WOMEN AGES 50+ FOR APRIL 2023
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Who made the rules? Jake believes that children should call their parents so if they don't call him then they don't talk. Some of you think your parents should call you so you don't call them. My rule is that the person who is the most disturbed is the one who should take the action.
Barbie in NW WA
In my case, my parents and I email frequently and comment back and forth on FB. But we only "call" (Zoom) a couple times a year. We're not phone people.
This works for us.
Machka in Oz4 -
Hi Gals,
some of this is just venting....
I know you just want to vent and aren't looking for advice. Vent away!for those of you also dealing with older parents.... I know my mom is very limited in her hearing (especially without her hearing aids - which she hates to wear) and that she processes slower, but she will look at me with a completely blank look - give me no visual or verbal clue that she is participating in the conversation or even knows that I am talking to her, but when I ask what do you think, or did you hear me -- she says okay.... so I know at some level she is listening... It's hard to turn everything into an open ended question but has anyone come up with something to say to get feedback that is meaning full? I suggested that we deal with her taxes, at least call her tax person (who she will not tell me their name, company or phone number) But I think it is H&R Block - I told her I would like to know if she could move the appointment to an office closer to us, or do it in a way that we would not need two appointments. I know what town the tax person is in and it is 1- 1 1/2 hours drive away from me. She looked at me blankly - then I asked if she would like me to make the call - response was quit bugging me. So I don't know if just talking to her is bugging her, or taxes are bugging her or maybe to quote Lisa her cheese has just fallen off her cracker.
This happens a lot in my home. So much so that I took my husband to an audiologist to get his hearing checked. I was hopeful that is all it was. And I also got an appointment at the audiologist to get him to go. Turns out he's got perfect hearing - even hyper hearing - and I'm the one going deaf.
Unfortunately, that means the reason he doesn't hear me is because the processing is slow and easily distracted.- If the TV is on and there is anything remotely interest on it ...
- If he's reading an online newspaper ...
- If he's thinking about something else ...
- If he's making dinner ...
- If he's doing something in the garden ...
He won't hear me.Sometimes he won't even hear that I've made a noise. I can say a complete sentence in the same room with him, and he won't react at all. When I finally attract his attention, he won't have realised I said something.
If he does hear that I'm making noise, he won't know what I am saying, and he'll tell me that I don't speak loud enough.
Because of the brain injury, he has Aphasia (a brain disorder where a person has trouble speaking or understanding other people speaking), and connected with that, he also experiences Auditory Processing Disorder
https://www.acquiredbraininjury-education.scot.nhs.uk/impact-of-abi/communication-problems/auditory-processing-disorder/
Auditory processing difficulties:- Impair the person’s ability to distinguish between letters of similar sounds and therefore distinguish between words which sound similar e.g. ‘key’/’tea’.
- Make it difficult for the person to understand connected speech. This is made even worse if the speech is rapid.
- Impair the person’s ability to follow and keep up with conversation, especially in situations where there may be overlap of speakers and rapid exchanges of conversation.
- Are exacerbated by background noise and any other competing auditory demands. This will have a significant impact on the person’s ability to process and understand speech.
- Cause the person additional difficulties in situations where sound quality is poor e.g. poor quality T.V., railway station announcements.
- May affect the person’s quality of life and reduce enjoyment of activities previously enjoyed e.g. music, theatre, T.V., socialising.
- Cause difficulty locating where sounds come from.
- May be confusing, upsetting and highly stressful.
So I often get the blank look ... and if I repeat myself, I get the irritated "Stop interrogating me! Leave me alone!"This is what they recommend ...
How to Help the Person with Auditory Processing Disorder:- Before speaking with the person with auditory processing disorder (APD), make sure you have their full attention, they are facing you and you are in good light.
- Slow speech down, use short sentences and give the person extra time to process what has been said.
- Give information in short chunks, one bit at a time.
- Repeat or rephrase information as necessary.
- Try to communicate in quieter environments when possible, reducing any background noise. Turn off radio, T.V., noisy equipment etc.
- Rooms with hard furnishings and an ‘echoing’ environment will present more challenges than a quieter room with softer furnishings to dampen down extraneous sound.
- Try to ensure, during conversations including several people, that speakers try to:
Avoid ‘overlapping’ each other’s speech.
Slow down the rate of conversational turn taking.
Keep sentences as short and simple as possible.- Be sensitive to any difficulties the person with APD may be experiencing. Modify your communication style if they appear to be having difficulty.
- Writing down information/instructions can be helpful for some people. Advice on augmentative and alternative communication strategies to support verbal understanding may be helpful, especially if the person is also dysphasic.
- Some people may benefit from auditory training, seek advice from audiology services.
I try to do those things most of the time, but I will admit that sometimes I get irritated.This is day 15 and It has been hard, I cry every day. I feel so alone and a complete failure.
Kim in N. California
You are absolutely NOT a failure!!dlfk202000 wrote: »edit- one other thing, have you found that she is worse in the evenings(the blank stares and odd comments?).
My husband is worse in the evenings ... it's because he's tired/fatigued.
He's also worse if he is stressed.
Machka in Oz
HMMMM my DH does the same thing! I get frustrated with him and feel like he is not listening to me so stop talking altogether. I will have to do some research on this. Thank you Machka for the information. He has no diagnosed brain injuries but used to box as a young man and got into a lot of fist fights and got into a motorcycle accident in his early 30’s so very likely this is part of the issue.
RVRita
Yes ... every hit our brains have taken has caused damage. I've had 3 "saw starts" situations, one of which knocked me out for a moment, and I know those were not good for my brain.
Alcohol and age are probably also contributors.
This particular study is more about moderate alcohol use on middle aged people in the UK, but describes the effect alcohol can have on the brain.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-28735-5
Chronic alcohol use is associated with changes in brain structure and connectivity. Neuroimaging studies have shown that chronic heavy alcohol consumption (3 or more drinks for women and 4 or more drinks for men on any day) is associated with widespread patterns of macrostructural and microstructural changes, primarily affecting frontal, diencephalic, hippocampal, and cerebellar structures. A recent meta-analysis of individuals with AUD (n = 433) showed lower gray matter volume (GMV) in the corticostriatal-limbic circuits, including regions of the prefrontal cortex, insula, superior temporal gyrus, striatum, thalamus, and hippocampus compared to healthy controls (n = 498). Notably, lower GMV in striatal, frontal, and thalamic regions was associated with AUD duration or lifetime alcohol consumption. Although alcohol consumption can produce global and regional tissue volume changes, frontal regions are particularly associated with these effects. Further, research suggests that the effects of alcohol consumption on brain volume interact with the effects of aging.
Aticle summary ...
Most of these negative associations are apparent in individuals consuming an average of only one to two daily alcohol units. Thus, this multimodal imaging study highlights the potential for even moderate drinking to be associated with changes in brain volume in middle-aged and older adults.
M in Oz4 -
One more comment on phone calls ...
I am not deaf, but since my early 30s at least, I have had slightly reduced hearing ability which might be gradually getting worse. Since my husband's accident I have also developed Tinnitus which gets really loud when I'm stressed.
So, talking on the phone is my least favourite method of communication because I can't rely on visual cues.
The chances I will call someone is low at the best of times. I prefer to walk to a clinic and talk to them in person to make an appointment, rather than calling. And I'm thrilled that many medical places allow me to book online now.
The chances I will call someone to chat is right about 0.
I also find telephones the most intrusive and demanding form of communication. The thing rings, and we're expected to answer ... and spend time talking. Even if we're doing something nice like watching TV, reading, colouring, studying, cleaning the house, exercising etc.
I recall both my grandmother and mother being reluctant to call ... my grandmother being reluctant to call my mother when my mother was young and had a young family, and my mother being reluctant to call me when I was younger ... because they knew we were busy and knew that a phone call could be very disruptive. So they would leave it up to us to call ... my grandmother would leave it up to my mother to call, and my mother would leave it up to me to call ... when it was convenient.
Thankfully, email came along!!
M in Oz3 -
Wow! I got so behind it’s hard to make comments to everyone
Once again, after reading about the CA laws regarding parental care I am glad I live in Canada and especially Alberta. Here you can find good care without having to sell everything and be broke.
Kim - I have nothing but admiration and hugs for you.
Allie - I really hope Kyle gets some help with his anger, tiptoeing around is not good for anyone. I’m sure he wanted Miles as much as Tracy did. He should help during the night too.
How exciting for Carmine! It’s so nice to read you saying something positive about him.
Heather - I struggle with my Grandson for conversations too. He is very intelligent but we have trouble finding something we are both interested in.
Lately we’ve been talking about drawing, Lego Masters, and the comics he is writing.
Rita - I understand about the calls. My MIL who is one of my favourite people on earth never calls me. I’m even paying for her phone now and made sure she had unlimited long distance. I get tired of being the only one to call.
Barbie - My parents and Grandmother had weekly calls. It started on Saturday evenings because their phone company had $2 talk as long as you wanted long distance calls at that time. Even when I had unlimited long distance I continued that until Dad took sick. For the last six months of his life we spoke every evening.
I do call my MIL weekly and before my FIL passed I called at least every couple of weeks.
I miss talking to my Mom, the time difference and her routine at the manor make it difficult.
My girls and I do not talk on the phone, but we have a group chat and we text almost daily. We do visit with our eldest almost weekly and our youngest at least every 2-3 weeks. She live almost an hour and a half away so we plan to get together. The girls and I just planned a movie date when Are you there God, it’s me Margaret is released at the end of the month. This was one of my favourite books when I was young.
Karen - you have every reason to be proud of your brother. What a difference in his life! His artwork is beautiful.
Kylia - I don’t understand how your DH can be upset you stayed to work late for the business he and his sister owns. You would think he would be grateful you are so dedicated. Sometimes people make no sense to me. 😂
I don’t know if I have mentioned the health issues my niece is having. For about 2.5 years now, she has started having these seizure type episodes. She is on long term disability and has been waiting to be seen by a neurologist for over a year. They have ruled out epileptic seizures. Her arms and legs twist in odd positions and “lock” in place. Tonight she had one that is now affecting her face. Her Mother told me that they had a pain specialist appointment this week and she believes that she has dystonia. I have looked it up and it seems to really define what happens to her. Now we just need to get that appointment to be diagnosed and start a treatment plan. She is only 26 years old, it’s been a lot for her to deal with.
I am up way past my bedtime. My DH was invited out for drinks with the guys from work. It has probably been 30 years since I have had to pick him up from a bar. He is not a drinker and is more happy being at home than going out. I’m quite happy for him that he went out. I just hope he calls for a ride soon. 😂
Tomorrow we are doing Easter, I am making a roast beef. DH doesn’t like ham, I don’t care for turkey. In previous years I have made ham and a steak for DH. I am more interested in visiting with my family rather than being stressed cooking so this is a good compromise. Kaitlyn is providing dessert! Mini cheesecakes. This works well because we can choose what we want to eat on it, strawberries, cherries or raspberries. I like mine plain.
I bought gifts for the Grands, a dress for Michaela and a gift certificate to ceramics with me. A hoodie for Jonah and we are paying for another session of how to make comics.
For the adult kids we bought movie tickets that is for two tickets and includes drinks and popcorn. We’ll offer babysitting for the Grands parents so it’s a date night for them.
I just need to pick up a little chocolate bunny for them.
I had another miserable day at work today. My boss, who is still on sick leave, worked yesterday and today. I was talked down to first thing this morning. I almost walked out. If I could afford to do so I would quit.
I’m finally caught up!
Tracey in Edmonton
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Tracey praying for your niece. I looked it up and it seems to have a lot of different symptoms. Some similarities to Parkinson’s that we think my husband might have. Check it out on google. There are a lot of people that have found ways to rewire their brains through dance, movement and music. I know that they say that the best thing for my husband to do is move, exercise and do stretching exercises like yoga. Not sure if I can get him to try that though. Sorry you had a hard day with your boss! Have a fun time celebrating Easter with your family it sounds like you have a great day planned!
💕Mary from Arizona/Minnesota3 -
It’s clear, crisp and bright outside this morning. I’m drinking my morning cuppa in bed, and looking out at the cloak of pink blossom on my magnolia. No set plans today, so going with the flow.
Intentions for April:🔹Maintain weight < 140 (I have managed to stay at the lower end of the 140s)
🔹Continue with Solid Habit development
Intentions for today:
📍Solid habits
📍general chores
📍clearing the decks for Easter 🐣
Virtual (((hugs))) and 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 for all those those who need them.
🙋♀️ Miele failte to the newbies.
☘️ Terri
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Nice to meet you, Barbie, and everyone else!
April has become my month for decluttering and putting my mind, body and soul first. I am working to be more consistent with my martial arts, cardio and strength training. In summer I'm 55 and want to look and feel at my best.
All the best for all you!
Grace
London, England12 -
Tracey I HEAR you!!!!! If I had more energy and didn't need the insurance and didn't want the marriage, I would quit! I don't understand either. But neither do I understand how you leave your business (his sister) when things aren't up and running properly! But she goes in at 6:30.....well our work hours are 9-5:30 ......and I am usually working early mornings and after work, just not physically in the building. Deep Breathes!!!!!!!!
Slept hard. Time to get some more work done. This too shall pass.
Welcome Grace!
Hugs to all!
Much Love,
Kylia in Ohio loving my job yet hating it at the same time!3 -
hey all! It's Friday and I am doing my Friday dance. This week hasn't been as busy as it was supposed to be. It is spring break and the older kids don't have school, but there are a couple of viruses running through my childcare families and that is keeping my attendance numbers low this week. I haven't had more than 8 kids on any given day; only four will be here, today. So far, I have remained healthy (knock on wood).
Staying in touch with parents/family- I am one of the lucky/unlucky ones in the fact that I no longer have parents to stay in touch. That is one of those double edged sword phrases. I "talk" to my siblings monthly. Usually me, reaching out. A phone call to my older sister in Florida and usually texts to my three brothers. I hear from my daughter daily (sometimes two-three times a day). She calls, most of the time. I see my youngest son daily (bc he is still at home with us), but we do spend a good 30 minutes each day at the dinner table talking. My oldest son (my husband's son from previous relationship) and I will exchange texts, photos, or pics weekly. We have a good relationship that took his lifetime (36 years) to make. All that said; I do have times when I am getting phone calls and texts from family (kids even) and I am "peopled out". I find that since covid or maybe just since I have reached a certain age, bc I have small people in my face all day, I have a hard time summoning the energy to talk more or listen more and I just shut down.
Chicken feet- lol I saw some at Walmart while I was visiting my daughter in Texas! I had a good laugh and took a picture of it and sent it to my DH with the text "You know you have crossed the mason dixon line when..." I have never seen chicken feet sold in my area. Weird looking things. I don't think I would cook with them, no matter the benefits. blech!
Rosemarie- I completely understand your fear of saying or doing something "wrong" during your Easter visit. I love my husband's family; but when I first joined the family I felt like a bull in a china shop. They were the most white bread, mayflower, Vanderbilt-y type of family. And my family was more like the Connors (on Roseanne). I spent a good ten years behaving the way I thought I should. Then I fixed our sump pump (long story there) felt empowered, entered perimenopause and all hell broke loose. lol I didn't break a lot in the china shop; but they got more of the full on ME (in small doses, of course). They didn't disown me and I managed to make them laugh.
Karen VA- Oh my! That painting that your brother did of the woman looking back over her shoulder! Lovely! And his viola making friend...WOW! What a great talent!
Pip- Chispas blends right in with that throw! lol Also...you are going to need to raise your goal. I will be donating in late summer- a little closer to your race date.
Well, I better get my doors unlocked for my families. One of the four that I have today is a new little guy of a previous childcare family. I watched his big brothers when they were small. They are now 10 yrs and 12 yrs old. This new little guy was a "surprise" baby! Gotta love a surprise, right? lol Sending lots of love and mental support to you all! Sometimes our day to day stuff is so hard; but what a treasure we have right here, yes? ttfn xoxoxo KJ (Kelly)9 -
Karen - Figurative painting is so difficult. I love what your brother has done. He always gives me ideas!
Lovely, quiet day today. Wonderful. I had a bath and did my toe and finger nails. I'm all scrubbed and fragrant. Just about to take a nap.
Welcome new people!
Love Heather UK xxxxxxxx5 -
ACTIVE APRIL1. Commit to being more active this month starting today. Yes!
2. Spend as much time as possible outdoors today. Yes!
3. Listen to your body and be grateful for what it can do. Yes! I can garden, which requires all sorts of body motion, and cycle.
4. Eat healthy and natural food today and drinks lots of water. Yes! Ate my usual food and drank lots of water up till about 8 pm. We won't talk about what happened after that.
5. Turn a regular activity into a playful game today. Hmmm ... Walking around the shops? Climbing stairs?
6. Do a body-scan meditation and really notice how your body feels. Achy.
7. Get natural light early in the day. Dim the lights in the evening.
There isn't much light early in the day here. Plus I was sleeping then. Plus it was cloudy, drizzly and rainy all day.
But I do dim the lights in the evening. It's one of many steps I take to wind down in the evenings to prepare myself for the night.8. give your body a boost by laughing or making someone laugh
9. Turn your housework or chores into a fun form of exercise
12. Have a day with less screen time and more movement
13. Set yourself an exercise goal or sign up to an activity challenge
14. Move as much as possible, even if you’re stuck inside
15. Make sleep a priority and go to bed in good time
16. Relax your body & mind with yoga, tai chi or meditation.
17. Get active by singing today (even if you think you can’t sing)
18. Go exploring around your local area and notice new things
19. Be active outside. Dig up weeds or plant some seeds
20. Try a new online exercise, activity or dance class.
21. Spend less time sitting today. Get up and move more often.
22. Focus on eating ‘a rainbow of multi-colored vegetables today.
23. Regularly pause to stretch and breathe during the day.
24. Enjoy moving to your favorite music. Really go for it.
25. Go out and do an errand for a loved one or neighbor.
26. Get active in nature. Feed the birds or go wild-life spotting.
27. Have a ‘no screens’ night and take time to recharge yourself.
28. Take an extra break in your day and walk outside for 15 minutes
29. Find a fun exercise to do while waiting for the kettle to boil (or pan of water.)
30. Meet a friend outside for a walk and a chat.
31. Become an activist for a cause you really believe in
32. Make time to run, swim, dance, cycle or stretch today
Machka in Oz
1 -
I have occasional phone calls with people. One friend calls at the same time every week. Others text me to see if this is a good time to talk. I use the phone to make doctor and dentist appointments. My phone is always on silent so I am not interrupted by someone who wants to talk. I use my phone to access the internet for information, read an e book, listen to a podcast or audio book, time a food item that I'm cooking, keep track of how long I've ridden my exercise bike, send and receive text messages, access MFP while riding my exercise bike, and attend Zoom meetings while walking.
My mother made chicken broth using chicken feet. They weren't sold where she lived but there was a chicken processing plant near the highway she drove to San Francisco and she would stop there on her way back and fill a cooler with chicken feet to use when she got home.
I prefer text or email because it allows me to think before I reply to something and avoid blurting out something that will require making amends later.
Barbie in NW WA4 -
One more comment on phone calls ...
I am not deaf, but since my early 30s at least, I have had slightly reduced hearing ability which might be gradually getting worse. Since my husband's accident I have also developed Tinnitus which gets really loud when I'm stressed.
So, talking on the phone is my least favourite method of communication because I can't rely on visual cues.
The chances I will call someone is low at the best of times. I prefer to walk to a clinic and talk to them in person to make an appointment, rather than calling. And I'm thrilled that many medical places allow me to book online now.
The chances I will call someone to chat is right about 0.
I also find telephones the most intrusive and demanding form of communication. The thing rings, and we're expected to answer ... and spend time talking. Even if we're doing something nice like watching TV, reading, colouring, studying, cleaning the house, exercising etc.
I recall both my grandmother and mother being reluctant to call ... my grandmother being reluctant to call my mother when my mother was young and had a young family, and my mother being reluctant to call me when I was younger ... because they knew we were busy and knew that a phone call could be very disruptive. So they would leave it up to us to call ... my grandmother would leave it up to my mother to call, and my mother would leave it up to me to call ... when it was convenient.
Thankfully, email came along!!
M in Oz
Machka - this is me 100%. The only other things I'd add is that the phone quality has really gone down - some days, the person sounds like they are in the room with me. Other days, crackling, fading in and out. Plus, I got tired of playing phone tag. Someone would call, leave a message on the answering machine "call me". I'd call them and get THEIR answering machine. I now keep the answering machine off unless I'm expecting a call from a repairman. The machine still logs who called, and 99% of them are telemarketers.
I agree. Email and messaging are much more convenient. If a "real" conversation is needed, we agree on a time and who will place the call.
Lanette
SW WA State
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KJ- Peopled out-YES!!!!
My brother's wife can't understand that I don't need to talk with my girls every day. They both have teenagers and work demanding jobs. We communicate. Just not daily.
Time for work3 -
UPDATE ON MY BONE BROTH FROM YESTERDAY....
After sitting in the fridge overnight, it has thickened to the consistency of thin syrup. I'd call it a success.
I forgot to mention - after Karen's post yesterday about all the chicken parts that have collagen - I also had added the skin to the crockpot.... everything I'd peeled off the bird as I was removing the meat after it was cooked.
Lanette5 -
Karen - thank you so much for the update on your brother. All good news!! It's like he's a new person, isn't it? Good for you for taking the first step and leading him into a much better life. His artwork is stunning. His viola making friend has impressive skill, will you get to spend any time with them?
Kylia - I think the reason you work so hard for the business is that you're like a dog with a bone. You're not going to give it up until you're satisfied you're "done" with it - a computer update, a sale, a cleaning job. That sense of accomplishment overrides everything else. I have those tendencies sometimes and have had to remind myself to take a break. Telling someone like you "not to work so hard" is like telling you not to breathe air. Am I right?
Thanks for filling us in on your mom. Sounds like you and your sis have it all worked out, and there's no guilt or regret. Good job, we can't please everyone.
It's Good Friday. Have a wonderful day, ladies.
Lanette
SW WA State
3 -
Lanette definitely! The beef that I made is a lot thicker than my chicken. It’s supposed to have more collagen. I’m just amazed at how my skin on my legs and arms turned from extremely crepey to smooth in 3 weeks time!
The ladies on here that are trying the bone broth take pictures if you have dry or crepey skin like I did and document the results! I didn’t do that and I wish I would have.
💕Mary from Arizona/Minnesota
2 -
Color choices more subdued this year at Como. Still lovely.
<img src="https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/339982516_170576432552239_8270599114021672386_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_p843x403&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=p0mLY1YGzY4AX_wjgs3&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=00_AfCIOqIRhI6YzPXaz1kDf7z2swC6TOuFhtBrvFPpqamUrQ&oe=6434A1D5" alt="May be an image of scorpion grass"/>9 -
I use the phone to make doctor and dentist appointments. My phone is always on silent so I am not interrupted by someone who wants to talk. I use my phone to access the internet for information, read an e book, listen to a podcast or audio book, time a food item that I'm cooking, keep track of how long I've ridden my exercise bike, send and receive text messages, access MFP while riding my exercise bike, and attend Zoom meetings while walking.
I prefer text or email because it allows me to think before I reply to something and avoid blurting out something that will require making amends later.
Barbie in NW WA
Yes, to all this ... although these days I usually make doctor and dentist appointments online. I use my phone more as a mini-computer.
My phone gives a very quiet little buzz when someone rings me ... easy to ignore, and the chances I'll answer if someone rings is very slim.
Machka in Oz2 -
Breakfast is over & I have a book to read. Color me happy. I love to read. 😊
Katla7 -
1
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Karen: I love your brother's artwork! I see you have gotten some of the artwork framed. The frames and pictures look terrific!
I text with my mother every day for a little bit. She will be 92 in May. We video call every 6 weeks or so. She lives near family and has others that check in on her regularly.
I try and keep my cell phone charged and with me at all times. I seldom use the house phone. I don't answer calls when I am out of the house. So I do play phone tag with people.
I did some more gardening this morning and it is nice to be outside in the early morning in the garden. My husband wanted us all to plant wildflower seeds. I still have to plant mine. I sent some to each member of his immediate family, so hopefully others will get theirs planted.
Best,
Rosemarie from Georgia
5 -
I nearly always arrange a day and time to actually phone. Apart from one friend who only uses the landline. Otherwise, I send a WhatsApp text first and we arrange to call. No one just "calls'. Unless it's an emergency.
I like WhatsApp texting best, because it is great at sending photos and videos.
Sometimes, if I'm feeling lonely, I just send a text to my best friends that says, 'Chat. Now?" And they say, "Yes please", or, "Off to the doctor. Later this afternoon? "
I'm still enjoying the podcasts about sex and relationships. I'm not learning anything new, but it's getting my thoughts going in the right direction and, whatever stage your love life is at, even if it's just with yourself, there's always room for improvement! DH and I have got lazy at talking about it, and I do find it difficult to broach the subject, so it's great to have a new way to focus. Don't forget the compliments, folks! They can work wonders.
OK. So I'm going downstairs now to prep the sauce for the ravioli. Mushrooms. Going to have green beans with it. Friday night is wine night. I hope DH won't be too late tonight. Last night he tried to text me before he left, but there was no signal in the car park.
Lots of love to all, Heather UK xxxxxxxx3 -
Welcome newbies and returnees! (((hugs))) to those who need them.
OH Heavens Karen, I totally agree with you! Miles!!! Allie, Miles is just the cutest danged thing, but what an imp!
Karen, your brother's paintings are amazing.
Pip, "Cheese Puff" looks quite comfy there... almost can't see her on that blankey!
I am SO grateful for texting. I've never cared for phone calls. I wish my mom could text, but she never learned and she can't now. So we're limited to phone calls and she's always mucking up her phone. Either not charging it or turning down the volume or turning it off or blocking us. I haven't talked to her in a week now. And my oldest brother was out of town and the youngest doesn't bother to visit her unless it's on his schedule. I'm going up tomorrow to see her, but that's a two-hour drive for a 20-minute conversation because that's all she can handle anymore.
7. Get natural light early in the day. Dim the lights in the evening... always do
Love and Blessings, Carla, in MN7 -
Good Friday --
Today was a pretty relaxed day and I didn't accomplish a lot.
I did dye my hair. That's a 2-step process. First I dye the hair underneath a very dark brown and once that's done, then I dye the hair on top a golden brown. With the quantity of hair I have, using two boxes of dye seems to work best, and I like the 2-tone look. In a few weeks, when this starts growing out, I'll add blonde highlights.
Thank you all for your compliments on my hair. The women on both sides of my family had or have quite thick and plentiful hair ... especially my mother.
But I did start to go grey in my early 30s. I had started dying my hair when I was about 16, so I have just continued with somewhat different shades and colour combinations. At times I've gone quite dark. I even dyed my hair black once. I was shades of red for a long time. And I usually bring blonde highlights into the mix to brighten it up.
I also put away my laundry at last.
Except mine is:
Washing: 60 minutes
Drying: 2 days
Putting Away: 7-10 business days
Then we decided to use our home gym for the first time in quite a while. This weekend is cool and rainy ... winter is coming!
Step 1 was moving stuff around so we could get at everything
Step 2 cleaning some of the equipment.
Step 3 doing all the updates and getting things connected again. I actually gave up and did part of my walk on the treadmill using just the treadmill info before I finally figured out how to connect my phone to it again. I will have to do a firmware update on my rowing machine ... I've been putting that off.
Step 4 then, at last, using the equipment
I rowed for 12 minutes.
Then I walked for a little over half an hour covering 3 km.
I've been colouring and processing photos this evening.
Cosmos in our garden, in the dark of the early evening.
Machka in Oz
9 -
hey all! It's Friday and I am doing my Friday dance. This week hasn't been as busy as it was supposed to be. It is spring break and the older kids don't have school, but there are a couple of viruses running through my childcare families and that is keeping my attendance numbers low this week. I haven't had more than 8 kids on any given day; only four will be here, today. So far, I have remained healthy (knock on wood).
Staying in touch with parents/family- I am one of the lucky/unlucky ones in the fact that I no longer have parents to stay in touch. That is one of those double edged sword phrases. I "talk" to my siblings monthly. Usually me, reaching out. A phone call to my older sister in Florida and usually texts to my three brothers. I hear from my daughter daily (sometimes two-three times a day). She calls, most of the time. I see my youngest son daily (bc he is still at home with us), but we do spend a good 30 minutes each day at the dinner table talking. My oldest son (my husband's son from previous relationship) and I will exchange texts, photos, or pics weekly. We have a good relationship that took his lifetime (36 years) to make. All that said; I do have times when I am getting phone calls and texts from family (kids even) and I am "peopled out". I find that since covid or maybe just since I have reached a certain age, bc I have small people in my face all day, I have a hard time summoning the energy to talk more or listen more and I just shut down.
Chicken feet- lol I saw some at Walmart while I was visiting my daughter in Texas! I had a good laugh and took a picture of it and sent it to my DH with the text "You know you have crossed the mason dixon line when..." I have never seen chicken feet sold in my area. Weird looking things. I don't think I would cook with them, no matter the benefits. blech!
Rosemarie- I completely understand your fear of saying or doing something "wrong" during your Easter visit. I love my husband's family; but when I first joined the family I felt like a bull in a china shop. They were the most white bread, mayflower, Vanderbilt-y type of family. And my family was more like the Connors (on Roseanne). I spent a good ten years behaving the way I thought I should. Then I fixed our sump pump (long story there) felt empowered, entered perimenopause and all hell broke loose. lol I didn't break a lot in the china shop; but they got more of the full on ME (in small doses, of course). They didn't disown me and I managed to make them laugh.
Karen VA- Oh my! That painting that your brother did of the woman looking back over her shoulder! Lovely! And his viola making friend...WOW! What a great talent!
Pip- Chispas blends right in with that throw! lol Also...you are going to need to raise your goal. I will be donating in late summer- a little closer to your race date.
Well, I better get my doors unlocked for my families. One of the four that I have today is a new little guy of a previous childcare family. I watched his big brothers when they were small. They are now 10 yrs and 12 yrs old. This new little guy was a "surprise" baby! Gotta love a surprise, right? lol Sending lots of love and mental support to you all! Sometimes our day to day stuff is so hard; but what a treasure we have right here, yes? ttfn xoxoxo KJ (Kelly)
I slowly increase my goal once I pass it. Since I’m $3 away from my updated goal, I bumped it up to $1000. Cheerio does kind of bend into that couch bed huh. Thanks for everyone’s support with my ride3 -
❤️
It is a lovely morning here in Illinois. I have a good book and a nice view.
Katla2 -
I am all caught up! I think I had to read about 20 pages.
Kim, big, big hugs. This time last year I was in full care-giving mode for my father, and I remember the feelings of utter exhaustion and frustration, and I was sharing the burden with my mother and sister. I cannot imagine having it all on my shoulders, as you do. I’m thankful you have a therapist who is helping you with coping skills.
Re, Virgin River: I read the complete series many years ago. From a couple if comments, I think I may be behind on watching the seasons on Netflix. As best I can remember the books, Netflix changed a lot of storylines. I believe Robyn Carr has another series based on a neighboring town to Virgin River, with a few overlapping characters. I don’t remember its name. Salem something, maybe?
3 -
April 2023 Action for Happiness
Word of the year: Appreciate : today I appreciate and respect all religions.Exercise goals added
Yoga 10 mins 3 times a week 4/15 (100%,100%,80%
Walk 7,000 every day 6/30 (84%,86%,94%)
6 min -2x a day start April 1 11/60
Arm weights twice a week 2/10 (100%, 60%hurt my elbow, hurt my shoulder 30%)
Meditation: daily. 5/30 (82%(started Feb)94%)
1. cut back drinking and limit to 2 days a week. 0/8–(100%,100%,0%)
2. Average 7,000 steps a week. 9867, (7,700,100%-9851,100%—9526,100%)
3. Update budget every 2 weeks 4/2 —(100%,100%,100%,100%)
4. Contact close family every week (4x) 19/158/ —(100%,100%,100%)
5. Contact Donat and sibs once a month (8x)26/64–(100%,100%,100%)
6. Weigh less last day of month compared to first until I reach 140. Start at 178.6,176,174.2,173.4 (100%,100%,100%)
7. Develop a journaling practice by aiming to journal at least 5 days a week. 6/20-(100%,88%,100)
8. Read 12 books at least this year. 13(100%,100%,100%)
9. Pay off credit card debt by January 2024 by making monthly payments to NDR——3/12—(100%.100%,100%,100%)
10. Continue building emergency fund at SLFCU (min$25 a month)$25+$25+$71+700+25(100%,100%,100%,100%)
11. April started putting 4% on income in savings (100%)
Decided that if I do more than stated I will not grade higher than 100% 2/5/23
January Met —100%
February met —-90%
March met met —-90%
April met
May met
June met
July met — met
August met
September met
October met —
November met—
December met—
ACTIVE APRIL
1.Commit to being more active this month starting today. I commit to this by adding the exercises from the 6 minute book for over 60’s.6. Do a body-scan meditation and really notice how your body feels. I do this often in my meditations.
2. Spend as much time as possible outdoors today. Easy! LOL
3. Listen to your body and be grateful for what it can do. I do this during walking meditations every day.
4. Eat healthy and natural food today and drinks lots of water. Yogurt and raspberries for breakfast with 17 oz water bottle and coffee, more to come.
5. Turn a regular activity into a playful game today. Not sure. Joked with hairdresser while getting hair cut. Everyone was laughing and joining in.
7. Get natural light early in the day. Dim the lights in the evening. Morning done. Will do in evening.8. give your body a boost by laughing or making someone laugh
9. Turn your housework or chores into a fun form of exercise
10. Have a day with less screen time and more movement
11. Set yourself an exercise goal or sign up to an activity challenge
12. Move as much as possible, even if you’re stuck inside
13. Make sleep a priority and go to bed in good time
14. Relax your body & mind with yoga, tai chi or meditation.
15. Get active by singing today (even if you think you can’t sing)
16. Go exploring around your local area and notice new things
17. Be active outside. Dig up weeds or plant some seeds
18. Try a new online exercise, activity or dance class.
19. Spend less time sitting today. Get up and move more often.
20. Focus on eating ‘a rainbow of multi-colored vegetables today.
21. Regularly pause to stretch and breathe during the day.
22. Enjoy moving to your favorite music. Really go for it.
23. Go out and do an errand for a loved one or neighbor.
24. Get active in nature. Feed the birds or go wild-life spotting.
25. Have a ‘no screens’ night and take time to recharge yourself.
26. Take an extra break in your day and walk outside for 15 minutes
27. Find a fun exercise to do while waiting for the kettle to boil (or pan of water.)
28. Meet a friend outside for a walk and a chat.
29. Become an activist for a cause you really believe in
30. Make time to run, swim, dance, cycle or stretch today
RVRita
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