This morning, I sipped my coffee slower than usual. I enjoy the simplicity of holding a warm cup of coffee and pausing to reflect on how to find hope. Today, I didn’t cry. Yesterday I did. Tears flow at the most random times.
Oh, how I miss our morning routine of passing each other at the Keurig, grabbing a kiss, and hearing Mr. say, “You’re off to write a blog post, see you soon for our walk outside. I’ll make our breakfast and read it when we get back.”
I imagined our life months from now and heard Mr. say, “Why did you write so much about me on your blog in 2024 (and probably 2025)? It’s YOUR blog dear, not mine.”
He’s right, it is my blog. The place where discoveries from the yard happened to appear. The place where I shared how I relaxed and played with my camera. How I soaked up the sun. How different I was pre-Mr.’s stroke.
I sipped coffee and contemplated what a simple life I had as an empty-nester mom. All the while watching Mr. who was there in the background watching me as he did so much to maintain our life and nourish me with unwavering support.
The former me is a version of the Best Mom Ever. Perhaps now maybe I need the Best Coddiwompled Me cup instead?
Anyhoo…the coddiwomple adventure of our lifetime (so far) has been a 1/2 a year of what happened to him and how it changed our life together. Frankly, thinking back to being a first-time parent reminds me of how it is being a caregiver to a person with the potential of independence that I’ll need to help guide until those skills can be learned (re-learned). I’m incredibly amazed at the power of a healing brain and determination of Mr. who is almost ready to come home.
The ramp to the house is done. Thanks to the Lion’s Club volunteers who built it. Next up, make sure all the equipment Mr. needs is set up. I might think about cleaning up dust bunny remnants that have taken over the house. There will be a home visit with the therapists to do dry runs with Mr. using it all and make sure we’re safe. Then he’ll be home. It’s a meeting milestone-after-milestone kind of month right now, he’s telling staff he’s going home soon. He’s ready…we’re ready…heck, we’re pros at being Coddiwomples – we’ve got this, right!?
I (we) will get to relax again someday.
I remind myself daily that I took my (our) life for granted. I took Mr. and all of his TLC for granted. I have this incredible chance to repay him by supporting our lives together in his recovery journey. I hope I’m up to the challenge.
PS – I’ve so enjoyed reading all of your comments dear blogging buddies. I feel the love and support. I continue to miss reading your blogs. Those opportunities will come again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart (and Mr.’s too) your support and messages of hope mean the world to us! Hugs to all of you. I hope my next post is “He’s HOME!”
I look forward to the “He’s Home” post Shelley. I hope the inspection goes well. I’m sure you are ready in every way.
Ahhh, I also look forward to that post, Shelley. I can’t imagine how your life has changed, and I am so grateful Mr. is making good progress.
You are a great example of the Eleanor Roosevelt quote: “A woman is like a tea bag. You can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” You have had quite the year. I think of you often and hope and pray things continue to go well for both of you. ❤️
Shelley, you are a pillar of strength that I so admire. Looking forward to the “He’s Home” post too! Hugs to you!
Your new normal, Shelley! I’m so glad Mr is close to coming home. Your spirits seem a bit more lifted. Thank you for reminding us all that we are guilty of taking each other for granted–we are merely human (and puny ones at that –said the Hulk). Coddiwomple probably doesn’t begin to describe you you fee, my friend. Lean on the Lord. His presence is with you.
Sending you hugs, Shelley. I know this has been a rough time. I’m looking forward to the “he’s home” post along with everyone else!
I hope that your hubby comes home very soon, Shelley! I have been thinking about you guys, it’s great to see you here again! Big virtual hugs from the desert. 🙏🏻❤️😊
I hope he’s home very soon. That will be wonderful and stressful all at the same time. Sending positivity to you both for support. Your love for each other will hold you high.
Beautiful words that have me thinking of my life. Sending hugs.
My thoughts are with you and your husband.
Shelley, I so admire your courage and tenacity. I know it’s hard to believe Scripture, but it reminds us that our challenges make us stronger and our friends help us along the way. Be encouraged to know that you have friends praying for you and Mister. May he be home and at least you are both under the same roof. That always makes it easier. Prayers lifted.
Love has gotten you this far and will prevail in the months and years ahead as you adjust to still another “new normal” … ending the year 2024 on a high note by being reunited once again at your home will be the best part of this long and arduous and often heartbreaking journey. Shelley, please remember to take good care of yourself and stay healthy for both of you.
Love you coffee cup!