|
I just vacuumed my living room (7pm) and I can't help but be grateful. Yes, I'm tired from the day, but I vacuumed at night! That is more than a big deal to me. You see, before my correct diagnosis, I rarely did this household chore because it usually resulted in me falling multiple times, even if I did it in the morning (my physically best time of day). I always say it's the little things in life that are the most important and I'd say that being able to do a chore with ease (at night) is unbelievable! Life is great!!!
0 Comments
I tried to be independent for as long as I possibly could. Around the age of 30, I got to the point where I couldn't stand long enough to pump gas into my own car. I'd either have Steve or my mom fill my tank.
This evening, Steve was driving my car (with me and the kids in tow) and we needed to get gas. When we stopped at the Holiday Staion, he hopped out of my car and began pumping while emotion filled my heart. I'm not sure how I am no longer the woman I once was. In my old life, I had to plan ahead accordingly. If I wanted to drive myself to a friend house or my parents home, I had to be sure there was enough gas to get me there. Basically, I kept my tank half full so I wouldn't put myself in a bad situation. Nowadays, I don't give it a thought as to how much gas is in my tank. If I want to go somewhere, I get in my car and go. Being independent is such a luxury and one that I thought was gone forever. I have so much to be thankful for: my husband, Steve and a body that allows me to do what I want (two things that I never thought I'd have). I came across this wonderful photograph on Facebook the other day. The woman who wrote this has Cerabal Palsy, which is similar to Spastic Dipligia (my original diagnosis). This photo jumped out at me and brought so many memories rushing back to me in a matter of seconds. I can honestly say that prior to my diagnosis of DRD, I don't recall a time when I went out in public and wasn't stared at. When I was a little girl and would complain about strangers not taking their eyes off my walking, my mom would quickly remark, "Their just looking because your so cute." Of course, I knew that wasn't the reason, but it made me forget about the gawker, even if for only a moment. I have no doubt that most of the people who had a hard time taking their eyes off the girl with the spastic walk, were good people. I don't judge you or wish you ill will. I only ask that from this point on, you make a conscious effort to not stare at the adults or children who cannot control their physical limitations. The memories I have will be with me forever, but I'd love for the disabled children nowadays to be able to look back at their childhood and not remember receiving a long, blank stare.   I am excited that I am getting closer to a completed memoir. I'm currently working on the section where I met Steve and fell in love with him. I think this is the only section of the book that I could read over and over again without growing tired of it. It shouldn't surprise me though. Meeting my husband was by far one the best things that happened to me.
Growing up I assumed that I would never marry and would put my focus on being an awesome aunt. My mom always said that I would, "end up with the nicest guy of all." Here I am at the age of 37, married to the love of my life. I feel blessed that he was able to look past my spastic arms and legs and see the happy, positive woman that I was/am. He always said he liked that I didn't dwell on what I couldn't do. As I receive help organizing and editing my book, I can't help but be grateful for my entire life. Yes, there were many challenging days; but the days being surrounded by good people, like my husband make up for it. If I had to choose between a new diagnosis and meeting Steve I wouldn't have to think about it. I would choose Steve and the wonderful life he has given me. My physical capabilities are just a small part of who I am and as I've said before,I like me! And I love my husband!! So, it's cold outside. I live in Minnesota, so when I say cold, I'm referring to sub zero weather with a wind that freezes your face! The Gov of this fine state has called off school for Monday, something that hasn't happened since the mid 90's!
With the snow flying and my body chilled to the bone (after getting groceries), I decided that today was the perfect day to make homemade Potato Corn Chowder and Spaghetti Sauce. These are two things that I have never attempted to make. Oh, and don't worry, I don't plan on serving them together. I couldn't help but smile as I chopped veggies and measured out spices for nearly two hours. Back in the day, it was all I could do to make Hamburger Helper! Plus, in weather like this, my muscles would become to spastic to do anything other than sit. I love that I enjoy cooking for my family. Now that my cooking is nearly done, I can get started on the laundry that is waiting for me outside the bedrooms. It is a blessing that I can do what I want, when I want. It's colder than heck outside, but I grateful that it's cozy warm in here. |
Archives
August 2020
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed