I appreciate you saying that, Katharine! One thing I've learned is that most people are pretty understanding about real life stuff -- and that when we share it, we allow ourselves opportunities to connect on a more human level.
Thank you! I am definitely learning the value of breaks -- and deliberately spend time just reading (fiction) on the back patio for awhile today vs. "doing something productive."
One thing I noticed, when I was out here over Christmas and scrolling through Substack and social media to keep myself "busy" is how much most of that stuff just doesn't matter. Spending time in a hospital over Christmas has a way of sharpening your focus & perspective. (One humbling, meaningful moment I will remember the rest of my life: The Santa -- an elderly man with a cane -- who appeared at my Mom's hospital room door on Christmas day w gifts and best wishes for all of us. An old man, who's clearly seen better days, who got up & got dressed and spent HIS Christmas morning at the hospital with complete strangers)
Thanks! I'm so glad I have a supportive extended family, including my siblings and spouses and in-laws who are willing to help pick up our slack at home so we can be here as needed.
So I am also a caregiver and working. I wonder whether you’d like to share a Venmo or such where those who would like to support you in your caretaking time could make a donation?
I'll be honest: I took two days to ponder your question. I was so moved that you asked! It means a lot to me that you see & appreciate the financial cost of caretaking. (And also: Of course you do. You are a caretaker too.) My Venmo is @jlwf72.
Dear Jen, being there for a parent at this stage of life matters more than anything else. Work can wait. These moments cannot be repeated. I say this from experience. I spent the last six months with my mother in Pakistan and I know how important that time becomes later. I am sending you courage and so much care as you walk through this. 🩷
Thank you, Saima! It's hard being in two (or more) places at once, isn't it? Part of you wants to be home, in your space; another part (always) is with your kids, wherever they are; and then, there's the reality to being with parents in their time of need.
Yes, Jen, I completely understand. Your words resonate with me so much. Even now, my mom has passed, and my dad lives with my sister in Dubai. Every year I go there for a couple of months to care for him and give my sister a break. When I am away, I find myself missing my home, my husband, and my children. I feel that same pull you described, wanting to be in several places at once and with all the people you love. It’s not easy, and I feel it deeply with you.
I love that we lead such separate, different lives and yet have so many points of similarity & connection! I'm pretty sure you're the only person I've met (so far) who's lived in Pakistan, and I'm so grateful for our connection. I do hope we get to at least talk in real time someday (Substack Live!), & I'd really love the opportunity to spend time together in person. Perhaps some day!
I feel the same. It’s so nice how our lives are different and yet connect in meaningful ways. Pakistan was a big part of my life, so it means a lot to share that connection with you. I’m really grateful for this and I’d love to learn more from you. I hope we get to spend time together one day.
Thinking of you and your family. Thanks for being so open about this behind-the-scenes stuff, it's really helpful.
I appreciate you saying that, Katharine! One thing I've learned is that most people are pretty understanding about real life stuff -- and that when we share it, we allow ourselves opportunities to connect on a more human level.
Sending big hugs, good vibes and peaceful thoughts.
Thank you!
Thinking of you and sending strength and meaningful moments and BREAKS. <3
Thank you! I am definitely learning the value of breaks -- and deliberately spend time just reading (fiction) on the back patio for awhile today vs. "doing something productive."
Sending good thoughts your way, Jen. Thanks for setting this example for all of us of what it means to prioritize the things that matter.
One thing I noticed, when I was out here over Christmas and scrolling through Substack and social media to keep myself "busy" is how much most of that stuff just doesn't matter. Spending time in a hospital over Christmas has a way of sharpening your focus & perspective. (One humbling, meaningful moment I will remember the rest of my life: The Santa -- an elderly man with a cane -- who appeared at my Mom's hospital room door on Christmas day w gifts and best wishes for all of us. An old man, who's clearly seen better days, who got up & got dressed and spent HIS Christmas morning at the hospital with complete strangers)
Big bear hugs to you and your boys- and extended family.
Thanks! I'm so glad I have a supportive extended family, including my siblings and spouses and in-laws who are willing to help pick up our slack at home so we can be here as needed.
Sending love Jen! Hope the next days and weeks go as smoothly as possible.
Me too!
So I am also a caregiver and working. I wonder whether you’d like to share a Venmo or such where those who would like to support you in your caretaking time could make a donation?
I'll be honest: I took two days to ponder your question. I was so moved that you asked! It means a lot to me that you see & appreciate the financial cost of caretaking. (And also: Of course you do. You are a caretaker too.) My Venmo is @jlwf72.
Dear Jen, being there for a parent at this stage of life matters more than anything else. Work can wait. These moments cannot be repeated. I say this from experience. I spent the last six months with my mother in Pakistan and I know how important that time becomes later. I am sending you courage and so much care as you walk through this. 🩷
Thank you, Saima! It's hard being in two (or more) places at once, isn't it? Part of you wants to be home, in your space; another part (always) is with your kids, wherever they are; and then, there's the reality to being with parents in their time of need.
Yes, Jen, I completely understand. Your words resonate with me so much. Even now, my mom has passed, and my dad lives with my sister in Dubai. Every year I go there for a couple of months to care for him and give my sister a break. When I am away, I find myself missing my home, my husband, and my children. I feel that same pull you described, wanting to be in several places at once and with all the people you love. It’s not easy, and I feel it deeply with you.
I love that we lead such separate, different lives and yet have so many points of similarity & connection! I'm pretty sure you're the only person I've met (so far) who's lived in Pakistan, and I'm so grateful for our connection. I do hope we get to at least talk in real time someday (Substack Live!), & I'd really love the opportunity to spend time together in person. Perhaps some day!
I feel the same. It’s so nice how our lives are different and yet connect in meaningful ways. Pakistan was a big part of my life, so it means a lot to share that connection with you. I’m really grateful for this and I’d love to learn more from you. I hope we get to spend time together one day.
Sending you a huge hug and deep breaths. Thinking of you and we're here when you can be, with all of the support in the world.
I have taken a few of those deep breaths already, & it's only been a day!