The Semper Fidelis Award


Semper Fidelis Award
Semper Fidelis Award

This was such an amazing award to receive!  Thank you Shaun.  Shaun @  http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com is my Scottish friend…He is a compassionate, funny, crazy friend.  He is so generous!  The award actually says everything I could possibly say about him…

Patty, @ http://petitemagique.wordpress.com  created this wonderful award.  This is a new award so I am terribly honoured to be one of the first ever nominations of this award.  Patty only nominated Shaun so I am one of the firsts to ever receive this award!  http://petitemagique.wordpress.com/2013/06/06/awards/ 

Patty says The “Semper Fidelis Award” means “Always Faithful” in English. ”I created this award because I wanted to do something special for my friends on WordPress. Semper Fidelis is Latin and means Always Loyal. Loyalty means the world to me. I am very loyal myself, but I’ve got major trust issues as well. And I think trust is very important if you are sharing so much of yourself with people you meet through the internet. So I am working on that! 

Why the wolves? Because wolves have very strong ties with their pack. Like a family or a great group of friends. And I just love them!

This award stands for the loyalty and love between friends”

The Rules:

  • Add the Semper Fidelis Award logo somewhere on your blog.
  • Thank the person who nominated you and link back to their blog.
  • Nominate 5 bloggers whose loyalty and friendship you value and you consider being part of your ‘pack of wolves’ on WordPress.
  • Post something special for all of your nominees separately and dedicate it to them. This can be a quote, saying, poem, picture, anything you think that would fit that person.
  • Let the nominees know that you’ve nominated them.

I now nominate My Wolf Pack.  Shaun, you are already one!

I desperately tried to stick to the rules but I cannot!  Please forgive me Patty and Shaun.  I could add another 100 names to my acceptance and I would love to!  I do not mean to slight anyone by not nominating you!  I appreciate each and every one of my regular followers and friends!

  1. My treasured friend Sandra @ http://thedrsays.org/, who is terminally ill and still reaches out to me.  This brave and selfless woman has to be the leader of my Wolf Pack.  Thank you dear friend for caring when you have so much to deal with!  You are always in my thoughts and prayers!
  2. http://behindthemaskofabuse.com is a heart wrenching blog about a woman’s life of abuse.  She was raised by a narcissistic father, and a mother who rarely protected her from his verbal, mental, emotional and psychological abuse.  She endured molestation, both inside and outside the family setting, raped at the tender age of 11 years old.  This blog is written by an amazing person. A strong person battling recovery, anger and betrayal.   She battles C-PTSD and BDD.  Out of her pain two books were born and are published on Amazon “Buckwheatsrisk-Abuse Survival”,  and a poetry book entitled “If I Could Write my Heart”  I salute you!  Yet this dear woman has so much love in her heart that she is able to reach to me.  Thank you dear friend!
  3. http://idealisticrebel.wordpress.com/ – Rebel is amazing and takes on the world! A brave blogger who is a great friend.
  4. http://jmgoyder.com/ – My precious friend Julie who has so much pain and loss to work through.  Julie writes about the love between her and her ailing husband.  It is the most beautiful love story ever!  Lots of love dear friend!
  5. http://valeriedavies.com/  A gutsy, wise lady who is a friend and an amazing writer.  Thank you for your love and support.
  6. Judy is my dear friend who has guided me through this abyss of grief that I am walking…http://myjourneysinsight.com  Thank you dearest Judy for your guidance and love!
  7. Shirley @ http://justiceforraymond.wordpress.com is a true warrior, fighting for justice yet always ready to extend a hand of friendship and support.  Thank you dear Shirley. 
  8. Len @ http://myownheart.me is a precious friend who always has a kind word of support ,  despite her pain after the tragic loss of her precious Klysta.  Thank you dear Len
  9. This wonderful woman has 1077 followers and yet she has time to read my blog, comment and encourage.  Thank you dear Diana http://talktodiana.wordpress.com/

Thank you dear Shaun for your generosity and friendship!  Thank you Patty for coming up with this amazing award!

How is Your Day Going?


I woke up crying this morning.  I wept for my child, my motherless grandsons, Izak, who has gone to a forever home, my blogger friend Julie @ http://jmgoyder.wordpress.com/ who is going through a dreadful time; Len @ http://myownheart.me/ who still counts the days since her precious Klysta died, Morgan’s Mom…Sandra @ http://thedrsays.org/ dying from congenital heart failure…  I did not want to get out of bed.

Well, I eventually did and found this wonderful email from my friend, Christelle.  It brought a smile to my face, and I decided that I MUST share it with all of you…  I hope it brings a smile to your face too…

 

Life isn’t about how to survive the storm,

but how to dance in the rain.

If you are having a bad day, remember it could be worse…..

Untitled attachment 000101 (1)

Untitled attachment 000132

Untitled attachment 000163

Untitled attachment 000194

Untitled attachment 000225 Untitled attachment 000256

Untitled attachment 000287

Untitled attachment 000349

Untitled attachment 0003710

Untitled attachment 0004011

 

Most Influential Blogger Award


   

Most Influential Blogger Award
Most Influential Blogger Award

 Thank you so much to http://theseeker57.wordpress.com and my dear friend Shaun @ prayingforoneday for this wonderful award.  It is an honour to be nominated by fellow bloggers that I follow and greatly admire.

I would like to dedicate this award to my beautiful child whose bravery and suffering have influenced hundreds of people all over the world.  Vic was the person who influenced me most in my life.  This award is for you Angel Child.

THE RULES:

1-Display the award logo on your blog.

2-Link back to the person who nominated you.

3-Answer 7 questions.

4-Nominate ( no limit of nominations ) other bloggers for this award and link back to them.

5-Notify those bloggers of the award requirements.

The 7 Questions (Can you all please answer the same questions) Thanks 

THE 7 QUESTIONS:

1-If you could create your planet what would it look like? – no hunger, hardship or war.

2-If you could visit one nation you have never visited before, what nation would that be? – Russia – It is on my bucket-list.

3-Have you ever taken a long distance train trip? – No,

4-What is something you would collectively change about humanity? – Dishonesty, incompetence and Greed,

5-What is your favorite song?

NEVER ALONE – LADY ANNABELLA AND JIM BRICKMAN

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnNK4Alwbsw

Never alone

6-If you could meet one person who is still alive who would you choose to meet? – Nelson Mandela

7-If you could choose one symbol to represent you, what would that symbol be and why? –  Symbol of Peace

I now nominate some bloggers, the limit can be 1 or 100, your choice.

  1. http://thedrsays.org/
  2. http://myjourneysinsight.com/
  3. http://allinthedayofme.com/
  4. http://buckwheatsrisk.com/
  5. http://kellieelmore.com/
  6. http://onethousandsingledays.com
  7. http://livingwithfibroblog.com/
  8. http://cristianmihai.net/
  9. http://walking-on-eggshells.com/
  10. http://doilooksick.wordpress.com
  11. http://cobbies69.wordpress.com/
  12. http://connectivetissuedisorders.wordpress.com/
  13. http://hastywords.wordpress.com/
  14. http://smilescavenger.wordpress.com/
  15. http://idealisticrebel.wordpress.com/

 

Well done all 15…  Please accept and give to 15 others blogs

Love and well wishes

Tersia

 

 

Caregiver Isolation


Alberton-20120625-00559It happened without warning…

In 2002 I was on top of the world.  My career was at an all-time high, financially we were secure and I LOVED my job.  I was able to work long hours and spend time with my friends.  I was on 9 Church Committee’s and very involved with community work in the poor areas.

Then it happened…Vic had her blotched back surgery and our lives changed forever.  I spent 22 days in the waiting room outside the Intensive Care Unit.  My life ground to a halt.

We moved into a downward spiral of hospitals, doctor visits, x-rays, scans, 81 abdominal surgeries, pain, open wounds, hospital bugs, sepsis and wound dressings.  I felt over-whelmed and out of control.  Doctors and nurses prodding and touching my child.  To them she was a commodity.  But, to me, she was my life.

Slowly but surely my life changed…  I became fixated with finding a “solution” to my child’s devastating health problems.  After all, I am a Baby Boomer.  We don’t accept bad situations.  We find solutions.  We sort out problems.  I refused to accept the doctors’ prognosis as I did when she was a little girl.  I was told that Vic would not live to the age of 12 when she was diagnosed as a toddler…  I refused to accept it.  Vic not only outlived the prognosis but lived to complete school, get married and give birth to two beautiful boys.  The ventilators were turned off and Vic continued to breathe, live….

We went from one doctor to the next.  I spend hours every day of my life on the internet looking for solutions and advice; it became a coping mechanism.  I worked longer hours in-between surgeries.  Quite frankly, work became a crutch.  I spent less and less time with my family and friends…I suppose because I felt no-one understood my fear, my despair, my pain…

My fear, despair and pain became my constant companion.  My computer and the internet my trusted friend…

One day, about 7 years ago, Jared asked me “Oumie don’t you love your family?”

“Of course I love my family!  Why are you asking such a question?” I replied

“Because you are never home….”

I had to sit down and reassess my life.  Quite honestly the financial implications of keeping Vic alive and care for her was daunting.  I feared going home because I could not handle Vic’s pain….  I knew in my heart there was no cure.  The mere thought of Vic suffering for endless years were terrifying!  I could not bear to see the fear and helpless desperation in the boys’ eyes.

So contrary to what I have written before, and comments that have been left, I have not been the best mother.   There was a time that I ran away.  I was petrified of the thought that Vic would suffer for another 40 years…be dependent upon me for another 40 years… There were times that I thought to myself “There has to be more to life!”  I felt lost in the in-balance of my life.  No matter where I turned it was work and responsibility!

In 2009 my Dad came to live with us.  He suffered from Alzheimer’s.

Dad and I
Dad and I

Whilst I reached a maturity level where I realized that being a caregiver is a privilege, not a burden, our lives changed.

I started sleeping downstairs many years ago when Vic was so ill.  I was scared I would not hear her if I slept upstairs.  I slowly slipped into a habit of working late on my laptop and then falling asleep on the sofa.  This continued when my Dad lived with us.  I still sleep downstairs on the sofa – waiting for Vic shuffling footsteps down the passage, text messages saying “Can I have something for pain?” or the intercom screeching!  The intercom was the 911 call.

I slowly and inextricably slipped into depression.  My entire life was dominated by my fears for my child.  The caregiving demands steadily increased as the years passed and the situation deteriorated.  It became a dark and difficult period for the entire family.  We could no longer spontaneously decide to go to dinner, go away for a weekend or even a holiday.  Every activity demanded a great deal of planning.  We became more and more isolated as a family.

It is natural for family and friends to drift away when a loved one becomes ill. The longer the illness, the longer they stay away. By it’s very nature, caring giving is draining. It is far easier to stay home and rest than socialize outside the home.  Isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and illness. It takes energy and effort to maintain friendships when one feels tired and discouraged.

My salvation was cyberspace.  I joined an Alzheimer support group, https://www.caring.com.  Without the support group I would never had coped with my dad’s descend into Alzheimer’s.  A year ago I started blogging on Vic’s final journey.  I have found a cyber-community with parents who also lost children, friends with a word of encouragement, a kind words.   I receive advice, support and information from a loving cyber-community.

I however realize that I need re-join life.  There are days that I just want to stay on my sofa with a blanket pulled over my head.  I fear that if I sleep in a bed I will never get out of it.  In the TV lounge there is always people.  Whether it be the boys, Danie or the housemaids.

Today I had tea with an old friend.  For almost 4 years I have not been able to see her.  She has a young son that I have never seen.  Our friendship was reduced to the odd phone call or text message.  Often she would phone and there would be a crisis with Vic.  I would say “I will phone you back” and never get around to it.  I isolated myself from friends.  I was so miserable and totally absorbed with Vic that no “outsider” could penetrate my “barrier”.

My life centred round my sick child and family.

Despite the trauma of Vic’s death and coming to terms with the horrible loss, my life has changed.  I have had tea with my new Magnolia friends and Christelle.  We go out to dinner on the spur of the moment; we have been on holiday and I spent 4 days at a Spa with my sister!  I have watched Jon-Daniel play hockey matches, started gym and started remodelling the house.  I have seen a psychiatrist and take antidepressants.  We have started Stepping Stone Hospice.

How amazing is this?

If the truth be known it is not amazing at all.  I am dying on the inside.  I cry uncontrollably – mostly when everyone has gone to bed.  If the boys were not living with us it would have been so different.  I KNOW I would still have been in bed.   I am consumed with longing for my child.  Last night I replayed 100’s of voicemail messages that Vic had left me….

“Love you Mommy…”

“Love you Baby Girl”

Wonderful Team Member Readership Award


wonderful team member readership award

I admit it openly and honestly – I LOVE getting awards.  I think that deep down we all crave recognition, acceptance and love.  I have found this on Word Press.  I have met WONDERFUL people who have loved and supported me for the past year.   It is a very powerful thing to be recognised by a blogger I find not only incredibly inspirational, but funny and thought-provoking too.

Shaun from Praying for One Day awarded me the Wonderful Team Membership Readership Award,which of course I graciously accepted.  Shaun is one of my favourite bloggers who has become a wonderful friend. The first post of mine that Shaun ever read was https://tersiaburger.com/2013/01/25/vic-has-left-home-for-the-last-time/  Sometime later Shaun wrote me an email or a comment, I am unsure which it was…He wrote that after he read my post he and his partner Dawn cuddled and sat in silence for a long time weeping for Vic.  Shaun always leaves a comment, hug or word of encouragement.  Shaun has been awarded this award 6 or 7 times and with good reason.  He is a Wonderful Team Reader who truly deserves this award!

So here are the rules:

1. Display the logo on your page.

2. Finish the sentence: A great reader is…

A great reader is… someone who takes the time out of his/her busy life to read my ramblings of grief, leave a comment, hug, advice… A great reader is someone who reaches out from cyberspace and cries with me, laughs with me and cares for me.  A great reader is my wonderful WordPress friends!

 

3. Nominate 14 readers I appreciate.

  1. Uma Girish at http://grammarofgrief.wordpress.com/ for her helpful blog on grief and surviving loss
  2. http://wordsfallfrommyeyes.wordpress.com/ is about a mother’s love for her son
  3. http://verbalbanter.wordpress.com a wonderful blog about life and it’s irritations and frustrations.
  4. http://drbillwooten.com/ is a blog filled with good music and wisdom.  Bill you are a kind and gentle friend.  Thank you
  5. http://everyonehasastory.me is a blog of hope and despair, healing and pain.  Excellent read.
  6. http://throughthehealinglens.com  is about a bloggers battle with debilitating, chronic pain. 
  7. http://thedarkest13.wordpress.com/ is an intelligent blog filled with good values, friendships, pain and love. 
  8. http://barefootbaroness.org is one of my favourite blogs. BB is a charming, gentle woman who has magical writing skills.  She is an amazing friend.  Thank you BB
  9. http://idealisticrebel.wordpress.com/ – Rebel is amazing and takes on the world! A brave blogger who is a great friend.
  10. http://jmgoyder.com/ – My precious friend Julie who has so much pain and loss to work through. 
  11. http://picturesofsilverbyjanice.wordpress.com/category/sculptures-silver-art-jewelry/  Janice is the kindest person.  She makes beautiful jewellery and my Christmas Gifts will come out of her innovative jewellery pieces.  I am gifting the boys their Mommy’s fingerprint to wear around their necks – close to their hearts.
  12. http://valeriedavies.com/  A gutsy, wise lady who is a friend and an amazing writer. 
  13. http://walkingthroughpain.com/ writes about “invisible illness” such as RA/Lupus/ Fibromyalgia.  This is a brave blogger who knows and lives with chronic pain!  Please support and encourage her on this lonely journey. 
  14. Tracy Rydzy – http://ohwhatapain.wordpress.com is another brave warrior battling chronic pain.

4. Inform the readers with either comments or pingbacks.

These are just 14 of a long list of treasured blogger friends who are truly worthy of this award.  There are many, many other bloggers whom I treasure and who inspires and supports me in my grief journey.

Thank you to each and every one of my blogger friends!!

Nominated for the WordPress Family Award!


WordPress Family AwardI am so honoured to receive this WordPress Family Award from not one blogger but two!!  How blessed can I be?

Thank you dear Jane @ http://johannisthinking.com and Shaun @ http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/    Both Jane and |Shaun are great bloggers, and their follower figures reflect it.  Jane has 375 followers and Shaun 696……I think the reason why they have such great stats is because they care!!  They comment, email, care and share.  Their blogs are filled with real-world life, happiness, sadness, pain, compassion and laughter… They share their joys and sorrows.

So this award is about being part of the Word press Family!

I started blogging almost a year ago.  It was just after my BFF and Dad’s one year anniversary and Vic had made the decision to let nature take its course.  It was a difficult time for the family.  We were helplessly watching Vic die – little by little every day.  Her pain was unbearable.

My blog started off cautiously focussing on Vic’s pain.  Tracy @ http://ohwhatapain.wordpress.com/ opened my eyes Vic’s pain – I could “feel” Vic’s pain after I met Tracy; Katie Mitchell @http://connectivetissuedisorders.wordpress.com/ – an incredibly brave young woman who encouraged me when she is in so much pain of her own…  I could “see” life through an ill person’s eyes…”feel” her pain through the eyes and words of other Chronic Pain Sufferers.

I grew more comfortable sharing and started blogging more about my fears and emotions… Ultimately about Vic’s death and our grief as a family.

Today I have 210 followers.  Many of them have become my cyber family!  They love and care for me, my family and my precious Vic.  They offer hugs, love, compassion, sympathy and advise.  They care unconditionally.  They do not criticize my writing, punctuation, spelling or grammar…

I have found friendships and love in cyberspace that I did not know existed.  It has also opened my eyes to the fact that there are good people in the world.  People who care….  It enabled me to open my heart and life to real life friends too…

I love my blogging family!  Love you guys.

I know there are slightly more than 10 nominations.  I PRAY I did not omit a precious friend’s blog.  If I did, please do not be offended.  Blame it on the flu.

Now for a description of the award in the words of the Creator Of The Award:

This is an award for everyone who is part of the “WordPress Family” I started this award on the basis that the WordPress family has taken me in, and showed me love and a caring side only WordPress can show. The way people take a second to be nice, to answer a question and not make things a competition amazes me here. I know I have been given many awards, but I wanted to leave my own legacy on here by creating my own award, as many have done before. This represents “Family” we never meet, but are there for us as family. It is my honor to start this award.” from Shaun @ http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/

 The Rules:

1. Display the award logo on your blog.
2. Link back to the person who nominated you.
3. Nominate 10 others you see as having an impact on your WordPress experience and family.
4. Let your 10 Family members know you have awarded them. There is a real problem here since this award spread like wildfire but I think I can find ten who should be recognized
5. That is it. Just please pick 10 people who have taken you as a friend, and spread the love.

My blogging friends and family as follows…

  1. http://jmgoyder.com/ Julie
  2. http://thedrsays.org/ – Dear Sandra
  3. http://myownheart.me Len
  4. http://valeriedavies.com/  Valerie
  5. http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/ – Shaun
  6. http://johannisthinking.com – Jane
  7. http://justiceforraymond.wordpress.com/
  8. http://grannyscolorful.wordpress.com/ – Gloria
  9. http://myjourneysinsight.com/  Judy Unger
  10. http://behindthemaskofabuse.com/

10. http://hopethebean.wordpress.com/ – Mel Lefebvre

11. http://maryrussell12.wordpress.com/ – Journey through Grief

12. http://deaconfamilyblog.wordpress.com/ Wendie Deacon

13. http://talktodiana.wordpress.com/

14. http://janevanwyk.wordpress.com  –  chdmum

15. http://mymomsmemoirs.wordpress.com

16. http://doilooksick.wordpress.com/

17. http://furrynuff.wordpress.com/ Victoria Bruce

18. http://grammarofgrief.wordpress.com/ – Uma Girish

19. http://drbillwooten.com/ – Bill Wooten

20. http://jesussavingmefromme.wordpress.com/ – Michelle

21. http://sophieandemile.wordpress.com/ – Lucinda Elliot

22. http://barefootbaroness.org/ BB

23. http://picturesofsilverbyjanice.wordpress.com/  Janice

24. http://connectivetissuedisorders.wordpress.com/ Brave Katie Mitchell

  1.  http://ramblinsofagrievingmom.wordpress.com/

27. http://smilescavenger.wordpress.com/

28. http://whatcherylsaid.wordpress.com/

29. http://dlmchale.com/

30. http://missmorgansmom.wordpress.com/

31. http://idealisticrebel.wordpress.com/

32. http://lymphomajourney.wordpress.com/

33. http://poemattic.wordpress.com/

34. http://wordsfallfrommyeyes.wordpress.com

35. http://ohwhatapain.wordpress.com/

Thank you to all my friends and followers for their support, comments and awesome posts!

You have made my journey bearable.  Thank you for allowing Vic and I into your lives! Thank you for restoring my faith in mankind…

 

The Thank You Award


Thank you to my dear friend Shaun (and his beloved Dawn) at  http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/04/07/the-thank-you-award-3/ for this beautiful award. 

Thank You Award

During Vic’s brave journey I have had phenomenal support from Cyber Space.   I want to use this opportunity to thank each and every one of my 209 followers for caring, leaving hugs and encouraging comments.  I know that Vic’s journey had an effect on many people’s lives.  Some found it difficult to follow our journey and others persevered.

 

Some people wrote me emails, many left encouraging comments, others prayed for us, some wrote beautiful poetry tributes to Vic, some dedicated songs to her…..Many just left “hugs” …. Some of you lit candles for my child, cried with me…

I need you to know how much I appreciated your support, advice and love.

So, contrary to the rules of the award I am not awarding the award to six bloggers.  I am awarding it to all my blogger friends.  Thank you for your love, compassion, advice, kindness, love and support.  I could never have gotten through this terrible time without your love and support.  From the bottom of my heart “THANK YOU!”

I would be remiss in thanking my beautiful Vic for the honour and privilege of being your Mom.  I love you with all my heart and always will.

RULES :

1. As usual a big thank you and a link back to the person who nominated you.

2. Mention 5 things you would like to do with your life, no matter how mad or tame.

3. Nominate six bloggers and say why they have left their mark on you. Hence the name “The Thank You Award”

4. Let them know.

5. Say a big THANK YOU TO EVERYONE ON WORDPRESS!!

 

5  Things about me that are Mad or Tame 

1. I got a motorbike for my 50th birthday

2. I would rather travel to a war-torn country like Afghanistan than any European country

3. I want to be the oldest person ever to parachute

4. I love travelling and exploring on my own

5. I will eat oleander leaves if I am I ever diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

 I thank each and every one of you.  If you are reading this PLEASE accept the award and pass it forward.

I now nominate all my Blogger Friends for the THANK YOU AWARD… I thank you all! 

With love from my blog to yours…..

 

Interesting Blog Award


Interesting Blogger award

Big thank you to Shaun, you are a great friend and I happen to be Chairperson of your Fan Club!  Shaun at  http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/04/25/interesting-blogger-award/  thank you for this amazing award.  It is my first too!

Award rules.

  1. Thank the person who nominated you
  2. List 5 random facts about yourself
  3. Nominate a minimum of 5 blogs for the award
  4. Ask the nominees 5 questions of your choice
  5. And finally, let them know you have nominated them

5 things about myself

1. I would like to be my friend if I could not be myself

2. I would love to visit Russia – mid winter.

3. I hope to retire in 4 years time

4. My favourite song is “Never Alone” by Jim Brickman and Lady Annabelle –

5. I love reality TV shows and Word Games

I now nominate 5 or more bloggers for this award 

1.    Uma Girish at http://grammarofgrief.wordpress.com/ for her helpful blog on grief and surviving loss

3.    http://verbalbanter.wordpress.com a wonderful blog about life and it’s irritations and frustrations.

4.    http://drbillwooten.com/ is a blog filled with good music and wisdom.  Bill you are a kind and gentle friend.  Thank you

 

6.    http://throughthehealinglens.com  is about a bloggers battle with debilitating, chronic pain. 

 

 

 

8.     http://untraveledroads.wordpress.com/a personal journal of coping with and transcending pain

 

  • 9.    http://geeton1.wordpress.com/ is an amazing blog  of two people, Toni and Gerry, who share a passion to stop Child Exploitation and to bring Missing Kids and Adults, back home safely.

 

10. http://barefootbaroness.org is one of my favourite blogs. BB is a charming, gentle woman who has been an amazing friend.  Thank you BB.

 5 questions for you all

1. Who would you like to be, if you could not be yourself.?

2. If you could visit ANY place on Earth, where would it be?

3. What is your favourite Movie?

4. What is your favourite Song?

5. Why did you start blogging?

Thank you once again Shaun.  You are a wonderful friend and blogger!!

 

Best Moment Award


I have been very slack and decided before I depart this world from this vicious flu-virus that I have contracted, I should get my affairs in order and accept all my awards.I apologise profusely for only accepting now.  I LOVE getting awards, but I find it so difficult to pass the award on to so few bloggers.  So I have come up with a strategy of saving my awards and doing it one-shot and hopefully I will not leave any one out… If I do – It is the flu…I received the Best Moment Award from two amazing bloggers – Jane – johannisthinking and Shaun http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/04/10/best-moment-award-2/

best moment award

Three Time Winner

Awarding the people who live in the moment,
the noble who write and capture the best in life,
the bold who reminded us what really mattered –
Savouring the experience of quality time.

BEST MOMENT AWARD

My Acceptance:

I would like to thank two of my dear blogger friends for this amazing award.  I dedicate this award to my precious child who is the reason and inspiration behind my blog.  I started my blog when Vic was going mad with pain, and I was still fighting the system to get her into a Hospice Program.

First person to thank is Shaun –  http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/about-2/ Recently Shaun wrote me an email and said the following  

The 1st blog I read of yours was the one with you holding Vic  https://tersiaburger.com/2013/01/25/vic-has-left-home-for-the-last-time/  Dawn and I cried and cuddled for about an hour, over time whenever you speak to me Dawn is asking “How is she” and “What is she saying” and caring…

Shaun has more than 670 followers after only blogging for a couple of months…He is articulate, bright, honest, sensitive and an amazing friend and blogger.  I have so much respect for this young man who has overcome so much tragedy and hardship in his life.  His love for Dawn and his children radiates from his blog.

The second is Wisconsin native Jane Johann, is a retired Reading Specialist and Language Arts Teacher.  Jane received her undergraduate degree from Marquette University, where she earned a B.A., majoring in English Literature and a minor in Secondary Education (1974). She attained her M.A. as a Specialist in the Acquisition of Language and Reading Instruction, K-12, graduate of Cardinal Stritch University (1994).

I have never had any formal training – I just write from my heart.  What I am trying to say is that Jane has every reason in the world to be a literary snob.  Jane however is a kind, generous and compassionate friend.  She writes to me and always has kind and encouraging words for me.  I find peace in Jane’s writing.  She cares deeply for others whilst she seeks “light, love and truth within ourselves is paramount to receiving the light, the truth and the love in others.  Only in first accepting our worth, we will then be open to accepting the worth of others. Only in first loving and caring for ourselves, will we better equipped to love and care for others.  I try to keep in mind the words of Kahlil Gibran, “It is not that God lives in us, rather we live in the heart of God!”  Understanding that we all are part of each other, hopefully we will create a better world.”

Shaun and Jane thank you for honouring me with this wonderful award.  I humbly accept.

The WordPress Bloggers that I nominate for this award are:

  1. Wendie Jeanne Deacon at http://deaconfamilyblog.wordpress.com/an-angel-named-vic/.   Wendie is a new blogger.  I actually don’t know how she found my blog but I am grateful that she did.  Wendie has fallen under Vic’s spell!  Wendie is a very, very brave young woman.  I cannot share her bravery and determination with you because she shared it with me in private correspondence. Wendie you are great.  Thank you for your tribute to Vic and your friendship!  I hope that you will blog about your challenges so the world can learn from you.
  2. 2.      Krista – http://wordstohealthepain.wordpress.com is a young woman who is battling to come to terms with the death of her fiancé and soul mate.  She is a new blogger too and can do with some support.  She writes well.  “Grief is a solitary journey. No one but you knows how great the hurt is.  No one but you can know the gaping hole left in your life when someone you know has died.  And no one but you can mourn the silence that was once filled with laughter and song. It is the nature of love and death to touch every person in a totally unique way   ~~ Unknown”
  3. Lori at http://letstalkaboutfamily.wordpress.com/ was her late Mom’s advocate and caregiver.  Her beloved father suffers from Alzheimer’s and Lori suffers from debilitating back problems.  Lori is caring and understands the stresses of caregiving.  Lori blogs about elder care, death and dying, assisted living, family relationships, hoarders and hoarding.   She is an excellent blogger.
  4. http://ericalagan.net is a gifted engineer who writes beautiful poetry about Life, Love and Family – giving these profound topics a boy’s/man’s point of view. This brave man writes “Yes, men do remain faithful to their loved one and men do cry.”
  5. Gloria at http://grannyscolorful.wordpress.com is an amazing friend.  Gloria always leaves a word of encouragement after reading my posts.  She writes about her sadness after her son’s death, her anger, depression and the rare happy day.  Gloria is a very colourful blogger and I encourage you to visit her blog.
  6. Emmitt Owen Riley at http://mysteryoriley.com/dear-grieving-parents/  is a blog that gives one a glimpse of how these parents are coping with their journey of unbelievable grief, loss, and mystery after the mysterious death of their 20-year-old son.  Truly a brave blog.
  7. Mary Russell  blogs her Journey Through Grief after the sad death of her son.  It is poignant and raw blog yet filled with courage and hope.  Thank you for blogging your pain Mary.  http://maryrussell12.wordpress.com/
  8. Mel  Lefebvre at http://hopethebean.wordpress.com is blogging her pregnancy.  She lost her precious baby, Henry, to Osteogenesis Imperfecta.  It is the genetic disorder that my precious Vic was born with.  This blog is about hope, fear, more hope and love.  Please hold Mel in your prayers.  Love you Mel!!
  9. Diana at http://talktodiana.wordpress.com/ ‘s blog is a wonderfully upbeat blog.  I love the quote section!  “Never stand begging for that which you have the power to earn.” – Miguel de Cervantes is just one of many!  Great fun.  Thank you Diana for featuring Vic’s journey (and my blog)on http://talktodiana.wordpress.com/2013/04/12/friday-pick-46/ . It meant so much to me!!!
  10. Jane at http://janevanwyk.wordpress.com/ blogs about her daughter DD and her daughter’s illness.  She is a brand new blogger and I am giving her this award to encourage her to come back and continue blogging.
  11. Kelly at http://nevercryoverspilledmilk.com is a single mom who bravely battles chronic pain.   She makes the brave statement “you can’t cry over the small things and you have to look at the big picture.”   Kelly you are a brave young woman.
  12. Victoria Bruce at http://furrynuff.wordpress.com/ is a fellow South African blogger with my Vic’s names…I love commenting on her excellent posts because I get to type “Victoria Bruce”….She also happens to be a great blogger.  I hope you accept this award Victoria Bruce.
  13. Jonathan at http://afathershope.com/ eloquently writes about his grief when his baby daughter was born without kidneys.  Jonathan writes from a father’s perspective.  He admits to his raw pain and shares how he copes with his grief.  It is a blog of hope.
  14. Denise at http://forphilip.wordpress.com/ blogs about her raw, undiluted pain after the death of her son, Phillip.  It is a difficult blog because she so perfectly articulates my pain, anger and longing.  Diane I hope you will accept this award.
  15. MJgoodburn at http://mymomsmemoirs.wordpress.com shares her mom’s final journey and the trauma within the family.  It is a difficult journey…
  16. http://behindthemaskofabuse.com is a heart wrenching blog about a woman’s life of abuse.  She was raised by a narcissistic father, and a mother who rarely protected her from his verbal, mental , emotional and psychological abuse.  She endured molestation, both inside and outside the family setting, raped at the tender age of 11 years old.  This blog is written by an amazing person. A strong person battling recovery, anger and betrayal.   She battles C-PTSD and BDD.  Out of her pain two books were born and are published on Amazon  “Buckwheatsrisk-Abuse Survival”,  and a poetry book entitled “If I Could Write my Heart”  I salute you!
  17. Alison at http://happilyhomeless2.wordpress.com ‘s Handsome Husband died on the 21st of April from cancer.  She is going through a dreadful time.  She is angry, very angry… Alison I don’t expect you to do anything with this award but I am nominating you so you can know I am thinking of you.  Hugs of strength to you.
  18. Optie at http://walking-on-eggshells.com is another fellow South African whose blog I enjoy for her humour.  Optie has however also been an amazing friend – always leaving a little message of encouragement.  Thank you Optie.

RULES:

  1. Winners re-post this completely, with their acceptance speech. That could be written down or video recorded.
  2. Winners have the privilege of awarding the next awardees! The re-post should include a NEW list of people, blogs worthy of the award, and winners.  Notify them the great news.
  3. What makes a good acceptance speech?
    1. Gratitude. Thank the people who helped you along the way.
    2. Humour-Keep us entertained and smiling.
    3. Inspiration – Make your story touch our lives.
    4. Get an idea from the great acceptance speech, compiled in MomentMatters.com/speech
    5. Display the award’s badge on your blog/website, downloadable in MomentMatters.com/Award

I would like to encourage you to visit some of these blogs.  It will be a worthwhile visit…

What have I done?


I started fiddling on the Appearance etc links and changed the theme of my site!!   I have made booboos and don’t quite know how to fix it….  I have categories in twice – I am not sure whether the colour works!

ARGHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Photo credit: http://www.mediafocus.com/stock-photo-word-idiot-on-keyboard-rs112054183.html
Photo credit: http://www.mediafocus.com/stock-photo-word-idiot-on-keyboard-rs112054183.html

BEST MOMENT AWARD


BEST MOMENT AWARD

I would like to thank my dear friend Shaun, at prayingforoneday for this award. He ia an amazing person with a big heart and always ready to support and encourage.  Shaun suffers from Chronic Pain and despite living in debilitating pain, continues to be a source of support and encouragement for a great many of us. 

best moment award 

 

Awarding the people who live in the moment,
the noble who write and capture the best in life,
the bold who reminded us what really mattered –
Savouring the experience of quality time.

 

RULES:

  1. Winners re-post this completely, with their acceptance speech. That could be written down or video recorded.
  2. Winners have the privilege of awarding the next awardees! The re-post should include a NEW list of people, blogs worthy of the award, and winners notify them the great news.
  3. What makes a good acceptance speech?

Gratitude. Thank the people who helped you along the way.

Humour-Keep us entertained and smiling.

Inspiration – Make your story touch our lives.

Get an idea from the great acceptance speech, compiled in MomentMatters.com/speech

  1. Display the award’s badge on your blog/website, downloadable in MomentMatters.com/Award

 

My Acceptance:

I started blogging as a coping mechanism just after the doctors told us they could do nothing for Vic and my brave child decided “no more surgeries…”  I blogged Vic’s quest to die with dignity.  I now blog about my all-consuming grief and sense of loss.

As a child I changed schools 12 times in total.  Academically I coped by I did not cope with the emotional side of it.

I allow very few people close to me.  I find it hard to form bonds with people.  I always expect them to leave my live – I don’t think I suffer from Rejection issues – just separation issues.   It is easier to keep people at bay – If I don’t rely on people they cannot disappoint or hurt me.

On WordPress I found a safe world.  A world where people care and support.  If they leave, as many have, it is okay because they are faceless.  Yet there are people that have never wavered in their support and encouragement.

I have received a number of awards lately that I am busy accepting.  If you are not nominated here please just check my next posts.  I am taking my time because I truly want to acknowledge my blogging friends and their contribution in my journey.  I will nominate my friends in no particular or of importance…

Shaun, thank you again for this award,

My nominees are compassionate, caring people who all suffer their own pain and loss.  Please visit their blogs and I promise you will find goodness and bravery there!

Thank you all for allowing me to heal here.

Vic, this award is for you my precious, beautiful, brave baby girl.  I love you Angel Child!

The 15 people I award:

1.    UntraveledRoads

Jane is a wonderful blogger who writes about living through pain.

She so eloquently writes   “Not writing about how to grasp joy – just about trying to find joy through the labyrinth of pain. Because if I don’t keep joy in my sights, I will drown. It is about the space – like a sunlit meadow – beyond pain that one can reach – or grasp – or glimpse. A place of peace while pain drums in the background. Why try? Because if I do not, what is the point at all?

OK. So I don’t want to write about pain. I live with it. But it has been such an extraordinary journey with such unexpected bonuses that I must write about the plus side – the up side, the fun, humour and bittersweet of living with pain. The irony is that I don’t want it, but I wouldn’t return what I have learnt through it.”

I hope you accept this award!

2  http://grannyscolorful.wordpress.com/  Gloria lost her son, Tommy, when he collapsed at the beach (Myrtle Beach, S.C.) whilst playing with his little son, Taban.  He died with little Taban near him.  Tommy had 2 blockages in his heart that no one was aware of.

Gloria writes about her precious son Tommy and her grief.  Gloria has become a friend and has been such a source of encouragement and understanding.  Gloria has 1236 followers and yet she finds the time to read my blog and comment on my blog.  Thank you so much for caring!!  You are an amazing person!

Gloria recently published her book.  Good luck with the book dear Gloria.

3 http://thresholdofheaven.com/

Peter Wiebe has closed down his blog.  Yet I am compelled to nominate Peter for this award.

Peter wrote:  “My name is Peter Wiebe. I am a husband and father of 4 boys-the oldest of which has gone ahead of us to Heaven after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 10. I am a Christian and thus write from a Christian perspective. Although my faith was/is being severely tested by the loss of my firstborn son, my hope lies in Jesus Christ and all that the Bible teaches regarding Him, His death and resurrection, and our future hope of glory with Him. This blog is a journey through grief, about cultivating an eternal mindset in a temporary world, about all things related to faith, and life after death. I dedicate this blog to Jesse’s memory and hope that its contents will draw others nearer to God.”

I once wrote to Peter “I envy you your faith and peace.” Peter prays for me and I am so grateful for that.  How do I know?  I know because he still visits my blog and continues to encourage and support me.  Peter has become a wonderful cyber friend.  I am grateful for the healing that he found.  Thank you Peter!

4.  http://justiceforraymond.wordpress.com

Shirley is a brave mother fighting for justice after the suspicious death of her beloved son, Raymond.  She is fearless!  This lady is selflessly fighting for justice, not only for her son but for other innocent victims.

The reason for her blog is “Finding that one person who will step out to defend the innocent even when they are dead.  Help us tell Pennsylvania this needs an investigation, not just a cover-up. it is our sincere prayer to find the true cause of Ray’s death and help others who have experienced a similar crime.”

Shirley is a good cyber friend – always encouraging and supporting!  Thank you brave lady.  I pray that you will find closure and answers!!!

5.  http://thedrsays.org

 

Sandra is one of the bravest people I know.  She is dying from congenital heart failure.  She writes about her journey with terminal illness, impending death and her concern for leaving her husband Chris behind.  She is so like Vic!!  As brave, courageous, stubborn and loving!  Her blog fills me with so much sadness and yet it gives me an insight into Vic’s heart and mind.  I truly hope she will accept this award.  Sandra, thank-you for your love, support, advice and friendship.  You are one in a million!  I wish I could make the same difference in your life that you make in mine.

6. http://onewomansperspective02.wordpress.com 

Becky writes about her son, Jason (19), who died in a car accident.

In Becky’s own words:…. ”(Jason) A game player – chess (his absolute favorite), video games, volleyball, basketball,  board games. Intelligent – studying to be a computer engineer; tutored students in math. He gave great hugs and brightened up a room just by walking into it. A great young man; a wonderful son, brother, friend.

In a split second, he was gone and our lives were changed forever.

My goal for writing this blog is to promote understanding – for bereaved parents and for those around them. I do not claim to know what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes nor do I claim to speak as an expert on grief. I would not presume to know what anyone else is feeling nor what they are experiencing. Everyone is different; each situation is different; each grief and griever is unique. The only thing I know is what we experienced. But, if my speaking about what we went through can promote even a small degree of understanding, then I have accomplished what I set out to do.”

Thank you Becky for your kindness and support.  Thank you for your guidance and compassion.

7. http://johannisthinking.com –   This blog is filled with beautiful poetry.  The heart of this lovely blogger is contained in her own words “my heart bleeds with all those who lost their lives this day…and all who mourn their lost…WE can all do better…for the memory of all those who have died…let us try to BE our best selves always!”  Thank you for your friendship and support!  http://johannisthinking.com/category/poetry-solitude/

8. http://beebeesworld.wordpress.com – Beebee ia an advocate of Parent Heart Watch, an organization that promotes education on the prevention and care of those with heart issues.   Beebee’s 15 year old son died of a sudden heart attack whilst playing baseball. Beebee is a brave mother and has become a cyber-friend.  She writes beautifully and courageously.  Thank you BB for your kind words of encouragement.

9. http://forphilip.wordpress.com/2013/04/06/they-found-him-day-2-part-2/  Denise Smyth is the loving mother of two children, Philip and Natalie, who are (of course) the great loves of her life.

Denise writes “On February 23rd, 2012, I found out that my son, who had turned 21 the month before, died. It was sudden and unexpected. I was devastated, heartbroken, terrified, none of which comes close to describing what I really felt. It’s just the best I can do at the moment.”

Denise’s’ blog is a brave blog.  It is filled with raw emotion and unconditional love.

10. http://jmgoyder.com/  

Julie lives on a retired dairy farm in Western Australia with her “99.9% lovely, teenage son”.   Julie is a retired lecturer in English and Creative Writing at a local university.  Julie’s beloved husband Anthony has cancer, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

Julie blog is a beautiful love story filled with her fears and anguish of seeing her Anthony slip deeper and deeper into another world.  Julie arranges wonderful outings for Anthony and includes their friends in his world.  I admire her that she is not trying to “hide” her husband from the cruel eyes of the world.  Her love is unconditional and inspiring.  She writes beautifully and has been a great source of comfort to me.  Thank you dear friend for sharing your love and pain with us. 

Thank you for your kindness and friendship.  You are a very special person.

11.  http://lymphomajourney.wordpress.com

Andrew is the author of an e-book, Living with Cancer: A Journey,

This eBook captures his first three years of Lymphoma diagnosis, treatment, recovery, relapse, treatment, and again recovery. He keeps a daily personal journal to capture both the medical and personal things going on during this journey.  I find Andrew’s blog to be filled with not only facts but also his“journey”.  He is a very gifted writer.  Andrew has become a friend.  Thank you for your continued support Andrew!!

12.  http://behindthemaskofabuse.com  Zoe is a wonderfully gifted author who has had two books published on Amazon  “Buckwheatsrisk-Abuse Survival”,  and a poetry book entitled “If I Could Write my Heart”  Zoe has endured dreadful abuse, at every level, as a child.  Zoe is working so hard at healing…Zoe has 658 followers and receives lots of comments.  Yet, every day there is a “Hug” or “Like” message from her.  She has emailed me…Zoe, I appreciate your support and caring.  Thank you for taking the time to email me!

 

13.  http://doilooksick.wordpress.com/

Rachel referred to Vic as a “China Doll”…  How precious was that comment??   I was drawn to Rachel’s blog because she suffers from endometriosis.  Vic too suffered very badly from endometriosis… I recall the first time I read one of Rachel’s posts she wrote about the searing pain of endometriosis.  I was able to understand Vic’s pain better from Rachel’s blog.  Rachel’s blog is about music – as a coping mechanisme.  There are real good songs to listen to on this blog.

 

14.  http://tothatplace.wordpress.com/

Aarthi  dedicated  another beautiful poem to Vic and I –http://tothatplace.wordpress.com/2013/04/13/we-were-one/  Aarthi is one of my favourite poets and Vic and I enjoyed her work immensely.  Aarthi has become a compassionate friend.  Please visit Aarthi’s site (linked above) and read the beautiful poem honouring Vic.  Thank you Aarthi for your love, compassion, friendship and sharing your gift!!!  Thank you for bringing joy to Vic’s life when she found very little joy in living anymore.

15.   http://grammarofgrief.wordpress.com – Una

I am unable to articulate words for Una’s blog so I will use her own:  “When you’re stuck in the quicksand of grief, coming unstuck takes time, tenderness and a loving tribe. You’re feverishly seeking answers. What will help fix the plumbing of my leaky tear ducts? Will I ever feel normal again? How many weeks or months will it take for this awful, gut-wrenching pain to go away?

The Grammar of Grief is where I attempt to unscramble the craziness of grief for you. It is a resource for both the grieving and those who need tips and tools to support loved ones who are mourning. This is both your safe space and how-to resource. There’s room for everyone.”

Una has been a source of great comfort to me.  Thank you Una!

16. http://myjourneysinsight.com/

Judy Unger’s son, Jason, was born with a serious congenital heart defect called “Transposition of the Great Vessels.” As with most heart defects, his was “one of a kind.” Jason had surgery when he was two and a half months old. He had another one when he was five. He died following that surgery.

It doesn’t seem to matter that I addressed my grief for years and years after my son’s death.  Eighteen years later Judy finds it painful to write how it felt to have her beloved son’s soul amputated from her heart and body.

Judy writes beautiful songs and dedicated two songs to Vic:- “I know that soon you will leave” and “Never gone away”  http://myjourneysinsight.com/2012/12/20/how-will-i-ever-say-goodbye/  Judy is an incredibly gifted illustrationist.  She writes beautiful words and songs!  She has held my hand throughout Vic’s journey and now mine.  Thank you dearest Judy for your love, support and compassion.  One day we will meet!!

Lots of love and thanks to each and every one of you who has supported Vic and I in our journey.  She was grateful that I had found an “outlet” and support in Blogging!

Very Inspiring Blogger Award 2013


20130215045341Thanks to http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/the-very-inspiring-blogger-award/comment-page-2/#comment-2971 for THE VERY INSPIRING BLOGGER AWARD. Thank you Shaun!

Shaun suffers of Chronic Pain Syndrome yet devotes himself to creating a better world.  Shaun says “Love the people in your life, be happy, stay strong and always fight to better yourself. Some hide away and shy from the world, and live alone and die alone. We all are guilty, as if we reach out, others reach back. I reach out with every blog I do, and people do reach back.”  Pop in and read this incredible blog…

I now have to say 7 new things about myself:

  • 1. I love the sea.
  • 2. I am scared of spiders!
  • 3. I was born with wings on my feet.  I love travelling!
  • 4. I suffer from Airport Rage
  • 5. I fear Alzheimer’s!
  • 6. I don’t suffer fools lightly
  • 7. I love to learn about other cultures and areas of the world

I now have to name 15 people who I hope will share this award 

  1. http://namelessinthedust.wordpress.com
  2. http://johannisthinking.com/
  3. http://whatcherylsaid.wordpress.com
  4. http://dlmchale.com
  5. http://justiceforraymond.wordpress.com
  6. http://barefootbaroness.org/2012/02/25/1343/
  7. http://idealisticrebel.wordpress.com
  8. http://valeriedavies.com/
  9. http://wishwebber.com
  10. http://grannyscolorful.wordpress.com/
  11. http://buckwheatsrisk.com/
  12. http://myownheart.me/
  13. http://walking-on-eggshells.com
  14. http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/
  15. http://myjourneysinsight.com

The bloggers above have all have meaningful blogs that have enriched my life.  I consider them friends and am grateful for their love and support.  They are not the only bloggers that have supported me in my journey of grief but are the most frequent commenters.  Go give them a visit.

Thank you Shaun for the award and your continued support!

Liebster Award


liebster awardI want to thank Tracy Rydzy – http://ohwhatapain.wordpress.com/author/ohwhatapain/ for nominating me for the Liebster Award…Tracy suffers debilitating, chronic pain but bravely soldiers on with life.  I have great admiration for her and her blog.  Her blog gave me unbelievable insight into Vic’s pain.   Thank you Tracy!!

I graciously and humbly accept.

 Rules of The Liebster Award

1. You must thank the person who gave you this award
2. You must display the Liebster heart on your blog
3. You should nominate 7 other blogs
4. Each person must post 11 things about themselves
5. Answer the questions given to you by the blogger who nominated you
6. Create 11 questions for those you nominate to answer
7. Notify your nominees and provide a link back to your post.

As for the 7 blogs that I nominate:  This is so difficult as there are many bloggers that I follows slavishly.  They have become friends.  These bloggers have been such a source of support!  I hope I get another award soon, so I can pass it onto the rest of my favorite bloggers!

1-     http://beebeesworld.wordpress.com

2-     http://sophieandemile.wordpress.com/

3-     http://myjourneysinsight.com/

4-     http://thedrsays.org

5-     http://jmgoyder.com/

6-     http://ayannanahmias.com

7-   http://justiceforraymond.wordpress.com

8-   http://missmorgansmom.wordpress.com/

9-  http://writerightmel.wordpress.com

 

11 things about me:

1. I love to write. It is a coping mechanism

2. I smile and laugh when my heart breaks.
3. I love unconditionally
5. I love getting awards for my blog.
6. I have very few friends.
7. I love reality television…I am a reality junky.
8. I am a good gran
9. I love working – I am a workaholic
10. I think my husband is the most handsome man in the universe
11. I work in the arms industry

.My 11 questions: 

1) What inspired you to begin blogging?
My precious child’s final journey whilst dying.

2) What’s your favourite blog post ever published by you? (so I can go read it!)
Being Treated Like a Drug Addict and Pain is Not Pretty.

3) What’s your favourite hobby?
Working and my grandchildren

4) Cats or dogs and why?
I am not an animal person.  Cats freak me out.

5) Are you a city person or a country person?
I am a city girl longing to be a country girl…

6) Extroverted or introverted?

People think I am an extrovert but I am an “alone” person.  Very few people ever get close to me

7) Are you a good judge of character?
Yes

8) What is your favourite genre of music?
Classical and country

9) Are you a morning person or do you prefer the night?
I am a night owl

10) Warm colours or cold colours?
Depends on the outfit.

11) 2 things you’d be miserable without for a day?
Tea and my family

11 questions for my nominees:

1) Are you addicted to your STATS?
2) What country do you live in?
3) How many friends would you have on a major birthday party guest list?
4) What is your favourite post?
5) Who is your inspiration when writing?
6) Introvert or extrovert?
7) Why do you read my blog?

8) Favourite quote?
9) Favourite holiday location?
10) How long have you been writing?
11) Favourite TV show?

 

 

Wings of Stone


Johannesburg-20110817-00156

Reposted from http://sickocean.wordpress.com/2013/02/16/wings-made-of-stones/ – Aarthi is a very talented poet who manages to capture the essence of life and suffering.  Thank you Aarthi for your beautiful words.

she was forever alone
in her endless fights
through life and times
she stood where
she always was

embedded in earth
clad in stones
she was buried half
under the ground
in pain, in suffocation

her strongest wish was
to fly ever high
free herself and
reside in the sky
forever to come

her helplessness grew
her pain deepened
and her struggles rose
to new levels
deep within her soul

and she flapped
ever so hard
ridding herself of all the mud
and all that was keeping her
away from the vast blue above

and when she did come up
she realized that
her wings they were
made up of stones
of mud, of metallic bones

and she realized that
through years perhaps
or because of her birth
she was defined as
a woman made of stones.

i know this poem has a sad end.. and i usually prevent myself from writing this kind, but then the irony of life sometimes is that at some point in our struggles, and very rarely so, it does happen that we might be limited by what we have made ourselves or what we were born with… certain dreams tend to be impossible, certain hopes are meant to be thrashed… and though it is not the end of it, it is certainly an important aspect of life to be realized.  http://sickocean.wordpress.com/2013/02/16/wings-made-of-stones/

I know Vic is flying, feather light and unrestrained by pain.  Fly Angel Child!!

 

Lovely Blog Award


Lovely Blog Award

I was recently nominated for the lovely blog award and graciously accept. Thank you Tracy Rydzy for this nomination.  http://ohwhatapain.wordpress.com.

Tracy has opened my eyes to the world of the chronic pain sufferer.  Vic hides things from me because she tries to protect me.  I am so healthy and do not know or understand pain.  Tracy articulates pain and her journey beautifully and I am grateful to her for sharing her painful journey with the world.  It is such a valuable source of information!  It has given me an insight into the dark, fearsome world of pain.  Thank you Tracy and all the people who I nominated.  You and bloggers like Katie Mitchell – http://connectivetissuedisorders.wordpress.com, (who nominated Tracy), have made my world a better place.  I thank you all.

The Rules for The Lovely Blog Award:

– Thank the person who nominated you and link to them in your post.
– Share seven unknown things about yourself.
– Nominate other bloggers and blogs that you like or admire.
– Contact the bloggers you nominate to let them know and to link them back to your post.

1. I cry in the shower
2. I only learnt to cook after I got married – the 2nd time!
3. My ultimate career would be to be a spy.
4. I want to be the oldest person to ever skydive
5. I read the eulogy section in the newspapers
6. I feel guilty because I am so healthy.
7. I am a loner.

I have nominated the following bloggers because I enjoy their blogs very much and have found their information and comments helpful:

http://grammarofgrief.wordpress.com

http://thedrsays.org

http://ourlonggoodbye.wordpress.com

http://missmorgansmom.wordpress.com

http://dlmchale.com

http://poemattic.wordpress.com

http://fullcircledme.wordpress.com

I hope that you will take time out of your schedule to check out some of these beautiful bloggers.  It is truly inspiring.