As caregivers, we’re wired to give of ourselves. We often fall into the belief that we must be selfless and self-sacrificing at all times. It’s a nice idea, but the reality is that without boundaries, we can give so much that there’s nothing left of ourselves. This is why saying “no” is a form of […]
Saying No Is Self-Care Read More »
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we may find ourselves grappling with stress, anxiety, and the seemingly overwhelming challenges that may be thrown our way. During these times, it’s incredible how something as simple as a hot shower can become a sanctuary for rejuvenation.
Life’s Small Pleasures: | A Hot Shower Read More »
Simplifying holidays to reduce stress is something I’ve been embracing as I’ve gotten older, and life has become busier and less predictable. Several years ago, when I was recovering from knee surgery and couldn’t climb ladders, we downsized our decorating. I skipped the garland wrapped around the bannisters (something you should avoid anyway when you’re hosting anyone with mobility issues), cut the menu in half (do we really need mashed potatoes AND whipped sweet potatoes?), and downsized my tree from an eight-foot behemoth (which STILL didn’t have enough room for my vast collection of ornaments) to a five-and-a-half-foot tree with all the light connections inside the center pole. I’ve also culled my ornament collection, giving some away to younger friends with growing families, and discarding anything that was worn, damaged, or just didn’t speak to me any longer.
Simplifying Holidays Read More »
One of my favorite memories from childhood is coming downstairs early in the morning to find my grandfather, his comfortably faded flannel bathrobe knotted over his blue pajamas, his feet cozy in fleece-lined slippers, stirring a pot of something on the stove. What the something was would vary – sometimes rolled oats (never “oatmeal”), sometimes farina (cream of wheat). In the warmer months he might be poaching eggs or soft boiling them for presentation in adorable ceramic egg cups. But the point, other than that he often expressed his love for us by cooking, was that he knew what we so often forget: breakfast is important.
Breakfast of Caregiving Champions Read More »
Being human comes with many wonderful moments; it’s also laced with mistakes. The time for forgiving yourself for not knowing what you didn’t know is now.
Forgiving Yourself Read More »
