Not So Jolly Distraction

Distraction has played a very important role in helping me deal with my grief over the past year and a half. I'm all about a good diversion, to help take my mind off of the painful reality that my sweetheart no longer shares my life. They are usually pleasant and often include my grandchildren, who are my best distractors with their humorous antics! However, this week brought a new variety of distraction.

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Nothing like a surprise stomach virus to make a person forget about their broken heart! The sneaky, surprise-attacker arrived quietly, and suddenly pounced on me, like an ugly, uninvited stinkbug in the 0-dark:00 hours of the morning. My stuffed bear that had provided so much comfort in my early grief-stricken days was once again my companion as we rocked back and forth during the cramping, and my hot-water bottle was my new best friend! I was also so thankful for my comfy sweat pants that permitted me to carry around the warm, red, rubber bladder like a Hollywood baby bump! My natural childbirth, breathing techniques came in handy, as they automatically kicked in, to help me get through the waves of cramps that came every three to five minutes. The classic symptoms seemed like they would never end and it truly felt like the longest day and night of my life! Good times!

Whew!!! So thankful that that episode is behind me, as I have to confess, I was concerned that maybe it was something more serious than a 24 hour bug! I am surprised that it has taken all week to bounce back, but now I am looking forward to a brighter season. Looking back on last week and appreciating how blessed I am to have good health; I guess you could say, I had an attitude adjustment! Hopefully, my Christmas will include time to spend with my family and friends in the weeks ahead. Unlike my earlier sarcasm, I know there are "Good Times" to be had with the people I love, as we go through the holidays. Although it will be celebrated differently for me this year, I see it as a time to share and enjoy, not just something to endure! Thankfully, my life is full of pleasant distractions, no matter the time of year, and we will be blessed as we make more memories to cherish in the future!