really quick update July 2015

I haven't blogged very much this summer.  I have had company for several weeks, a few little trips, kids out of school, and summer fun to keep me busy.  I have been working on a post coming soon……"LONELINESS with Chronic Illness".  It's taking me a few weeks to compose, but I'll post it soon.

My summer began with a bang!  I had multiple WONDERFUL days in a row.  It was amazing.  I had little pain during those days.  (of course, remember, my 'wonderful' would probably be 'horrible' to most people).  I was able to take the kids out to lunch, shopping, and even in our pool this year.  All of those things were only distant memories for us the last several summers.  I remember just praying and hoping that I would one day get to take my kids to a few fun events during the summer just one more time!!!  I feel like I'm living in a dream!  I have many, many limitations, very difficult days, pain, and dizziness.  However, just getting to be out and about on my better days has refreshed my SOUL!

I have struggled off and on this summer.  I'll have a few wonderful days then BAM! it all falls apart for a day or even a week.  I can get sick at the drop of a hat, with no warning, no reason, and no rhythm.    This never ceases to frustrate me.  No one likes to have to change their plans or spend the afternoon struggling to do basic life skills.  I am not sure I'll ever quite accept this phenomenon, but it doesn't quite crush me quite as much as before.  I am able to walk around the block on my good days, and I'm still able to cook very easily.  That's got to be my favorite new ability.  I do have to take a lot of breaks since I still cannot stand super long, but I've been back to making our food from scratch and LOVING IT!

I did get a little good news this week.  Since March my pacemaker use has dropped by 70%.  I knew my heart rate had been going up, especially at night, but I had no idea I was now using my pacemaker so much less.  It's the lowest rate since I got it back in Jan. of 2013.  The higher heart rate at night might be a concern if it continues to rise, but for now, it's exciting to not have to depend on the device to regulate my heart rate!  Good news indeed!!!!

I'm planning a BIG family trip in the next few days.  I'm a little nervous because some of my symptoms have returned more frequently than normal.  But we are going no matter what….and I will have a BLAST!!!!  I'm very excited to not only have gotten to plan a trip, but to know that I GET TO GO, TOO!  I can only walk around for a little bit, but the family is ready to help me, take lots of breaks, keep me hydrated, carry my foot stool and pills, and keep me cool.  They are so accommodating and never seem to let my disability bother them.  (or at least they are good at keeping it to themselves)  :)

So far, this will be a summer to remember because I've gotten to LIVE and enjoy every single little moment.  After all, I'm pretty sure that's what life is really about.  STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES every chance you get.