Hi Everyone. Hope this finds you well today. I am looking out the window this morning at an overcast sky with the potential for snow later. The temperature says 36, but it definitely felt a bit colder than that when I walked Lady this morning as the wind is downright cold. Spring starts tomorrow somewhere...LOL!
It was a busy week as I settled back into my role as caregiver. A few appointments and tests for papa - think he's tired of them, but as he said the other day, I'm not ready to go just yet! Always good to hear. I do like his primary doctor as I've mentioned before he is very blunt in his discussions and ensures you understand before moving on. I love his staff as they are so efficient and caring. His PA called from her home the other evening with test results to be sure we had what we needed and a new prescription. Then, yesterday (yes Saturday) his doctor called from his home with explanations and to follow up. I keep saying papa will do anything and keep fighting as long as mema is alive. I said to the doctor, I have always felt they will both die within a short time of each other. Also, I feel he is getting weaker as well as mema (also this doctors patient). I have to say although it passed through my mind once or twice, but I never took it seriously, it surprised when his doctor said, "he might go first." Again, although logically I know that, hearing it from the doctor really hurt my heart. As I've said before, I work every day at being in the present and enjoying whatever time I have with them.
Mema had an overall good week. I visited at different times of day and captured a wonderful picture of her which I shared on FB. She was tired yesterday and spent it resting in bed (I expect a couple of these days per week). She ate really well the last few days which is always a good thing.
Although I have not been officially coaching in a while, I still keep up with the industry and do some pro bono coaching. I received an email from the ICF yesterday that reminded me that my accreditation expires at the end of the year. It provided a list of what needs to be done to retain certification. WOW I have a lot of work to get done before year-end. Guess it's time to focus a bit more on the coaching.
Papa lost his Aunt Jean this past week. I have such delightful memories of her. She looked a lot like my grandmother. She had a wonderful laugh that was contagious. I spent a lot of time with her and her children when I was younger. Of course, then as I grew, the time together was much less frequent. I never lost touch with her daughter and tried to see her when I could. She saw a lot of history in her 88 years. She had her share of tragedies, but I do not believe she had any regrets. She went peacefully surrounded by those she loved. I know she is in heaven with her family and keeping an eye on those left behind. As I write this I swear I can hear her laughter. God Bless You Aunt Jean.
I've been thinking a lot about strength and what it means. So you know that I looked it up in the dictionary: From Merriam-Webster.
Definition of strengthplural strengthsplay\ˈstreŋ(k)ths, ˈstren(t)ths, ˈstreŋks\
- the quality or state of being strong : capacity for exertion or endurance
- power to resist force : solidity, toughness
- power of resisting attack : impregnability
- legal, logical, or moral force. a strong attribute or inherent asset the strengths and the weaknesses of the book are evident
- degree of potency of effect or of concentration chili peppers in varying strengths. intensity of light, color, sound, or odorc : vigor of expression
- force as measured in numbers : effective numbers of any body or organization an army at full strength
- one regarded as embodying or affording force or firmness : support you are my love and my strength
- maintenance of or a rising tendency in a price level : firmness of prices the strength of the dollar
One of the sayings I use in a FB group I belong to is: "Hugs for Strength." After reading the above descriptions I think it's a saying that fits for what I'm trying to convey. I try to exhibit strength in many areas of my life. Believe me, I get frustrated and mad as hell, but I believe my strength is that I keep myself from blowing up most of the time. I keep trying to remember the other person is not me so my expectations are not theirs. What upsets me is probably not even bothering the other person. What does strength mean to you?
I finished reading a couple of books this past week. Mostly James Patterson and his murder/mayhem. He has given many co-authors a chance and some of their books are also interesting to read. My pile is finally getting lower so I definitely feel a sense of accomplishment. What are you reading?
I am going to leave it here for today. Papa and I are going to a St. Patrick's Day dinner at his community center. Every time I see a neighbor they ask if I'm coming to the dinner...so nice to feel wanted. Of course, they want to be sure I'm bringing papa..LOL! I hope you have a wonderful week. Take care. Happy Spring! Chat soon. Marie
"Few things can frustrate us more than trying to make a person someone he or she isn't; we feel crazy when we try to pretend that person is someone he or she is not." - - Melody Beattie
"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." - Mahatma Gandhi
"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aurelius
P.S. Coaching Referrals are always appreciated.