Real talk for caregivers. Celebrating successes. Solidarity in sorrow.
We’ve been home a week. And yes, I’m so thankful (so so thankful) hubby was well enough to be discharged. And yes, I much prefer sleeping in my bed to sleeping in a hospital ICU recliner. And yes, the commute, parking fees, and unlimited snacking have taken a toll on my wallet and waistline. But […]
Read MoreNobody knows my husband, his medical history, or his baseline (what he’s like on a “normal day”) better than me. So, when I have questions or comments about a clinical decision, or share feedback about his clinical status, my words are meaningful. While my commentary and participation is important, I also fully recognize that I […]
Read MoreIt’s weird being a mom. We’re supposed to know all the things, but these two hooligans teach me something new every day. Sometimes it’s about trombones and spittoons or ballet positions, sometimes it’s about calculus or Texas history, and some days it’s about how they need me to parent them. This last hospitalization was scary […]
Read MoreIf I let myself, I could spiral to places no one should ever have to go. The truth is, being a caregiver is just too unpredictable for my tiny lizard brain. And if I’m not actively managing my intrusive thoughts with ‘healthy’ coping mechanisms – therapy, writing, sharing with people who love me/us, and accepting […]
Read MoreBeing a caregiver isn’t all glitz and glamor, y’all. Sometimes, it’s hard work! And yes – the more obvious “work” is the physical labor associated with taking care of another human. Something less obvious is the emotional labor we’re dealing with too. Who would have thought that thinking so hard could be so traumatic. So, […]
Read MoreWe’re on day (enter random number here because time moves quickly) of a hospital stay that won’t end for a few more days – and the hope is that my dear husband will be approved for rehab (fingers crossed), which means even more days in a care facility. I know that we’ve been here too […]
Read MoreOne day, in the distant or not to distant future, our kids may decide to read through this blog. They know I’m a writer, they’ve observed me writing for the blog, and they’ve both scrolled through my images on IG and FB where I post links. Admittedly, I always try to write with them in […]
Read MoreIt’s been a while, huh? I wish I could say that I was back with some pep in my step, or flounce in my bounce – but the truth is that this (gestures broadly), living this caregiver life, has been difficult. I’ve been busy, distracted, and exhausted. What’s that saying – I’m here for a […]
Read MoreI’ve had the privilege of knowing others in similar situations – caregiving for a loved one who is dealing with a life-long and progressive condition. Something we all share is a level of anxiety that is uncommon in the general public and usually results from a shared fear of the unknown. But what are the […]
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Juggle. Hustle. Repeat. 