This process of writing a brand-spanking-new blog post every day is usually a true pleasure for me. Somehow, I always seem to find something to talk about, even when I think there is absolutely nothing that is even remotely interesting happening in my life. Every post is written by yours truly. I don’t pull photos from other sites or blogs and use them as the basis for a post. As tempting as that may be for those days when I could use some ‘filler,’ it just doesn’t feel right within the context of this personal blog of mine, which has always consisted of original content. There’s nothing wrong with that kind of thing, but I have to stay true to my vision.
So it’s all me, for better or for worse.
Some days I find myself thinking, “What can I possibly write about today?” Or I find myself looking into the future and wondering if I can even hope to keep this up and maintain a certain level of interesting and compelling writing. Because I couldn’t bear it if the content on this blog became boring. Or routine. And I’m only human. Some periods in my life are more exciting than others. Some days are rather humdrum.
Or I worry about what I will take pictures of when the gardens have faded. How many times can I show you my living room? What happens when I finish my dollhouse? Then I remind myself to stay in the present and take it one day at a time.
This week has been a little tougher than others as I’ve been under the weather battling something that we are now pretty sure is Lyme Disease. We’re very familiar with it around here. Don has had it. Both dogs had it. (I was the last holdout.) Most everyone in these parts has one or more family members who have had it. I would go so far as to say it’s commonplace in our neck of the woods. Anyway, on Monday, I finally connected the dots between a few things that have happened – starting with that 24 hour fever and virus thing I had about 3 weeks ago. So off I went to the doctor and he drew some blood and prescribed Doxycycline, which I started taking right away. I’m improving for sure, though I’m awfully tired.
So I’ve found myself struggling to write interesting posts this week. And what do I do when that seems to be a problem? I’m honest with you and I ‘fess up. And then, what do you know? I have a post.
Don’s been taking care of me and I’m feeling much better. When taking Doxycycline, you are supposed to stay out of the direct sun or your skin can be affected. Not everyone who takes it suffers that side effect but I have very fair and sensitive skin, so I have to be careful. That’s a drag for this gardener and lawn mower. And wouldn’t you know it, we just got those passes to hike the trails in the mountains. Frustrating.
Ah well. It is what it is.
Back to the blog posts. I’m stubborn about them, you know. I won’t recycle an older post. I won’t use photos from other sites and comment on them. I won’t take the day off, unless I have to and I tell you about it ahead of time. I power through, because writing is cathartic for me and muscling through that ‘roadblock’ always takes me to the other side where I discover something to write about. And I feel better for it. The daily challenge of crafting new material is a good discipline for me.
So there you have it. Dear friends, don’t worry about me. And, as well-meaning as I know you mean to be, please don’t tell me stories about others who have had Lyme Disease. I believe in staying positive and eliminating anything negative from my consciousness, especially when dealing with sickness. Believe me, we’ve been through it before and it’s under control and it’s not a big deal and I caught it early and all is well.
Let’s close with this photo. Remember the zinnia bud I showed you on Monday? Here it is this morning. Little miracles happen every day.
Happy Thursday.
Take care and be well, Claudia.
Thanks, Shanna.
I know you are being well cared for and will recover. Don’t worry about being boring, it is a joy to look into your lives.
Ah, thank you, Regena!
Hi Claudia, I always enjoy your blog no matter what you write about. Your pictures are always lovely (and sometimes stunning) and I enjoy the little peek you provide all of us to your world. So glad you caught the lyme disease early and went to the doctor. Do take care and I’m sure you will be feeling better in no time!
I’m feeling much better today, Vera. Thank you!
Claudia…I have followed your blog for about six months now and I really do look forward to reading it, no matter what you blog about. This morning I went to the local garage with my car thinking that my motor was bad (and of course, no money to fix it), but the mechanic told me it was something minor and it would be less than $300. I had been upset all morning thinking about the “what ifs” and “what was I going to do if…” and when he told me the good news, I was so thrilled, but still very anxious on the inside. When I got home, I sat down at my computer and THE FIRST thing I wanted to read was your blog. I wanted to see flowers and everyday things written about. It felt like a comfort to me. I didn’t know I felt like that about your blog, but apparently I do. So please keep blogging about anything and everything; you never know who you are helping just by being consistent and pleasant, maybe even a girl from the middle of Oklahoma who needs to deflate from her anxious morning. Thank you, Claudia.
Oh, how very sweet of you, Brooke. I know what it is to worry about things like that. I frequently worry about car repairs and unforeseen expenses. If I help in any way with these blog posts, I am very happy, indeed.
Your flowers are beautiful & I especially like the phlox. My grandmother used to grow old fashioned phlox like that, but I have never tried to grow it. Maybe next year! Take it easy and let your body & the doxycycline do their healing work. Hoping you feel better soon!
The scent coming from the phlox is unbelievable, Debbie. Try growing some. Thanks so much for the well wishes.
I have been following your blog for around three months and it always brings me peace and relaxes me, thank you so much for taking the time out of your life to share a piece of yours with us. continue to feel better,
Nancy
Thank you so very much, Nancy.
Take care of yourself and be well. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way!
Thank you, Debra!
Your blog is always awesome – even when some days are more quiet than others. Take care Claudia!
I will, Deb!
I look forward to reading your blog and am glad you keep at it…..Take care of yourself…..This too will pass.
Love,
Eileen
It will, indeed, Eileen. Thanks!
I look forward your post every morning. Just take one day at a time. Sometimes I get overwhelmed if I try to look too far ahead. Take care.
I love the zinnia photos and the surprise that comes from their colors when they were planted from seeds. I love that they are old fashioned. I love that you push through the blogging blahs. I love that you are positive and that we, your readers, can ‘visit’ most every morning. Thanks for being here and feel better soon.
One of the things I truly love about your blog is the honesty. Your pictures are yours. Your house has not been staged to look perfect, like no one lives there. Your words are always honest too.
I know you are being taken good care of. And, I know you know this is not an illness to take lightly so please don’t. I would miss the beauty and comfort of your blog if it got you down for too long.
The medicine is doing its job, Trudy. All is well.
I have never been bored reading your posts and look forward to a new one every day. Your pictures are beautiful. Don’t worry about having nothing to write about—–every day life (with all of us) will always be interesting to someone else. Could it be that I am nothing but a nosey old lady?
Happy you are feeling better.
If you’re nosy, than I am, too. That’s probably why we love to read blogs!
Glad you have an answer, and are feeling better! Flowers are gorgeous as usual. Enjoy your day! ;)
Thank you, Donnamae!
Take care of yourself. Finding out exactly what is wrong is 95% of the problem. Love your garden.
Tana
Thank you, Tana!
Claudia, one of the things I love best about your blog is that it truly is YOUR blog. Every day is new and purely yours. As we move through the seasons your camera lens always finds something to share. You can show us the changes in your home as well as the things that stay the same. Your flower pictures are beautiful, but you have a grand eye for showing us the beauty in every season. You share the good with the bad. Your life is full of variety and you share all of it with us. I love spending time with you on your blog, it is as if I am visiting a friend. Phooey on Lyme disease!!!
Oh, thank you so much for your kind words, Teresa!
I know that you have two special nurses there to love and take care of you..stay in your jammies and read all day..that is my prescription..lol..
I tried to read all day yesterday but it was hard to concentrate. Today is better, so after I’m done with my online chores, that’s exactly what I’m going to do!
No negative stories here but it does seem like so many contact it where you live. My daughter’s in laws live in the Hamptons. Most of them had had it. It worries me about my grandkids visiting there but you know, like you said. Catch it early, take the meds, and rest. Here’s to a speedy recover. Maybe you can garden at dusk. My grandkids all have those shirts that you can wear to avoid sunburns. What a great product for the little ones.
As far as your blog……you are never boring. Just a fresh breath of air.
Hugs and Prayers.
Aw, thanks Debby!
As much as I look forward to reading your blog everyday, I don’t take it for granted. If you were not to write one day, then the next day’s post would be enjoyed that much more. Your photographs tell their own story, enhanced by your words. I love the last photo so much.
Annie
Thank you, Annie!
OH NO Dear Claudia, When my Father got Lyme disease,
Just Kidding :~) ! Love Ya Lots feel better soon!!.I always enjoy your posts. I always try to click on Your ads!
-Judy A-
Ha ha! Judy, you’re very funny!
Just want to comment…My grandson has it now…same medicine.
I write down things for posts in the future… as I get an idea. I post most everyday and seldom at a loss for ideas. Now, you….the queen of posts, who can make a pencil interesting, should have no problem :)
Take care….Balisha
Sometimes it’s hard, Balisha. But most of the time it isn’t.
Claudia coming here each day and reading your blog is a visit with a friend. You always have something to say even if it’s ‘nothing’ ! Glad you recognized the signs and got yourself to the Dr. I know Don is taking good care of you.
Hugs,
Linda
He is, Linda.
So sorry you have the Lyme Disease! You have a good attitude about it. I didn’t know it was so wide-spread in your neck of the woods. Just when we thought nature was safe to enjoy!
I know. It’s a real drag. You can be as careful as possible and still get bit!
Thank goodness, you listened to your body and went straight away to the doctor. Sending healing thoughts and vibes your way :-)
I personally enjoy your blog every single day, because you bring us REAL life. You are always positive, but real life is not always beautiful blooming flowers, fresh smelling laundry and birds chirping happy little songs. There is frustration, worry, and sadness in real life as well. You share all of these real life issues in a beautifully written form…life is truly like a box of chocolates and you never know what you are going to get :-) It is a treat to open the window every day and see what you have chosen to share with us all and for that I thank you. Be healthier soon!
I thank you, Jeannine!
Claudia–
I am one to take a day off here and there because I think my life is humdrum as you say, and I wonder who would find it interesting and want to read it. But the more I read you and some other blogs; I’m learning that regular posting keeps the visitors returning…as long as it’s new content. Anyway, it is interesting to see into your’s and Don’s life…and I appreciate your honesty and your sharing.
Now as to this diagnosis… I don’t know another soul with it. So no comparison stories from me…but I did laugh at your request not to share. Because I said the exact same thing to people in my life, when I was diagnosed in June with T2 diabetes! Exact! I talked to my brother about it…and even told him, I dreaded telling my dad; because he was going to tell me how to take care of myself…and all about his experience with it.
It’s nice to know we are not alone, but somethings are like you said before…PERSONAL. It doesn’t mean, that you don’t care about that other person, that may try to be helpful…you just don’t want to make bleak comparisons!
I bet you don’t attend or have never attended ‘support’ groups either?
Anyway, take care I know Don is taking good care of you and Scout.
Pat
You’re right….no support groups, Pat! xo
It seems to help to be able to name something. Glad you know so you can take care of it. Sending positive thoughts your way.
As for your blog, hope you never tire of writing it; I never tire of reading it. And it has NEVER (I don’t know how to underline) been boring!
jane-in-tx
Aw, thank you, Jane!
Oh, Claudia! Some days when I am having my coffee I wonder what you are writing about this morning. I know I have told you how much it means to so many of us that you post about what is actually happening today!!
Take care, kiddo, and keep feeling better!
Thank you, Chris!
It is no secret that your blog is one of my favorites. I love how you always come up with something to chat about, day after day. Goes to show what a terrific writer you are! Now. I’m so sorry to hear you have Lyme Disease, but glad it was diagnosed and that you’re on medication ~ and that you have Don to take care of you. Get plenty of rest and be well. xoxo
Thank you, Melanie!
I so enjoy your blog. I love seeing your pictures of Scout, beautiful flowers, and your dollhouse, This is how I unwind after after long day at work. Reading and commenting on blogs destresses (is that a word?) me. Take care of yourself.
Sure that’s word!
Thanks so much for your kind words, Shasha!
Oh no! I’m so sorry you’re not feeling well. Let Drs. Don and Scout take care of you and enjoy a good mystery book. Or maybe another creature flick of Don’s choosing – bad movies and TV are especially hilarious when you’re sick! I’ve laughed ’till I’ve cried when I was sick …
Hope you feel better shortly!
We could use a ‘good’ bad movie, Sally!
OK then I will just say hope you feel 100% better and as soon as possible! Take care and be sure to stick close to Scoutie Girl as I’m sure you know “Canine Cooties” have a powerful effect on ailments of every kind. :>)
Scoutie is always close by – either hanging out with her dad or with me!
Im glad your feeling a wee bit better :) Pinning those garden photos.
Thanks, Dawn!
I LOVE your blog. It is NEVER boring. I always love the pictures = your house, garden, Scout, Don = it doesn’t matter. I hope you never get tired of writing it because I never get tired of reading it. The subjects you write about are ones that almost everyone can relate to. I hope you feel much better very soon. Take care.
Thank you, Dottie!
Wishing you all good things as you rest and take care of yourself!
Thank you, Sandra!
Sorry to hear that you have Lyme disease, but glad you are taking medication and feeling better. Enjoy your blog so much! Take care.
Thank you, Liz!
I know all will go well! Stay on the path to recovery.
P.S. I had to laugh at your request to not tell horror stories. The worst part of having my hip replaced was all the stories of everything that went wrong for others. Geez, stress you don’ t need.
Have a happy restful day.
I know. People mean well, but no one needs to hear that stuff!
Love your pictures Claudia. Take the doxycycline twice as long as they prescribe it. Lyme disease has the capability of returning. I was on doxycycline for 10 years for something else. So it won’t hurt you. Make sure you have totally swallowed it. It It can erode your esophagus if it gets stuck. Glad you got it early.
Drinking a big tall glass of water with each pill, Missy!