Life: Fibromyalgia, Birthdays, Work, and You

Topics: Fibromyalgia and..., My Life, My Network, Work

Yesterday was my half birthday, among other things.  And when I got to work I kept typing the wrong password.  It wasn’t until I accidently hit tab one too many times and typed my “password” into the username box that I realized I was, in fact, typing “birthday” as my password.  What was I thinking?!  Seriously… this never-ending cold has me doing some silly stuff.  I think this post jinxed me.

Last night during one of my many runny-nosed, insomnia-ridden alert-ish hours I stared blankly at the clock wondering why Aveda’s Shampure line leaves my hair smelling so good for so long.  Honestly.  I looked like a wreck.  Sounded like a smoker.  Felt like a helpless toddler.  But goodness knows, I knew my hair smelled good.

This morning, as I ran out the door to work I just had to grab this super-cute tissue box Daniel bought for me.  I felt like such a winner bringing a tissue box to work.  It was like the first day of any given grade school year… when teachers collect all sorts of goods as an entrance fee.  I know, I know, they need the stuff, but those lists are hilarious.

Today was my annual evaluation at work.  It went well and was a powerful reminder of how blessed I am to work for a company that respects and supports folks like me and you.  I was surprisingly proud of myself when I realized this time last year I was at my lowest point… in the middle of my worst fibromyalgia flare, on FMLA leave, struggling with the hell that is Cymbalta.  But this year… here I am.  Working full-time.  Driving.  Walking.  Even traveling.  What a blessing!  And what a difference a year makes.  Thank you for the significant role you played in pulling me out of said flare.  And thank you for your continued support.  I am humbled by your love and honest feedback.  And I pray your pain may be eased for your kindness to myself and those around you.  I know kind deeds and kind words are eventually returned.  And I know prayers are answered.  And I know those answers typically come through another person.

Tonight has been full of reflection for me.  And there are many more things to be said, but I absolutely MUST sleep before tomorrow.  So, I’m off to cope with my nightly pre-bed panic by showering with my beloved Aveda Shampure. Here’s to calming smells, comfy clothes, and a cuddly husband.

Existing Comments

    Comment by Tamicat on April 8, 2009 @ 12:24 am

    Glad you’re back K8! I can tell that even if all of your brain isn’t there, your spirit & heart is. =) Isn’t it amazing what a little reflection can do to cultivate thanksgiving?

    “Here’s to calming smells, comfy clothes, and a cuddly husband.”

    Amen, sister! Where’s my cuddly husband…? … Ah! There! G’night!

    Comment by Rochelle on April 8, 2009 @ 9:41 am

    We’re so glad to have you back and to be hearing things like this. So great that you’ve come such a long way in a year!

    But I do have some questions for you.
    1) What is FMLA leave?
    2) What is wrong with Cymbalta – what was your experience? (It doesn’t sound good.)

    I’ve heard Cymbalta might be good for Fibro people. I had a bad experience with Lyrica and am on the hunt for something other than Elavil which I use minimally now for pain and sleep. Nothing seems to help or work. I have a new doc I’m seeing next Thurs and want to talk to her about switching pain meds. So hearing your input about Cymbalta would really help me. Thanks!

    Comment by Chronic Chick Talk on April 8, 2009 @ 9:59 pm

    Oh how I love insomnia. LOL. The transition of seasons is always so difficult for me each year. I hate Septembers. I always go into the worst flares that time of year. Spring gets bad, but not as bad as September.

    Chronic Chick

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