Glad it's Friday tomorrow. This has been a long week. I'll be working on Saturday too, so the weekend won't be upon me just yet, but Saturday's a quiet day, so it's all good.
New maid came in today. She seems alright. And her English is better than the previous one, so communication will be so much easier. Plus, she has nursing experience, and she knows how to cook!
Looks like my life has just gotten a wee bit easier.
I miss my mum. But I'll get to see her on the weekend, hurrah!
Today's thanksgiving:
I am thankful that my father is able to support our family financially. I can't imagine how much more difficult it would have been should we have been unable to pay mum's hospital bills, or not be able to employ help.
Today's happy moments:
- walking home. I love that walk home, especially when it's just rained, so the air is nice and cool. And has that just-rained-the-world-has-been-washed-clean smell
- cooking dinner for the family
- chatting with the neighbours. Auntie R's sister moved in with her a few months ago, and at first, I thought she was rather standoffish and proud. Perhaps she was just shy or something, but she's warmed up to us now, and we chat when we see each other. She's no longer merely my neighbour's sister; she's my neighbour. And I have great neighbours
- having great neighbours who drop by and provide us with murtabak
- murtabak is win
- teasing Calis
- hearing Calis' laughter
So tired today, so I'm going to turn in. G'night!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
For the Cat Lover, it seems
I just wonder how they define 'cat lover'. This pencil sharpener is just made of wrong.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Walking in Rain is Made of Win.
Points go to Bunny!
Bonus points also go to Bunny, for not only knowing where the line was from, but for actually singing (oh ok, typing) the whole verse!
Today...I am thankful for the rain. Perfect for walking in.
And that's #76 completed! :)
Today's happy moments:
- salmon for lunch. I really really wanted a bacon sandwich, but today is a meatless day, so the salmon it was.
- catching a Monster Mouse. Yes, I'm addicted to the game.
- walking in the rain. I just felt so light and so free.
- making up with Bro after a rather upsetting and loud...disagreement.
- properly talking to Belle after so long. Too long, really.
Bonus points also go to Bunny, for not only knowing where the line was from, but for actually singing (oh ok, typing) the whole verse!
Today...I am thankful for the rain. Perfect for walking in.
And that's #76 completed! :)
Today's happy moments:
- salmon for lunch. I really really wanted a bacon sandwich, but today is a meatless day, so the salmon it was.
- catching a Monster Mouse. Yes, I'm addicted to the game.
- walking in the rain. I just felt so light and so free.
- making up with Bro after a rather upsetting and loud...disagreement.
- properly talking to Belle after so long. Too long, really.
...God Gets Quite Irate
Today's question on The Straight Dope is Do female pigs have six-minute orgasms?. (Please refer to that email that went around years ago, containing a list of "trufax".*)
And the sub-question is: do animals do it for fun?
And here's Cecil's answer:
we must point out that, scientifically speaking, animals always do it for fun. The only critters who do it because they have to are Catholics.
Points to the person who knows where this post title comes from.
*Also on that list: You can't lick your elbow.
Yes, I'm one of those people who tried (but only the first time I read that).
And the sub-question is: do animals do it for fun?
And here's Cecil's answer:
we must point out that, scientifically speaking, animals always do it for fun. The only critters who do it because they have to are Catholics.
Points to the person who knows where this post title comes from.
*Also on that list: You can't lick your elbow.
Yes, I'm one of those people who tried (but only the first time I read that).
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
I can has sleep?
I'm just tired. Somewhat drained emotionally, but that's most likely linked to the fact that I'm physically drained.
I need sleep.
But by the looks of things, I'll get to bed about half 12 tonight. Which, come to think of it, is early for me. 5 1/2 hours of sleep? Sounds good to me!
Today, I was grateful that it rained in the afternoon, but stopped before I left the office. That way, it was nice and cool for me to walk home from the train station.
Today's happy moments:
- getting to work early. Well, slightly early
- Homemade gingerbread. It was made of win. Must ask for recipe
- walking home with my ipod
- welcoming hugs from sis when I got home
- bimbo giggling with Bunny
- playing with baby Nate, even if it was only for a few minutes
- realising that I ate C-foods for all my meals today. Breakfast: Cheese sandwich; Lunch: Cup noodles; Dinner: Curry
This after I had C-foods for a snack last night: Cheese and Cereal. No, not together; I just ate a slice of cheese while deciding which cereal to eat.
I need sleep.
But by the looks of things, I'll get to bed about half 12 tonight. Which, come to think of it, is early for me. 5 1/2 hours of sleep? Sounds good to me!
Today, I was grateful that it rained in the afternoon, but stopped before I left the office. That way, it was nice and cool for me to walk home from the train station.
Today's happy moments:
- getting to work early. Well, slightly early
- Homemade gingerbread. It was made of win. Must ask for recipe
- walking home with my ipod
- welcoming hugs from sis when I got home
- bimbo giggling with Bunny
- playing with baby Nate, even if it was only for a few minutes
- realising that I ate C-foods for all my meals today. Breakfast: Cheese sandwich; Lunch: Cup noodles; Dinner: Curry
This after I had C-foods for a snack last night: Cheese and Cereal. No, not together; I just ate a slice of cheese while deciding which cereal to eat.
Chugging along
3 weeks in, and I'm still going strong. Major disruption to my regular schedule, but... humans are adaptable.
And...I'm adapting.
Today, I'm thankful that I learned to read at such a young age. My love of books defined much of my childhood, and while I'm not as avid a reader as I used to be, I still love reading, and can't imagine a life without books.
Every time I teach English to a young child (my current student is 6), I'm reminded of how lucky I am. My student is really struggling with his English, and it's simply because he has a really weak foundation in the language.
At least his mum speaks decent English!
Today's happy moments:
- Boss1 telling HeadBoss that I've been a great help to the team. And that I'm beautiful.
- getting an appointment with the leaf guy
- getting a new book from the secondhand bookstore
- finally getting my hair cut. I'm not too thrilled with it, and I was pretty disgusted with the service, but I'll live. Short and curly again!
- taking off my heels after a long day
- still no blisters, thanks to miracle anti-blister stick!
Right then. Clothes are ironed for tomorrow. I'll go have a smoke and a shower, sound the horn a couple more times, and then hit the sack.
It's only Monday, but I'm knackered! I'll listen to Dad and take one brand's essence of chicken. How is it that some of my friends hate it? I love the stuff! Brand's essence of chicken is made of win!
And...I'm adapting.
Today, I'm thankful that I learned to read at such a young age. My love of books defined much of my childhood, and while I'm not as avid a reader as I used to be, I still love reading, and can't imagine a life without books.
Every time I teach English to a young child (my current student is 6), I'm reminded of how lucky I am. My student is really struggling with his English, and it's simply because he has a really weak foundation in the language.
At least his mum speaks decent English!
Today's happy moments:
- Boss1 telling HeadBoss that I've been a great help to the team. And that I'm beautiful.
- getting an appointment with the leaf guy
- getting a new book from the secondhand bookstore
- finally getting my hair cut. I'm not too thrilled with it, and I was pretty disgusted with the service, but I'll live. Short and curly again!
- taking off my heels after a long day
- still no blisters, thanks to miracle anti-blister stick!
Right then. Clothes are ironed for tomorrow. I'll go have a smoke and a shower, sound the horn a couple more times, and then hit the sack.
It's only Monday, but I'm knackered! I'll listen to Dad and take one brand's essence of chicken. How is it that some of my friends hate it? I love the stuff! Brand's essence of chicken is made of win!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Long overdue update!
I've been so busy, and by the time I have a moment to myself, I don't feel like blogging.
So...a brief rundown:
Mum's still in hospital, but she'll be transferred to AMK tomorrow. I'm optimistic; after all, Calis went there, and they did wonders with her. I'm not expecting a miracle overnight, but...I'm hoping for the best.
I haven't been out in ages, and I do need some time off. Perhaps this Friday, I'll go out and watch a movie.
Alright then, as best as I can remember. Here goes.
Things I'm grateful for:
- My friends. Without them, I'd be lost. They cheer me right up, and help me maintain my positive outlook
- My family. I appreciate whatever time I have with them, and the moments add up
- my job! In these times, one hears so often about people being retrenched and getting paycuts and what not. I'm glad that not only do I have a job, I have a job I love.
Things that made me happy:
- Lunch from Botak Jones on 160209. It was a colleagues birthday celebration, and the office thing is that every birthday is celebrated.
- tutoring on 170209. He's not the best student I've ever had, but he has potential. Doesn't everyone?
- Seeing mum on 190209. Nan and Mum's friend were there, and we spent some time laughing and joking
- tutoring after seeing mum. It's fun to see Kay progressing, and even her younger brother is showing an interest. Note to self: prepare some activity sheets for her bro
- having dinner after student's mum and grandmum insisted on feeding me, and talking to student's grandmum
- getting lunch delivered to me by SK on 200209. He'd texted me, but I didn't see his message in time to make lunch plans. But I whined about not having anything for lunch, so he swung buy and got me lunch.
- seeing baby Nate yesterday. I swear, he gets more gorgeous every time I see him
- going to mass in the church I used to go to as a child/teenager, and seeing the newly renovated building for the first time
- singing the hymns I love so much
- having dad send me to, and pick me up from church
- singing along to radio with dad. Both of us horribly off-key, of course
All in all, a rather productive week, and a happy one at that. Some not-so-good moments as well, but that's life, ey? Makes life all the better!
So...a brief rundown:
Mum's still in hospital, but she'll be transferred to AMK tomorrow. I'm optimistic; after all, Calis went there, and they did wonders with her. I'm not expecting a miracle overnight, but...I'm hoping for the best.
I haven't been out in ages, and I do need some time off. Perhaps this Friday, I'll go out and watch a movie.
Alright then, as best as I can remember. Here goes.
Things I'm grateful for:
- My friends. Without them, I'd be lost. They cheer me right up, and help me maintain my positive outlook
- My family. I appreciate whatever time I have with them, and the moments add up
- my job! In these times, one hears so often about people being retrenched and getting paycuts and what not. I'm glad that not only do I have a job, I have a job I love.
Things that made me happy:
- Lunch from Botak Jones on 160209. It was a colleagues birthday celebration, and the office thing is that every birthday is celebrated.
- tutoring on 170209. He's not the best student I've ever had, but he has potential. Doesn't everyone?
- Seeing mum on 190209. Nan and Mum's friend were there, and we spent some time laughing and joking
- tutoring after seeing mum. It's fun to see Kay progressing, and even her younger brother is showing an interest. Note to self: prepare some activity sheets for her bro
- having dinner after student's mum and grandmum insisted on feeding me, and talking to student's grandmum
- getting lunch delivered to me by SK on 200209. He'd texted me, but I didn't see his message in time to make lunch plans. But I whined about not having anything for lunch, so he swung buy and got me lunch.
- seeing baby Nate yesterday. I swear, he gets more gorgeous every time I see him
- going to mass in the church I used to go to as a child/teenager, and seeing the newly renovated building for the first time
- singing the hymns I love so much
- having dad send me to, and pick me up from church
- singing along to radio with dad. Both of us horribly off-key, of course
All in all, a rather productive week, and a happy one at that. Some not-so-good moments as well, but that's life, ey? Makes life all the better!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
And so another weekend comes to a close
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for my health. I'm not the fittest person around, but I am young and healthy and able to take care of my loved ones.
Today's happy moments:
- Sleeping in! Oh how lovely it is to wake up when the sun is already up!
- tasting the chicken I cooked, and realising that it was rather tasty. I can cook!
- seeing Mum and spending time with her
- hearing Dad say that I've done a good job
- having everything done and Calis in bed by 11.30. I'm now free to do whatever I want
- having time now to take a leisurely shower before turning in
It's been, on the whole, a lovely weekend.
We're halfway through February, and I've had a great month. A stressful month, full of emotion, I've been worried about mum and the rest of the family...but it's been a productive month.
And I'm proud of me.
I am thankful for my health. I'm not the fittest person around, but I am young and healthy and able to take care of my loved ones.
Today's happy moments:
- Sleeping in! Oh how lovely it is to wake up when the sun is already up!
- tasting the chicken I cooked, and realising that it was rather tasty. I can cook!
- seeing Mum and spending time with her
- hearing Dad say that I've done a good job
- having everything done and Calis in bed by 11.30. I'm now free to do whatever I want
- having time now to take a leisurely shower before turning in
It's been, on the whole, a lovely weekend.
We're halfway through February, and I've had a great month. A stressful month, full of emotion, I've been worried about mum and the rest of the family...but it's been a productive month.
And I'm proud of me.
I am such a fangirl
Hope you all had a lovely Valentine's Day! I know I did...
Slept in...oh, glorious sleep!...and chilled out quite a bit. Brought Calis to JP, where we walked around a bit. I bought me a book (mindless chick lit is made of win), and Calis and I hung out at Starbucks for a couple hours. She loves people-watching, I love reading, we both love Starbucks drinks. Perfection? I think so!
Bought her a couple T-shirts after that, and then we stopped at yet another place that both of us are totally passionate about.
The Body Shop.
And this entire evening? Funded by the Dadman.
I'm pretty knackered. A couple hours ago, I was in the shower and I could easily have fallen asleep in there. I would have too, if the hot water hadn't started running out.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for my sister, who is brilliant company and gives me so much joy.
Today's Happy Moments:
- finding a mindless chick lit novel by one of the authors I enjoy.
- reading (and finishing) said novel. What a fun read!
- Starbucks vanilla latte.
- The Body Shop-ping with Calis
- hearing from Dad about mum's progress today
- Dad telling me that mum was pleasantly surprised, and very happy, that I took Calis out
- videochat with someone I never expected to see online today
- Two words: Drake. Josh.
- squeeing over Drake & Josh
- realising that I'm crushing on a 22-year-old, and enjoying it anyway.
Fangirling is fun.
Slept in...oh, glorious sleep!...and chilled out quite a bit. Brought Calis to JP, where we walked around a bit. I bought me a book (mindless chick lit is made of win), and Calis and I hung out at Starbucks for a couple hours. She loves people-watching, I love reading, we both love Starbucks drinks. Perfection? I think so!
Bought her a couple T-shirts after that, and then we stopped at yet another place that both of us are totally passionate about.
The Body Shop.
And this entire evening? Funded by the Dadman.
I'm pretty knackered. A couple hours ago, I was in the shower and I could easily have fallen asleep in there. I would have too, if the hot water hadn't started running out.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for my sister, who is brilliant company and gives me so much joy.
Today's Happy Moments:
- finding a mindless chick lit novel by one of the authors I enjoy.
- reading (and finishing) said novel. What a fun read!
- Starbucks vanilla latte.
- The Body Shop-ping with Calis
- hearing from Dad about mum's progress today
- Dad telling me that mum was pleasantly surprised, and very happy, that I took Calis out
- videochat with someone I never expected to see online today
- Two words: Drake. Josh.
- squeeing over Drake & Josh
- realising that I'm crushing on a 22-year-old, and enjoying it anyway.
Fangirling is fun.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Sleepy!
Today was a sleepy sleepy sleepy day. And I only had one red bull to tide me over, so I did end up having a coffee in the afternoon.
So very tired now...but perhaps this weekend I'll do a progress report. It's about time anyway.
Today's thanksgiving:
I am thankful the washing machine didn't transform my money into a ball of mush.
Today's happy moments:
- discovering a hundred bucks in my pocket. I don't know how long it's been there, and I don't even remember putting it in the pockets! It was like being given a hundred bucks!
- flagging down a yellow-top cab (I generally hate yellow-top cabs, but there were no other taxis in sight), only to realise that it was a newer and bigger cab. Plus cabbie was pretty nice too, and it was a really pleasant cab ride
- seeing the pleasure on niece and nephew's faces when they saw me and Calis
- talking to Niqui
- seeing Mum again, and seeing her looking so well
Ok, sleep now-ish. Am working again tomorrow. It might only be a half day, but I'm knackered enough as it is.
Oh well. Only a half-day, and then the weekend will be upon me!
So very tired now...but perhaps this weekend I'll do a progress report. It's about time anyway.
Today's thanksgiving:
I am thankful the washing machine didn't transform my money into a ball of mush.
Today's happy moments:
- discovering a hundred bucks in my pocket. I don't know how long it's been there, and I don't even remember putting it in the pockets! It was like being given a hundred bucks!
- flagging down a yellow-top cab (I generally hate yellow-top cabs, but there were no other taxis in sight), only to realise that it was a newer and bigger cab. Plus cabbie was pretty nice too, and it was a really pleasant cab ride
- seeing the pleasure on niece and nephew's faces when they saw me and Calis
- talking to Niqui
- seeing Mum again, and seeing her looking so well
Ok, sleep now-ish. Am working again tomorrow. It might only be a half day, but I'm knackered enough as it is.
Oh well. Only a half-day, and then the weekend will be upon me!
Friday, February 13, 2009
A penny found is a penny earned
Decided not to wear jeans to work today; I've been wearing jeans every day for the past couple weeks now.
Put on a pair of black linen trousers, with back pockets. The same black linen trousers that had been sitting in my hamper for ages, gone through an entire washing cycle in the machine, been hung up to dry, been folded up and then left in my cupboard.
So I put on these trousers, and absent-mindedly put my hand into the left back pocket.
Pulled out a hundred dollars.
Put on a pair of black linen trousers, with back pockets. The same black linen trousers that had been sitting in my hamper for ages, gone through an entire washing cycle in the machine, been hung up to dry, been folded up and then left in my cupboard.
So I put on these trousers, and absent-mindedly put my hand into the left back pocket.
Pulled out a hundred dollars.
I can has sleep now?
Whew. Made it through the day after only what...an hour of sleep last night.
Well, with the aid of two red bulls, of course.
Sigh.
Today's thanksgiving:
I am thankful for Bunny. I was in a right strop earlier, and listening to her rant about something work-related took my mind off my own anger and frustration. And she listened to me rant after that.
Needless to say, I felt so much better after talking to her.
Today's happy moments:
- having my anger dissipate. It's almost impossible to stay angry while laughing, really.
- getting a ride all the way home, quite unexpectedly
- being hugged by Calis
- hearing that Mum managed to move her left leg today
And now? I sleep. That's assuming Doof quits being all cute.
Well, with the aid of two red bulls, of course.
Sigh.
Today's thanksgiving:
I am thankful for Bunny. I was in a right strop earlier, and listening to her rant about something work-related took my mind off my own anger and frustration. And she listened to me rant after that.
Needless to say, I felt so much better after talking to her.
Today's happy moments:
- having my anger dissipate. It's almost impossible to stay angry while laughing, really.
- getting a ride all the way home, quite unexpectedly
- being hugged by Calis
- hearing that Mum managed to move her left leg today
And now? I sleep. That's assuming Doof quits being all cute.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
It's a Hard Night's Day
I am aching. All. Over. But it is the ache of hard work, so it does feel good.
I was pretty knackered yesterday when I got back from work, but decided to take Calis out for a bit; she'd been home all day and she wanted to go to the coffeeshop.
So yes, we went downstairs. And we spent two hours at the coffeeshop.
Two. Hours.
Anyway, after that, I still had loads to do. Started cleaning my room, and it was slow going at first. The pace picked up, and then...wild horses couldn't have stopped me. Although I'm not sure how wild horses would have gotten into my bedroom anyway.
Did you know that when you throw out loads of trash, you get loads of space? Two huuuuge bags of trash and one small one. A LOT of trash.
I love it when I go into cleaning frenzy mode. The sentimental sappy side of me just goes right to sleep. The personality that emerges? Hard-hearted, practical bitch who scoffs at hoarding. Besides, if I forgot I had something, and didn't need it for a few months...I'm not going to need it anytime soon.
But my room is so clean now; I love it! This weekend, I'm going to tackle my closet. And I have to be stern with myself. If it doesn't fit, I'm not going to fool myself into thinking that I'm going to lose ten pounds. Truth is? I'm fine with my weight right where it is. And honestly, if I haven't worn something in over a year, WHY do I think that I just might wear it again some day?
I only managed to call it a day at about 3am. I was itching to start on my closet, but I knew that I would need a few solid hours to do that. At least my laundry hamper is no longer overflowing! In fact, it's half-empty!
One of the rare times that 'half-empty' is more positive than 'half-full'!
After shower though? I was still pretty buzzed from cleaning frenzy, so decided to settle down and watch some Drake & Josh.
Merry Christmas Drake & Josh is such. A bad. Movie. That's 94 minutes of my life I'm never getting back. There were a few good moments, but they were too few and too far between for me to truly enjoy it.
Better sets than the tv series, but omg, the plot is nothing but shite.
Was feeling unsatisfied after that, so decided to watch an episode of Dexter.
HOW HAVE I NOT WATCHED THIS UNTIL NOW?
Only watched one episode, but I? Am hooked. HOOKED!
Big up Doof for the rec. Now if just he stops listening to Fall Out Boy, I might start trusting his taste in music too.
Thanksgiving for yesterday:
Yesterday I was thankful for my mum. I'd never fully appreciated all she used to do for us on a daily basis, and just how time-consuming and challenging it could be to take care of Calis. How she managed to do the housework and take care of Calis for so long, I'll never know. I've been doing it for only a week and a half, and not as well as Mum, and already I'm knackered.
Then again, as she said, if I don't go online late at night, I'll be ok. Woman has a point.
Happy moments:
- watching Dexter!
- Two particular moments in MCD&J: 1) when Josh bumps Drake's hand and Drake gives him a bite of his corndog; 2) Never put your finger in me again!
- the moment of accomplishment when I was done cleaning my room. How I let it get into such a state, I do not know. But that's my usual MO. Get the room into a complete mess, then go into mad cleaning mode
- Calis hugging me tighter than usual when she knew I was feeling frustrated
Finally slept at just past 6am. Woke up at quarter past 7.
I've already consumed one can of RB, and I have two more in the fridge.
Tonight? I'm turning in by 1.
My entire body aches. But it is the ache of a good night's work. Very satisfying indeed. Today's challenge? Making it to the end of the day. I still have...more than 12 hours to go.
No rest for the wicked!
And I? Am wicked!
I was pretty knackered yesterday when I got back from work, but decided to take Calis out for a bit; she'd been home all day and she wanted to go to the coffeeshop.
So yes, we went downstairs. And we spent two hours at the coffeeshop.
Two. Hours.
Anyway, after that, I still had loads to do. Started cleaning my room, and it was slow going at first. The pace picked up, and then...wild horses couldn't have stopped me. Although I'm not sure how wild horses would have gotten into my bedroom anyway.
Did you know that when you throw out loads of trash, you get loads of space? Two huuuuge bags of trash and one small one. A LOT of trash.
I love it when I go into cleaning frenzy mode. The sentimental sappy side of me just goes right to sleep. The personality that emerges? Hard-hearted, practical bitch who scoffs at hoarding. Besides, if I forgot I had something, and didn't need it for a few months...I'm not going to need it anytime soon.
But my room is so clean now; I love it! This weekend, I'm going to tackle my closet. And I have to be stern with myself. If it doesn't fit, I'm not going to fool myself into thinking that I'm going to lose ten pounds. Truth is? I'm fine with my weight right where it is. And honestly, if I haven't worn something in over a year, WHY do I think that I just might wear it again some day?
I only managed to call it a day at about 3am. I was itching to start on my closet, but I knew that I would need a few solid hours to do that. At least my laundry hamper is no longer overflowing! In fact, it's half-empty!
One of the rare times that 'half-empty' is more positive than 'half-full'!
After shower though? I was still pretty buzzed from cleaning frenzy, so decided to settle down and watch some Drake & Josh.
Merry Christmas Drake & Josh is such. A bad. Movie. That's 94 minutes of my life I'm never getting back. There were a few good moments, but they were too few and too far between for me to truly enjoy it.
Better sets than the tv series, but omg, the plot is nothing but shite.
Was feeling unsatisfied after that, so decided to watch an episode of Dexter.
HOW HAVE I NOT WATCHED THIS UNTIL NOW?
Only watched one episode, but I? Am hooked. HOOKED!
Big up Doof for the rec. Now if just he stops listening to Fall Out Boy, I might start trusting his taste in music too.
Thanksgiving for yesterday:
Yesterday I was thankful for my mum. I'd never fully appreciated all she used to do for us on a daily basis, and just how time-consuming and challenging it could be to take care of Calis. How she managed to do the housework and take care of Calis for so long, I'll never know. I've been doing it for only a week and a half, and not as well as Mum, and already I'm knackered.
Then again, as she said, if I don't go online late at night, I'll be ok. Woman has a point.
Happy moments:
- watching Dexter!
- Two particular moments in MCD&J: 1) when Josh bumps Drake's hand and Drake gives him a bite of his corndog; 2) Never put your finger in me again!
- the moment of accomplishment when I was done cleaning my room. How I let it get into such a state, I do not know. But that's my usual MO. Get the room into a complete mess, then go into mad cleaning mode
- Calis hugging me tighter than usual when she knew I was feeling frustrated
Finally slept at just past 6am. Woke up at quarter past 7.
I've already consumed one can of RB, and I have two more in the fridge.
Tonight? I'm turning in by 1.
My entire body aches. But it is the ache of a good night's work. Very satisfying indeed. Today's challenge? Making it to the end of the day. I still have...more than 12 hours to go.
No rest for the wicked!
And I? Am wicked!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Time flies when you're busy
Today was a rather productive day, methinks. Got a lot of laundry done, cooked dinner, cleared up the house a fair bit, folded clothes, prepared stuff for the nurse who's coming in tomorrow.
I think I like being busy. It makes me appreciate my leisure time even more. And I can actually fall asleep at night, tired and content.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for my neighbours. They aren't merely the people who live next door. They're friends.
Today was their 24th anniversary, and what did they do? Visited mum in hospital. As Auntie R said, she thinks of my mum not as a neighbour but more as a sister. She offered to cook for us, but dad declined, as I'd already told him I was cooking. And hey, perfect opportunity for dad to make sure that his daughters do some cooking.
But anyway. At 11pm, my doorbell rang, and I was wondering who it could be. Turned out to be Uncle R (from next door), bearing cake and a family-sized Cadbury bar. They had a cake to celebrate their anniversary, and they gave us some.
In day and age where there are so many people in this city who barely even know what their neighbours look like, it is wonderful to have neighbours like mine. I could go on about all they've done for us, but that would be an entire blog entry, and I'm way too tired for that.
In short, I am thankful that I have the kind of neighbours whom I could borrow a cup of sugar from. (Not that I've ever actually done that)
Today's Happy Moments:
- seeing Calis smiling again, after a day of being upset (she really wanted to see mum, and she did)
- getting the internet back! It was down all day, and finally came back about midnight
- accomplishing the things I'd set out to do
- talking to Bunny about my faith, and how there really are things to be thankful about, despite the difficulties. And being understood.
There are so many things in life that I could be angry about, that I could moan and groan and whinge and whine about.
But there are even more things that fill me with joy.
Today's affirmation says it all:
All is well in my world.
Plus, I have chocolate.
I think I like being busy. It makes me appreciate my leisure time even more. And I can actually fall asleep at night, tired and content.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for my neighbours. They aren't merely the people who live next door. They're friends.
Today was their 24th anniversary, and what did they do? Visited mum in hospital. As Auntie R said, she thinks of my mum not as a neighbour but more as a sister. She offered to cook for us, but dad declined, as I'd already told him I was cooking. And hey, perfect opportunity for dad to make sure that his daughters do some cooking.
But anyway. At 11pm, my doorbell rang, and I was wondering who it could be. Turned out to be Uncle R (from next door), bearing cake and a family-sized Cadbury bar. They had a cake to celebrate their anniversary, and they gave us some.
In day and age where there are so many people in this city who barely even know what their neighbours look like, it is wonderful to have neighbours like mine. I could go on about all they've done for us, but that would be an entire blog entry, and I'm way too tired for that.
In short, I am thankful that I have the kind of neighbours whom I could borrow a cup of sugar from. (Not that I've ever actually done that)
Today's Happy Moments:
- seeing Calis smiling again, after a day of being upset (she really wanted to see mum, and she did)
- getting the internet back! It was down all day, and finally came back about midnight
- accomplishing the things I'd set out to do
- talking to Bunny about my faith, and how there really are things to be thankful about, despite the difficulties. And being understood.
There are so many things in life that I could be angry about, that I could moan and groan and whinge and whine about.
But there are even more things that fill me with joy.
Today's affirmation says it all:
All is well in my world.
Plus, I have chocolate.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
It's been a while
I've been so busy this past week.
To sum it all up:
Mum had a stroke last Sunday. She's been in hospital since.
I took a lot of time off last week to take care of Calis (who, if you recall, is handicapped because of her own stroke) and manage the house as best as I can.
Bro has been a big help.
Dad's been great.
I've been tired.
But...I'm amazed at myself. And yet, I always knew I had it in me. I have a streak of responsibility, and boy, has it reared up this past week.
Taking care of Calis has made me even more protective of her, and as much as I hate to admit that my dad's right...well, my dad's right. I started bonding with Calis ever since we started sharing a room, and now? I've bonded with her even more.
Mum's doing great. Her level of strength and determination simply cannot be matched. She's the strongest, bravest woman I've ever had the honour of knowing. And she's my mum! How lucky am I? Very!
I am so very proud of Mum. Today was her first therapy session, and dad said she did really well. My heart swells with love and pride just thinking of her.
We got a nurse in to take care of Calis for the next couple weeks, while everyone else is at work, and we're getting a domestic helper this week as well. It's not easy for me to trust a stranger to take care of Calis and to see to her needs, but I'm learning to.
My mission-101 has been put on hold for the past week, but I've stayed true to most of the ones in progress. The ones that were paused are the ones about writing down what I'm thankful for and happy moments. And I don't consider that cheating in any way. I've been so busy and stressed, and at moments, really overwhelmed with it all.
But I'll try to make up for it now. Here goes:
I'm thankful for:
- My understanding colleagues and bosses, who were compassionate and understanding about me taking so much time off.
- good doctors
- Belle, who provided me with a good source for a home nurse.
- The home nurse, who is professional and warm all at once
- my friends, who have provided me with love and support
- my family, who has pulled together and held each other up in this challenging time
- my mum, who has gone through so much in her life, and yet is still able to smile and laugh
- my faith, which was shaken, but not broken. And now my faith is stronger than ever.
Happy moments:
- any and all bonding moments with Calis; to name a few: her hugging me tight when I get back from work, joking with her, understanding what she wants even though she can't speak, tucking her in at night and getting a goodnight kiss from her
- hearing my mum joke and laugh and seeing her smile
- realising that I truly am capable of taking care of my sis.
- proving to myself that I can be, and am, an adult.
- having my dad say "well done". Yes, I'm a sucker for parental praise.
- falling asleep at the end of the day, knowing that it was a productive one.
- taking care of certain things, and having Dad depend on me.
- Having dad know that he can depend on me.
- Teaching Kay and playing games with her and her brothers
I've been true to most of the items on my list. Reading an affirmation every day has helped to keep me strong.
I'm not going to consider the fact that I missed a few days - I think I more than made up for it, and I don't regret not actually writing down certain things; spending time with my family was far more important to me.
I remind you of #75 on my list. Something that I've been able to do, even through an emotionally wrenching week.
Laugh often, laugh loud.
To sum it all up:
Mum had a stroke last Sunday. She's been in hospital since.
I took a lot of time off last week to take care of Calis (who, if you recall, is handicapped because of her own stroke) and manage the house as best as I can.
Bro has been a big help.
Dad's been great.
I've been tired.
But...I'm amazed at myself. And yet, I always knew I had it in me. I have a streak of responsibility, and boy, has it reared up this past week.
Taking care of Calis has made me even more protective of her, and as much as I hate to admit that my dad's right...well, my dad's right. I started bonding with Calis ever since we started sharing a room, and now? I've bonded with her even more.
Mum's doing great. Her level of strength and determination simply cannot be matched. She's the strongest, bravest woman I've ever had the honour of knowing. And she's my mum! How lucky am I? Very!
I am so very proud of Mum. Today was her first therapy session, and dad said she did really well. My heart swells with love and pride just thinking of her.
We got a nurse in to take care of Calis for the next couple weeks, while everyone else is at work, and we're getting a domestic helper this week as well. It's not easy for me to trust a stranger to take care of Calis and to see to her needs, but I'm learning to.
My mission-101 has been put on hold for the past week, but I've stayed true to most of the ones in progress. The ones that were paused are the ones about writing down what I'm thankful for and happy moments. And I don't consider that cheating in any way. I've been so busy and stressed, and at moments, really overwhelmed with it all.
But I'll try to make up for it now. Here goes:
I'm thankful for:
- My understanding colleagues and bosses, who were compassionate and understanding about me taking so much time off.
- good doctors
- Belle, who provided me with a good source for a home nurse.
- The home nurse, who is professional and warm all at once
- my friends, who have provided me with love and support
- my family, who has pulled together and held each other up in this challenging time
- my mum, who has gone through so much in her life, and yet is still able to smile and laugh
- my faith, which was shaken, but not broken. And now my faith is stronger than ever.
Happy moments:
- any and all bonding moments with Calis; to name a few: her hugging me tight when I get back from work, joking with her, understanding what she wants even though she can't speak, tucking her in at night and getting a goodnight kiss from her
- hearing my mum joke and laugh and seeing her smile
- realising that I truly am capable of taking care of my sis.
- proving to myself that I can be, and am, an adult.
- having my dad say "well done". Yes, I'm a sucker for parental praise.
- falling asleep at the end of the day, knowing that it was a productive one.
- taking care of certain things, and having Dad depend on me.
- Having dad know that he can depend on me.
- Teaching Kay and playing games with her and her brothers
I've been true to most of the items on my list. Reading an affirmation every day has helped to keep me strong.
I'm not going to consider the fact that I missed a few days - I think I more than made up for it, and I don't regret not actually writing down certain things; spending time with my family was far more important to me.
I remind you of #75 on my list. Something that I've been able to do, even through an emotionally wrenching week.
Laugh often, laugh loud.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
I am so glad we have good hospitals
Mum is in the hospital. The current diagnosis is a pinched nerve. Doesn't sound like something serious, but from the tiny bit of research I did, it can be quite serious indeed. Pain, numbness, paraesthesia/paralysis - some of the symptoms that mum has. She was admitted today, and my heart broke to see her frightened and helpless; she couldn't move her left side at all. My mum is the strongest person I've ever known, and I can only recall seeing her break down twice. To see her so frightened was...not something I enjoyed at all.
Quite frankly, I'm scared. I refuse to show fear in front of my dad and younger sis and bro. I could really use a hug right now though. I want someone to hold me and let me cry on their shoulder and tell me that it's all going to be ok, that Mum's going to be just fine.
I want my mum. I want to hear the telly downstairs, and know that Mum's watching it. I want to open my room door and see the flicker of the computer monitor. I've taken my mum so much for granted; don't we all just assume our parents are always going to be there to take care of things?
I hope and pray that my mum's going to be a-ok. She's amazing. Through her pain and her fear, she was worried about my sis, about how she's going to fare. It's time for me to step up to the plate, and ease at least one of her worries.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for the advances in the medical field, for those in the medical profession for their services. It is because of them that I am optimistic about Mum's full recovery.
Noting down today's happy moments is rather difficult right now, because I've been worried the whole day, more than I've let on. But happiness comes in the simplest things, so upon further reflection, I now know
Happy Moments of Today:
- seeing baby Nate leaning out of his pram to look at me, and to smile and wave
- Calis hugging me
- realising that Calis has trust and faith in me
- making silly mistakes and having Calis laugh at me
Quite frankly, I'm scared. I refuse to show fear in front of my dad and younger sis and bro. I could really use a hug right now though. I want someone to hold me and let me cry on their shoulder and tell me that it's all going to be ok, that Mum's going to be just fine.
I want my mum. I want to hear the telly downstairs, and know that Mum's watching it. I want to open my room door and see the flicker of the computer monitor. I've taken my mum so much for granted; don't we all just assume our parents are always going to be there to take care of things?
I hope and pray that my mum's going to be a-ok. She's amazing. Through her pain and her fear, she was worried about my sis, about how she's going to fare. It's time for me to step up to the plate, and ease at least one of her worries.
Today's Thanksgiving:
I am thankful for the advances in the medical field, for those in the medical profession for their services. It is because of them that I am optimistic about Mum's full recovery.
Noting down today's happy moments is rather difficult right now, because I've been worried the whole day, more than I've let on. But happiness comes in the simplest things, so upon further reflection, I now know
Happy Moments of Today:
- seeing baby Nate leaning out of his pram to look at me, and to smile and wave
- Calis hugging me
- realising that Calis has trust and faith in me
- making silly mistakes and having Calis laugh at me
February
From my affirmation calendar:
I go within and do my inner work. I explore the depths of my heart, my mind, and my consciousness. I forgive myself and others. I allow love to flow through me and out into the world at large. I am a positive presence who helps make the world a better place.
I go within and do my inner work. I explore the depths of my heart, my mind, and my consciousness. I forgive myself and others. I allow love to flow through me and out into the world at large. I am a positive presence who helps make the world a better place.
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