Broken Ribs and a Cup of Coffee

Here I am... just sitting... the temperatures are dropping outside and if you know absolutely anything about me, that is a sign of fear and dread in my world.  

I have been a snowbird for the last seven years and was pretty happy with that way of life.  
I'd winter where it was warm, 97% of the time.   I was usually near water.  I was able to get out and about to explore most days.  (Hurricane season was sometimes tricky, but it's not like they sneak up on you.  You have a pretty good idea of when they're coming and if you need to pack up or not!) 

When the danger of cold weather was past, I could make my way up north to visit family and see what else I could find; dragging my camper along behind ready for new adventures. 

I haven't owned a winter coat in seven years.  I barely wear shoes, for that matter.  I am SUCH a beach baby at heart.

Well... this year is going to be a bit different.  I am officially trapped in colder weather. 
The first weekend in October, I busted my ribs.  I didn't think much of it at the time, but five days later, when I was still having trouble breathing, I went in and had it x-rayed.  One rib  broken, one fractured.  Not a thing they can do for it except to tell me to be still for the next 6-8 weeks and don't lift anything over 5-8 pounds. 
Trapped.  Trapped in cold weather until at least the end of the year. 

Trying the see the best in a freezing situation, I find myself inside a new experiment.  How to make this the best winter ever?  It's a big ask.  The cold weather is not just something I complain about for fun (we all have to have our "thing"). The cold, damp weather is actually pretty painful for me since I have arthritis in a good number of my joints.  But, it could be worse.  I could certainly be worse.

I choose to fill my brain with happy thoughts.  I flood my heart with gratitude.  I reflect on all the ways that I am blessed.
​I am near my family.  A rarity since I have found wings... I haven't spent Christmas with my grandchildren in all those years of snow-birding, because... well... cold.  (I transferred my Christmas spirit to Easter.  Easter is my favorite holiday and I pull out all the stops for this holiday!). But this year, I get to spoil them EXTRA, actually ON Christmas!  (Their parents may even INSIST I head back to the south by the time I get done! Lol!)

With out being allowed to do much other than sit around and forcefully  WILL my bones to grow back together, it allows me to brainstorm and putter around with other ideas I've been wanting to do, but just couldn't find the time ... Boy, have I got time now!   This is the best injury when you have a laptop close by! (Hint- I ALWAYS have a laptop close by.)
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I'm ahead in my Bag of Bones Podcast episodes for the first time in... forever.  That feels pretty good.  I'm working on the new book that now I have NO excuse for it not being released on time at the beginning of December.   Plus plans for a years-worth of new books to come out in 2023.  (The way my luck runs is that I'll get all these things started then get released from couch therapy and be right back in the rat race!)
The damage was enough that I was informed that I probably won't be able to travel the way I was used to and that I will need to make some pretty severe changes in my future activities.  If that ends up being the case, I am so grateful for my adventures over the years and wouldn't trade them for anything.  I'll have to be more careful where I end of an invalid next time though, THAT'S for sure!
Okay fine... I know you're asking but how... how did you break your ribs? I was broken in the most loving way possible.  With a hug.  A hug from a 21 year old football player that was just trying to pop my back.  And he did... just went a little beyond that.  I heard a crunch, but neither of us believed that I was actually broken... 
The evening wore on and I was hugged again and again and the more you love someone, you just want to squeeze them so tight so they know right?  Can I just say, I am SO LOVED.  Each squeeze probably added to the fracture. 
Adding to that... I am pretty active and chest pain or no chest pain, work had to be done, so I pushed through it lifting and carrying... just doin' what I do... until I couldn't anymore.
My jaw dropped when I saw the x-ray.
So now I sit.  Trying to figure out how I'm going to be able to NOT step one foot out the door until the crocus comes up.  Not gonna happen, so I sip my coffee and snuggle under the piles of blankets begrudging letting others take care of me.  I am so loved.  I must keep my whining to a minimum.  

Share the Love. 20 Ways to Show Someone You Care.

​The Christmas season is an excellent time of year to pour love out on everyone you come in contact with!  For some reason, during this time of year, people are more generous and giving than in other times.  And people are more accepting of love and displays of affection than in other times of the year.  I can tell you, I get away with hugging more people in December than in any other month!  And yes, I abuse the privilege!

So don't miss out on your opportunity to share in the pleasure of giving love to others.  Here's just a few suggestions to get you started...

1. Donate to a charity in someone's name.  There are so many worthwhile causes out there and some people are uncomfortable accepting gifts so this is the perfect solution!

2. Baked Goods.  Give the gift of homemade cakes or cookies or other yummy snacks.  And as an extra bonus, spend the day making the treats with someone you love!

3. Tell someone something you admire about them.  Everyone enjoys hearing a kind word.  "Love the way you share with your sister."  "Great Customer service today!" "I love when you read our kids a story before bed.  You're creating great memories."

4. Invite a friend out for coffee.  Get to know them better over a steamy cup of java or hot chocolate.

5. Leave someone a secret encouraging note!  Make their day when they find a note saying something thoughtful like, "Way to go on that project!"  or "Thanks for cleaning your room without being told!" or "Just wanted to tell you that I'm proud of you for all of your hard work."

6. Make some homemade Christmas cards and take them to the patients in a local hospital or send them to our soldiers that are stationed overseas.

7. Ask what the best part of their day has been, and then listen!  Don't interrupt!

8. Remind someone how much you enjoy having them in your life.

9. HUGS!!! 

10. Actions speak louder than words!  Do it!  Don't just say it!  If you've been promising to do something, now's the time!

11. Do something unexpected.  Bring donuts into work.  Clean the ice off the neighbor's car.  Take out the trash.  Offer to cook dinner.  

12. Pay it Forward.  Participate in random acts of kindness.  Donate toys, food or money to a good holiday benefit.  Pay for a stranger's meal or coffee.  Give a random person a gift.  Volunteer.

13. Gift a small gift... just cause.

14.  Smile!  Look people in the eye!

15. Say it!  "I care for you." "I love you." "You are special to me." "You're amazing just the way you are."

16. Pass on the gift of music.  Donate new cd's to the children's ward at a hospital or church or just some stranger walking down the street!  Do you play an instrument?  Can you carry a tune?  Go and sing/play for a senior living center or hospital or even on a street corner!

17. Watch a favorite holiday movie with someone special.

18. Put your phone away and ask questions.  Get some one-on-one time with each member of your family or a close friend or a co-worker or someone sitting alone at the airport.

19. Enjoy the Christmas light displays either by walking, driving or carriage ride!

20.  Buy ANYTHING a child is selling!  If they took the time and the courage to ask you... buy.  You'll do wonders for their self-esteem! (Parents! Don't do it FOR them!)

Christmas is a magical time of year.  Take advantage of it and share the love!  Happy holidays everyone!

Chime in!  What are some things you do for the holidays to show others that you care?  Comment below!  I'd love to hear your feedback!