I have my doubts about this quote being attributed to Richard Nixon, but… I just ran into a very dear friend. I hadn’t seen or spoken with her, but almost simultaneously we said, “I think about you every day.” Upon hearing of my upcoming knee replacement surgery in February, she launched into a list of all the things that she could do for me. I replied that I didn’t need her to “do” anything; what I really needed was for her to “be” with me, sitting in the porch, drinking tea, just “being.”
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I’m seeing folks fearing the upcoming cost of Christmas. Or just hate to add credit debt to an already stressful time of year.
I found these cups at Habitat ReStore for $1 each. I will make truffles to fill them & pack in holiday cling wrap.
Total cost of gift: $3 each
When I give them, I will suggest they can keep the cup or fill w/treats & pass on. Could be pistachios, carmel corn, teabags, tiny soaps, cookies, red & green M & M etc.
Be creative.
Once again, my mother-in-law who lives on a fixed income and shouldn’t be spending money on us, has shipped a package to arrive before Thanksgiving. Usually it’s a ham, a turkey roll, or pies. I actually have my turkey - Mr. Carolina’s favorite food - and the fixings in progress. Looks like either a too-full fridge or a trip to drop off the excess at the food bank.
@cassandra17lina It’s all about timing your light exposure. First thing in the morning (over coffee or breakfast, etc.) expose yourself to bright light. Ideally the light source sits about 18 inches away at a 45° angle. If you have a light box, that’s how to place it. As an alternative, turn on all the lights, stare at your tablet, and put on a bright reading lamp. Do this for about 30 minutes first thing each morning.
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@cassandra17lina I have SAD. Sounds like you might, too. I was part of a three-week research study. If you want any research-based tips, I’m happy to share.
I need to remind myself that part of my current melancholy is likely attributable to seasonal influences. Every November has ushered in this sense of apprehension as the days get shorter and my serotonin levels plummet. This year, between the dystopian political climate and the pain of my soon-to-be-replaced knee and the curtailment of my physical activity, I’m really feeling the malaise. My orthopedic surgeon has advised me to limit walking; now I feel genuinely guilty shortchanging my dogs.
Next stop the F1 circuit
I’m a neuroscientist who taught rats to drive − their joy suggests how anticipating fun can enrich human life
@cassandra17lina
My spouse is having theirs done in four weeks. They are nervous despite ... or because of ... being a nurse. But their best friend just had one done three months ago and is doing great so we will use the same doctor.
Note: a robot performed the actual surgery. Very precise, smaller incision.
Well, it’s official. I’m scheduled to get a full knee replacement in February. I’m still processing the reality of it, but I am very impressed with my orthopedic surgeon. I opted NOT to go with the big “corporate” practice that specialized in joint replacement. Some people love them, but many others have horror stories. One woman complained that her leg was shorter after a hip replacement, and their answer was, “Don’t worry about it… we’ll fix that when we do your other hip.” 🤔
@cassandra17lina
🤣 At least it isn't pirate chanties. You could come back with a peg leg, a hook, and a stop at the pet store for a parrot.
Geologist. Volunteer. Freelance-for-free writer. Iconoclast. Dog devotee. EV driver. Retiree.