Grief Life Lemons
A life lemon by definition: A situation or occurrence when life throws lemons at you. It’s a negative experience. They come in varying degrees. They really suck.
Well this is my definition of a life lemon any way.
Some are minor frustrations or just an annoying occurrence like that fly you can’t swat that won’t leave you alone when both your hands are busy. Here’s an example from a past article. Annoying Life Lemons
And some are very difficult, some of the toughest you will have to cope with. Here’s an example from my past as well. It’s Good To Be Back!
And then some are gut wrenching kicks to the stomach that leave you numb and in a zombie state for days.
That’s what my past week has been like, as I had a big life lemon hit me.
I said good bye to my little Stella, my four lb Chihuahua, my constant companion for the last fifteen years.
She was there for me in good times and bad. Always so excited to see me come in the door, even if I had only gone out to get the mail! Lol
The first week has been tough, lots of firsts to get through.
No one whining in my ear at six in the morning to go outside and no need to go out at eleven at night for a final squat in the grass. I may not see the skunks waddle through the yard again.
But here’s the thing I know…
It will get easier, this isn’t my first rodeo of pet loss.
So if you are going through this now or will someday, if you have pets, here are some tips I find help me.
*Be mindful of how you feel, it’s ok to feel like you just got hit by a truck. Emotionally you did.
*If your eyes want to overflow, let them.
*Don’t rush to get rid of everything pet related, take your time. I plan to keep a few things and get rid of others.
*You likely will need a new routine because you are going to feel lost. So plan new things or rearrange what you do, to take the place of pet activities. I have started reading more, and I will get back walking every day.
I hated leaving Stella since she went blind, at the end she struggled being away from me.
*I bought new pencils for coloring and I’m watching how to’s on youtube.
*Spend time with your Bestie. I had a good visit with Bestie J last week, it was just what I needed.
*Keeping busy is good, just don’t forget to let your emotions out when they ask to be let loose.
Life Experience Wisdom
* Look after yourself. Be easy on yourself. Don’t rush your grief and healing.
* Remember and take comfort in all the good times you had with your fur baby.
*Remind yourself it will get easier.
As I was finishing up this article I got the call from the vet. Stella’s ashes were ready to come home.
It’s oddly comforting to have her home again. She is sitting in my office in a cozy blue velvet bag.
Being wrapped in a blanket was always her favourite thing, so this seems very appropriate.
RIP Stella
I miss you…
That’s it for this week, I’m going to wipe my eyes and snotty nose and get out and do something productive! I think I’ll go buy another book.
Cheers til next week,
Grace
My Motto
When life throws baseball size lemons at you, that smack you upside the head, stomp on those damn things and make yourself a cocktail!