New Cats
Last week we adopted two cats. Our old cat, Mabel, died last December and it's been very quiet here. It's not quiet anymore! According to their chips they are both seven years old. Their owner was an elderly man who died so we don't know anything else. It's early days for them - not allowed out - two litter trays - constant whiff in the air. It's a good job we're still not having house guests! Sophie has discovered the joys of the settee but Betty is obsessively staying within a few feet of her food and, in the words of Desperate Dan, she could eat a cow pie... the whole time:
First Hugs
On Sunday we did something that we hadn't done since December 2019. We met up with Son and family. I have to admit that there were tears. We met at a halfway point, Cromford Mills in Derbyshire. It's a fascinating historic site where Richard Arkwright developed his idea for spinning cotton using the power of water but we were almost too busy catching up on chatter and hugs to take it all in. It was a very special day, it was beyond lovely and I never want to go that long again without seeing them.My Struggle
I don't often talk about my health on this blog but it was mental health awareness week recently so maybe it's right to say something especially as a lot of people who know me outside this blog think I'm totally self-assured and 'together'.
As a teenager I suffered from bouts of agoraphobia. It has never completely left me. I'm always aware of the struggle to keep it from taking over BUT I always manage to get out and do the things that I want to do. I force myself. It's hard work but preferable to hiding away. I've tried all manner of counselling and hypnotherapy but it's always there - always.
Lockdown was a safe place to be which means that now, after over a year of hardly leaving the house, I am finding it seriously difficult. My stomach churns and my legs tremble at the smallest of outings. Yes, I managed to get to Derbyshire on Sunday and I will continue to get myself to places but my body is constantly in full fight/flight mode and it is exhausting.
Sorry to moan and thank you for letting me share that.
New kitties - that's sweet, and so glad you got to see and hug family. That has to be reassuring after so much time. And that's for sharing a bit of you we don't see - indeed I think a lot has come out for people with some issues of all types. Been a stressful year and now we have to figure things out again. Take care and good luck/deep breaths as you maneuver the "new" world.
ReplyDeleteThanks Joanne, yes plenty of deep breaths x
DeleteThanks for sharing your news and your feelings about the end of lock down. I was quite happy cocooned in my house and garden. Face to face meet ups can seem quite overwhelming. I'm looking forward to welcoming my family from overseas, but meanwhile I'm stuck at home with a very young, tiny and mischievous puppy.
ReplyDeleteA mischievous puppy! I remember when we had a young puppy like that. It was certainly hard work but they are so worth it. Good luck.
DeleteHi Ros - so pleased about the family get together ... must have been wonderful. While the new rescues are lucky to be with you ...
ReplyDeleteI'm so pleased that you cope and can get out ... that must be the most important thing to keep going ... and know that you can do it. Stay safe and all the best as we continue on - Hilary
Thanks, Hilary, you stay safe too x
ReplyDelete