Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: keberoxu
Date: 31 Aug 17 - 02:34 PM

Joining the rest, Janie, in thanking you for reaching out to us -- it is an honor to support a caregiver like yourself.

Nigel, hope the hospital does not hang you out to dry for much longer.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Donuel
Date: 29 Aug 17 - 03:58 PM

I gotta quit smokin....again

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: gnu
Date: 29 Aug 17 - 03:53 PM

Still chillaxin' in the Great Green Fly Infested North Woods. I check in but don't have the energy or will to post much. Carry on. Smoke 'em if ya got 'em.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Pete from seven stars link
Date: 27 Aug 17 - 12:03 PM

Paradoxically , Jamie , your worrying that you are thinking of your own needs is rather evidence of how caring you are , and I suspect you are a great help to people you are caring for . With a prayer that you will pace yourself , and have rest and energy for the rest             Blessings all          Pete

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 11:03 PM

Such lovely, and loving, word images you paint of your grandmother, Tami. Thank you.

I can barely stand to watch or read the news regarding Harvey. So much suffering all over the world.

I need joy.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 08:34 PM

Sandra, by now I've seen those Harvey images and videos on tv, and they're horrifying. I always wonder if I was told to evacuate, would I? I'm pretty sure I would as quickly as possible. And if everything I owned was lost, I think I'd have a nervous breakdown!

Nigel, having prepared yourself emotionally for surgery only to have it postponed must be draining. I admire your concern for the cancer patient. When you have a new date, please let us know.

Janie, please take care of yourself. I'm glad you could tell us about your situation. You are aware of the help available to caregivers in your area. Use it and don't feel bad that you can't do everything without help. Of course, whatever help is available can't possibly be enough. Take all the advice and comfort you have given others and apply it to yourself. And stay in touch with us. Even if we can't be "there" for you, we're "here" for you.

Tami, I'm glad you have a plan for your grandmother's ashes. Because of your work, you must have several beautiful sites in mind. Indeed, it sounds like you do. She's lucky, your gran.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: frogprince
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 07:44 PM

(((Janie))) amen to what Tami said. I don't know that one person could possibly do all that their heart might be tugged to do under these circumstances.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ranger1
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 05:44 PM

Janie, you need to have those "me" moments. Otherwise you can't be there for others. Self-care is needed in order for us to help take care of others. It's not selfishness, it's survival. And you know this, dear one. So make the post and absorb the comfort and love to be found here.

And on a totally different tack, my mom handed off my share of my grandmother's ashes to me Tuesday AM at our biweekly breakfast out together. I will scatter them in beautiful places that I know she loved or would have loved to visit. The first place will be on the island that is an osprey nesting sanctuary at the park I work at, once the ospreys leave for the year. And some will go to Popham Beach, where I once took her. She hated having her picture taken, but she was so absorbed in beachcombing and watching the breakers roll in that she never noticed me taking half a dozen photos of her. She was so cute in her little blue rubber boots and her rain jacket. And other places will call her name in time. In the meantime, her urn is on my kitchen windowsill, with the birds, wildlife, and wildflowers in full view.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 12:45 PM

So, Nigel, cozy up in that chair with this warm cup of tea while you wait. There are some youngster seabirds wheeling around and occasionally landing up in the rigging that are fine and fun to watch.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 12:31 PM

Thinking today of a book I read many years ago by Joan Borysenko, "Guilt is the Teacher, Love is the Lesson."

I'm a natural born caregiver. It is in my DNA. One of the hardest things for many of us so constructed is to ask for support for ourselves when we need it to be able to continue to care for others.

From my life as a social worker I am acutely aware of how abundant the circumstances of my own life have always been, even during personally difficult times. You folks are part of that abundance.

So I feel guilty and narcissistic reaching out to say that I can use some good thoughts and support for myself right now. I feel like I ought to be asking for good thoughts and prayers for those I am supporting instead of support for myself, but I'm gonna take the 'lesson' seriously, and ask for what I need. Since I retired from clinic practice I no longer have the support and ear of colleagues and friends in the same field and who are much like me to lean on and help me keep perspective.

4 people I am very close to are facing end of life issues. They expect and need for me to be fully present with and for them, and that is what I want and need to do for them. But I am often feeling overwhelmed with sadness and fear that I am not equal to the task and will fail them, or somehow try to meet my own needs through them to their detriment. I'm spending way too much time questioning myself and my motives, or feeling like a young child lost in the wilderness.

This is a hard post for me to make. Because it is about me and not about the greater needs of these 4, dear people. Thing is, I know I am up to the work I have been given to do, but only if I reach out to ask for the support I need.

Thanks, Y'all.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 11:47 AM

Thank you, all for your kind thoughts. My surgery was cancelled, early Friday morning; a cancer patient needed urgent attention. So, the waiting begins again...the hospital said they would endeavour to reschedule within the next week or two. I'm left thinking about the cancer patient...did all go to plan? Was this their first operation? Does the future now look brighter for them? I'll never know...just hope they are doing well.
          Thank you, once again,
                                                Much Love to everyone,
                                                                                     Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 26 Aug 17 - 10:10 AM

photos

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 25 Aug 17 - 10:58 PM

Great photos, Sandra. I only looked at the top set but will go back later. I did see one taken in Ballarat. I've been watching the Dr. Blake series which is set there.

My thoughts, too, are with Nigel, and I'm looking forward to his next post.

My thoughts are also with the people along our Gulf Coast, especially those in Texas. There's a new thread about Texas. I hope everyone can weather this storm. Hurricane Harvey sounds dreadful.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 25 Aug 17 - 08:13 PM

There is a cozy, soft chair and a cup of tea waiting for you on deck, Nigel, assuming the seas are relatively calm otherwise and the wind not too brisk. Otherwise, we will move it and you down into the cozy galley, near the song circle, so you can join in or simply relax and listen - whatever suits.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: keberoxu
Date: 25 Aug 17 - 02:03 PM

Thinking of Nigel today.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 25 Aug 17 - 06:16 AM

it's 25th Aug already here in the land of Oz ...

beautiful photos to look at while waiting

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 23 Aug 17 - 10:30 PM

Refresh!

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Pete from seven stars link
Date: 21 Aug 17 - 10:59 AM

Sounds like a worthy music project Nigel .

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: gnu
Date: 18 Aug 17 - 06:49 PM

I check in. Kinda busy. Nuff said. Keep the faith.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Donuel
Date: 18 Aug 17 - 12:50 PM

Who is that bastard who came up with the phrase 'going under the knife'?

Gall bladder surgeries are the deepest intrusions.
Nigel yours is simple and far away from everything important.
There will be things you will actually enjoy
So enjoy

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 18 Aug 17 - 12:32 PM

ranger1, your use of the words: "... beautiful, sweet, loving..." in the context of your neice's birthday are so heartfelt, they cannot fail to comfort.

"In the midst of death we are in life" ( John Marsden)

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ranger1
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 08:20 AM

Nigel, it probably doesn't help ease the pain, but one of my beautiful, sweet, loving nieces turns 23 today.

Good wishes headed your way.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 07:01 AM

Hugs received & reciprocated in abundance, Sandra.
Janie, I found a version that DOES play in the UK...I'd forgotten just how beautiful it was. "Isn't that what Friends are For?" is the perfect choice for today too; your ESP is working well!
Gnu, making it so, slow & steady, but making it so..(wouldn't that be a great line for a song?)
                                        Love to All,
                                                         Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 05:22 AM

sending hugs

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 05:11 AM

Thank you, all, for your good wishes...the posts, emails & PMs. Surgery is scheduled for 25th August.
Janie, unfortunately, that version of the song is not playable in the UK, but no matter, I know it well & it's a lovely thought.
Today, 17th August is the anniversary of the passing of my first Wife...almost too many memories with which to cope.
                                                Love to You All,
                                                                        Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 10 Aug 17 - 12:48 AM

Sending good thoughts. Isn't That What Friends Are For.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 06 Aug 17 - 08:00 PM

you have a good health system & excellent doctors (they listen to you!)

best wishes for your speedy recovery

sandra

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: gnu
Date: 06 Aug 17 - 11:51 AM

Make it so, Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 06 Aug 17 - 04:53 AM

Rap, I have good doctors. By 'good' I mean they seem to know their stuff AND they listen to my concerns & answer my questions. I do what they tell me & thus far, it has worked for the pre-op routine. I am most troubled by the thought of a general anaesthetic.

Pete, not much composing at the moment, but I'm using the time to work with a friend who is developing an app to enable severely disabled folk create their own music; melody & harmony.

Chantey, you're right, not much fun around right now. By the end of the year, I should be in better shape.

Thank you All for writing...it means a great deal to me,
                                                                                        With Love,
                                                                                                       Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 05 Aug 17 - 05:30 PM

Aw, Nigel, that's no fun. I hope your health improves and you can reschedule your trip.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Pete from seven stars link
Date: 05 Aug 17 - 05:06 PM

Sorry to hear that Nigel ; any music projects lately ?

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Rapparee
Date: 05 Aug 17 - 01:47 PM

Do what the doctor(s) tell you to do. Neither thing is very much fun.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 05 Aug 17 - 05:49 AM

Thanks, ChanteyLass, it is so often you who pops our thread back to the top of the list. I wouldn't mind a little TLC at the moment...struggling with Diverticulosis & Large Vessel Vasculitis. A very limited, 'low residue' diet (soo boring!) with surgery just around the corner. Summer holiday in Greece cancelled...not a very happy bunny.
                               Love to All,
                                                 Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 04 Aug 17 - 08:49 PM

I hope lack of postings on this thread means everyone is well, but I doubt that's possible. This is one of the kindest below-the-line Mudcat threads which offers encouragement and sympathy to those feeling unwell.) That explanation is for Mudcat newbies who may not know this thread's purpose.)

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 28 Jul 17 - 09:04 PM

Remember, Rap, pride goeth before a fall--a fall in the temperature and humidity, I hope.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Jul 17 - 10:26 AM

It's supposed to climb to 81F by 1 p.m., right now it's 66F with 67% humidity. My humility is 100%, of which I am very, very proud.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Donuel
Date: 26 Jul 17 - 09:27 AM

In DC the humidity is often 100% while the humility is 0%

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 26 Jul 17 - 07:33 AM

Up She rises...

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 23 Jul 17 - 07:22 PM

Refresh!

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 19 Jul 17 - 04:27 PM

88F or 32C here with high humidity. Walking outdoors is like walking through a pan of warm broth cooled just enough to eat safely. We had a break in the humidity on Friday which followed several days like this. It's only July. I'm dreading August.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Jul 17 - 05:06 AM

Yes, it's the humidity that gets me every time. Need to get to the coast, but not possible at the moment. Keep cool, Rap 😅

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Rapparee
Date: 18 Jul 17 - 11:13 PM

35 C. here. Has been for days and will continue so for the foreseeable future. Unlike Great Britain, though, here in the high desert county it's a dry heat.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 18 Jul 17 - 11:20 AM

Could do with a 'refresh' in hot, humid London. Energy sapping, 30℃ 🌞

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 17 Jul 17 - 04:32 PM

Refresh!

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 15 Jul 17 - 06:57 AM

Bravo, ranger1 for saving your colleagues.
Janie, echoing frogprince's "exquisite"...beautiful arrangement, beautifully performed. I'm not surprised you were deeply moved.
Underscoring YIPPEE! for Rap & Pat.
                                                            Love & Greetings from sunny London,
                                                                                                                         Nigel.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: gnu
Date: 08 Jul 17 - 05:56 AM

Wonderful news, Rap!

Thanks, Janie.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: frogprince
Date: 06 Jul 17 - 08:11 PM

Exquisite, (((Janie))).

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Janie
Date: 06 Jul 17 - 12:58 AM

Stumbled across this tonight. Brought up sorrow I've held back for several years.

In memory of of some one. Wish I could have helped them remember spring would come.
Lo How a Rose/ The Rose

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: ranger1
Date: 04 Jul 17 - 08:17 PM

The issue in Maine was partly due to us vs them mentality, and partly due to our governor being a petty tyrant. He got his way, they signed the budget, and I got to make the call recalling our two "non-essential" crew members back to work this AM.

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 03 Jul 17 - 08:51 PM

thanks, Chanteylass

I love this comment -
As long as the RI legislature continues to elect speakers who work in real estate we shall continue to have policies that are based on a misunderstanding of the economy. In addition, most corruption in the USA is based on real estate, and having real estate industry members in leadership guarantees a corrupt atmosphere.

Real estate workers are very prominent in political life in Australia! One of our most prominent (in court again at the moment) is notorious for his over-the-top wedding that illegally blocked off streets, as well as voting on matters concerning his own properties.