Decluttering
As the sun sets on 2019 and looking forward to 2020, I felt the need to get rid of piles of things I no longer need. Clutter in my room caused me to feel cluttered in my head. My amazing daughter heard me express the desire and helped me “declutter” my master bedroom yesterday. I had piles on my desk, by my bed, by the wall, and drawers I hadn’t looked in in over two years. I was overwhelmed by it all because I am unable to physically bend, lift, and haul out stuff. Working together, I rested in bed while Christie handed me piles of papers, books, tote bags, shoes, and all kinds of other things so I could toss them, or tell her to put them in a donation pile. She kept hauling out trash and filling more kitchen sized trash bags.
I parted with project supplies as I determined that with my physical disability and limited energy, I was not likely to ever complete the projects. When I was torn about whether or not to keep something, Christie gently asked me if I would ever use it again. We filled 10 large trash bags full of things to donate, 10 large bags to take to the dump, and made a three foot by 2 foot high stack of books to take to half price books. AMAZING! I feel so much lighter with more energy now that the clutter is gone. Thank you Christie!
Getting rid of the old and starting new felt appropriate at this time of year. Everyone is reflecting on 2019, and looking forward to 2020. I highly recommend decluttering as a way to get ready for 2020. Here is an article on the benefits of decluttering with tips on how to do it. https://www.becomingminimalist.com/creative-ways-to-declutter/
My life before and after big life changes
In the past, I often referred to my life before I became a PT and after (before I stayed at home with my young children, baked bread, cooked all of our meals, sewed most of the kids and my clothing, gardened, etc. After, I worked full time, only cooked a big meal once a week on Sunday, and purchased more clothing than I sewed).
I am entering a new phase that I could define as “before and after cancer,” or “before and after losing my mobility.” Before, I worked full time, worked on my PhD after work and on weekends, worked with kids at church, did my best to maintain the house, went shopping, rushed here and there, etc. After, I go to doctor appointments, read books, blog on my computer, and …… (still get to decide).
2020: bonus year!
I wasn’t supposed to be here for 2020, so this is a bonus year! It’s true, I can no longer physically do many things, but I am excited about the time I have to do things I never imagined doing! What a gift this time is! I can do whatever I want with no other demands of my time. Cooking and laundry? Nope. Dishes? Nope! Housecleaning? Nope! I don’t have the guilt I used to feel when I knew I should be getting those chores done. Because….I physically can’t. Being a card carrying member of the cancer club has advantages! Now that my dissertation is done, a huge burden is lifted. I am smiling with excitement about the possibilities of 2020.
Highs and lows of 2019
The sun is setting on 2019 and everyone is looking back at the highs and lows of the year. For me, 2019 was a wonderful year. Of course, It had lows (terrible, constant pain, losing my mobility), but the highs were exquisite. Highs included: Living to see my son’s wedding, gaining a daughter in law, becoming a grandmother, accomplishing my PhD goal, and experiencing love from family and friends. My faith is stronger because God heard and answered my every cry for help so that I could endure pain. The great times were so much more exquisite because I experienced suffering. I know I can endure anything, and that things always get better. I am grateful for that lesson from 2019.
Choosing Joy
To read more about how I started the practice of “choosing joy” (hint, I did not embrace the idea at first!), follow this link: https://juliesnotdyingtoday.com/choose-joy-journal/
I have had a couple of years now to practice this choose joy thing. I am now able to feel so much joy in the sometimes mundane or unappreciated things. For example, I’m grateful for an ER that lifts me from feeling like I am dying, to feeling well again. I feel joy seeing the smile of my doctor, the laughter of my grandson, the hug of my daughter, a warm meal from my husband, a good night’s sleep, and an answered prayer.
Kim says
Very encouraging blog. I’m working on clutter and feel inspired after reading this.
I look forward to following your journey and will begin praying for you. Your outlook is a blessing.
Julie Shill says
Thank you Kim! Your prayers mean so much to me! Thanks for following.
Julie