Really stinky week

[NDM#1]

Hey guys!

I am having a really tough time this week. This time of year is always difficult for our family because of my husband's work schedule. For the last couple months and for a few more weeks, he works around the clock except for coming home to sleep for about 6 hours. This is especially hard on me because my kids have a medical condition that is very demanding in its "care management", and I don't have any help "managing"' since DH is not around.

I quit my job a couple weeks ago (rather long but amusing story), so for the moment I am uncertain how I am going to finish paying off my DVC membership. That has me on edge.

And a dear grandfather just passed away this week. So in addition to dealing with that loss, I also have out-of-town family coming to stay with us now during the numerous services, gatherings, etc.

Needless to say, I am really stressed out right now. Does anyone have any ideas (that don't cost money :) ) for unwinding a bit? Solutions that involve Disney in some capacity may prove to be the most effective considering that I am a self-acknowledged Disney freak, but other ideas are still welcome. I do need to do something. The muscles in my neck and shoulders are so tight that I am moving awkwardly. Any help is appreciated.

[SamIAm21]

First off, I'm really sorry for all your troubles right now. You have a plate-full that's for sure!

How about a long bubble bath and if you need some bubble bath, I'll be happy to send you some really good stuff -- no cost to you. I am LUSH addict and I have plenty to share! With that maybe a warm cider drink and a candle, even if you just have to sit it on the closed toilet seat. I personally don't have one of those big fancy tubs, so I make do. Some light background music, Disney music, holiday music or otherwise, is also recommended.

Tell someone you need just one hour... one smeasley hour to yourself. Make sure you run the tub and have everything set up first before beginning your hour!

[calypso*a*go-go]

And a dear grandfather just passed away this week. So in addition to dealing with that loss, I also have out-of-town family coming to stay with us now during the numerous services, gatherings, etc

I don't really have any advice for you but just wanted to say I understand completely how overwhelming these things can be when they all hit at the same time.

My sister passed away on Monday morning and I have to go out of town for a niece's wedding tomorrow...my first instinct was to cancel, but I felt like it would just create more unhappiness. So between grieving, packing, farming out the kids to make sure they get everywhere they need to be (they aren't going to the wedding and DH also works really long shifts so I'm relying on friends for rides), and taking our dog to the vet...it's kind of hard to keep everything pulled together.

So I guess you and I both need to take things one day at a time (or even one hour at a time) and hope/pray things get better soon. Hugs to you! :hug:

[Mouse Skywalker]

Hey guys!

I am having a really tough time this week. This time of year is always difficult for our family because of my husband's work schedule. For the last couple months and for a few more weeks, he works around the clock except for coming home to sleep for about 6 hours. This is especially hard on me because my kids have a medical condition that is very demanding in its "care management", and I don't have any help "managing"' since DH is not around.

I quit my job a couple weeks ago (rather long but amusing story), so for the moment I am uncertain how I am going to finish paying off my DVC membership. That has me on edge.

And a dear grandfather just passed away this week. So in addition to dealing with that loss, I also have out-of-town family coming to stay with us now during the numerous services, gatherings, etc.

Needless to say, I am really stressed out right now. Does anyone have any ideas (that don't cost money :) ) for unwinding a bit? Solutions that involve Disney in some capacity may prove to be the most effective considering that I am a self-acknowledged Disney freak, but other ideas are still welcome. I do need to do something. The muscles in my neck and shoulders are so tight that I am moving awkwardly. Any help is appreciated.J.L., I don't have any advice (except maybe watching a Disney video in a quiet room with candles). However, I just wanted to WISH you well in dealing with the loss of your Grandfather, and balancing all of the crazy demands on your time and schedule. Hang in there.

[scarlett873]

I don't really have any advice for you but just wanted to say I understand completely how overwhelming these things can be when they all hit at the same time.

My sister passed away on Monday morning and I have to go out of town for a niece's wedding tomorrow...my first instinct was to cancel, but I felt like it would just create more unhappiness. So between grieving, packing, farming out the kids to make sure they get everywhere they need to be (they aren't going to the wedding and DH also works really long shifts so I'm relying on friends for rides), and taking our dog to the vet...it's kind of hard to keep everything pulled together.

So I guess you and I both need to take things one day at a time (or even one hour at a time) and hope/pray things get better soon. Hugs to you! :hug:Oh Lisa...i'm so very sorry...

NDM...I don't have any advice aside from a long drawn out bubble bath with some Disney tunes in the background...but I also wanted to send along some {{{{{hugs}}}}}

[edamethyst]

Take a nice long walk. Getting outside, clearing your head and just walking. Even have a friend meet you, take a nice big cup of hot chocolate and just get outside.

[exwdwcm]

hugs to you! no real advice other than to say hang in there and just focus on your next trip to the mouse! I hope things get easier soon for you.

[disprincessatheart]

For me listening to SOarin and the music from the France movie always clear my head and put my mood right. Try your favorite disney ride or show songs to help you de-stress! Or make some disney treats - I make mickey shaped cookies or rice krispy treats! :thumbsup2

[tammyroo]

NDM....So sorry for your loss and stress you're under.
A few things that I've found helpful (I'm a therapst so these are things I not only recommend to my clients but I also practice them myself)...
One is relaxation...go to a quiet room, sit or lay down, breathe deeply into your belly and imagine yourself in a "happy, peaceful" place...do that for as long as time allows. As you practice, learn to relax each muscle starting from your toes to your head.
Second, write in a journal. I find gratitude journals helpful because it helps to focus on the good things and not all of the negative. List 5 things you're grateful for. Or, just use it to vent whichever is helpful.
And, of course, do what you're already doing which is reaching out for support.
Good luck and I hope your 2009 is better than your 2008!

[daneenm]

Hey guys!
I am having a really tough time this week. ...
Needless to say, I am really stressed out right now.


My sister passed away on Monday morning :hug:

So sorry you are both having such a hard time. My thoughts are with you.

[beachwarmer]

No advice but my thoughts are with both of you.

:hug:

[DVCsince02]

Ladies, I am so sad to hear you are having such a tough time. Hugs to you both.:grouphug:

[jeanigor]

:grouphug: From me to you, both. :grouphug:

[dpuck1998]

http://www.chins-n-quills.com/forums/images/smilies/63.gif

[Geef]

I try to remember that Gods in control. Talk to him through prayer, and let him take the lead.


I'll be praying for both of you. Just remember that in this world we'll always have trouble, but take heart, He has overcome the world.
I totally agree!!!

[Renysmom]

Jump over to You Tube, search Disney and see what you get… I can get lost for hours watching all the different videos associated with Disney. My favorites are the surprise we are going to WDW and the Engaged at WDW videos.

[SamIAm21]

Jump over to You Tube, search Disney and see what you get… I can get lost for hours watching all the different videos associated with Disney. My favorites are the surprise we are going to WDW and the Engaged at WDW videos.

Another great idea... I find myself doing this a lot! It's a great little mini-escape!! :thumbsup2

Calypso, I posted before you did earlier and I wanted to add that I'm so sorry for your loss as well.

[halliesmommy01]

Lisa and NDM,

I am sorry for both of your losses. I hope you both have a better week next week.I will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Becky

[Decorated_Dust]

Aww, NDM. That has to be hard. I'll be praying for you through everything. I don't know what to say about dealing with the loss of a loved one on top of everything else.

The best advice I can give is what I have done recently through rough times in my own life. Nothing will make it go away, but at least there will be silver linings among it.

1) Solidify your relationship with God, and write down all of the things He has done in your life to remind He is there;

2) Listen to "A Whole New World" or "Beauty and the Beast" until you're absolutely sick of it.

3) Find an outlet. For me it's piano, but anything creative or uncreative will do. If you can't think of anything, try starting a paint by numbers.

4) Talk to people, whether it be people on the boards or friends/family.

5) Read a biography about others in simular situations. I remember I watched "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" at a difficult time in my life and it helped immensely. Right now, I'm reading the biography of Walt Disney. He went through a lot of hard times, but he made it through. Although I'm sad he never really found God, he did triumph over adversity and make it to the other side.

These things have gotten me through some pretty stressful times. I was going to say play Rock Band, but I'm not sure if that's your thing. :)

I'll be praying for both of you. Just remember that in this world we'll always have trouble, but take heart, He has overcome the world.

[calypso*a*go-go]

I'm sure NDM#1 will come back to this thread as soon as she gets a chance, but I just wanted to thank everyone that has wished me well and also want to apologize to our favorite Neurotic Disney Mom as I didn't mean to hijack her thread, but it presented an opportunity for me to give an update on my sister's situation and I had been unsure about an appropriate way to do it (I was so afraid someone might ask me how she was doing during chat last night and I didn't want to make anyone uncomfortable). So thank you Neuro Mommy...and again, I'm very sorry. :hug:

[IWISHFORDISNEY]

What a tough situation. I would opt for a hot bath with Dis Radio in the backround. Simple but relaxing. ((HUGS)) on the loss.

Lisa I am so sorry to hear about your sister.

[zan65]

So sorry for your losses, NDM#1 and Calypso*a*go-go, and for the additional stresses you're experiencing. I would concur with the advice on this thread. Personally, I think music (esp. DIS radio -- thanks Pete!) is a welcome distraction to stressful situations. Whatever you choose, know that we are all thinking of you. :grouphug:

[NDM#1]

Oh WOW! I just got back to check the thread . . . I've been "hosting" out-of-town family. I'm a little overwhelmed by the incredible responses. I'm teary-eyed as I read them. Thank you so much! What a great community! I love all of these ideas. I'm going to have to make myself slow down and try some of these things (being neurotic, slowing down is not my strong suit):headache: . But I will purpose to take hot bubble baths (the heat would probably be good for my tight muscles), light candles, listen to Disney soundtracks, drink hot cocoa, plan my vacation and take walks (although I might just walk in the mall since it is horribly cold outside) over the next few weeks. I especially love the suggestions of taking time to pray as well as journal. When I was writing my neurotic book, I did find it to be a little therapeutic.

Dear Lisa, there is nothing to apologize for. If any of my sisters were to pass away . . . well, I just can't even discuss such a hypothetical situation. It's too upseting. I can only imagine the intense pain you must be going through, and I wish I could shoulder some of that for you.

While the loss of our grandfather is sad, it was not unexpected. He was 94 years old, and he mentioned on many occassions that he was looking forward to passing on into heaven. So in some respects, I feel a sense of gladness for him. But your loss sounds extremely distressing and worthy of every condolence. Who cares what thread it is expressed on? In fact, I'm thankful that I got to provide the thread for you.

Please accept my sincerest sympathies. You are such a giving and caring person on this board. It seriously pains me that such a fantastic person has to deal with such a loss.

And you are right. We should both just take it day by day, moment by moment. I'm thankful for a great gathering of friends here that we can count on for support while we do this. And I'm thankful for your expression of empathy in the midst of your great pain.

I'm in awe of all of you.

[MerriePoppins]

My sister passed away on Monday morning and I have to go out of town for a niece's wedding tomorrow...my first instinct was to cancel, but I felt like it would just create more unhappiness. So between grieving, packing, farming out the kids to make sure they get everywhere they need to be (they aren't going to the wedding and DH also works really long shifts so I'm relying on friends for rides), and taking our dog to the vet...it's kind of hard to keep everything pulled together.



Lisa, So sorry to hear about your sister. :grouphug:

[calypso*a*go-go]

Lisa, So sorry to hear about your sister. :grouphug:

Thank you, Susan. :hug:

NDM#1 -- I think you and I need to have some chocolate...stat!!! :goodvibes

[NDM#1]

Thank you, Susan. :hug:

NDM#1 -- I think you and I need to have some chocolate...stat!!! :goodvibes

Yes, m'am! I'm all over it :)

[NC Belle]

:grouphug: NDM#---We are so sorry for your loss.




:hug: Lisa



I wished that I could give you both some of the comfort food that I made today---homemade turkey/beans/orzo chili soup (no real name for this latest soup) and brownies that I swirled in some pb and then towards the end of the baking topped it with marshmellows.

[Emma1]

Lisa and NDM,

Don't forget to take some time for yourselves as well. We can get run down so easily trying to take care of everyone around us. In a few days it will be 15 years since my Dad passed away. We are praying for you both and your families.

[YellowMickeyPonchos]

[QUOTE=NC Belle;28829296I wished that I could give you both some of the comfort food that I made today---homemade turkey/beans/orzo chili soup (no real name for this latest soup) and brownies that I swirled in some pb and then towards the end of the baking topped it with marshmellows.[/QUOTE]

Oh Belle - that sounds like the best meal for a week like this. I think I may actually make some of those brownies today! They sound like they could help to heal the pain from anything!

[MerriePoppins]

NDM#1
Bubble baths, chocolate, good movies, podcasts......and sending pixie dust your way...pixiedust:

Sorry for your loss....hoping you feel better soon. :goodvibes