're not real, do you think I would put a picnic basket on top if they were real!" - now repeat that last sentence with a snarky voice. I said Mom, it could have been stuffed cats (cause that's what I would have thought) - "Well they're not!" Well pore Bev - she smiled at me and hightailed it back into her room. Now I have tried to understand Mom's moods - attitudes - off days; but when and should I have spoken up.
I'm at a loss. I should phone her today, because I do every day, but I am having a hard time doing so. I'm not sure if I can bite my tongue. Having said that, chances are Mom might have forgotten the entire situation - or in realilty, didn't even know there was a situation. Maybe it's time someone wrote a book on the best approach. We have resource books for kids with all sorts of disablilities, and issues. I'd write the book myself, but I don't have the solution, only the problem. But I will search my Google and the library and see what I can find. Maybe I need to send a quick note to Dr. Phil - bet he hasn't dealt with this problem on his show. Then again, maybe there is no problem and I just need to close my eyes or better yet, shut my ears. And people wonder my I think 65 is a good age to find other alternatives.
Back to laundry and cleaning.
Stacey
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Day 6 of June
This picture was taken a couple of weeks ago; Patrick escourted his ex-girlfriend to her Grade 12 graduation. I'm glad they are able to maintain a friendship - different friendship - but still a friendship. Don't be surprised if you get a copy with your Christmas card this year!
Well I have unofficially set a new record for myself. I won again on the radio this morning. This time its tickets to see Dave Coulier at Yuk Yuk's. That is three different radio stations. I wonder what contests I could possibly be missing in the afternoons!!!!! Maybe I'll see Grace at this one too. Apparently it is almost sold out. It will be nice to see some funny stuff, without a lot of swearing and raunchyness. Dave played Uncle Joey on Full House!!!! I remember he does great impressions too.
I still haven't had a chance to get out and spray my horsetail!!! The rain just won't stay away. How long before Spruce Meadows is over...........
It's been a busy two days with my cards --- taking down Father's Day and putting up summer stock!! Weddings basically! I can't believe how fast wedding cards go this time of year.
Also just got off the phone with my mom. Seems the seniors center is having their annual garage sale this weekend. I told Mom I'd pop over for the garage sale, but would probably miss the breakfast - 8:00 am Saturday morning just doesn't scream out pancakes to me!!!!!
I'd better get the last load of laundry done - Patrick's looking for a towel to take.
Enjoy the rest of the week.
Stacey
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