February has been a month of ups and downs.
Ups: Snow like we haven’t had in years (thank goodness for our farmer and his big tractors). (A little) more project progress. Ellie’s birthday.
Downs: I got sick.
February took my word of the year–care–and gave me a hard reminder that I need to take more care. I was sicker than I’ve been in a long time. Five days of chills, aches, not sleeping, and generally feeling miserable. Projects halted, the couch and I spent a lot of time together, my focus became what was absolutely necessary and going to bed early.
I of course was extremely frustrated to be so unproductive.
But I know I’ve been pushing myself for years and I need to take better care of myself. I’m hoping this illness was the wake up call I need. I’ve been slowly working my way back. I haven’t made any significant progress on the office, bathroom or coop. I’m taking twice as long to mark my students’ latest assignment. I’m going to bed about an hour earlier than usual (sometimes more). I’m still a bit frustrated at what I see as a lack of productivity, but I’m also proud of myself for making smarter choices.
Here are some of the things I’ve been up to this month.
I am not a rock climber, but I love watching super capable people do incredible things. This climb is epic, but the partnership is even more special.
Also incredible? This kayaker who was “swallowed” by a whale
Other favourite documentaries I watched while stuck on the couch: Edge of the Unknown, The Rescue.
“Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.”
Desiderata by Max Ehrmann
I’m finishing off the month with a surprise adventure day for Ellie’s birthday (celebrations have been epic), lunch with a friend, a consultation for the bathroom renovation, and hopefully a return to the coop.
Home on 129 Acres 
Hi Julia,
I’m sorry to hear you have been ill. Like you, both Jaro and I have been ill lasting two weeks. We haven’t been this sick in years. Chills, head/sinus cold, deep chest cough that lingered and lingered ! Our illness even prompted a visit to our doctor. I was given a chest x-ray that determined the test was normal, however, I felt anything but. Jaro’s condition worsened prompting a second visit this time to the after hours clinic. The doctor determined he had the start of pneumonia. Today he is taking the last of the 10 day course of antibiotic pills. It has been a long, frustrating 14 days of cancelling get togethers with our family and friends, sitting watching endless TV as even reading was difficult to focus on. I totally get your frustration in being non-productive during the recovery period of this nasty virus.
We are looking forward to two weeks away in Mexico leaving on Wednesday. We’ll be joined by my sister and her sister-in-law. We are all looking forward to it especially after having been ill. My sister had been sick earlier this month for a week with similar symptoms to ours. Seems this virus is very catchy with many people falling ill with it. Has Steve managed to avoid any illness?
Wishing you well with continued progress on your projects as you feel better. Happy birthday to Ellie ! Hope her celebration is absolutely wonderful as you enjoy with her her special day.
Pam
You’ve been worse off than me, Pam! That sounds awful. I hope your time away is a good rest. Thank you for all your kind wishes.