The Rose of Sharon, with beautiful white double blooms, had been nursed along by my mother for years. Every year more branches would die and have to be cut off. Last year I swore I would cut it down, but did not. I cannot decide if it was because I was too busy to take the time to do it, or if I just did not want to destroy something my mother took great pains to nurture. It bloomed well in spite of the continual rotting of the tree.
This removal and replanting is part of an ongoing project of getting the house in order and preparing it for sale. I am still not sure if I want to stay in it or leave. The original plan with Mom was to sell it right away. But since she died at an inopportune time, now is when I have the time to sort out the details. The house has grown on me, so I don't mind staying for a while. The market is down, so we will not get as much as it is worth if we sell now. But, I would like to live closer to town, closer to places I like to shop and things I like to do.
Whether I stay in the house or not does not really matter in terms of fixing it up now. Things still need to be gone through, given away, thrown away. The weather is getting nicer, so soon I will be sorting out the garage. There are a lot of things in there I do not know what to do with. I am tempted to rent a dumpster.
I am at a time of transition, which is really the only reason I have time to do all of this. I am finished with school, have my nursing license, and am waiting to get hired. My contract with Baptist Hospital requires that the hospital has a certain length of time in which to place me. I have to be patient.
In the meantime, I am taking advantage of the extra time I have. I am cleaning out closets, planting trees and flowers, knitting and reading books that aren't text books. I am also taking the time to grieve the loss of my family, a long overdue process, which is yet another transition.

4 comments:
ET - speaking of transitions, you need to update your profile, as you are an RN rather than an audio engineer. How cool is that?
Glad you have down time to sort, process things & thoughts & feelings. My love is with you.
Transitions ae always difficult, even the good ones. I know you have had your share of loss the past few years. Just know that we love you, and even in the middle of loss you have still managed to grow and bloom. You are a remarkable person, and I appreciate you letting me tag along for the ride. Always, Sandy
Profile is updated now.
Eileen- Reading this again after the BBQ and the chance to visit with you a bit has inspired me.
The last time I began nursing school (2002) I found myself in a situation similar to yours. My mother was suddenly and swiftly terminally ill. I did not continue with school as I cared for her. As I read about the transitions that you have navigated, I am truly inspired. As I prepare to begin nursing school again this fall, I know that there will be times that I will want to quit. I will think of you. Thank you.
And if you need any help with any of the "fixing up" around the house I have A LOT of experience, so don't hesitate to call on me.
Post a Comment