I went back to school yesterday and was in class all day - I am very pleased with myself - it is a huge achievement. I really enjoyed it and I have a lovely class of children - 10 boys and 10 girls - so not a whole class under normal circumstances but they are my class at the moment. New children are joining all the time, I had two new additions to my class yesterday - 1 boy and 1 girl.
Many people came to find me to see how I was getting on and if I was coping. The majority of people are so kind and thoughtful. I thought I was going to find it more difficult especially given the bad news about my Dad on Tuesday. He wants us all to be positive and to carry on as he is doing himself so bravely. I was at the hospital with him so I volunteered to 'phone everyone to let them know the news. That was how I spent Tuesday evening.
I have a couple of hours at home today to recuperate from yesterday and my class are in the trusted hands of our regular supply teacher who is wonderful. She met them yesterday so they will be fine and I've left some lovely work for them to do. I think I would rather bank her time as I don't think I need it as much now as I will later on when I've been teaching a few weeks and parents' evening is looming. Hopefully my Head will agree.
Blood test first thing this morning - my husband and I both had to go - a nice little trip out together. We arrived at the hospital at 7.30am and there were already 68 people queuing before us. We were seen at 8.45am so not too bad. Hubby seems to be getting better every day and he is driving now as well so he can occupy himself better.
My youngest son went back to school today looking very smart as usual on his first day. He'll moan when he sees he has an appointment with the careers officer on his half day next week. All sons at home at the moment so it's all a bit busy here at home - nice though.
I have to make some 'phone calls now for my Dad and for my Access to Work. Oh and I've been ironing and dog walking and driving and washing and... must be careful not to overdo it.
Showing posts with label mindful exercises. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mindful exercises. Show all posts
Thursday, 5 September 2013
Monday, 26 August 2013
Thursday - Monday
Oops I've left it too long again and now I'm going to have to really think about what I've done. I've finished the Maths paper and emailed it off so I'm really pleased about that. I read it again this morning and found a couple of things I would add or change but it's one of those things that I could keep adding to and changing so I have to let it go. I'm free now to think about school work for this week. It's Bank Holiday Monday today; I've hung some washing out and collected the pears that have fallen from the tree - that takes so long and so much effort. I'm just about to iron some shirts - I wonder how many I'll manage. Hubby wants me to take him to drop something off and do a little bit of food shopping - it's strange that he can't drive at the moment - I wonder how long it will be? He is so much better already but he's still bruised and a bit swollen so he's being sensible and taking things slowly.
I had to take my lovely car to the dealer on Friday; it was recalled because some have been found to have a loose steering wheel bolt. That was a lot of effort as I had to walk into town, did a bit of clothes shopping and get the bus home. As soon as I'd reached home the dealer rang to say my car was ready to pick up - typical. I got 2 buses back so that I didn't have to walk far and they'd cleaned my car inside and out too - lovely.
I took hubby food shopping on Saturday and we bought quite a lot - he was even slower than me walking round and I had to pack the shopping into bags - it all took ages but we did it. We asked my son to get the bags from the boot of the car; that was a bridge too far. The cricket has been on TV so we've watched that which takes up all day. It rained all day on Saturday, ad I mean rained - it didn't stop. Some towns nearby were flooded for the first time in years it was that bad.
I helped my son clean out next door's guinea pigs while they're away. They are sweet, but bigger than I thought they'd be. They squeak a lot and love their food. I've done my mindful stretching exercises every day in the morning, they really do help to get me going. The pain has been bad but I've been trying the mindful exercises so that I'm trying to just acknowledge the pain and not get annoyed, sad, upset by it. It still hurts as much but I feel more in control I suppose. It's difficult to unpick all the feelings.
Right, I really must try not to leave it so long to write although the days fly past and I don't realise it's been so many days. In a way perhaps that's a good sign that I'm not constantly consciously thinking about my pain and I do forget to write. Right, where's that iron?
I had to take my lovely car to the dealer on Friday; it was recalled because some have been found to have a loose steering wheel bolt. That was a lot of effort as I had to walk into town, did a bit of clothes shopping and get the bus home. As soon as I'd reached home the dealer rang to say my car was ready to pick up - typical. I got 2 buses back so that I didn't have to walk far and they'd cleaned my car inside and out too - lovely.
I took hubby food shopping on Saturday and we bought quite a lot - he was even slower than me walking round and I had to pack the shopping into bags - it all took ages but we did it. We asked my son to get the bags from the boot of the car; that was a bridge too far. The cricket has been on TV so we've watched that which takes up all day. It rained all day on Saturday, ad I mean rained - it didn't stop. Some towns nearby were flooded for the first time in years it was that bad.
I helped my son clean out next door's guinea pigs while they're away. They are sweet, but bigger than I thought they'd be. They squeak a lot and love their food. I've done my mindful stretching exercises every day in the morning, they really do help to get me going. The pain has been bad but I've been trying the mindful exercises so that I'm trying to just acknowledge the pain and not get annoyed, sad, upset by it. It still hurts as much but I feel more in control I suppose. It's difficult to unpick all the feelings.
Right, I really must try not to leave it so long to write although the days fly past and I don't realise it's been so many days. In a way perhaps that's a good sign that I'm not constantly consciously thinking about my pain and I do forget to write. Right, where's that iron?
Wednesday, 21 August 2013
Saturday - Tuesday
Well first, a big achievement is that I haven't opened my laptop - no checking emails, work -nothing. That's partly because hubby had a hernia operation on Saturday, very time consuming. He's doing well and can now make himself breakfast and a cuppa. I had my hair cut and finished on Monday; always tiring. I did a little bit of shopping for clothes while I was In town. I took the dog to have his nails clipped yesterday with the help of my son. I've been to the doctors and chemist a couple of times - poor hubby. I've done a few loads of washing and made several phone calls. I bought a new telephone yesterday and am busy setting that up. I missed my mindful stretches twice which felt really strange - I need to make them a priority; did them this morning.
I had to drive there and back to the hospital twice on Saturday so that was a lot of driving. My son put some petrol in my car for me. I've been food shopping a few times. I've ironed a couple of shirts and vacuumed once. I picked blackberries in our garden and made a tart which we ate with custard - much tastier that I thought it would be. Today I need to try to finish the maths or at least nearly - it's beginning to bug me now and I want to send it off.
I had to drive there and back to the hospital twice on Saturday so that was a lot of driving. My son put some petrol in my car for me. I've been food shopping a few times. I've ironed a couple of shirts and vacuumed once. I picked blackberries in our garden and made a tart which we ate with custard - much tastier that I thought it would be. Today I need to try to finish the maths or at least nearly - it's beginning to bug me now and I want to send it off.
Friday, 16 August 2013
Wednesday to Friday
Had a cuppa & a chat with The In-Laws - very pleasant 2 hours. Ironed 5 shirts. Walked dog once for 20 minutes. Visited Dad & sister for a total of 5 hours. Did food shopping, that was tiring and I had to stop once and hold on and breathe. Stretching exercises every day. Hung washing out a couple of times. Made a few phone calls which I find tiring. Paid deposit on new bathroom. Bit more shopping. Bit more Maths work.
Gosh doesn't sound much when I write it down but it's all pretty tiring.
Gosh doesn't sound much when I write it down but it's all pretty tiring.
Tuesday, 13 August 2013
I've excelled myself today. I had tea & biscuits this morning for 2 hours and we chatted the whole time - very pleasant sitting on the decking in the sunshine. Then afternoon tea & cake meeting an adorable puppy who is already being very well trained - delightful. Ironed 4 shirts and was up, dressed and exercised by 9am - getting there.
Thinking about joining a gym as I feel I need to do more exercise although not sure if the cost would be worth it. I might wait until I'm back at work and see how I feel. Unless the gym can offer me a free trial - think I'll ask.
Tired now...
Thinking about joining a gym as I feel I need to do more exercise although not sure if the cost would be worth it. I might wait until I'm back at work and see how I feel. Unless the gym can offer me a free trial - think I'll ask.
Tired now...
Monday, 12 August 2013
A few more days
I feel a lot better than I did on 8th August. Who am I to question pain, life, Earth, The Universe? It really isn't helpful to let negative thoughts in - if thoughts are like buses then I need to choose the ones I engage with and let the others pass by. It's hard to do this and it needs effort, which when you're suffering in pain is hard. I need to know what I need to do when I realise the blanket of negative buses is descending.
So, I've ironed 5 shirts, taken the dog for 2x 20 minute walks, attended a hospital appointment, visited Mum & Dad, made 2 dates for tea & chat, completed more Maths work, had a new boiler fitted, applied for a loan, considered my Sky package, cleaned a window, filed my course notes, read a whole book 400 pages, made a timetable of red, amber and green activities for September, checked emails every day, and mindful stretching exercises every day.
I need to record achievements more frequently otherwise it's too much effort to try to remember what I've done.
So, I've ironed 5 shirts, taken the dog for 2x 20 minute walks, attended a hospital appointment, visited Mum & Dad, made 2 dates for tea & chat, completed more Maths work, had a new boiler fitted, applied for a loan, considered my Sky package, cleaned a window, filed my course notes, read a whole book 400 pages, made a timetable of red, amber and green activities for September, checked emails every day, and mindful stretching exercises every day.
I need to record achievements more frequently otherwise it's too much effort to try to remember what I've done.
Thursday, 8 August 2013
5 Days
I have realised I haven't written for 5 days...that's a long time. Have I really had no achievements in those days? Let me try to remember:-
I ironed some shirts, maybe 3, can't remember what day.
British Gas visited and quoted for a new boiler, he was here for ages but we got the quote in the end and it was pretty much what we had guessed. Their finance package is good so we paid a deposit and booked an appointment, really soon too.
We could then confirm with the bathroom shop that we accepted their quote for a lovely new bathroom with a power shower - just what I need. I could've done with a power shower this morning. So that appointment is also now booked. We've got to pay the deposit for that this week.
Took the dog out for a 20 minute walk once.
Did a bit of research for my maths task.
Read 100 pages of a book my son recommended to me.
Hung out a few loads of washing, can't remember how many exactly.
Washed my hair today - always a tiring task.
Had my annual contact lens check and two yearly eye check, that is sooo tiring... I must have had every test imaginable and the end result was that everything is ok and no change.
Oh yes, and I've done 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises every morning. It's kind of good that I'm forgetting that I do these as it means it's becoming part of my routine without having to think about it. I've read that getting into routines helps free up brain space because you don't have to think about it. I need all the brain space I can get.
Erm...that's 5 days worth of achievements, I suppose there are some good achievements with CRPS in there. I'm feeling depressed and guilty that I feel depressed because I've got no reason to feel depressed which is making it worse. I keep telling myself to think positively and embrace each moment but it's not that simple. I have a huge, thick, dark blanket over me and I can't just shrug it off. It's not rational, or reasonable - it's suffocating.
I'm trying really hard to appear normal, whatever that is, but I know I've snapped and grumped. I want to do something but I don't know what I want to do so I can't do it.
That's why I'm going to see my sister today, I'm hoping that will help me shift the blanket. The weather is sunny so that helps me a bit. I'll pop into see my Dad, that should help too.
I'm thinking I might need to ask for more medication because my arm and chest are painful more and more and I know I don't have to put up with it but I'm frightened to increase medication as it seems I never decrease it. I could try taking extra paracetamol first, I could take an occasional co-codamol, that shouldn't affect me too badly.
I ironed some shirts, maybe 3, can't remember what day.
British Gas visited and quoted for a new boiler, he was here for ages but we got the quote in the end and it was pretty much what we had guessed. Their finance package is good so we paid a deposit and booked an appointment, really soon too.
We could then confirm with the bathroom shop that we accepted their quote for a lovely new bathroom with a power shower - just what I need. I could've done with a power shower this morning. So that appointment is also now booked. We've got to pay the deposit for that this week.
Took the dog out for a 20 minute walk once.
Did a bit of research for my maths task.
Read 100 pages of a book my son recommended to me.
Hung out a few loads of washing, can't remember how many exactly.
Washed my hair today - always a tiring task.
Had my annual contact lens check and two yearly eye check, that is sooo tiring... I must have had every test imaginable and the end result was that everything is ok and no change.
Oh yes, and I've done 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises every morning. It's kind of good that I'm forgetting that I do these as it means it's becoming part of my routine without having to think about it. I've read that getting into routines helps free up brain space because you don't have to think about it. I need all the brain space I can get.
Erm...that's 5 days worth of achievements, I suppose there are some good achievements with CRPS in there. I'm feeling depressed and guilty that I feel depressed because I've got no reason to feel depressed which is making it worse. I keep telling myself to think positively and embrace each moment but it's not that simple. I have a huge, thick, dark blanket over me and I can't just shrug it off. It's not rational, or reasonable - it's suffocating.
I'm trying really hard to appear normal, whatever that is, but I know I've snapped and grumped. I want to do something but I don't know what I want to do so I can't do it.
That's why I'm going to see my sister today, I'm hoping that will help me shift the blanket. The weather is sunny so that helps me a bit. I'll pop into see my Dad, that should help too.
I'm thinking I might need to ask for more medication because my arm and chest are painful more and more and I know I don't have to put up with it but I'm frightened to increase medication as it seems I never decrease it. I could try taking extra paracetamol first, I could take an occasional co-codamol, that shouldn't affect me too badly.
Thursday, 1 August 2013
Sizzling
It was extremely hot weather today. I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises, 2 loads of washing on and off the line, drove to the doctor's and back. I cut some of the rhododendron. That was plenty for today -needed a rest.
Wednesday, 31 July 2013
Resting
I've ironed 4 shirts and hung out 2 loads of washing. I've done 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises. We went to the hospital for hubby's pre assessment. It was all fine and we were there and back in an hour or so. I then drove to the supermarket so that my son could buy bits for his next cooking experiment.
Tuesday, 30 July 2013
A new thing to add to my list
Today, I had my finger nails and my toe nails shaped and polished at the beauty salon. Lovely. My finger nails had grown so much in such a short time - part of the syndrome - either brittle and breaking or growing manically. And I have such difficulty doing them myself and as I have no daughters to do them for me. It's the first time I've ever had my toe nails done but it was so lovely and they look pretty now. Added that to my list of 50 new things to do before I'm 50 years old. So cheered me up. The weather's not cheering me up - raining all day. It's supposed to be really hot on Thursday. British weather!
I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises this morning - they really do get me up and going every day. And because they're mindful they are having a good effect on my mood too. My hand has been really painful for a few days now - like electricity running through continuously. My chest has been less painful though.
Yesterday I did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises and took the dog for a 20 minutes walk as fast as I could walk. Hubby drove me to town where we went to the bank, the chemist and the beauty salon. We walked back to the car. I did dome more planning for September and read quite a lot of the new national curriculum final draft. There is a handy glossary of terms in the English section. Thankfully nothing new to me but I think it will be very useful to some of my colleagues. I did some more work on the maths task. Restless legs - went to sleep at 9pm.
I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises this morning - they really do get me up and going every day. And because they're mindful they are having a good effect on my mood too. My hand has been really painful for a few days now - like electricity running through continuously. My chest has been less painful though.
Yesterday I did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises and took the dog for a 20 minutes walk as fast as I could walk. Hubby drove me to town where we went to the bank, the chemist and the beauty salon. We walked back to the car. I did dome more planning for September and read quite a lot of the new national curriculum final draft. There is a handy glossary of terms in the English section. Thankfully nothing new to me but I think it will be very useful to some of my colleagues. I did some more work on the maths task. Restless legs - went to sleep at 9pm.
Sunday, 28 July 2013
The Weekend
Yesterday I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises before I drove to see my Dad, and my Mum was home from her jaunt. I chatted to them for nearly 2 hours and then visited my sister and chatted for another 2 hours. I then drove home and started my maths task. I couldn't really concentrate and that was making it so much more difficult.
I looked at some planning for next year and produced 2 weekly plans already. I also started to look at our overview for Literacy. I stopped this when I realised I needed to refer to the new curriculum to make sure the overview is relevant and up to date. So I stopped, put the laptop away and watched a bit of TV before going to bed.
Today I started with 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises. We then went to the retail park, my husband drove. We walked around 3 large stores and then drove to the regional shopping centre. Here we walked around 5 shops and hubby bought the trainers he wanted. It was getting busy so we decided to go to our local shops to sit down and have a drink and pick up a couple of bits of food from M & S.
All this was quite tiring so I sat down when we got home. Later I got the laptop out and checked emails, started my maths task which I'm pleased with how far I've got and now I'm writing my blog. I've sorted through a pile of papers and filed, recycled and shredded.
Tired now and my hand and arm are full of electricity, as indeed is the left side of my chest.
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Not yet though
Writing this at 7:45pm so I haven't started writing my blog after my mindful stretching exercises yet. I was in a bit of a rush this morning - I still did one load of washing and hung it out. And I still did my mindful stretching exercises for 25 minutes. I really have trouble getting going without them, they help so much. I drove to work and worked all day sorting through papers and things, finding a new home for everything. When I left my classroom all the surfaces were absolutely clear so that the cleaners can have a good old clean. It was a good feeling as I closed the door knowing how tidy it is. That's a big achievement. My son was a super star - he lifted , moved, shredded, binned... all to my command. He also helped other teachers with their boxes and furniture. We threw out 6 black bags full and a collection of boxes. I bought him a takeaway and said thank you a million times.
We're both tired now..
But I did quite a long day and worked quite hard and I feel so much better now. I need to write my flare-up plan.
Oh yes... I also opened the cards and gifts the children left for me. I'm always overwhelmed by the generosity of the gifts and the beautiful words written in the cards. I'll set a time to write each single one of them a Thank You note and deliver them by hand. No flowers or wine which is perfect for me and a little bit of chocolate which is also perfect.
Oh yes...and we celebrated my son's 21st birthday yesterday. Perfect.
Did I mention we celebrated my sister's 50th birthday too? It's her birthday today and she is in The Grand in Brighton with a sea view and afternoon tea. Lovely. She loves the Spoon theory and has shared it with others.
Just phoned my Dad, he seems in better spirits today partly because he's finished the antibiotics and can drink Guinness again.
We're both tired now..
But I did quite a long day and worked quite hard and I feel so much better now. I need to write my flare-up plan.
Oh yes... I also opened the cards and gifts the children left for me. I'm always overwhelmed by the generosity of the gifts and the beautiful words written in the cards. I'll set a time to write each single one of them a Thank You note and deliver them by hand. No flowers or wine which is perfect for me and a little bit of chocolate which is also perfect.
Oh yes...and we celebrated my son's 21st birthday yesterday. Perfect.
Did I mention we celebrated my sister's 50th birthday too? It's her birthday today and she is in The Grand in Brighton with a sea view and afternoon tea. Lovely. She loves the Spoon theory and has shared it with others.
Just phoned my Dad, he seems in better spirits today partly because he's finished the antibiotics and can drink Guinness again.
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Work
On Monday I had to go to my GP to get permission to be on school premises while I'm signed off on long term sick leave. I need to find all my stuff that classroom assistants helpfully packed into boxes for me. I'm gradually finding my stuff. I had to rummage for my books but we found a lot of them. My son is helping me - he follows all my instructions while I'm sitting and resting. Last day tomorrow and then school is shut until the end of the holiday. I have 4 boxes to be unpacked and we've already unpacked 4. We've found new homes for the stuff so far.
I ironed 4 shirts. I've done a few loads of washing and hung it out. I've driven to school & back a few times. I've done a couple of trips to the shops and the bank - it's my son's 21st birthday and my sister's 50th birthday.
I'm too tired to remember - I'm going to start to write my blog in the morning after I've done my mindful stretching exercises as I'm too tired in the afternoon
I ironed 4 shirts. I've done a few loads of washing and hung it out. I've driven to school & back a few times. I've done a couple of trips to the shops and the bank - it's my son's 21st birthday and my sister's 50th birthday.
I'm too tired to remember - I'm going to start to write my blog in the morning after I've done my mindful stretching exercises as I'm too tired in the afternoon
Sunday, 21 July 2013
The Weekend
Yesterday I:-
Did 25 minutes mindful stretches with DVD
Walked dog as fast as we could walk 20 minutes
Drove to see my Dad. My Mum is going away for 5 days so I'll need to stay in touch with Dad to make sure he's ok while she's away. He says he likes being on his own sometimes. I can understand that - not having to justify or chat...
Drove home
My new gerbils arrived in a fantastic snazzy cage with loads of toys and gadgets. They are Milly and Molly. We need to handle them lots so that they are ready for the school children. I think they are about 4 months old; an ex work colleague didn't want them any more so I've adopted them. My previous gerbils, Salt and Pepper have been adopted by a work colleague because she got attached to them while she was looking after them because I was absent from work due to long term sick leave.
Drove to restaurant with hubby and drove home
It was lovely to go out to dinner with my hubby. We had a lovely chat and saw a couple of people we know. He wanted a little walk after dinner, I was tired but I didn't say anything and actually it was alright. I'm glad we did - I don't want to be forever saying I can't do things.
Today, I struggled out of bed. I had a warm bath and did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises with the DVD; they really do help - I feel like I can move afterwards. I've pretty much sat today, on the internet reading; "The Royal College of Physicians' Guidelines for CRPS (2012)" which was interesting reading although I didn't learn anything new. I'm trying to find where it said that CRPS spreads after 2 years, I'm sure I read it and didn't imagine it. I think it's important to me to know that my CRPS might have spread anyway either with or without hard work and stress. I suppose I want to know I can work hard and have a bit of stress without risking my health. I think I will be more able to deal with the stress now because I have spent a lot of time learning relaxation techniques and realistic expectations and trying not to judge. I need to try hard not to judge because I find it difficult and also I need to try to acknowledge thoughts without necessarily engaging with them.
I also ironed 5 shirts today. I've been watching the cricket; the Ashes. I hung the washing on the line.
Did 25 minutes mindful stretches with DVD
Walked dog as fast as we could walk 20 minutes
Drove to see my Dad. My Mum is going away for 5 days so I'll need to stay in touch with Dad to make sure he's ok while she's away. He says he likes being on his own sometimes. I can understand that - not having to justify or chat...
Drove home
My new gerbils arrived in a fantastic snazzy cage with loads of toys and gadgets. They are Milly and Molly. We need to handle them lots so that they are ready for the school children. I think they are about 4 months old; an ex work colleague didn't want them any more so I've adopted them. My previous gerbils, Salt and Pepper have been adopted by a work colleague because she got attached to them while she was looking after them because I was absent from work due to long term sick leave.
Drove to restaurant with hubby and drove home
It was lovely to go out to dinner with my hubby. We had a lovely chat and saw a couple of people we know. He wanted a little walk after dinner, I was tired but I didn't say anything and actually it was alright. I'm glad we did - I don't want to be forever saying I can't do things.
Today, I struggled out of bed. I had a warm bath and did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises with the DVD; they really do help - I feel like I can move afterwards. I've pretty much sat today, on the internet reading; "The Royal College of Physicians' Guidelines for CRPS (2012)" which was interesting reading although I didn't learn anything new. I'm trying to find where it said that CRPS spreads after 2 years, I'm sure I read it and didn't imagine it. I think it's important to me to know that my CRPS might have spread anyway either with or without hard work and stress. I suppose I want to know I can work hard and have a bit of stress without risking my health. I think I will be more able to deal with the stress now because I have spent a lot of time learning relaxation techniques and realistic expectations and trying not to judge. I need to try hard not to judge because I find it difficult and also I need to try to acknowledge thoughts without necessarily engaging with them.
I also ironed 5 shirts today. I've been watching the cricket; the Ashes. I hung the washing on the line.
Friday, 19 July 2013
Borrowed Spoons
Yesterday I got up at 6.30am.
I got washed and dressed.
I did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises with the DVD ( my theories on mirror therapy - Wednesday 17 July 2013)
I drove my son to his work experience placement and then drove myself to work by 8.45am.
I watched the last whole school assembly of the academic year.
I had photos taken with my football team and with my class.
I said goodbye to my class and wished them good luck etc. for their new schools in September.
They gave me a group hug but I had to squeal, " one at a time!!"
I talked to a few people and drove home.
In the evening, I got a lift to a restaurant where I had dinner with about 20 work colleagues.
I had to wait 2 hours for dinner, by which time I was ready to come home! I think because we were a large group and quite a few were drinking expensive cocktails, they delayed our dinner for as long as they thought they could get away with. Also, most of our group had a starter, I so wished I had!
I chatted to most people; one lovely conversation somehow turned into a very long debate about food, why do people always want to talk about food to vegetarians? It made me feel quite sick, bit fortunately I was able to turn my head and talk to different people about the prospects for a bride in an orthodox Jewish wedding. I got a lift home.
Today, I dragged myself out of bed.
I did 25 minutes mindful stretches with the DVD and also 15 minutes body scan. I had to stop the body scan as I began to feel unwell.
I took the dog for a walk before it got too hot, 20 minutes.
I've now spent quite a long time searching the web about a new treatment that has been mentioned to me: NAET. The thing is people quite often want to feel helpful so they suggest all kinds of treatments and theories etc. I know they are trying to be helpful but I find it hard to stay positive and accept my condition when so many people seem to know the cure. It makes me feel again that there's nothing wrong with me and it's all in my head and any one of these suggestions will cure me.
I also found the spoon theory that I like http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/
and this
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/sick-humor/sick-humor-the-top-ten-worst-suggestions-commonly-given-to-someone-with-a-chronic-illness/
Haha I need to laugh!!!
The internet might be a minefield but it is also a saviour.
I got washed and dressed.
I did 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises with the DVD ( my theories on mirror therapy - Wednesday 17 July 2013)
I drove my son to his work experience placement and then drove myself to work by 8.45am.
I watched the last whole school assembly of the academic year.
I had photos taken with my football team and with my class.
I said goodbye to my class and wished them good luck etc. for their new schools in September.
They gave me a group hug but I had to squeal, " one at a time!!"
I talked to a few people and drove home.
In the evening, I got a lift to a restaurant where I had dinner with about 20 work colleagues.
I had to wait 2 hours for dinner, by which time I was ready to come home! I think because we were a large group and quite a few were drinking expensive cocktails, they delayed our dinner for as long as they thought they could get away with. Also, most of our group had a starter, I so wished I had!
I chatted to most people; one lovely conversation somehow turned into a very long debate about food, why do people always want to talk about food to vegetarians? It made me feel quite sick, bit fortunately I was able to turn my head and talk to different people about the prospects for a bride in an orthodox Jewish wedding. I got a lift home.
Today, I dragged myself out of bed.
I did 25 minutes mindful stretches with the DVD and also 15 minutes body scan. I had to stop the body scan as I began to feel unwell.
I took the dog for a walk before it got too hot, 20 minutes.
I've now spent quite a long time searching the web about a new treatment that has been mentioned to me: NAET. The thing is people quite often want to feel helpful so they suggest all kinds of treatments and theories etc. I know they are trying to be helpful but I find it hard to stay positive and accept my condition when so many people seem to know the cure. It makes me feel again that there's nothing wrong with me and it's all in my head and any one of these suggestions will cure me.
I also found the spoon theory that I like http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/
and this
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/sick-humor/sick-humor-the-top-ten-worst-suggestions-commonly-given-to-someone-with-a-chronic-illness/
Haha I need to laugh!!!
The internet might be a minefield but it is also a saviour.
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
Drove to work and back today.
Washed the car - well it looks a bit cleaner.
Ironed 2 shirts.
Spoke to lots of people at work.
Walked the dog before it got too hot. 20 minutes
Hung the washing out.
Did my mindful exercises and I 've just realised that doing them with the DVD serves another purpose - I'm watching the lady demonstrate the stretches as if I'm looking in a mirror and it's working a bit like mirror therapy (graded motor imagery). I can definitely feel something happening while I'm mirroring the lady.
PS Don't mention risk assessments to me...
Washed the car - well it looks a bit cleaner.
Ironed 2 shirts.
Spoke to lots of people at work.
Walked the dog before it got too hot. 20 minutes
Hung the washing out.
Did my mindful exercises and I 've just realised that doing them with the DVD serves another purpose - I'm watching the lady demonstrate the stretches as if I'm looking in a mirror and it's working a bit like mirror therapy (graded motor imagery). I can definitely feel something happening while I'm mirroring the lady.
PS Don't mention risk assessments to me...
Monday, 15 July 2013
WooHoo!
Had the most fantastic weekend with my sister. And it was a huge achievement - loads of achievements:-
I forgot to say we had a drink in a pub with masses of flowers in hanging baskets...can't remember the name of it, and worked on my letter to children and worse case scenarios as well! on Saturday and then on Sunday we talked about Springboard and did some of the activities.
I had a quiet day today! Still did 2 loads of washing and hung it out to dry, and then enjoyed the sunshine.
- Travelled by train all the way to Hastings which included walking up and down several lots of stairs, being among crowds, walking in between stations (we had to use 4 trains).
- We had to find our hotel which involved thinking and walking.
- We were too early to check in so we found a cute bistro called Bullet to have a delicious lunch.
- We walked up and down the seafront, sitting every so often when we needed to.
- We travelled in the East Hill Lift up to the country park to admire the wonderful view. We travelled down in the lift. (there were stairs - eek! exhausting)
- We checked in and then walked to the Italiano restaurant to have dinner.
- We walked back. I don't know how far we walked on Saturday but it seemed a lot. Perhaps I need a pedometer so I know in future how far I've walked so I can make comparisons.
- Woken too early by noisy guests! Up, dressed and out to find breakfast.
- We didn't have to walk too far to find Pam's café with lots of choice for breakfast.
- We then found deckchairs piled up on the beach, so we took one each and carried it towards the sea. Again we didn't have to walk too far before we found a good spot and sat down.
- We did our exercises.
- We sat and chatted for hours.
- We then paddled in the sea before we filled our water bottles and walked towards the Seagull restaurant where we had a scrumptious lunch.
- We then found the Old Town - a cute selection of little individual shops.
- We then had to ask which way to the train station! We walked there and didn't have to wait too long.
- 4 trains later, hubby picked me up at the station and I was home.
I forgot to say we had a drink in a pub with masses of flowers in hanging baskets...can't remember the name of it, and worked on my letter to children and worse case scenarios as well! on Saturday and then on Sunday we talked about Springboard and did some of the activities.
I had a quiet day today! Still did 2 loads of washing and hung it out to dry, and then enjoyed the sunshine.
Saturday, 13 July 2013
One of those days
Yesterday was one of those days. I try not to call them good days and bad days because that implies positivity and negativity. So yesterday, I did my mindful stretching exercises as soon as I was up and dressed. I then drove to the Medical Centre. I want to go to school in the Summer holiday to move classroom and set up my new classroom. My employer says they need something in writing from the doctor saying I'm fit to do this even though I intend to sit on a chair and direct my helpers! The receptionist said I probably need a fit for work certificate and I need to see the GP. The first appointment she could offer me is for Monday 22nd July at 5pm. This means I will already have lost a day and school is only open until Friday 26th July. But it is open again Tuesday 27th August so I suppose I could go in then if I run out of time at the beginning. The thing is, I want to limit the time I spend there otherwise I will get too tired which sometimes means more pain.
I'll 'phone the Medical Centre and see if I can pick up a cancellation any earlier than the 22nd. I've an exciting opportunity to work on the new Maths Curriculum on Friday 26th July so I won't be available that day. So after I'd finished speaking to the receptionist I picked up my prescription from the chemist. I dropped everything on the floor in the chemist and I wasn't flustered or embarrassed so that is another achievement for me. I calmly picked up everything and slowly walked back to the car.
When I got home I did a mindful full body scan and some mindful breathing. I relaxed in the chair in the sunshine. I spent most of the day resting or mindfully exercising and breathing. In the evening I accompanied my son to a presentation event where he was awarded Players' Player which we are both very proud of. It means his peers voted for him which is a great compliment and they said some really nice things about him and why they had voted for him. I drove there and back and then was really pleased to be in bed asleep.
I'm awake early but feel ok. Today I am travelling to Hastings with my sister on the trains. We are spending some quality time together. I'm sure we will talk and not stop talking for the whole weekend! And it should be sunny weather too - bonus! I won't write anymore this weekend because we are travelling very light and I'm not taking any means to blog. I might write some things on paper so I'll transfer that on Monday. I am taking my Springboard book so that we can compare notes and talk about some of the ideas and activities. So I'll be back on Monday with all the news from the weekend...
PS I've started writing an information sheet aimed at children to explain my syndrome, how it affects me and how they can help. I'll be working on that at the weekend too with the input from my sister. We will also compile a list of worse case scenarios for work ready for my meeting with my Head regarding a risk assessment of me at work.
I'll 'phone the Medical Centre and see if I can pick up a cancellation any earlier than the 22nd. I've an exciting opportunity to work on the new Maths Curriculum on Friday 26th July so I won't be available that day. So after I'd finished speaking to the receptionist I picked up my prescription from the chemist. I dropped everything on the floor in the chemist and I wasn't flustered or embarrassed so that is another achievement for me. I calmly picked up everything and slowly walked back to the car.
When I got home I did a mindful full body scan and some mindful breathing. I relaxed in the chair in the sunshine. I spent most of the day resting or mindfully exercising and breathing. In the evening I accompanied my son to a presentation event where he was awarded Players' Player which we are both very proud of. It means his peers voted for him which is a great compliment and they said some really nice things about him and why they had voted for him. I drove there and back and then was really pleased to be in bed asleep.
I'm awake early but feel ok. Today I am travelling to Hastings with my sister on the trains. We are spending some quality time together. I'm sure we will talk and not stop talking for the whole weekend! And it should be sunny weather too - bonus! I won't write anymore this weekend because we are travelling very light and I'm not taking any means to blog. I might write some things on paper so I'll transfer that on Monday. I am taking my Springboard book so that we can compare notes and talk about some of the ideas and activities. So I'll be back on Monday with all the news from the weekend...
PS I've started writing an information sheet aimed at children to explain my syndrome, how it affects me and how they can help. I'll be working on that at the weekend too with the input from my sister. We will also compile a list of worse case scenarios for work ready for my meeting with my Head regarding a risk assessment of me at work.
Sunday, 7 July 2013
Here I am!
I didn't realise I hadn't written anything since Thursday! I was working on some of the pages on Friday so that's an achievement. I also had a long conversation with HR which was very reassuring. She knew the laws and procedures involved and assured me that her role is neutral and advisory. I shall wait and see.
I've done quite a few machine wash loads and it's all dry and put away. I've been soaking up the wonderful vitamin D and of course watching the tennis at Wimbledon. Glued to the set! And there's cricket to watch next week as the Ashes starts.
I took the dog out for a walk by myself, we didn't go too far as I had to wait until the weather had cooled down and therefore it was getting late.
Today I drove to see my Mum & Dad. It's about a 20 minute drive. My son came with me so that I wasn't driving alone, plus he wanted to visit them too. On our way home we did a bit of shopping. It was probably a bit too much altogether and I had awful pain for a while. I found that doing my mindful stretching exercises worked to distract me from the pain and also I felt better afterwards. Note to self: even if you don't feel like it - gentle, mindful stretching exercise helps.
I read a few more chapters of my women's springboard book but it wasn't really going in - I need to concentrate on it and do the activities. I think the sun and the work situation were distracting me.
The weekend away with my sister is all booked so that's something to look forward to.
I have a busy week ahead but I'll write about it as it happens. I also have a list of things to do, phone calls to make, places to go. This will be a test of how much I've really recovered and how much I can achieve. And what the effects will be.
I carried a cup in each hand for a few seconds. I sorted out our home insurance and got us a much cheaper deal with a well known company. I've vacuumed a couple of times.
I'm having dizzy spells (pre-syncope) again. I think about the fairground roads I used to have a go on years ago; the spinning ones like the Waltzer car. Hold on tight, we're going for a ride!
I must remember to write every day although it has to fit into my back to work plan so that might have to be reviewed. I'll work out what is feasible...
I'm quite pleased with my new pages and I've given lots of information about CRPS to a friend who thinks her mum might be suffering with it in her feet. She's seen so many specialists and is getting very frustrated; sound familiar? She is negative about taking any medication but so was I two and a half years ago - things change, life changes...
I've done quite a few machine wash loads and it's all dry and put away. I've been soaking up the wonderful vitamin D and of course watching the tennis at Wimbledon. Glued to the set! And there's cricket to watch next week as the Ashes starts.
I took the dog out for a walk by myself, we didn't go too far as I had to wait until the weather had cooled down and therefore it was getting late.
Today I drove to see my Mum & Dad. It's about a 20 minute drive. My son came with me so that I wasn't driving alone, plus he wanted to visit them too. On our way home we did a bit of shopping. It was probably a bit too much altogether and I had awful pain for a while. I found that doing my mindful stretching exercises worked to distract me from the pain and also I felt better afterwards. Note to self: even if you don't feel like it - gentle, mindful stretching exercise helps.
I read a few more chapters of my women's springboard book but it wasn't really going in - I need to concentrate on it and do the activities. I think the sun and the work situation were distracting me.
The weekend away with my sister is all booked so that's something to look forward to.
I have a busy week ahead but I'll write about it as it happens. I also have a list of things to do, phone calls to make, places to go. This will be a test of how much I've really recovered and how much I can achieve. And what the effects will be.
I carried a cup in each hand for a few seconds. I sorted out our home insurance and got us a much cheaper deal with a well known company. I've vacuumed a couple of times.
I'm having dizzy spells (pre-syncope) again. I think about the fairground roads I used to have a go on years ago; the spinning ones like the Waltzer car. Hold on tight, we're going for a ride!
I must remember to write every day although it has to fit into my back to work plan so that might have to be reviewed. I'll work out what is feasible...
I'm quite pleased with my new pages and I've given lots of information about CRPS to a friend who thinks her mum might be suffering with it in her feet. She's seen so many specialists and is getting very frustrated; sound familiar? She is negative about taking any medication but so was I two and a half years ago - things change, life changes...
Thursday, 4 July 2013
More Positive
Ok. There's stuff going on with my employer and it has been upsetting me. I have sent an email outlining my concerns and I immediately felt a bit better. I have avoided checking my emails because that's what set me off again this morning. I sent a short email yesterday putting forward my suggestion and when there was no response when I checked this morning I got upset. So I'm not going to check my emails until tomorrow morning. Honestly if I received the email I sent (which was quite long and emotional) I would have to make some reply immediately even if it was just an acknowledgement.
Anyway, achievements for today: I took our dog for a 20 minute walk, on my own and as fast as I could walk. I knew my son would be home soon so if I got stuck I would be able to call him to help me, but I didn't need to. Also, I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises and 25 minutes mindful body scan. That made me feel much better this morning.
I've decided that I need to be more determined. I would say I've always been a very determined person and do what I want as long as it's not hurting anyone. Somewhere, at some time, I've lost my determination and focus. I've become an ill person who listens to what everyone says, gets confused and then follows someone's advice. I end up doing things and wondering how on earth I got there. I've stopped doing things because other people have told me to. So, I've made a conscious decision to get it back. I refuse to be defined by CRPS. I need to be me who just happens to have CRPS. I really am learning to be me with special effects.
Anyway, achievements for today: I took our dog for a 20 minute walk, on my own and as fast as I could walk. I knew my son would be home soon so if I got stuck I would be able to call him to help me, but I didn't need to. Also, I did my 25 minutes mindful stretching exercises and 25 minutes mindful body scan. That made me feel much better this morning.
I've decided that I need to be more determined. I would say I've always been a very determined person and do what I want as long as it's not hurting anyone. Somewhere, at some time, I've lost my determination and focus. I've become an ill person who listens to what everyone says, gets confused and then follows someone's advice. I end up doing things and wondering how on earth I got there. I've stopped doing things because other people have told me to. So, I've made a conscious decision to get it back. I refuse to be defined by CRPS. I need to be me who just happens to have CRPS. I really am learning to be me with special effects.
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