A long overdue update

Lets start with some good stuff

I have moved out of IL.

I have a wonderful family.


Todays post was really prompted by a need for a place to safely process emotions. The other post you will see today will explain why. 

My health is now* in decent shape.

The health thing is a bit complicated. I finally have an explanation to the hair loss, the tremor in my hands and other symptoms. Turns out I have an autoimmune condition called "Graves Disease". My thyroid was not working properly. I'm now on medications that are helping. Its autoimmune so it will never be "cured" just managed. Thankfully, currently everything seems to be falling into place related to my heath.

My parents are doing great, my husband is doing fine. I am almost ready to start exercising again. Now I have motivation to do so, and I think its time to do it. I have a life to live and so do you, its time to start living it fully.

Just do me a favor tonight and reach out to those you love and let them know, even if you haven't talked to them in a while. It might make all the difference in the world.

Pax

Graduation prep thoughts

Graduation is almost upon me.

On one hand I am excited.
But..
On the other, this is the world that I have immersed myself in for the last 2 years.
I have changed so much in that time, I don't know exactly how to function in the outside world anymore. Class, homework, practicum, eat, sleep, shower- repeat. My divorce changed my life. I have set goals and am about to accomplish them, and it feels good.

 But.. What do I do Now? Change is coming. That's okay. I need to figure it out. I know I need to find a job, and apartment ,all that grown up stuff. Thankfully, I am not in debt. Where to live, what to do, its up to me! My parents are supportive, I know whatever I chose they will accept.

Graduation.. is in the evening. Graduation Party?? I am so torn. I kind of want one, and yet I really dislike parties. I would like to just curl up and read a book the next day.  But, I want to be recognized for getting this program done. At the same time, I don't like being the center of attention and all the stress that comes with the parties. What to do?  Any recommendations? Also, my parents are moving so doing anything at the house is not a good option. And remember, I'm not working yet so , my finances are tight.

I know some of my extended family would like the opportunity to celebrate my accomplishments with me. They know I worked hard to get this degree done. (sigh) Its not all about me, even though this post kind of sounds like it. :(

4th of July

These opinions are mine,the information about loud noise is from experience in life, please keep all negative comments to yourself.

4th of July celebrations are loved by many people, I am not one of them
I an not fond of all the expectations that comes with  the 4th of July. -
 Fireworks And Large Group Gatherings being the top 2.

The history of the 4th of July is cool, you should look it up if you don't know it.
Why do we celebrate on the 4th and not the 2nd? I am not going to answer that here.
If you want to know Google it.

I have always "strongly Disliked" fireworks.I like the images fireworks can produce in the sky but the sound ? NO, Thanks! They are loud, and most have chemicals that smell funny,and the smell gets into my hair..
I have had plenty of experiences watching fireworks. Including working in a theme park and getting to see/hear 2 firework shows every night I closed. That was awesome....

Then I worked in a hospital one 4th,that was an experience. I learned that I really really don't like the injuries caused by fireworks. If you have to set them off yourself , PLEASE be careful.

Now, I have family and friends that are military, both current active duty and retired who deal with PTSD. If you have loved ones who are military, the 4th of July can be hard on them.. Loud Bangs(fireworks)(noise makers) or(sparklers even) can produce a vivid flash back and or other reactions. Large groups of people can make it worse. Please do not judge someone who does not react like YOU think THEY should to fireworks. Be kind. Give people space and or support if they need it. If you are going to be doing fireworks, announce it in advance so that they can prepare for it or decided if its time to go inside and watch something else. I think there should be a light show that can be watched on the computer/tv so people can control the sound and or pause it if they need to take a break.

My plan this year is to hide. There are some great movies scheduled to be on and a good book is on standby.I will celebrate in my own way.

I do like traditional foods for the 4th, Hot-dogs, Hamburgers, chips,side salads and desserts. Especially cheesecake. I might have to make some. yummy!

Please do me a favor..

This 4th of July, THINK, about what you are doing, before you do it. Whether it is getting together with family barbecuing,fireworks, being by yourself, or hanging with a group of friends and having a blast. Be safe, use your brain, make wise decisions and have a great Holiday.