My special place

[AuntGlow]

Hello @Snowie, 

Smelling oils, some encouraging words, and a book sound like really wonderful ways to ground yourself. 🥰

How are you feeling today?

I hear you on this, and it can absolutely feel like you're out at sea with no life jacket when that happens... but know that we are absolutely willing to help you build a boat, and we will be here throughout the Christmas period. I am actually working Christmas Eve, so I will make sure to check-in.

I often suggest to people that exploring volunteering around this time of year can be helpful. Is that something you'd feel open to? ☺️

[Snowie]

Today started early @AuntGlow 

Was awake at 4 and couldn't settle back down. Ended up getting up and did a whole heap of ironing. I guess at least that got done. By the time H got up at 9 I'd ironed, washed, cleaned the bathroom and oven!!

The last few days have gone a bit better which is good. Looks like we sold the house too which we really wanted to do before Xmas.

I know lots of people find Xmas hard for varying reasons. In the past I've found the forums helpful. I think when you know you're not alone and others understand what you are going through makes it a bit easier.

I've never thought of volunteering over the holiday season. I guess with the kids I've always tried to make Xmas as positive as possible. I wanted them to grow up with fond memories of the holidays. Hopefully I've done that.

[Snowie]

So took mum to gp this morning. Went ok, got some forms signed about her end of life wishes and how I can talk on her behalf. Needed them completed b/c she is in care now.

Made it through the supermarket shop. 

She was having a bad day today. Just couldn't remember things and people. Was getting very upset (which I can understand) and very nasty. Won't repeat what she said to me.

Came home, did washing and dinner.

Spoke to SIL. Having xmas lunch at our house again (which I prefer anyway) so started organising what I'm going to do, what I need.

S had his last exam today. Officially finished school now. No more school fees, yea 😁

Something wrong with dog. She didn't want her treat (never turns it down) and has slept all day. Will see how she goes the next 24hrs and if we need a trip to the vet.

[Eve7]

Hi @Snowie , I’ve been thinking of you today as I think you had your mum coming over to go through stuff. I hope it’s been ok for you.

Sending lots of love 🩵🩵🩵

[AuntGlow]

Hello @Snowie!

How are you feeling today? 

I am so sorry for my delay. 💖

It sounds like the other day was very productive for you, I am impressed. 💪

Yay for the house being sold! What a huge weight lifted. Have you celebrated with H?

That's really lovely. I would like to create a Christmas connection thread of some sort, actually. What kind of space would you benefit from having over the holiday period? Maybe you can help me with it? 

I am sure you made their Christmas truly magical. 

Volunteering is always an option - if not this Christmas then definitely another! 🫶

[Shaz51]

Congratulations for the sale of the place @Snowie 

Hope  dog is OK xxx

@AuntGlow , @Eve7 , @tyme 

[Snowie]

Thanks @Eve7 We got through some of it. She certainly likes to keep things. Really only made it through the bedroom. Had so many old documents/papers. I have a big pile of papers I still need to go through to see if I keep or burn them.

Found some really cool things too. Have some jewelry/watches that I will have to get valued. Birth and Death certificates of Mum, Dad and grandparents. Newspaper clippings too from 1940's. Found family history dating back to 1854.

Was hard on us for different reasons but had to be done.

Some I will keep, some pass on to my brother and some for kids. 

@Shaz51 sale is official now so just waiting for settlement. Dog seems fine now

[Snowie]

Hi @AuntGlow 

No need to be sorry. I know you are needed in several places at the same time.

House is official now. H and I went out for tea. Will celebrate when money comes through!

I think a Christmas connection thread would be great. Just some place where people can come together and not feel so lonely. They know there are others that are in a similar place to them. At this time of year, I can be surrounded by people yet still feel lonely. No one knows the internal struggles that I am dealing with. Well my supports do but they're not with me on Christmas day.

I'd be happy to help out with the thread.

Yesterday was hard. Spent the whole day starting to go through mums things. She has a lifetime of collections. Will have to be some more days going through things but least we got started.

Today is a rest day.

[AuntGlow]

Thank you for understanding @Snowie. 

Awww yay!! 

Absolutely - I completely agree. Yes, let's do it. 👏 Do you have any specifics you would like to focus on and be shared? I am working Christmas Eve, but will technically be off throughout that week... so if you have the space, it would be great to have your eye on the thread and supporting?

Hey - maybe that can be your Christmas volunteering! 🤩

Wow, I can imagine this would be really vulnerable... so many memories and feelings are attached to the items we collect along the way. 💛

[Snowie]

@AuntGlow 

I think just knowing someone is there and listening would help. Knowing you are not alone.

I can't remember what they have had in previous years.

I don't think my mum threw out anything. I found bank documents from 1995! I finally got through it all and H is going to burn it all.