What makes you feel nostalgic?

2023 has been a year of low lows and joyful times.

MS played a big part of the lows, active lesions caused some new weakness, fatigue and depression. Still very mild overall, but the changes still have to be dealt with and a new medication started in March but I am still wondering if it is working? Hopefully MRIs in January will help with the decision to stick with this medication or try a different one.

July marked the start of a new journey with my Hearing Guide Dog, thanks to the generosity of many and the Lions Foundation of Guide Dogs. The confidence, joy, of having Violett be my ears when I don’t hear someone coming up behind me, knocking at my door, the morning alarm, the timer when the microwave is finished, or the dryer is done, or if my fire alarm goes off, so amazing to have her in my life!

While COVID is supposedly under control, the numbers in our community are high, and I have become cautious again about where I go. Yes, I got my flu shot and my covid shot. My daughter is due any time to have a baby and I don’t want to miss that!

Yes, I wish a lot of life was simpler, I miss a real newspaper, where we could cut out important dates and stick them to the fridge, or the calendar of when the garbage is being picked up. Money worries are always a part of life, but when the cost of food, heat and rent or mortgage are so high they impact daily living every single day…

So I would say 2023 was not the best year for me…a 20th anniversary of my husband passing, missing my mom 20 years in 2024. Those losses while some time ago, coupled with my MS struggles and work stress added up to the point where some counselling was in order. Fortunately one of my good friends really kept an eye out, and her listening and honest talking really made a difference. The mindfulness training I took a number of years ago helps too.

I’ve always been a glass half full kind of gal, and still am, so bring it on 2024!