Thank you to all who have reached out with messages, calls and visits. Thank you to all who have shared their medical expertise. Thank you for the drives to the ferry, from the ferry and back again. Thank you to the Home Exchange Community for an awesome place to rest. Thank you to all who have helped in ways too numerous to mention. Richard and I remain grateful to have you in our lives.
Prior to retirement, I lived and worked in Beijing China for fourteen years (Middle School Principal/Deputy Director at The Western Academy of Beijing). Leaving international life behind, my husband and I retired to Vancouver Island in June 2015. To document both this transition and our new adventures, ‘Retirement Reflections’ was born. I hope that you enjoy reading these reflections, and will be willing to share your own.
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95 thoughts on “What’s Been On My Calendar – September 2023?”
Walking alongside each other is the greatest privilege and joy and is the most meaningful thing we can do in our lives. I’m happy to hear that you are surrounded by people who love and support you well.
Thanks, Kate – Doctors in both countries (Portugal and Canada) were hopeful that Richard would not require surgery. Sadly, two weeks after the intial break, the damaged bones continued to deteriorate further so surgery was needed (which pressed “restart” on the healing time). Richard has his next appointment a week from Tuesday. We have our fingers and toes crossed for a good report this time!
Thanks, Kate – It was a multi-break that refused to stay realigned without surgery.Having to restart the healing process all over has contributed to an extra long healing timeline.
Thanks, Lydia. During our first 26 hours in Portugal (before we even began our Camino hike), Richard tripped on a Lisbon sidewalk, breaking one bone in his arm and shattering another). So definitely a change of plans but hopefully now on the road to a good recovery.
I love this post, Donna! That the two of you have bunches of generous, loving friends doesn’t surprise me at all… because that would describe you and Richard too. I hope his recovery is going even better now that you are back in your own home.
Thanks so much, Janis. Your comments (like you) are always so kind and uplifting. About being back in our own home — because we had planned to be away both in September and during Thanksgiving, we had Home Exchange guests in our home last week, and then again in the beginning of October. Last week, we were able to stay in a wonderful beachside vacation townhouse (through Home Exchange) that worked well. For Thanksgiving, we will be staying at a friend’s home in Qualicum Beach while they are in Ontario (you were at that home and had drinks in their backyard). So we remain grateful for all of the amazing support that has surrounded us!
Oh Donna what an ordeal it’s been for you and Richard. I’m so pleased you have friends and community around you to offer help and support, as you deserve it. You generously give to others so it’s lovely to see it reciprocated. Only you could turn this into being about the kindness of others. Take care and can’t wait to catch up online next week x
I’m so glad to hear that you have the support of so many kind people, Donna. I hope Richard is healing and that you are taking good care of yourself as well.
Hi, Christie – Thank you for your kind words. Richard’s surgery was last week (on his 76th birthday). Pain that he thought would never end is now easing away more and more each day. We still have some unsettled days ahead but we are both looking forward to a calmer October and a very peaceful November!
Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s action. I’m happy to hear so many people stepped up to the plate to help to show their love for you and Richard. I hope he’s continuing to improve.❤️
Hi, Jill – Yours are very wise words. Love is much more than a feeling. It is real and tangible in our daily lives. Thank you for your continued kindness. Your comments are always incredibly uplifting!
Dear Donna, I am sorry you and Richard have had these challenges. Yes, fingers and toes crossed for Richard’s healing and recovery. You are both sooo kind and thoughtful and all is reflecting back to you. Much love, Chuck & Erica
Hi, Erica and Chuck – Thank you so much for stopping by and for your kind wishes. It’s been a rough and unexpected journey with a few backward slides. Richard is now beginning to feel a bit better with each passing day.
I’m sure you’ve both been under a huge amount of stress over the past few weeks. I’m very pleased that you have people around you to love and care for you. I loved reading your post of gratitude.
Thanks, Jennifer – I wasn’t originally going to write a post for this month’s linkup – too much stress and I didn’t want to relive the pain. Then when I did allow myself to reflect on the past month, my overwhelming emotion was sincere gratitude. That’s always something worth sharing!
That was an unfortunate mishap; probably more than a mishap. I hope the recovery goes well. Community and helping hands are the wind beneath our wings. Take care.
Thanks, Mona – Looking up the dictionary definition of ‘mishap,’ Richard’s fall was definitely an ‘unlucky accident’ — so your word aptly applies. Friends, family and community are definitely the wind beneath our wings! ❤
So glad to hear Richard is doing better, you’re in your own space again, and so many people have been able to help. I know that will all continue and recovery will be swift! xx 💕 (BTW, I enjoyed Philly & eagerly await her next visit on the 23rd. Thanks for that review!)
Hi, Del – I greatly appreciate your kind words. And I love that you are also a Philly fan. Enjoy this current book. It especially goes great with a pot of good English tea!
I do like a couple o’ cuppas as a day (or book) gets on. Being a Yank, I divide allegiance between US & UK, generally enjoying Twinings English Breakfast decaf & Good Earth’s Original Sweet & Spicy decaf. With the latter I leave the bag in, so it gets tongue-tingling gingery, especially when it steeps for a good while. (❤️ ginger) And yourself?
David’s Tea (a Canadian company) is harder to get these days but is still my favourite. Also, our mutual friend WBA gifted me a Nespreso Maker which I have come to adore!
Short but oh so sweet Donna. I think it takes a crisis to really see people’s true colours – and when they shine like this then you know you’re doing well (it also says a lot about you and Richard because reciprocosity is at play). Sending you both a hug and wishes for a quick recovery back to normal for Richard. x
Hi Donna – just plain difficult – but it does sound like things are finally easing … i must say I hadn’t realised you’d let your home out – just added to the logistical challenges. Sounds like things will be much easier before the late autumn/winter sets in. With thought to you both – and thank goodness you have such wonderful friends around you … cheers Hilary
Thanks so much, Hilary. There have been quite a few logical challenges with a couple more to go. But friends, family and medical staff have been amazing (and Richard is seriously a hard core trooper)I I honestly couldn’t ask for anything more!
What a time it was…with so many exciting days ahead but also how grateful I am to read of Richard’s recovery over time. Broken bones are never fun and as we age, even less so. Troupers you are! May the healing proceed positively and thank you for the link up. Denyse.
I hope this isn’t a duplicate comment Donna. Glad to hear that Richard is recovering- love is a great aid in healing; you both have this from others, in spades.
Hi Donna, I hope Richard is feeling better and you’re feeling better that he’s on the mend. I’m glad to hear you have wonderful support from friends, family and the medical team. Sending you big hugs and best wishes from Toronto. Thank you for the WBOYC linkup.
You’re both doing well and that’s wonderful to read. I wish Richard an uneventful fast recovery. Life takes some unusual turns, but you’re bouncing back.
Hi Donna I was so sorry to hear of Richard’s accident and it certainly proves that no matter how well we plan we have to expect the unexpected. Sending love to you both and hope Richard heals quickly. Take care xx
Thanks, Sue – I greatly appreciate your kind words. Richard has a follow up appointment with his surgeon this coming Tuesday. We both have our fingers and toes crossed for a positive report! ❤
I am sure you will never forget September 2023! I’m glad Richard is recovering nicely and that the both of you haven’t lost your smiles for living the good life!
So sorry to read that he had to have surgery but hoping the recovery process is all uphill from here A good supportive community really can make all the difference and it sounds like you have a wonderful one!
Hi, Joanne – We have been so fortunate to be surrounded by such a great community of family, friends and medical support. I honestly do not know what we would have done without this.
Life takes some weird curves and corners. It can be hard to find the silver lining at times. And in those times, it’s the people around you that can help carry you forward.
I’m so glad to hear about all the support you and your husband received, Donna. Life is about shifting gears when something gets in the way. How wonderful you have so many friends to help you out!
II hope your husband is on the mend. This certainly did put a spanner in the works as the British say. Thankfully you have a good support system to help you through this. Sending hugs to both of you.
Hi Donna – I hope Richards’s recovery is progressing well. It was such a shame your trip was cut short. It’s so lovely that you are surrounded by friends and family to help out.
Hi, Janine – Thank you for dropping by and commenting. Richard has now begun to feel better with each passing day. We are hopeful for an encouraging report from the surgeon this coming Tuesday.
Yep, you’ve been extremely busy, my friend! I hope Richard is healing well and that your nerves are calm. Take good care, Donna, and enjoy the help of family and friends!
Mark and I hope Richard is on the mend. Sorry to read that he required surgery after all and a “restart” of the healing process. I’m glad to read that you are surrounded by a generous and caring community, which doesn’t surprise me at all. Sending healing vibes across borders! xxx
Hi, Liesbet, Mark and Maya – Thank you for the healing vibes! We are greatly enjoying reading about your travel adventures and vicariously following along!
Donna,
While reading about Richard’s mishap, all I could think of was how painful that had to be, both before surgery and after. Hopefully, things are improving. One thing I know for certain…Richard has a great nurse. Keep us posted, and have a great week. Joe
Thanks, Joe – Another silver lining of this entire experience is that Richard and I were reminded that we make a great team (at least in our own minds). 😀 Our individual strengths are completely different from each other’s. We both strongly rely on the strengths of the other in our daily lives e.g.. In our current role misallignment, I have been stressed over doing all of the driving (which I hate) while Richard has struggled to prepare and send out computer invitations for a mid-October gathering. 😀
Retirement Reflections 
Walking alongside each other is the greatest privilege and joy and is the most meaningful thing we can do in our lives. I’m happy to hear that you are surrounded by people who love and support you well.
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Hi, Carol – What a wise and uplifting comment. Walking alongside each other is truly the greatest privilege of all!
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Hoping the the recovery is going well or at least uneventful! Sending hugs to all.
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Thanks, Kate – Doctors in both countries (Portugal and Canada) were hopeful that Richard would not require surgery. Sadly, two weeks after the intial break, the damaged bones continued to deteriorate further so surgery was needed (which pressed “restart” on the healing time). Richard has his next appointment a week from Tuesday. We have our fingers and toes crossed for a good report this time!
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Wow! That must have been a bad break. I know about that “restart” button. Have had it myself on occasion.
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Thanks, Kate – It was a multi-break that refused to stay realigned without surgery.Having to restart the healing process all over has contributed to an extra long healing timeline.
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Goodness. I think I missed something big. I hope he is on the mend.
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Thanks, Lydia. During our first 26 hours in Portugal (before we even began our Camino hike), Richard tripped on a Lisbon sidewalk, breaking one bone in his arm and shattering another). So definitely a change of plans but hopefully now on the road to a good recovery.
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I love this post, Donna! That the two of you have bunches of generous, loving friends doesn’t surprise me at all… because that would describe you and Richard too. I hope his recovery is going even better now that you are back in your own home.
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Thanks so much, Janis. Your comments (like you) are always so kind and uplifting. About being back in our own home — because we had planned to be away both in September and during Thanksgiving, we had Home Exchange guests in our home last week, and then again in the beginning of October. Last week, we were able to stay in a wonderful beachside vacation townhouse (through Home Exchange) that worked well. For Thanksgiving, we will be staying at a friend’s home in Qualicum Beach while they are in Ontario (you were at that home and had drinks in their backyard). So we remain grateful for all of the amazing support that has surrounded us!
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Oh Donna what an ordeal it’s been for you and Richard. I’m so pleased you have friends and community around you to offer help and support, as you deserve it. You generously give to others so it’s lovely to see it reciprocated. Only you could turn this into being about the kindness of others. Take care and can’t wait to catch up online next week x
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Bring on that online catchup! I miss our regular Zoom connections ike crazy!!
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Me too!!
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Oh, how wonderful that you received so much help. Unexpected hurdles indeed! Heartening to read this post.
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Thanks, Laurie – I wasn’t originally going to post for this month’s WBOYC. I’m now very happy that I did.
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I’m so glad to hear that you have the support of so many kind people, Donna. I hope Richard is healing and that you are taking good care of yourself as well.
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Hi, Christie – Thank you for your kind words. Richard’s surgery was last week (on his 76th birthday). Pain that he thought would never end is now easing away more and more each day. We still have some unsettled days ahead but we are both looking forward to a calmer October and a very peaceful November!
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Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s action. I’m happy to hear so many people stepped up to the plate to help to show their love for you and Richard. I hope he’s continuing to improve.❤️
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Hi, Jill – Yours are very wise words. Love is much more than a feeling. It is real and tangible in our daily lives. Thank you for your continued kindness. Your comments are always incredibly uplifting!
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Dear Donna, I am sorry you and Richard have had these challenges. Yes, fingers and toes crossed for Richard’s healing and recovery. You are both sooo kind and thoughtful and all is reflecting back to you. Much love, Chuck & Erica
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Hi, Erica and Chuck – Thank you so much for stopping by and for your kind wishes. It’s been a rough and unexpected journey with a few backward slides. Richard is now beginning to feel a bit better with each passing day.
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Hope all is progressing well Donna. All the best from the other side of the Pacific!
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Thanks so much, Barbara. I can feel your warm thoughts from here!
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I’m sure you’ve both been under a huge amount of stress over the past few weeks. I’m very pleased that you have people around you to love and care for you. I loved reading your post of gratitude.
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Thanks, Jennifer – I wasn’t originally going to write a post for this month’s linkup – too much stress and I didn’t want to relive the pain. Then when I did allow myself to reflect on the past month, my overwhelming emotion was sincere gratitude. That’s always something worth sharing!
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That was an unfortunate mishap; probably more than a mishap. I hope the recovery goes well. Community and helping hands are the wind beneath our wings. Take care.
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Thanks, Mona – Looking up the dictionary definition of ‘mishap,’ Richard’s fall was definitely an ‘unlucky accident’ — so your word aptly applies. Friends, family and community are definitely the wind beneath our wings! ❤
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Always happy to help, my friend! Better days ahead 💕.
Hugs,
Deb
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Your help was incredible and made a very positive difference at all steps of this journey!
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So glad to hear Richard is doing better, you’re in your own space again, and so many people have been able to help. I know that will all continue and recovery will be swift! xx 💕 (BTW, I enjoyed Philly & eagerly await her next visit on the 23rd. Thanks for that review!)
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Hi, Del – I greatly appreciate your kind words. And I love that you are also a Philly fan. Enjoy this current book. It especially goes great with a pot of good English tea!
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I do like a couple o’ cuppas as a day (or book) gets on. Being a Yank, I divide allegiance between US & UK, generally enjoying Twinings English Breakfast decaf & Good Earth’s Original Sweet & Spicy decaf. With the latter I leave the bag in, so it gets tongue-tingling gingery, especially when it steeps for a good while. (❤️ ginger) And yourself?
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David’s Tea (a Canadian company) is harder to get these days but is still my favourite. Also, our mutual friend WBA gifted me a Nespreso Maker which I have come to adore!
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Short but oh so sweet Donna. I think it takes a crisis to really see people’s true colours – and when they shine like this then you know you’re doing well (it also says a lot about you and Richard because reciprocosity is at play). Sending you both a hug and wishes for a quick recovery back to normal for Richard. x
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Hi, Leanne – Virtual hug gratefully received! Richard and I remain truly in awe of the generosity all around us!
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Hi Donna, I am so glad you’ve had community support 💕💐
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Thanks so much, Robbie. I honestly don’t know what we would have done without it.
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Hi Donna – just plain difficult – but it does sound like things are finally easing … i must say I hadn’t realised you’d let your home out – just added to the logistical challenges. Sounds like things will be much easier before the late autumn/winter sets in. With thought to you both – and thank goodness you have such wonderful friends around you … cheers Hilary
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Thanks so much, Hilary. There have been quite a few logical challenges with a couple more to go. But friends, family and medical staff have been amazing (and Richard is seriously a hard core trooper)I I honestly couldn’t ask for anything more!
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What a time it was…with so many exciting days ahead but also how grateful I am to read of Richard’s recovery over time. Broken bones are never fun and as we age, even less so. Troupers you are! May the healing proceed positively and thank you for the link up. Denyse.
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Thank you, Denyse – In the large scheme of things Richard and I know that we have been very fortunate indeed!
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Glad that he’s mending Donna. Love is a great aid in healing which you both clearly have, in spades. May his recovery continue.
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Thank you for reading, commenting and for your kind words. All three are greatly appreciated!
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I hope this isn’t a duplicate comment Donna. Glad to hear that Richard is recovering- love is a great aid in healing; you both have this from others, in spades.
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I wish you continuing progress
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Thanks, Derrick! Very much appreciated!
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Hi Donna, wishing Richard the best possible outcome. Having the love and support of friends makes every bad situation better.
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Absolutely! Family and friends do make everything better!
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Hi Donna, I hope Richard is feeling better and you’re feeling better that he’s on the mend. I’m glad to hear you have wonderful support from friends, family and the medical team. Sending you big hugs and best wishes from Toronto. Thank you for the WBOYC linkup.
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Hi, Natalie – Thank you for the big hugs and wishes. Both are gratefully recieved!
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Wishes for continued improvement and health!
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Thanks, Dorothy – Richard has his next specialist appointment on Monday. We have our fingers crossed for a great report!
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💕🩷💕
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I see from earlier comments that the healing has not been straightforward so far. Hoping that things are going better now and sending good wishes.
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Hi, Anabel – Sadly this was a multi-break that refused to realign on its own. Richard and I are both hopeful for smoother days ahead!
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You’re both doing well and that’s wonderful to read. I wish Richard an uneventful fast recovery. Life takes some unusual turns, but you’re bouncing back.
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Thanks, Ally – I’m not sure that either of us are bouncing yet — but we are definitely getting there! 😀
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It takes a village to get us through all of life’s foul balls. Be well.
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Thanks, Antioinette – This is so true!
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Hi Donna I was so sorry to hear of Richard’s accident and it certainly proves that no matter how well we plan we have to expect the unexpected. Sending love to you both and hope Richard heals quickly. Take care xx
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Thanks, Sue – I greatly appreciate your kind words. Richard has a follow up appointment with his surgeon this coming Tuesday. We both have our fingers and toes crossed for a positive report! ❤
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Much love to you both…
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Thanks, Jo. Greatly appreciated!
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I am sure you will never forget September 2023! I’m glad Richard is recovering nicely and that the both of you haven’t lost your smiles for living the good life!
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You are absolutely right. Richard and I are likely never to forget September 2023. We may even laugh about it one day…just not quite today. D
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So sorry to read that he had to have surgery but hoping the recovery process is all uphill from here A good supportive community really can make all the difference and it sounds like you have a wonderful one!
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Hi, Joanne – We have been so fortunate to be surrounded by such a great community of family, friends and medical support. I honestly do not know what we would have done without this.
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Life takes some weird curves and corners. It can be hard to find the silver lining at times. And in those times, it’s the people around you that can help carry you forward.
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Thank you for all of your help, Bernie. It made a very positive difference. Did you notice your photo?
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I am glad I could be of assistance. I did not notice my photo? Where?
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I’m so glad to hear about all the support you and your husband received, Donna. Life is about shifting gears when something gets in the way. How wonderful you have so many friends to help you out!
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Thanks, Barb – It definitely has been a gear shift. Surprisingly, each of us being out of our regular routine has been the greatest chalenge of all.
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I can imagine. I’m such a routine person, and so is my whole family.
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Absolutely! Richard and I are greatly looking forward to regaining our old routine soon (probably still three more weeks away).
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Oh my gosh!! I did indeed now. That’s an oldie!!
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😀
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That’s so sweet of you to include me. ❤️
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Your help was incredibly valuable to both Richard and I — especially late at night with the incorrect prescription!
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II hope your husband is on the mend. This certainly did put a spanner in the works as the British say. Thankfully you have a good support system to help you through this. Sending hugs to both of you.
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Thanks for your good wishes, Darlene. It’s been up and down but hopefully much smoother days ahead!
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Hi Donna – I hope Richards’s recovery is progressing well. It was such a shame your trip was cut short. It’s so lovely that you are surrounded by friends and family to help out.
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Hi, Janine – Thank you for dropping by and commenting. Richard has now begun to feel better with each passing day. We are hopeful for an encouraging report from the surgeon this coming Tuesday.
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Fingers crossed 🤞
Make sure he rests lots – his body is working hard to heal
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That’s excellent advice. The nurse is trying to ensure that this continues to happen! 😀
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Yep, you’ve been extremely busy, my friend! I hope Richard is healing well and that your nerves are calm. Take good care, Donna, and enjoy the help of family and friends!
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Thanks, Terri – It’s been another great lesson that despite massive planning there are no guarantees. Overall, we remain very aware how lucky we are.
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Hi, Terri – It was a great reminder that despite endless planning there are no guarantees. Overall, Richard and I remain incredibly grateful!
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Hi Donna,
Mark and I hope Richard is on the mend. Sorry to read that he required surgery after all and a “restart” of the healing process. I’m glad to read that you are surrounded by a generous and caring community, which doesn’t surprise me at all. Sending healing vibes across borders! xxx
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Hi, Liesbet, Mark and Maya – Thank you for the healing vibes! We are greatly enjoying reading about your travel adventures and vicariously following along!
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Donna,
While reading about Richard’s mishap, all I could think of was how painful that had to be, both before surgery and after. Hopefully, things are improving. One thing I know for certain…Richard has a great nurse. Keep us posted, and have a great week. Joe
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Thanks, Joe – Another silver lining of this entire experience is that Richard and I were reminded that we make a great team (at least in our own minds). 😀 Our individual strengths are completely different from each other’s. We both strongly rely on the strengths of the other in our daily lives e.g.. In our current role misallignment, I have been stressed over doing all of the driving (which I hate) while Richard has struggled to prepare and send out computer invitations for a mid-October gathering. 😀
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When I played football, our coach had all of us practice at different positions just in case someone went down. It made us a better team…Hugs!
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You had a very wise coach! 😀
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