As Arli was put to sleep for surgery yesterday I held his hand. I’ve been in this place with him several times before. I remember holding his hand when he was two and had his first surgery. He didn’t understand what was happening around him. I did and I was praying hard for my little … Continue reading Good tears
Family
Pooling our presence
A young man waits by the hydrotherapy pool with his mother. I don’t know his story - but it’s evident he lives with some significant physical challenges. Suddenly his physiotherapist walks into the pool area and the young man’s face lights up. He doesn’t speak, but his face and actions say it all. He shuffles … Continue reading Pooling our presence
Drinking from the cup of nostalgia
My pre-dinner drink this evening is taking me back to my childhood. A glass of cold, Cottee’s Coola Lime. And my younger kids – who have never sampled this lime wonder in a glass – are enjoying this sweet blast from my past. It has been a long time since my last glass of this … Continue reading Drinking from the cup of nostalgia
A trifecta to master
Home! It’s always good to be home. And now to heed the advice I’m getting from all sides. “Take things slowly. Be patient. Be kind to yourself.” Now, I must admit this self-care trifecta is always a work in progress for me. May be these three things come easily for you. They don't for me. … Continue reading A trifecta to master
A gratitude posture
I had a rough night in ICU with pain after surgery and a bad reaction to some stong meds. But throughout the night, Oish my nurse provided with me excellent, calm, patient, assuring care. It made such a difference. I’m mindful again today of the amazing work of health professionals and carers across the nation. … Continue reading A gratitude posture
The gift of perspective
MRI results this week showed further deterioration in my spine beyond the areas where I had surgery a few years ago. This explains the increasing and extended pain I’ve been experiencing in my neck, back and head. While certainly not the news I wanted, I’m deeply appreciative of the ongoing support of my wife Megan, … Continue reading The gift of perspective
Thankful tracks
This was my local lockdown track. I walked it so many times. I still do! It’s become a therapeutic place. As I travel the world in my role I love to walk and explore places I’ve never seen before. I love adventure and change. I enjoy new experiences! But in the world as it is … Continue reading Thankful tracks
May the ordinary come alive!
Last night we had a quiet New Year’s Eve at home. I have to admit, a few times I experienced the tug for the extraordinary …. the bigger experience. And then, there I was, standing outside our house at the 703 bus stop in my pjs, looking down a street that gives a slight view … Continue reading May the ordinary come alive!
In my corner
A man of simple pleasures. A creature of habit. Stubborn, resilient, loyal, giving, fair. Comfortable in one’s own skin. A man who deeply loved his wife for almost six decades and was never the same after her passing. A man who loved his family. A good father. My dear dad. Kenny. It was hard to … Continue reading In my corner
Lighty … lightly!
Today Megan and I mark our 16th wedding anniversary. A special weekend in the city was on the agenda. But this celebration will need to be delayed as I’m at the airport, soon to fly to Newcastle. My dad’s health has deteriorated quickly, and he’s entered into palliative care. I sit with many different emotions … Continue reading Lighty … lightly!
apilgrimpens 