Its hard to believe that a year has passed and on August 11,2020 around 1:30 p.m. I scared the crap of my family and friends likely aging some or at the least added a few gray hairs. 😊 As I try to not think of the details of that day’s life altering event, and the play by play that vividly rolls around from time to time. There is still the obvious, I have 1 decent left hand, and 2 legs to carry me through. Although I have come a very long way in one year, exceeding and proving against therapists that on short timelines, I will accomplish my goals. From skiing in 4 short months, getting into the boat or fish house, exceeding hand strength and still not being satisfied, baking on my own, coached softball (those girls got way more than they bargained for), the list goes on. I realize these are all big goals and, in my mind, easy to tackle. But the things that matter more are the appreciation of the little things. I am still working on patience and the acceptance that this is the new normal. There is a new respect to life; it is fragile, it is fast, and how do you want to live your life, is it to the fullest, is it full of Joy? This is likely where it can make or break many people, but I would say my approach comes in the tone and words from my father in-law Dan. He would always say, “Have a good PMA (positive mental attitude)” Following these words, the days are certainly easier and more enjoyable. It may not always feel Grand and Glorious, but every day is still a Grand and Glorious Day! You should try and love every moment you can.  Thank God for the generous gifts he gives, no matter the size, he lifts us up when things are tough, he heals us when things need healing, and he loves unconditionally. He is the reason I am still here, and I thank Him for it constantly.

A few people have asked ‘what my biggest struggle is’ or ‘were you right hand dominant before?’ Truthfully, it’s hard to pinpoint that item of struggle, I don’t see struggles, I see some frustrations, but I see the sheer determination and expectations of myself that I will figure out all these things. They will slow me down, but certainly not stop me. My pie making is back to excellence, garden work is manageable, fishing… well… I’m missing less fish than a few months ago. I have to learned to tie jigs, it maybe without shoes, and using my toes (that might get a little brisk come winter) but I’ll find more ways, and more efficient ways. Whether working inside or outside, they are just tasks and when tackled with an open mind, anything is truly possible. These are still just the physical things. Emotionally it is a ladder to climb, mind over matter, the effort you are willing to put in. Not everyday is going to be easy, but it’s not supposed to. Its how you chose to handle those rough moments that define what you are capable of. 

I can’t show enough appreciation that I have one of the most amazing support crews on myside. Karl has been my strength in so many ways, sometimes sacrificed for himself to ensure I’m still good, but even so, my rock to lean on. My boys, well they may not always be willingly help, but as young boys they mostly mean well. My parents, grandparents, siblings, inlaws, and friends continuing to be there if I need help even if I don’t ask for help. They know I won’t ask anyway. This tribe of everyone has made this year of everything successful and I am truly grateful. Thank you to everyone who has kept me in their thoughts and prayers. I am truly blessed. So, with that, I welcome this Ampuversary and look ahead knowing God will guide my path, take my worries for me when I give them to Him. And I WILL continue to have a PMA  This is my last post on this site, thank you for following.