If there is righteousness in the heart
If there is righteousness in the heart,
there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character,
there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home,
there will be order in the nation.
If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.
So let it be.

~Scottish Blessing ~

I have shared this blessing the last several years on my blog at Christmas time, but I never tire of it. I want to thank you for your love and support since my stroke on July 24, 2014. You have no idea how your words and emails have continued to be a source of strength to me.

As I near the 5 month mark, I am happy to report so many gains. I have leveled at the moment, and my OT/PT will end next week. While I am sad in many ways, I am grateful too! I will miss my therapists and the friendships I have developed at the tiny hospital I frequent twice a week. They are an amazing group of ladies and I shall miss our Tuesday/Thursday banter.

I do need a rest from it as well. The last 5 months have been a battle to regain as much as mentally and physically possible. I remember my first day there, I arrived in a wheelchair. Now, I can walk with my cane in and out. I am exhausted when I leave each time, but my legs are carrying me.

My Christmas is not going to be a very festive event this year. I have been unable to shop, bake, or wrap gifts. That does make me sad. I shared this with a girlfriend recently, and she said “Your children do not want presents, you are the present because you are STILL HERE to celebrate with them.” It was the words of comfort I needed to hear.

In January, I plan to visit a local university with my Occupational therapist. We have been asked to speak to students going into the field. I am pretty stoked about this! I never questioned “why” this happened, but knew there would be a path given to me and I will follow.

May the spirit of Christmas bless each and every one of you this season! I am hopeful that 2015 will be a much better year and plan to make it just that!

Merry Christmas!