Well That Was Something Else...

 "The inward journey is about finding your own fullness, something that no one else can take away." (Deepak Chopra)

 

Hello, my lovely friends!  

    I've been MIA for a few days, felled by a nasty cold. It definitely threw a wrench into things, especially caring for Mom, but we weathered the storm. It was a short but intense bout of crud, but I'm finally back on my feet.

 

     Remember those winters? The ones where snow piled high and the air bit with a delicious, frosty edge? For a few years, we'd almost forgotten what a real winter felt like, basking in unseasonably mild temperatures. But winter's back, baby! And honestly? I'm kind of thrilled. Especially from the cozy vantage point of my warm house. I know, I know, many of us are bundled up and braving the chill, but think of it this way: every snowflake that falls is one step closer to spring. We'll get through this, together, one chilly breath at a time. Sunshine and daffodils are just over the horizon.

 

    Valentine's Day was bittersweet this year. I wanted to make it special for my mom, who's been missing my dad terribly. I surprised her with flowers and chocolates, and we spent the day and evening cuddled up watching movies. It was a small gesture, but I hoped it brightened her day a little.

 

     The added stress of a jury summons hasn't helped. A few weeks ago, I received one and honestly panicked. With Mom struggling so much – she's barely even making it downstairs anymore – there's no way I can leave her. I've been bringing all her meals upstairs, and we've been having dinner together in her room. It's a lot of running up and down, but it's better than her trying to navigate the stairs in her condition.

 

     So, I filled out the caregiver exemption form and sent it to Kaiser last Monday. They said it would take a few days to process, which was cutting it close since my summons was for today. You only have a week to respond, and by Thursday, I was starting to get really anxious. Friday came and went, and still no word from Kaiser. I'm on pins and needles, hoping they come through.

 

     My quest for this elusive document began on Monday with a phone call, a week after my initial request. "Where is it?" I'd asked, only to discover it had been languishing at the front desk, unknown even to her doctor. Rage simmered. They promised a nurse's call that never came.

 

    Tuesday, I took matters into my own hands, emailing her doctor directly. Within minutes, a helpful voice was on the line, promising the paperwork within the hour. Hope flickered. Two hours later, I arrived, only to find…nothing. Not only that, but her doctor had left for the day, requiring a frantic call for approval and a stand-in signature. My courthouse deadline loomed, then vanished with the closing bell. Dejected, I plotted a Wednesday morning assault, the day before my reporting deadline. Dismissal seemed impossible.

 

    Wednesday dawned, and I marched into the deserted office, a ghost town. At the front desk, I recounted my week-long odyssey. The receptionist, bless her soul, efficiently processed the paperwork, confirmed my number, and uttered the magic words: "You're dismissed." Five minutes. Five minutes after a week of frustration. The irony stung, but the relief washed over me in a tidal wave. My bureaucratic Everest, conquered in a sprint.

 

     A wave of relief washed over me. I'd checked the draft call numbers, and mine was up. The thought of leaving Mom alone, though...it was impossible. Bringing her wasn't an option either; her pain made sitting through anything unbearable. I was stuck. Then, the best news: postponement until April! Even better, Mom suggested I get the paperwork signed declaring me her sole caregiver. That would mean a lifetime deferment. Perfect. It solved everything.

 

    Now, I can finally relax. And just in time, too—it's snowing again! I'm so grateful I don't have to venture out into that white flurry. Instead, I'll curl up inside and enjoy the winter wonderland from the warmth of my window.

 

 Thank you for stopping by! Wishing you a day/evening/morning filled with sunshine, laughter, and perhaps a little bit of magic. Until next time, ta-ta for now!