Tag Archives: family

Need Help Keeping up with Friends?

Posted on by

Need Help Keeping up with Friends?Need help keeping up with friends?  Today I received a Valentine card from a sweet friend; a caregiver with far less time than I for what we often call the “extras”. Yet, somehow she knew I would need that touch of encouragement and hug.

I have a long list of cards I wish to send; calls I want to make; letters to write. I’m sure you have as well so here are a few tips to help us through the month feeling good.

These five simple steps will add hours to your week while keeping you in touch.

1. Place a large February calendar on a desk or counter where you will see it every day.
2. Set realistic goals for yourself. Will you be able to send one a day? Every other day? One or two each weekend?
3. Write on the calendar the names of those you plan to send. On the same calendar, write names of people you would like to call and encourage this month (only one per day).
4. Gather together blank note cards or postcards, pens, and adequate postage stamps. February is a great time to find inexpensive hearts and other small stickers to dress up your envelopes or cards.
5. Keep your address book nearby; if you find yourself with a little extra time one day, you could address several cards ahead. Note: we still have our old trusty Rolodex! As I type this, I realize some of you don’t have a clue what that is—ask someone older!

I found my calendar invaluable just this week; read details below.

J.C. on Facebook mentioned her father in another state whose failing health keeps him confined to his home. She included his address and asked her friends to send him an encouraging note, including a little about how we knew his daughter. When J.C. visits him in a few weeks, she plans to read all the letters and cards to him.  I added his name and address to my calendar so I will not forget to send the card. I will schedule another card later for both of them to encourage her as she helps him make decisions concerning his health and well-being.

Caregiving is a full-time job; whether family caregiver or not. It requires much planning and thought to include the outside world in your caring. It can be done; in fact, it can be fun!

Try it! You will soon observe others wondering how you ever get it all done! Just pat your calendar and smile. Way to go, girl! Take time to celebrate!

Hugs,

3 Simple, Doable Resolutions for Caregivers

Posted on by

Resolutions are not just about food and exercise.

Whether caregiver or busy parent, you may feel you have passed the time of resolving to make changes. After all, been there-done that! And, you may realize there just is no extra time or energy to give to another project.

And yet, a new year signifies new birth; a chance to begin again. Finding a simple, doable goal is like a dangling carrot in front of you; something to strive for; something to work toward.

Here are three helps to making resolutions doable.  Note: be sure to read the paragraphs following this list for some ideas on resolutions you can keep!
1. Spend a few minutes looking over your last year; what one thing would you change that could make this year go smoother? One thing, not two or three, just one. Would it be finding time for some personal endeavor, learning more about caregiving, understanding your role better? As best you can, determine what one thing has occupied your time and zapped your energy—your goal could be as simple as learning not to worry so much.
2. Begin with a short-term goal. Instead of resolving for the next year you will do such and such, begin with just one month at a time. You need to have an end in sight; a year is a long time to stay faithful to a goal. Reward yourself (perhaps not with chocolate shake and cookies) at the end of the month and start again the next month. You can increase your goal a bit if you have succeeded. Either way get ready for another exciting 30 day journey.
3. Find an accountability partner. This is so important. I have learned that, while I do not want to share everything with someone, I really do better if someone is there to hold me accountable for my actions. I have a friend whose gentle nudge helps me stay on track. She does not criticize; she just reminds me in some way of my goals and encourages my efforts. (Note: write me, I will be happy to walk along side you as you strive to reach your goals.)

Ideas for simple, yet life-changing goals..

a. If your goal is to accomplish something for yourself, schedule even fifteen minutes a day. For me, I have several new books I’m longing to read yet there is never enough time for such as that. So I am going to schedule myself fifteen minutes a day for reading my book. I will keep the book in a drawer by my easy chair and allow myself at least fifteen minutes of reading time. I know there will be days I can read more; however, even a few minutes will get me toward my goal.

b. If your goal is vague, let’s say for instance, you want to take better care of your parent, spouse, or other person you are caring for. Determine one thing you could do to become a better caregiver. I sought to learn more about my mother as I cared for her. As I begin to show a genuine interest in her as a person, she became easier to deal with. Meet the person where they are mentally, spiritually, physically.

c. If your goal is something about yourself, identify that. Are you a worrier? Is your goal to worry less? Then figure out what one thing you worry most about. Learn to daily put that one thing in God’s hands; He will take care of it and practice reminding yourself that it is in His hands and you can trust Him with the outcome.

I can sense some of my readers now: “Lady, if you just knew what I’m going through!” I know this, there is One who knows, who cares, and who provides.

Trusting Him to care for you. Let me hear from you, please.

Hugs,

Please leave a reply at the bottom of this article about your goals; I am anxious to hear them.

3 Simple, Doable Resolutions for Caregivers

Posted on by

3 Simple, Doable Resolutions for CaregiversThinking of you, dear friends, today. Wondering how it is in your world. Have you taken time to reflect on the season or are you weary, worn, and ready for a break!

Christmas, with all its activity, is still a time of wonder.

I pray that in the hustle and bustle of the season, you have not lost sight of the wonder of the Christ-child, born in a lowly manger so long ago. How he freely came, dwelt among us, gave his life for us, and paid the ultimate price that we might be free.

I pray today that you can and will enjoy that freedom regardless of the circumstances that surround you. If you are in a warm home reading this on your computer, you are far richer that many.

Even if you are stretched to the limit caring for others, you can count your riches: a chair to sit in; food to eat; a warm blanket at night.

And, should you feel you have nothing to give, you are giving everyday. Your life given to help others; your smile when nothing else will do; a gentle hug to one who needs to feel loved. You have much to give.

You, dear friend, are not just another name on a list. For me, you are a very special person; chosen to care for others.

You are an Answer to Prayer! Wow!

My heartfelt prayers today are for you, your family and those in your care. I ask for you peace, rest, and contentment.

I’m looking forward to a new year of sharing with you. Please do let me know what your needs are; how I can help you.

God bless you and keep you; and Merry Christmas!

Hugs,

I am so looking forward to hearing from you personally in the new year. I have a few surprises up my sleeve; you won’t want to miss out!