Sunday, August 16, 2020

The winds of change.........

 


I am not someone who ever responds well to change.  I wish I could have locked in my older kids at about the ages of 9 and 6 and just lived our lives on in that exact moment.  But if that were to have happened I would not have a little boy right now that is soon to be starting third grade.  This year will determine so much for him and for us as far as schooling.  Will he be able to keep up with the rapid pace of information flying at him?  How will he deal with a classroom in which everyone is so far apart and wearing masks?  Will he get exposed quickly to Covid 19?  Will his school have to shut down?  Worries flood through my mind all day long.  It was a bit easier when I was just worried about him standing up, or eating to gain a bit of weight.  By the way watch out for sharks in your pool my friends.


Mr 23 and Ms L have been moving into their new apartment all weekend.  It is a really lovely place in St Petersburg, they will be safe and happy.  But of course I am not loving the change.  It was so nice to have them here this month.  I am thrilled they will be near by and that Ms L will be watching Little Buddy twice a week, but still I would love us all to live in some contained compound where I can keep an eye on everybody.  Not realistic I know, but the Mom in me likes to know all her chicks are accounted for.  Hank will be so sad once Luna leaves later today.  Bear might need a bit of a break to be honest, he is well done with her stealing toys and running around barking like a crazy girl.

Mr 26 and Ms B have been putting together furniture and doing a bit of packing for their move next weekend. Again in one weeks time almost all my chicks will be out of my nest.  Seriously he is only moving to Tampa, and well he should be on his own but my heart is still sad.  Even if I only get my eyes on them for 30 seconds a day I like to see them.  He tells me he might have to work from home still even a few days a week and because his apartment is so small he will come here.  That might be just what I need to wean myself a bit.  He will miss the fur boys most of all, and maybe a little boy as well.  Mom and Dad not so much!

Other changes include throwing out my In the Forest of the Night cardigan.  Yup, I threw it out.  I messed up the back and really was so frustrated with myself for not being able to follow a simple pattern I balled it up and threw it out.  I had already literally made it twice, the yarn was not going to make it on a third attempt so out it went. It felt a bit freeing not having to tangle with the pattern.  I will make it again, actually I have the yarn to do so right now.  I know the modifications I need to make but just needed a break.   So now I am attempting to make Provence by Berroco.  I am not making an promises that this will actually get completed, my mind is just too tired to get to much done.  But you are all my witness I did get gauge based on the photo above so I am keeping my fingers crossed I can actually make this.

This just made me laugh.  I must be a bit slow because Luna once again got my yarn and made a mad dash all over the family room.  When will I learn that this girl gets into everything?


I am starting to adapt to the changes on Blogger.  Seems like it is behaving a bit better than last week.  Still I don't know why it has to load your pictures in reverse order.  I just love this photo so much.  Mr 26 snuggling one cute dark nosed Bear.  Can you see his eye peeking?  

Changes to this years voting system is driving me mad.  Please check with your state on the best way to vote.  Please do not rely on getting your mail in vote counted, send it in very early or drop it off at your local county election site.  That will assure your vote will count.  I can see the change in the postal system already.  I have been waiting for my check from work for 6 days, I get paid once a month.  But at least I am not waiting for medication needed to save my life.  Be smart.  Vote early if you can.  Vote in person if you are able.  Vote early by mail or drop off your ballot.  Cheating to try to win an election by dismantling the postal system is beyond reprehensible.  VOTE my friends and make it count.

Lets hope big change is coming November 3. 

29 comments:

Between Me and You said...

When my boys come to visit, I wish I could just lock the door and not let them leave but of course, they have their own lives now with their own children and wives so I watch them from afar. Still, it's exciting watching them spread their wings out in the world so I wish your boys all the luck and I think you've given them a jolly good start too, Mer. I had to do a double-take while reading the paper the other day. I can't believe your post boxes in some states are being dismantled!!That's so draconian and dystopian at the same time. So it's true then? I fear your POTUS will gain favour and sympathy this weekend with the news of his brother's death. Let's hope big change does come on November 3rd. The whole world is watching and waiting. x

Nance said...

Lots of changes in your life, and some are very hard, I know. Having your sons leave the nest again is saddening, but you will find some solace in the newfound peace and quiet.

I'm alarmed at the deliberate undermining of the USPS. We need to make certain that we keep our votes sacred and safe. No one should be able to take that right away from us, no matter what.

bittenbyknittin said...

Indiana allowed anyone to vote by mail for the primary but not for November. However, since I am over 65 I have an excuse. Yes, vote EARLY, one way or another. Indiana does have early voting in person, which I have taken advantage of several times. Voting is so important and so central to our form of government that I just can't believe anyone would think limiting it in anyway is a good idea (although historically, that is exactly what has happened time and again). Anyway, so sorry your chicks are leaving the nest. My daughter is in town, my son a couple of hours away, which is comforting. Hope school goes well for LB. My granddaughter has been back for two days, only 15 in the class, male teacher, masks, etc. - many changes. Frankly, I am not optimistic that in-person school will last long.

Araignee said...

I feel your apprehension. There is so much uncertainty and so many things to worry about. Daughter has done nothing but fight with people at her rink over following the health requirements. She was so angry last week she packed her things and told everyone she wouldn't be back. It's unbelievable that you have to fight to protect yourself and those in your care. It's a crazy world we live in.

CJ said...

I can completely relate to anxiety and worry and not wanting change and boys going away. Completely. Sometimes I don't know what to worry about next. It's hard isn't it. I am glad your son isn't going too far away. I haven't tried the new blogger yet, and I am not looking forward to it. I have very little patience when it comes to computer things. Hank and Bear look particularly adorable and deliciously fluffy. The pink yarn is gorgeous, I need to start something knitty I think. Hope you have a good week. CJ xx

Dee said...

Oh my! So many changes in such a short time. I hope you have an easy transition. I think you'll still be pretty busy with two fur boys and one very adorable little buddy.

Delighted Hands said...

I've always said I would like to buy an island that was big enough for my family to each have their own space but small enough that everyone could visit easily---and shut out all change!!!! it is a family joke but my dreams arose often when I was in your stage of life! Embrace the changes and see the good everywhere-it helps.

Grandmabeckyl.blogspot said...

Buddy and sharks in the pool...made me laugh!! My friend Likes Shark Week. I have not watched it. Doggies are adorable. I saw a license plate the other day. It was MRS 21 , I thought of you!!! Our house been quiet with Megan gone, which is nice but I miss talking to her. We have talked once on the phone. Not sure when she is coming home. Maybe next month? We vote by mail in our state. It has been years since we were able to go to the polls and vote! I wish that could happen! Some of our schools locally are opening up. One has two days to school then 2 at home online. Praying our nation and states open up schools and churches. We go to church but only so many people are allowed in. Now there are 2 services like we had prior to pandemic time.
Have a blessed week. x------x Becky L

Wanderingcatstudio said...

That shark pic cracks me up!

I do not envy any parent in these COVID times. Even here in Canada where it's mostly under control, they plan to open the schools with no precautions other than masks (no smaller class sizes, etc). They are offering online options, but not every parent can work from home for the ones that are too young to be on their own. It really is a rock and a hard place.

Hoping you and all your family stay happy and healthy.

kathy b said...

I'm not crying, you are crying. That's the thing the younger folk say on instagram when they are crying! I feel your pain. When our pleasant and thoughtful and grown children live with us for a few weeks or months I too, begin to wish we were all in a cul de sac on Dallas.
We are so far from that right now.
While we are supposed to be honest with our selves and our expectations , this momma's lying to herself every day. Zach , lives down the road, but is too busy to stop in, so he facettimes us. Al is Madison working for the Big Library at the medical center and she too, is not in oklahoma at all. We probably will meet up AGAIN for Troy's famous meatloaf and mashed potatoes next sunday.
THIS IS NOT HAPPENING. But If I want to pretend to cope....I just do

Lil Buddy will be in my heart even more than usual. School is going to be confusing, but maybe not. Our kids changed buildings in town 3 times from K-8. We were all worked up about each move. They couldn't have cared less!!!!!

Im praying you are well. You have no headaches.And that your son's wonderful girl will help LIL buddy so very much. HE needs more women in his life! You have had to be all . Allison needed a village of women to bring her up. She will giggle at his ways, I'm sure!

Teresa Kasner said...

Your little shark is so lucky to have his own pool. He's so sweet. I really can't imagine what kind of mental gymnastics you have to go through to find your way through the schooling during Covid. Aren't you glad your older two will be close enough to have them come home a lot to see you? I'm glad you had this time of all of you being together. Stay safe.
((hugs)), Teresa :-)

Karen said...

I've decided it's worth the money to subscribe to zoom, just so we can all gather as a family once a month or so. We started doing it during the lock down, for special occasions.

Have a good week, Meredith.

Betsy said...

Mere, I feel your pain. It's so hard to have our children leave the nest, even if it is for the second, third or more, times. I haven't laid eyes, (except for FaceTime), on any of our kids or grandchildren since Thanksgiving. I hate this virus with everything in me because we would have gone to London this spring to see Tara and Alex and we definitely would have been to Omaha to see Mandy, Brad and Piper along with the rest of our family. Instead, we sit out here in Washington by ourselves and console ourselves with video representation of them. It's so hard on a Mom, and Dad too.
We have had mail in voting only for years now. I haven't voted in person for well over 18 years! I don't know what the big deal is. HOnestly, I don't. One vote for each person. Mail it. Count it. Honesty is of utmost importance. I've never worried about election fraud much before, but I'm worried this year and I don't know what to believe from any of the media any longer. What has happened to the US?
At least we have our family and our fur babies right? What would we do without them? Take care of yourself Meredith. Get some LB hugs, doggy kisses and some pool time.
Blessings and a big hug,
Betsy

Jo said...

It's hard when our chicks fly the nest, even harder when there's a pandemic too. I haven't seen Daniel now since Christmas, they're being extra cautious because Jasmine is in a high risk category. I'm thankful that Eleanor came back home after finishing university, at least I've been able to keep my eye on her through all this. I do feel for you with Little Buddy though, I'm glad I don't have school age children at the moment with everything that's going on, I don't think I could cope with the worry.

happy hooker said...

I know that feeling of wanting to keep your "babies" with you forever. But, you have done a good job with your children in that they are strong, independent adults, able to live their own lives. I remember years ago when my "babies" were little, reading the quote, "Give your children wings and roots." You've done just that. Doesn't make it easy though! xxx

Christina said...

So many changes coming your way.... but I know you'll take it in your stride. I am so glad your boys are within easy distance of your home, lots of opportunities to visit. Love the shark bucket photo! xx

linda said...

Everything seems to come at once, I feel for you Meredith so many changes, it's not easy being a Mum is it, the only thing is try and keep positive and hope that all these changes will work out fine. What a shame that you had to throw out your work but I'm not surprised you have too much on your mind right now my friend, my advice would be just to make something mindless and simple even if it's just a few dishcloths or pot holders you get a sense of achievement even with small stuff, all I made last week when I was sick was a pot holder and a baby hat and I'm ridiculously pleased with them. I love that shark hat haha and all the photos of your lovely family, hairy ones included. I hope you have a good week! xx

karen said...

from your lips to God's ears :) I hope school goes well for him and the adjustment goes okay. I think a mother never ever stops worrying. Hugs!!

Melanie said...

Lots of changes going on in your household. Oh, if only we could keep our kids at the ages of 6 and 9...when they are still so innocent and not finding out all the ugly influences in the world and where we tuck them in bed at night and hug and kiss them and all is well. If only.

I told my husband the other day that I'm glad we don't have young children right now though because this school stuff and COVID would make me a nervous wreck. Depending on the school district here, some school are doing FT in-school attendance, others are doing PT in-school and PT home/remote learning, and still others are doing FT at-home learning.

My "baby" is coming home from CA again next week because he's standing up in a wedding. I won't see him too much because he'll be staying at the wedding venue for a couple of days and off seeing friends, too but he will at least be here a couple of days to spend time with us and sleep under our roof once again. I can't wait.

Anonymous said...

one wants to say to change....
"ENOUGH ALREADY!"
but alas. life is nothing but change.
and change in my life has always meant separation. a beloved dad who died at 45 when I was 17. that was the first huge change. and then it was ongoing. I began living as if waiting until the next shoe fell. my husband at 43.
cancer is not my friend. just a stalker.
now there is only my brother and I and his family (on duty at Moody AFB in GA.)
he's been there for his only son's 45th birthday. he just called me from the road... on his way home.
worry is my middle name. but it's pointless really.
Bear's grin says it all. he's happy Luna is leaving! LOL. and poor Hank is sad. you can just see it in his face.
but we all adjust. and he will.
and we who know what's what... well...
we LOVE that your pool has that special shark in it!!! we should all have such wonderful sharks in our life!!! XOXOXO

Jeanie said...

The contained compound would be my deepest fantasy. Yes, loads to worry about with school, no matter how well they do it. I have the same feeling about the boys returning to daycare. A huge process daily before entering but still....

And voting. Don't start me. I just sent emails to the six board of commissioners members of the USPS. At least I felt productive.

My blogger survey is getting some interesting comments including some help bits, too. I'll synthesize and post the findings soon.

Jeannie Gray Knits said...

Congratulations to Little Buddy for becoming a third grader. I'm sure he'll love it.

I was ready to kill my son when he moved out but when I think back on it - I think he did it the best way possible. He simply walked into the kitchen to say he was going to work... and he'd rented a furnished apartment, had slowly been taking his stuff out in his backpack over the course of a week and wouldn't be coming home that night. I about had a heart attack right there but I'm glad I didn't have to worry about him in advance. Or help him move his stuff. :)

Needles and Wool said...

That is nice your boys both have girlfriends and are moving forward, but I know it must be hard seeing your younger son move out too. I have always missed living with my parents since I moved out a few years ago, just hanging out so often and sharing special moments. I am sure they will miss being home with you too. The visits will help a lot and make it better and an adjustment to a new kind of normal will happen. It is nice to see your fur babies and buddy :) Take care and be safe!

Eileen said...

I have so much empathy for Parents, Teacher and Kids now, what a mess with NO leadership that will help solve these issues!

YES, VOTE EARLY and make your VOTE count!

Lee said...

hello,I have been popping in and out to peek at your blog.But my 90yr old mum is in hospital 200 miles away from me,all very stressful.Loving seeing all the great photos of Buddy and the beautiful fur babies,reading about your very hectic life.Thinking of you.Hugs xx

deb said...

Happy (belated) Birthday little Buddy!

Gracie Saylor said...

It is wonderful you have good memories of your family time together and can look forward to visits in your sweet shark-infested pool waters with the brave ones who are moving not too far away! I appreciate your confession of throwing away your frustrating stitching project because I have done that, too. I wore the yarn out incorrectly stitching and repeatedly ripping out the incorrect stitches. Onward! love and hugs :)

steph said...

As moms we all know we bring these babes into the world to set them free, but no one tells us how HARD that is!!! Mine are both ....OMG, I just did the 'calculations'!!!!!....over 30 years from flying the nest (I'm just counting from the time they left for college and not from when they got married....I'm not THAT old!!!) but there isn't a day that goes by that I don't wish for them to live closer, to visit more often, to pop in unexpectedly, to hug theml....whatever. Yep. Being a mom is a lifelong, hard job...you just have less and less control over the outcomes!!! And that's the way it's supposed to be.

And from now on, I'm going to be really careful getting into a swimming pool. That shark looks ferocious!!!

Happy weekend. If it's a moving weekend, you all are going crazy I'm sure!!!

Caffeine Girl said...

I am so jealous of how close both your boys will be! At least Seth will arrive in Chicago tonight, so he'll be 3 hours away. Post-Covid, I'm planning to spend a lot of time in Chicago!

Change is hard. Still, I don't think I'd give up seeing my two little rascals grow into lovely adults!