Hi Darling Ones, I am very cranky today. This says a lot, because my normal demeanor includes a lot of low-level crankiness. Today, it’s extra super very. Can I list off all my reasons for crank? Of course I can. This is my website. I can do what I want. I’m not gonna though. All the things making me grouchy are the average things that make everyone grouchy. Broke. Busy. Got a summons for jury duty when I JUST had…
The Problem With Stroke Hands
Hey Darling Ones, Since the stroke I spend a lot of time thinking about my hands. I also spend a lot of time thinking about Marge Piercy’s poem The Friend. I’ve carried this poem inside of me since I read it in my Women’s Lit class during the summer of 1991. That’s some staying power. Incidentally, I’ve also been singing that one Jewel song. You know, the one they play on “Dawson’s Creek” after Jen dies. I cannot blame this…
Four Songs Taking My Mind Off My Woes
Dear Darling Ones, Since the stroke is on my mind every second of every day, I seek out things that make me forget it for even a moment. Not forget. That’s not a thing that will happen. I’m seeking small segments of time where my brain is distracted enough that it’s not constantly thinking “Wow it’s weird in here. The right side of your face is still numb. Is this how you’re gonna feel forever? Is the floppy scoop still…
Stroke Me Day 93: Curious Side-Effects
Dear Darling Ones, There have been a few curious side effects of having a stroke. For instance, I no longer need to have coffee every day. I kicked a 20-year caffeine habit on accident. In the beginning making coffee, preparing a cup, and transporting it to the living room was just too much work. This was in the need-a-nap after breakfast days. I kept waiting with dread for the bonkers, all-day unkillable no-caffeine headaches. They never came. (Full transparency, I’ve…
It’s My Birthday & I Can Do Hard Things
Hi Darling Ones, Today is my birthday! I’m 51. Today also marks three months since the stroke that upended my life. Not to be a total downer, but I’m glad I’m done being 50. It was not a banner year for me. I had a stroke.
Stroke Me Day 88: Graduated
Dear Darling Ones, Before we begin, let’s have a moment of silence for Padma Lakshmi leaving “Top Chef.” My very favorite show will not be the same without her. Do you remember the woman who hosted the first season? She was awful. In other news, Yesterday I graduated from Occupational Therapy. Today I officially graduated from at-home Physical Therapy. If this were anything like my high school graduation I’d be spending all night at The Mermaid dancing to Bel Biv…