I’m lucky and I know it.
Good news came in threes for me last week. A trifecta of “full circle moments” and I’m still absorbing the gratitude.
First – The latest “Surviving Sue” event at the Wauconda Public Library was lovely. The topic was one of my favorites – Navigating Elder Care with Humor & Grace – and I’m still smiling. The attendees were engaged and thoughtful as we discussed the challenges of caregiving, connecting about the importance of building community and sharing resources to keep ourselves afloat. I love telling stories from “Surviving Sue”, especially those that conjure smiles. Maintaining a sense of humor and leaning into self-care is a non-negotiable when we’re in the trenches.
Here are a few of comments from attendees…creating the upswell of gratitude I mentioned:
“I’m so glad I came – I almost didn’t! Thank you for the ideas and resources and for the reminder that I need to look after myself, too.”
“How did you do it? You crawled into my brain a couple of times when you talked about issues I’m having with my dad.”
“Found family. You’re right. I need to look to friends and others and not go it alone when my sister and brother disappoint me.”
Speaking of “found family”, I’m grateful to my dear friend Carolynn who is now my official partner and “roadie” at library events. And my ever-resourceful friend, Linda K. who is a limitless source of wisdom and news about caregiving, including her tip about a new PBS documentary, “Caregiving“.
Last but not least, thanks to Norma and Kim – the terrific team at the library.
Here are a few pics from the event:
Second – A reader followed up with me last week and told me she used one of my resources to facilitate a conversation with her siblings about their aging parents. She said using my tip sheet gave her a way to talk about urgent issues without sounding like she was a know-it-all. She laughed and said, “I put that on you, Vicki”. I had a good chuckle about that. I’m not an expert, but I’m happy to share what I know, especially the reminder that aging with grace and dignity is a unifying goal…we all want the same thing, don’t we? Care givers and receivers, alike.
Third – I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors in my life and last week I had an opportunity to meet with former colleagues in an annual get together. It’s a summer highlight for me. Hugs and hugs and more hugs given to those who encouraged me decades ago. Kicking my butt to stay in school, helping me find my voice. It was surreal and satisfying to be in their good company, warmed by their abundant, knowing smiles and limitless positive regard. Genuine and soul-satisfying.
When I was asked several times, “how’s the book stuff going?” I shared I’m busy and happy – writing something new and surprised by the continuing interest in “Surviving Sue”. As soon as I used the word ‘surprised’, one of my dear ones interrupted and said, “Don’t be silly. The helping you’re doing now – as a result of your book, your story? It’s the evolution of you. What you’re supposed to be doing.”
Being understood and seen is a gift. A full circle moment, indeed.
Thanks for coming along…on my very personal joy ride. I’m grateful for your good company here.
-Vicki 💝
Caregiving | PBS – Produced in cooperation with the Caregiver Action Network (CAN) and George Washington University.
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love.
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Victoria Ponders 
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