Going for the Guinness

Eleven days ago my niece got married.  Beautiful affair.  Crowded church, standing room only, cute flower girl and ring bearer.  Blushing bride - well, maybe not blushing, but gorgeous.  Great band.  Lots of friends and family I had not seen in ages.  And although my eyes got misty, I managed to keep the tears from spilling over and my makeup didn't streak.

On the down side, as soon as we got to the reception from the church, I had to excuse myself to the restroom.  Where I stayed for a significant part of the evening.

It was a lovely ladies room.

Since then I've spent lots and lots of time in my own very lovely ladies room.  In fact I am going for the Guinness Book of Records for consecutive days with my problem.  Yes, I've called the doctor.  Yes, I've gone to see the doctor.  I'm on heavy duty antibiotics.  I even missed a day and a half of work last week.  And I never, ever miss work because of sickness.  (unless you count eye surgery last year and I couldn't  see but that's not really sick, that's I was just worthless.)

So, here I am, just patiently waiting.  What have I learned?  I have tried to carry on -- somewhat.  I can't go at the regular pace. As i have been waiting, I also started remembering the whole reason for my blog:  Gratitude and focusing on the things I appreciate.  In no particular order, some of the thoughts that have crossed my mind:

I am not taking chemotherapy treatments as are some people I know.  For that I am very grateful.  And for those who are, you are in my heart.

I do not have to take any tests any more.  (unless I fall down and hit my head and do something crazy like take real  classes instead of those i am taking on ITunes University)

I have friends that are very devoted to me and I love them dearly.  They go more than the extra mile for me.  When I am at my worst they take care of me,  making sure I fill out the proper form and comply with company policy.  And get the ice to put on my hand.  (don't ask.)

Sometimes people disappoint us.  The choice is to stay stuck and wallow in that disappointment or move on.  I'm moving on and trusting the positive influence I tried to be and the love I was sending will -- in the end -- outweigh whatever else has happened or is happening, over which I have no control.

The aging process is no fun, as a participant or as an observer.  Seeing someone you love go downhill can be depressing.  Hell, it's also downright draining to be in the caregiver role.  But it's also an opportunity to celebrate the memory of the person in her or her prime.  And then we shouldn't run from the prospect of aging but embrace it and the wisdom it brings.  I'd we are truly wise, we will heed the cautions that will make the process happen a little more easily.

Wonderful, that is my life.  What is a little time spent in the ladies room?

r