It sometimes takes so long to heal and it kind of reminds me of winter. Winter settles in, you wrap yourself up in a nice blanket and you wait to see the growth that is going on underneath. That is how it has been for me for such a long while. I have tried to force things but it comes back to me needing to slow down, waiting for my strength to return. Everyday I am taking steps to take care of myself. For for someone who has always taken care of others it is a big deal to me. I've never been good with saying no to people because it is in my nature to help others. Now it is time for me.
I started this past fall by taking a new Brave Girl class called Soul Comfort. It was such a good thing for me and it helped me to settle into taking care of myself. I didn't realize that I had almost forgotten what it was like. I have had to face how busy I have been with taking care of my Grands full time. While I love to do it most days and so glad they are part of my life I wasn't taking care of me.
The fall was followed by winter which is still surrounding Spokane with cold temperatures. Christmas was quiet for me as I was recovering from my surgery for my umbilical hernia, with very little baking taking place. I sat back and took care of me. It was some of the worst pain I have ever had. I depended so much on my family and they were right there making sure my every need was met. When everyone went back to work/school in January I actually had to remember how to make meals for myself. It took me about 2 weeks to get back into the swing of things. Slow going, when you aren't suppose to lift over 15 lbs.
I kept myself busy with working on two very special Quiet Books for my two youngest Grands. Loads of hand work!! I can say I perfected my blanket stitch!! As of today I am designing out the covers and will soon be putting the finishing touches on them! Soul Comfort ended and I was able to win a place in the new Brave Girls class called The Walk. I am learning so much about myself again and doing so more growing. This new year has also marked me moving to taking care of my Grands part time. My daughter has a wonderful man that is in love with her and the children. They are now blending their two families and expecting another little one come June.
This day I feel blessed and full. I don't like everything that is going on in the world but my world is good. Lots to look forward to, challenges to meet head on and people to love. Really, it can't get any better than that! Happy New Year everyone and thanks for sticking around!