-135 = Day 235

I haven't posted but once this month.  My focus has not been on shopping or on what not to wear.  I have a marathon to run in 3 days, and I am sorely unprepared.  It is a good thing I have 7 hours to complete the race, otherwise I might just drop out. 

I am sitting in my Madre's dining room using her computer.  I rushed here a week and a half ago from Southern CA to be with my folks during my Padre's last few days on this earth.  He has been very ill for months, and it was only at the end that anyone would really acknowledge what I feared.  I am blessed to have had him all these years.  He has molded and shaped me in more ways than I can count.  His constant support and guidance will always be with me and have an impact for the rest of my days.

My father was a kind, gentle, and wise man.  He was a scholar and a teacher.  His influence over others was subtle but lasting.  He was the kind of man that could command a room.  He was respected in his work and all that met him, whether through his work, or in his personal life, were impacted by his wisdom.  He was humble, he was gracious, he was fair, and above all he was kind.  He accepted people and their foibles and helped them overcome their weaknesses, playing to their strengths.  He was my Daddy.  I miss him.

Love,

S

Countdown - 221

When I started this blog, I thought it would be all about me, and my angst over not shopping.  And it IS, it's just that right now I have other things on my mind. 

My Padre is in hospital.  He has been very ill for quite sometime and I am beside myself with worry.  I spoke with him a week ago and he was in such distress, I was ready to jump on a plane and rush to my Home State.  It is disconcerting to say the least, to hear your big strong Papa say he needs help.  It causes one to pause, and think about the bigger picture.  At least that is what it has done for me.

Under normal circumstances, this situation would have driven me straight to one of my fav boutiques to do a little stress shopping.  In times of unhappiness, stress, and worry, the immediate gratification of buying myself a little something 'new', has been a great source of temporary relief.  After almost 7 1/2 months of no shopping, I am realizing the shopping part is very temporary.  It has been during these types of stress shopping spree's I have made some of my worst purchasing decisions.  I am learning to deal with this in a new way.

I am praying more.
I am running more.
I am cleaning my house frequently.
I am working harder.

I am hoping some of these lessons will be permanent.  Mi Padre can't stay in this state forever without some sort of resolution.  As long as I don't 'eat' my way out of the stress, I think I will be ok.

Love,
S