Hangin’ in there like a rusty nail…

| TravellinPenguin

This year just keeps getting better and better. I’m writing this for my good friends who I know read this. Then I might delete it as I am not about discussing body parts. I had major surgery last Thursday. I’ve had a very large mass, (think large baby’s head) removed plus all those internal (infernal?) female parts and although thankfully it does not look like there is any high risk cancer as part of it, it is being evaluated by several pathologists as something to look into more. I should know more by next week. I am feeling relaxed and positive and know I will get through this as we must all get through anything. I plan to stay in the current moment and do what I can. After all what else is there? I’m thankful I live in Australia where there are hospitals clear of Covid, people on the whole do the right thing and government leadership has been strong. It has saved many lives. I don’t care what side of the political fence they are on they are keeping us alive as much as possible.

I think the saddest realisation I’ve had with all of this it is time to sell my trusty scooter. I’ve been riding almost 25 years and when my friend who runs Motorworks said he would sell it for me, I hung up and cried. It is like losing an old dog who took me up and down the east coast of Australia, around Victoria, the Great Ocean Road and around Tasmania several times.

I am a believer that we realise and accept limitations in our lives and as much as we want to keep doing what we love we must get up and keep looking for other things to fill the void.

I think being an old lady now in her 70s with many interests can find other things to do. My photography is at the forefront and hopefully travel will be in the future. But when I came home from hospital yesterday, which is a place I never want to spend time again, I thought of the wall of books I have, Mr Penguin who helps me with so much and gives us all love and the wonderful Ollie, Molly, Uncle Buck, Cousin Eddie and Grizzy who love us with all their hearts.

I might add that the kitchen was pretty much finished and everything moved back in by the night before my surgery. Now just to paint the ceiling, the attached laundry room and put in the floor. Can’t believe it will be completely done and we won’t be cooking in a 70’s time capsule anymore.

So while I do feel grief at losing the past I guess that is what we all come to terms to and I plan very much on being my silly, joking self, laughing at the silliness of much of the world. I have no plans until 1 January to go anywhere. I’m going to get my strength back, get back to the gym, my pilates and personal trainer work, take amazing photos, spend time with Ollie on the beach, spend time with my friends who have been so supportive both here and overseas. It meant a lot through some very dark nights.

I promise this will be the last you hear of this nonsense. I will probably delete this post once it’s been read by the people who have followed my “letters” as I tend to look upon this blog and back to exploring Tasmania, Hobart, books, reading and everything that adds value to life.

I look forward to the clean slate that is to be 2021. Hopefully. a vaccination that does its job most of the time, no Trump antics in the White House, a bit of kindness and warmth and hopefully people taking care of each other, and our environment and animals.

Okay, now I’m off to read Pollyanna and eat sweet cherries while patting small children on the head and smiling at the flowers in my yard.

28 thoughts on “Hangin’ in there like a rusty nail…”

  2. Warm greetings to you for Christmas, and wishes for a speedy recovery. As the old Rhodesian farmers used to say, looking optimistically at the cloudless sky and the desiccated crops: Next year will be better!

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  4. Thanks for sharing your story. I think it often helps other people who are dealing with similar things to hear that they’re not the only ones falling apart. I admire your attitude and hope I can imitate you. I wish you a speedy recovery.

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  5. Happy to hear that all went well with the operation. You have a lot to look forward too. The main thing is to have some hobbies to fill your days and you seem to have a lot of them. Photography is an excellent hobby and must be so rewarding. I am now taking an online course on the subject and hope to improve my photos. You take really wonderful photos, very professional.
    Good luck and all the best for the new year. Hope you find some really good books to read.

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    1. Photography is one of those pursuits where one can never reach the end. There is always something to learn that will stretch both mind and ability. All the best in your pursuits. One thing for sure , photography changes the way you see the world, whether you get the photo or not. 🎄🎁🐧🤠

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  6. Thanks for sharing your story, Pam. I’m also in my 70s and what I am able to do seems to change all the time. Onward and upward! Take care of yourself ❤️

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  7. Pam, hope that things will continue to be ok regarding medical findings. Yes, you should just take it easy for awhile and do things you enjoy. As soon as the painting and floor are done the kitchen area should be a joy for you. I know you will concentrate on all the positive and beautiful things in your life that will give you strength. Love to you.

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  8. Thank you for sharing that information. I read your reviews but have not read the previous explanations so was not aware. Your note is inspiring (I too am in my 70s); I wish you the best , and a fun 2021, and will follow more closely in future.

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  9. I adore your spirit. Can you bottle some of it up and send my way please? Convalescence can be frustrating but your positivity is going to be a great help in getting you back on your feet and raring to go once more. Here’s to a good recovery and the rebirth of the Travelling Penguin.

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  11. A lovely, frank post Pam and I’m pleased that everything looks ok. In some ways getting older sucks but aren’t we glad that we’re getting the chance?! Enjoy your convalescence in your gorgeous reading lounge! 💚

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  12. Thanks for sharing Pam and I hope the recovery period continues to go well. These kind of moments do make us focus on what’s important don’t they? I’m sorry about the bike, but you have much to enjoy and be thankful for (particularly that lovely dog!) Stay safe and well and here’s to a good 20201! x

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  13. Well, Pollyanna, you’ve done us proud to let us share this moment with you. I didn’t realise just how serious things might have been and am very relieved to hear that things are looking hopeful.
    When I was young I used to think that ‘counting blessings’ was corny, but as the years go by, you realise that it’s not corny at all. It’s life-affirming, it generates hope, and it inspires others to emulate the same kind of resilience.
    Best wishes to all creatures great and small in your household, (and a special cuddle for Ollie who has stolen my heart).
    Lisa x

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    1. Ollie is certainly a joy. I know what you mean re Count your blessings. It’s just sad when you become thrilled over working body larts. We sure take a lot for granted. 🐧🎄🎁🤠🌻

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  15. my gosh, i’m just glad you’re okay… hospitals are the worst, even when they’re good ones… my sympathetic nerves are jangling, hearing about all this, but the one good thing about time is that it passes… next year, new interests and opportunities: stuff to look forward to… i hope you all have a great Christmas, with your new kitchen and all… regards…

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  16. Quite the week. Nothing like a health scare and surgery to put things into perspective! What a nice home and family to come back to. “Keep on keeping on” as they say!

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