Tag Archives: caring for family

Caregiver Hope: Yearning for Greener Grass?

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Caregiver Hope: Yearning for Greener Grass?

Help, I’m drowning!

“…is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow…when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.” (James 1:2-4, TLB)

Okay, so I admit it! I can almost see your expression as you read that verse. Your thoughts are running something like this:

“Hey, lady! The first part is correct. My life IS full of difficulties and temptations; and you don’t know the half of it. I’m at my wits end and no help in sight. You really expect me to find a blessing? And top that off by being happy?”

This week’s drastic weather changes have added to the daily stress of caring for family and others. Here in the Ozarks we can literally wade in our back yard and might consider building a boat. On the other hand, some of my readers would pay a big price to get a few drops of precious rain on their parched lands.

Some days are just plain too long!

I recall those days when the only blessing I could envision was my bed at night; that is, if I thought I would be able to muster the strength to get into it. Through the years I learned the value of identifying at least one blessing before I went to bed. Maybe my blessing was simply surviving another day. As time went on, a blessing might be remembering a soft smile when I kissed a cheek. Sometimes it was simply the smell of freshness on that last load of laundry for the day.

Close your eyes for even two minutes–yes, just TWO minutes! Sit up straight, breathe deeply and exhale slowly. Relax. Thank the Lord that He has promised never to leave you or forsake you. Thank Him for fresh air and freedoms and abilities to help others. Thank Him for His blessings.

News Flash: For You!

By the way, did you know that YOU are one of His blessings? Yes, you are!

As we continue this journey together, I trust I will be an encouragement to you; just a nudge to let you know you are not in this alone. Be assured I have prayed for each person reading this including you. Thank you for caring and sharing.

For more encouragement and practical help, consider working through the discussion guides in the second edition of MY MOTHER MY CHILD with a friend or family. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Hugs,

Feel free to share this trailer with others who have not yet read MY MOTHER MY CHILD. Thanks.

Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays

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Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays‘Tis the season for holiday treats. Caring for family and others can get complicated as you work to provide healthy alternatives when the focus seems to be on elaborate, calorie-laden foods.

Here are some ideas for trimming calories and sugar while still providing ready-to-eat snacks. With careful shopping and a little planning ahead, you can be the caregiver in the know!

1. If your situation calls for the familiar fudge and cookie scene, consider the size of servings. Make your fudge thinner and cut smaller cubes. Making other candies and cookies, do the same. This really will make a huge difference for those who just grab a cookie or two as they pass the dish!
2. Consider pop corn as an alternative. Use air-popped corn and drizzle with almond bark while still hot. You can add sliced almonds, crushed peppermint pieces, or chopped dried fruit pieces for variety. Experiment with herbs or cheeses like Parmesan sprinkled on warm popcorn.
3. Keep veggies handy in the refrigerator. Celery sticks with cream cheese or peanut butter make a great snack. Use a low calorie dip or yogurt for your carrot sticks, broccoli, and cauliflower.
4. Don’t forget to use dairy products. Cheese cubes or cheese sticks are a good snack providing calcium and protein. Boiled eggs are another good item to have on hand as a quick snack without adding unwanted calories.
5. Chips are a popular snack but can provide too much sodium and fats. Look for some fabulous newer products such as humus chips (try them before you snub your nose!) or reduced sodium varieties. Note: reduced fat products often have increased sodium so read the labels before buying. Consider fresh salsa as a nutritious dip.

Here are a couple of bonus tips I have found most helpful for our family. First, use foods that take longer to eat; such as an orange that has to be peeled first or nuts that have to be cracked.
The second tip goes with number one above: smaller servings. Think smaller servings in all your snacks like individual pudding or fruit cups or mini tarts with fruit.
Another simple way to cut calories is to use almond bark and add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds and chopped dried fruit. Spread thin and break into small pieces when cool. Soothes the sweet tooth with fewer calories with the addition of nutritious fruit and nuts.

Have a great holiday as you care for others; let me hear your ideas.

Hugs,

Safe Place to Share and to Learn

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Safe Place to Share and to LearnWhere you can go now to get information and share information.

As we look at statistics about caregivers and who they are, think about your own situation or someone you know who is caring for someone on a regular basis. Where do you go for help? Who will understand? I want to share a great place to find some help and encouragement.

A few statistics about family caregivers.

Three out of four family caregivers who care for someone over the age of 18 either work now or have been working while providing care. Two thirds have had to either give up their jobs or have made adjustments to their work life. One in five family caregivers have had to take a leave of absence.

Family caregivers spend an average of twenty hours a week caring for their loved ones. Many provide 40 hours a week or more.

You are not alone in your situation.

We can easily see that we are not alone in our struggles to care for others and ourselves. Years ago, I felt like I was the only person who would understand my frustrations and yes, even my joys. I would have benefited much from someone who had walked the path before me.

Two lessons I learned when caring for Mother.

Often we get overloaded and stressed out when we are not aware of helps available. I have learned two great lessons through my caregiving years:

1. I cannot do everything myself either physically or mentally.

2. It is worth my time to learn what others are doing in my situation; to explore options.

Here is information about my favorite caregiving website.

I have found this website to be full of helpful ideas and solutions from those who have been in a similar situation and learned from it.

This on-line resource has undergone some upgrades recently; there are many free articles, videos and e-books available as well as items to purchase. There are even contests and games if you have time for a little diversion.

I was privileged to write a few articles for some of their gift book series. The website address for Caregiving.com is http://www.caregiving.com and I think you will find it helpful.

For most of us, finding a safe place to chat and share our hearts is all we need. Talking things out is often the best answer to our problems. Please do let me know if this is helpful to you.

Hugs,

Looking forward to hearing from you; you are an encouragement to me. Watch for great news coming soon; you’ll be the first to know!