For several years I have been obsessed with what will happen to me when I can no longer work. Way too much agony, tears, and fear-filled days, and, even worse, prevented sleep. This winter's illness has left me with some secondary conditions and made everyday a challenge. Returning from the island trip, my health really began to go down hill again. FINALLY, it came clear to me that I needed to take some action. No amount of agonizing was going to answer my questions. It came to me that I needed to ask the people I love the most to brainstorm with me, and that we did on Easter evening. In the days before Easter (very fitting this all took place on Easter) it became very clear to me what needed to happen. When we sat down - LM, Jason, wife, Alison, Anne and Sara - it was serious and the answers unfolded as some tears were shed, and we all agreed that I would retire from my beloved job, and move in with Alison, Jason and Teddy while I follow the path to health. A lot of work is necessary to get to that place, but I feel like a giant boulder has been lifted from my body and soul. I will write more in depth about this new path as we go along, but will tell you it includes me having surgery to replace my left knee that has me nearly unable to walk and in a lot of pain! I've been fairly quiet as I have just not been able to feel well enough to focus. Adjustments to new meds and terrible weakness have been holding me down, but today, I felt full of creativity, positivity, energy and relief, and just had to share.
I just needed to ask for help and face the situation head-on. The last two days have been filled with accomplishments that are putting my plan in place . Full retirement will take place on my birthday, August 1!!
My incredible family: Teddy and Samantha in front, L-R Alison, Jason, Anne, Sara and LM
The *Backward Bunnies performed a harmonica duet!!
And, there was cake that I somehow managed to make and get there in one piece. Before the cake left home, it had to be protected from a certain gray critter.
Someone tried to stretch a long leg through the basket and onto the cake. She was caught in the act.
The perp, aka Ms G
Hope you all had a lovely Easter, too.
Be back with more Eleuthera travelogue.
*They said the ears must always be worn backwards.....
7 comments:
That is a huge decision. It is one that I'm glad you made with the support of your team. I think you will find that this is a good decision. I understand how difficult it must have been to make. Email me anytime you want to talk.
Here's to going down that path to retirement and health. God bless your family. God bless you.
Thinking of you
and happy you have a wonderful
family to make it easier.
God Bless You...
I am very pleased to hear that you have made a plan of attack and glad to hear you can retire this year!! It made me so nervous you driving to work in the snow and storms. How generous of Allison and her family to let you come live with them!! I bet the kids are really happy to have Gramma coming!! Where do they live and how far is that from LM?? I am very happy for you!! ....debbie
Very difficult decision--not about retiring, but moving in with the kids. With knee surgery, you will need a lot of care and can't be alone. Teddy is going to have a real treat and learn a lot with Grandma so near. Looks like a win-win.
You have had so many difficult decisions to make in the past months. May this be the next step on the path to health. I admire your ability to face each step with strength and grace.
That cake looks delicious:)
Oh the relief you must feel at having that boulder off your shoulders. A decision is always a positive.
You are moving in the right direction. your health is your wealth.
XO
WWW
Thinking of you and hoping all is well ~
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