Life at a "Swell's" pace

Five Simple Things (May 8)

Hello.

Looks like the Coronavirus pandemic is going to affect us clear into the summer months. Our governor here in Oregon announced that nonessential businesses need to close. This includes gyms, restaurants, bars, public buildings-libraries, sports centers, hair salons, etc. Our local municipalities are closing now, city buildings, courts, and even all government buildings. The schools have been closed to in person learning since April, but now with all of these closures, it's almost like an apocalyptic-type world. Of course, I've only been out of the house twice, to get medication, and to go to my two month checkup. But, seeing images, and reading stories online of what it's affecting people, is surreal. We did get a chance to see some F15s flying over. They did a flyover to say thank you to the frontline workers and healthcare workers that are put in the face of the pandemic.

I was able to get outside last week for enjoy a bit of sunshine, but I was hurting badly from standing and had to lay back down. Jeff said, it's best that I say laying as much as possible, and he set up my bed to where I can sit up a bit and not be uncomfortable. Wedge pillows, body pillows, and memory foam pillows have been a life saver for me during this time. I've actually started being able to eat more than just soft foods this week, too. Which, is a good thing, because the apple sauce, jello, pudding, mashed potatoes, peaches, and pears where great, but I'm ready for some more variety. I was able to eat half a sandwich this week, but that's about it. Jeff is going to make a dinner for me tonight that will include some other recommended foods for after surgery, so that I don't shock my body, and end up getting sick. I am looking forward to that. Here are five things this week.

1. This Sign.

Headed to my two-month checkup, there are digital signs like this over Interstate 5 to give warning of wrecks, debris, or even travel times, and Amber Alerts. This is the the first time that I've seen anything on these signs other than public alerts. It's a good thing, I think, that the highway department here, ODOT, put these messages up, but it's still extremely odd, to me.

2. This Picture.

Jeff and Skylar went to get some extra supplies this week and were going to get me some face tissue, but the shelves were pretty bare of anything like that. They got lucky and found some travel sized Kleenex near the pharmacy, but they sent me this picture and I was shocked. When I think of the needing essentials, I guess I never thought that toilet paper and paper towels would be part of that. Guess we need to revamp our "just in case" supplies for the future.

3. This Moment.

Skylar loves trains. He has loved them since I introduced him to Thomas the Train when he was two. He has enjoyed learning about trains and how trains work, since that time. With that, he can tell you what most trains are, where they came from, where they are going, and what company owns them. As Jeff and him were out getting things this week, he got a great moment of being able to travel along side one of his favorite trains, and he video taped it to show me.

4. This Paint.

Before my surgery I had started repainting and repairing some issues with this house we live in. It's pretty upsetting that we pay rent and have to do the repairs, too. But, overall, we are looking for land options out of the Willamette Valley, so I'd really like to leave the house better than when we moved in. We had started with the bathroom and have been working our way around the house slowly. This paint is great. It's a primer and paint in one and since all of the walls in this house are white, it works great to use as a coverup, even years of the landlord allowing renters before us to smoke in the house. It also has zero VOCs and is certified by GreenGuard. Since I've been laid up recovering, Jeff and Skylar have pretty much painted a lot of the areas I missed before. Looking forward to getting 100% and being able to finish what I started.

5. This Little Village.

I had ordered this little "f-it" village around February before I had my surgery, and at the time, the lady behind The Little Red Door had backorders, so they came in this week. They are funny to me and the f-it is hidden behind the little houses. I just love them and she did a custom order for me by putting little windows on the houses and posted it on her Instagram page when it shipped out. She's a small business owner and a very talented one, at that. She has so many cute ceramics that she makes.

Positive affirmations this week: "What do you need to forgive yourself for?"

For blaming myself for other people's issues. Also, I am working on forgiving myself for not sticking up for myself during those times, too. I also want to forgive myself for trying to live up to other people's expectation of me and not going for what made me happy. I also would like to forgive myself for trying to find validation in other people. What a waste of time. I would also like to be able to forgive my younger self for all of the abuse I went through growing up. It wasn't my fault and it has taken me this long in my life to be able to finally work through those issues. I would like to say to myself, "Shelly, I forgive you. You did the best your could at the time, and you're amazing for what you went through. I love you."

Have a nice weekend.

Five Simple Things (May 1)

Hello.

Happy May Day. We don't have any spring-type celebrations other than just spending time in the sun. I hope to get outside sometime today. Jeff should be coming here before the sun goes down to help get me out of bed to be able to walk around outside. I am feeling a bit of cabin fever more lately. My body wants to get up, but the surgery parts are saying no. But, the sun should be a nice compromise with both. If you're interested in the history behind May Day, you can check out how it started and why we continue to celebrate it, here. And, if you're a horror-lover, like me, you can check out Midsommar. It's pretty intense, but a good one. As of April 30, Our World in Data reported that for the U.S. there were 60,966 total deaths, 1.04 million confirmed cases. I keep seeing the state of Michigan in the news, too. It's just as bad other places, but Oregon seems to be staying below the alert line. The governor keeps pressing people to keep wearing masks, keep social distancing, and only go out for supplies and necessities. Which, we have been. Jeff either takes Skylar to go get supplies for the house, or goes himself, after work. There isn't a lot of things we need right now and we are trying our best not to go unless it's a definite need. The last few years, we had been putting food, water, and even money back in a "just in case" situation. We've had to break into the "just in case" food and water stash, as well as the money stash because of Jeff's hours being cut. We are hoping and keeping fingers crossed that his job brings back the cut hours. A positive though, Jeff wasn't furloughed. So, there's a plus, and we are still keeping positive thoughts. Here are five things from this week.

1. These Rocks.

We placed a bookshelf curbside for free and the people that took it returned later with these rock gifts. It was extremely thoughtful and we love the fact that they gave us something like this in return. We love how random and amazing it is. We think these are some sort of metamorphic rock, but we aren't sure. They are now safe and sound in their new home, sitting in our cat palm flower pot.

2. These Street Signs.

I love street signs that kind of "speak to me." Craven for Wes Craven and horror movies, and High for being high on life and enjoying every bit of it as I can.

3. This Routine.

These positive affirmations are great. We have a sticker on our bathroom mirror that reads, "You are beautiful." So, anyone who looks into our mirror will be reminded that they are amazing and beautiful. Positive affirmations are a great way to remind yourself how great, wonderful, and enough you really are. Another great way to practice positive affirmations is to never tear another person down, no matter what you think is right. Telling someone about their flaws, or even a negative comment such as, "You should get out more" does more harm than good. Never tell someone else what they "should" and "shouldn't" do based on your own life and opinion. It is not your place to do that. Always build them up. If you feel someone should do something, word it in a way that comes across less judgmental. Because, just a reminder, when you "attack" another person with YOUR words, they are not responsible for defending themselves and hurting your feelings in return. Don't be a bully, be a supporter; especially with your kids and loved ones. You never know what other people are feeling, going through, or even how they are feeling that day. If you wouldn't want someone to say that to you, don't have it slip from your lips.

4. The Last Blockbuster.

Not a lot of people know this, but there is still a Blockbuster store and it's literally The Last Blockbuster on the planet. It's located in Bend, Oregon, and you can actually go in, get a Blockbuster card, rent movies, games, and apparel. It's a bit of a nostalgic thing when you can browse movie titles and walk through the store wondering what you're going to watch that night. Brings back a lot of memories, and I hope it sticks around.

5. This Blanket.

Just what I needed for staying warm at night. The color of the one pictured isn't available anymore, but here is one similar, just a different color design.

Positive affirmations this week: "How can you add more fun into your life?"

Traveling, anywhere and everywhere, for sure! I have been keeping a wanderlust notebook of places I'd like to travel to. I also have a Pinterest board labeled "Wanderlust," as well, if you're looking for new places to hit, too.

Have a nice weekend.

A Drive to the Coast

Being cooped up in the house for most of this year, we decided to take a little day trip over the coast. Even though we couldn't get out anywhere, or do anything, it was nice just to see something other than the white walls of our house. Of course, it took a lot of pillows and blankets to make the ride over a lot more comfortable. But, it was just nice to get out and breathe some coastal air and relax for a bit.

Five Simple Things (April 24)

Hello.

Hope things are well. Oregon has been moving forward to help with the spread of Coronavirus here. Not sure what more can be done, other than what is already put into place. There's still people here not abiding by the moral side of the pandemic and the numbers just keep going up. It looks as though furloughs will happen when Jeff works and he is hoping that it won't affect him. Hours have already been cut and overtime is a NO, for all works. They aren't only cut back hours, but less than 40 hours a week. It's stressing Jeff out a lot and in turn causes additional stress on me, because I see how upset he is. My empathy for him is hard to process right now. I'm not only in great amount of pain, but I'm also trying to stay strong so he has at least someone to talk to about his stress. My anxiety, is causing issues, as well. This year is so hard on so many people, so I am just grateful that none of us are sick, and we are able to use a bit of savings that we have. Skylar came into my room last night and started crying and telling me how it all makes him feel. It's just a tough time. I hope, whoever is reading this, you are staying strong. We can and will get through this. Here are five things from this week.

1. This Cooler.

Meant to share this last week, but it still applies. We figured out a good cooler for my bedside while I recover and this wine cooler was the best option. It doesn't get too cold and doesn't have a freeze compartment, which is what I didn't want. The freezer compartment in a mini cooler, probably works for other options, but not for me. The silver dividers come out and can be rearranged to make room for whatever you need. It's prefect for exactly what I wanted. Jeff and Skylar set it up in the front area of the house for the first night, and then moved it the following day beside my bed. It also serves as a good spot to keep my medical needs on top, as well. This cooler shown here can be purchased here.

2. This Medication.

Incredible, right? I don't take a few of these anymore, but I was floored at how much I was going to be put on and even more floored at how much pain I was actually in. I stopped taking the Vicodin the day after my surgery, because it made me sick and I was throwing up (more dry-heaving) and screaming every single time. The pain was unbelievable. The worst pain I've ever felt in my life, and I've been mauled by a dog, hit by a car, abused, given birth, and hit by someone repeatedly. Never have I felt this kind of physical pain. But, I see small improvements every day and I have a great team of caretakers that I am grateful for.

3. These Changes.

It's great to see companies making changes for the better. The bamboo handles are such a great alternative to plastic. Always remember, single-use plastic is not for the environment. Small changes can have a big impact, too. Like switching a toothbrush to a more sustainable option, or cutting out plastic wrap, or plastic sandwich bags, or even using plasticware for your lunch. Start small and work your way up to bigger changes. You can purchase these toothbrushes here.

4. This Snowball.

This random snowball left us with so many questions. It was in the parking lot of the local food co-op, yet we haven't had any snow here on the Valley floor. Skylar and I created stories about the mystery snowball all day after seeing it. He drove us over to the store to grab some snacks and more juice and soft foods for me. I sat in the car coming up with my stories. We came up with, it rolled here all the way from the Cascades, fell off a snow truck delivery snow to snowless areas (like ours), or even that the snowball wasn't even there, it was all in our head because we long for snow.☻

5. Malli Jean.

Our sweet duck Malli-Jean has been enjoying the spring growth in the yard. Skylar walked out to give them all a treat of cracked corn and Malli had her beak face down in the patch of clover at the far end of the yard. She's a mallard, but she's pretty cool.

Positive affirmations this week: "What excites you?"

Future planning and knowing all my hard work and struggles will pay off soon. Keeping the focus on the end is exciting. Plus, knowing that things are getting better and improving slowly. It's exciting to look back a year ago and see how far I've come!

(By the way, you can answer these affirmation questions, as well. If you would like to share them, I would love to read them.)

Have a nice weekend.

Five Simple Things (April 17)

Hello.

Got up today and walked, very slowly, around my backyard. The sun was out for a bit and Skylar helped me get up and move a little. I am still extremely tired and hurting quite bad, but I wanted to get out of the bed and out of the room I'm in. It was a nice, short, walk around and it felt nice having the sun on my face. I was ready to get back in the bed and positioned where I wouldn't hurt, though. Coronavirus cases are just going up and up in Oregon and across the world, it seems. Jeff said, when he went to get our weekly supplies, a lot of people weren't wearing masks at the local grocery store here and that kind of frustrated him. He gets things for us, puts them in the garage, and Skylar sprays down what he can with disinfectant, and they stay in the garage for 24 hours. Skylar then brings them inside and wipes down things once more. Skylar has been doing a great job at keeping things pretty sanitary inside the house and I am grateful for them both. Jeff goes to work and comes through the gate in the side yard, goes through the garage to do everything. I don't even see, or hear, half the time when stuff is happening toward the back of the house. Probably, for the best that I am not close to that area. Skylar opened my curtains and windows a bit this week, too, to help bring in some fresh air. He has been taking care of me so well, they both have, and I am extremely grateful for everything they have done. I have yet to be out of the house to see the "outside" world the way it is. I feel like, I got put under for my surgery, and woke up to another world, or died, and this is all in my head. It's definitely a strange feeling, and a hard thing to mentally process, that's for sure. Here are five things from this week.

1. This View.

I had to get out of the house this week. I was getting a bit of cabin fever and I was tired of the smell of medicine, creams, and disinfectant, in my room. We drove to Foster Lake and just enjoyed the view. I couldn't get out of the car, so I just sat and enjoyed it anyway, with the windows down. It was a nice drive and while we were gone, we washed all my bedding and blankets, so I can come back to clean sheets and blankets to lay on.

2. It's Earth Month...

Don't forget, Earth Day is April 22. Do you part, even though in quarantine, to help Mother Earth. Some ideas on what you can do this Earth Day:

1. Plant a tree, or new plant-preferably one that is pollinator-friendly.

2. Turn all of your lights out for the evening.

3. Go for a nature walk.

4. Conserve water when brushing teeth, doing dishes, or doing laundry.

5. Opt out of junk mail. You can remove your name from mailing lists here, and here.

3. This Plastic Bag.

If you're still using single-use plastic bags, or even the thicker plastic bags, consider changing your habits. Using your own canvas bags are great, but right now, with the Coronavirus pandemic, ask for paper bags. Oregon has banned the use of single-use plastic bags, but for some reason, companies like Walmart, KFC, and other businesses are using the excuse of a "back stock" to still be able to use single-use plastic. Tell these companies NO. And, that you refuse to do business with them until they change. In the meantime, YOU can change and make the difference for yourself and the environment. Start this month, as Earth Month is here and you can make a difference one step at a time.

4. This Moment.

I had to pick up my prescription medication and had to have Skylar drive me to get it, because of my surgery recovery, still. Him being able to drive is still something that I haven't fully accepted yet. This is the first time I rode with him, when he was driving, but he did great, and Jeff tells me, when he takes him driving, he does a great job.

5. This Quote.

I posted this on Instagram this week, and I feel proud to be a parent that is open to my child's own expression and thinking. At times I catch myself trying to correct him, or "change" him and I pause and think, no, let him be him, and enjoy it. I grew up with parents that didn't allow us to just be ourselves and learn from our own ways of doing things. We were shown a certain way, or told a certain way, of doing things and that was the only way. I decided that I would not be that kind of parent and allow Skylar to be who he was always meant to be, and let me tell you, he is a pretty cool dude because of it.

Positive affirmations this week: "What’s your “why”?"

The "why" for me, is to be able to say that I made an impact, or a positive change in someone's life, before my time on this earth ends. I hope that my positivity, helpfulness, and empathy, has helped at least one person.

Have a nice weekend.

Easter 2020

We spent a quiet Easter at home, as the same as everyone this year. We wanted to make it a bit less boring and decided to sit and write out a scavenger hunt for Skylar to do, in order for him to "hunt" for this Easter basket. It took him about an hour to go through all of the clues and a few of them were in unusual places like, Hardy's dog collar, while he wore it. A few other places were around the duck's necks with bandanas, and hanging from strings in random places. Each clue before it gave the location of the next. He had a lot of fun searching and wondering where his next clue was. He had a total of 35 clues. We also dyed eggs in a new way. With my surgery being only a month before, and the pandemic, we used some food coloring instead of a more natural way of dying the eggs. This year, we tried the shaving cream and food coloring trick. It made for some pretty pastel-colored eggs.