tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63205961970537543662024-03-21T20:10:37.757-07:00Aphasia Will Not Be SilentThoughts about life after stroke and brain trauma written by people with aphasia. Learn more about us on our website, strokecomebackcenter.orgUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-30725969668287044492022-09-26T13:33:00.002-07:002022-09-27T06:40:43.734-07:00 I am Grateful for…by Nicole<p> </p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHm_10jydlrj5AT9hFvfb9y1etqp_UpTbIdwaBLjKj6vSxA6arowuZw--A5joRKcypjjf4qsY0ZvtqRoOczAhirX5UfD8Wx60GF-dY4Ns4_3O1SEefj7BEOMD4qVX7-8Ac3RfeGDzfuspmYoGNKGmMtRswYKuyqHy5Fqv_OyYzVFgGO8tR_mlcO74LlA/s320/clip_image001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="214" data-original-width="320" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHm_10jydlrj5AT9hFvfb9y1etqp_UpTbIdwaBLjKj6vSxA6arowuZw--A5joRKcypjjf4qsY0ZvtqRoOczAhirX5UfD8Wx60GF-dY4Ns4_3O1SEefj7BEOMD4qVX7-8Ac3RfeGDzfuspmYoGNKGmMtRswYKuyqHy5Fqv_OyYzVFgGO8tR_mlcO74LlA/s1600/clip_image001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Understanding
the hardest things in life<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">are the things
worth saying<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">In the stillness
of the midnight<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As I reach for
the moon and the stars<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Collecting my
blessings<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I realize each
blessing is a memory<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">of a selection
of images<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I am grateful
for…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Knowing these
images protect me<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">like a soft
autumn night glow<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">On these autumn
nights when the wind is<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">against my back<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Hearing every
drumbeat of my heart<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I appreciate my
heart is my compass<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I am grateful
for…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Realizing some
nights can be unremarkable<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">While searching
for <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">the light that
shields my shadow<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Before I see the
light<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I realize my
shadow cannot exist<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">without the
light<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I must permit my
heart to allow<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">the light to
shine<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I am grateful
for…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Watching the night
rain descend<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Seeing the dawn
mounting<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As I observe the
beautiful sun rising<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">from every
mountaintop<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I am grateful
and happy to see<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Above it all<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">“The Fire Inside
Still Burns”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-91063006168737993622022-07-12T16:20:00.003-07:002022-07-12T17:36:52.230-07:00A Forgotten Cane by Darryl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDIGOQ6iyESSp0CIxvL4wqNNMiSkUrBmFUn9DC7GpBQjyUkhyowP69XSJ-HKjgw2FEKN5j6VdlDeUTnG1sADB2TccP8YrQqrD6Tas-Qe3k4V4R7NVfWvR5HB2jyp9T3Zh45LWA-eNSJBpUoEUURP49ibf0-9Te8qfs7N8_wCl3klfOKiulZcwErVsCew" style="font-style: italic; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDIGOQ6iyESSp0CIxvL4wqNNMiSkUrBmFUn9DC7GpBQjyUkhyowP69XSJ-HKjgw2FEKN5j6VdlDeUTnG1sADB2TccP8YrQqrD6Tas-Qe3k4V4R7NVfWvR5HB2jyp9T3Zh45LWA-eNSJBpUoEUURP49ibf0-9Te8qfs7N8_wCl3klfOKiulZcwErVsCew=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><p><i><b>“Don’t wait until you’ve reached your goal to be proud of yourself. Be proud of every step you take toward reaching that goal.”</b> - Simone Biles - Leader, Advocate, Champion</i></p><p>I find the quote applicable because I am in the process of moving. When I shouted out to the movers as they were leaving for the day that someone had left his cane, the lead mover shouted back at me over his shoulder, “We found it in your house.”</p>When I stopped and thought about it, why would a mover need a cane? <br /><br />The cane was mine. <br /><br />When I awoke 10 years ago from a week-long medically-induced coma after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke, I was initially wheelchair-bound. My right side was weak, but with superb inpatient physical therapy at NRH, I was able to walk with a four-point cane. The cane the movers found was a one-point cane, so I had made progress. Now, for many years, I have been able to walk without a cane - so it was in the back of my closet - and I had forgotten about it. <br /><br />So, I set the cane in a special place, to remind me how far I had come, with God’s grace. <div><br /></div><div><i>Read more about Simone Biles's many accomplishments and her Wheaties box <a href="https://wheaties.com/simone-biles" target="_blank">here</a>!</i></div>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-27640026889299370562022-06-13T07:57:00.006-07:002023-02-07T06:41:15.881-08:00 Aphasia - Our Rainbow from Behind the Cloud by Nicole<p><br /></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KQJeodiDvMIxcplpy044pgHi_ZJKAchqpm7TOudMJ78C1nUXqJK0uv7GvfA2MZxtOpVFC0yZveKU8khH8p0Knk10aRLClPrEsSYbHqNQhf8vKwQ6owShUr7qDeEwc94PMYBjO4SJ7MPAmIz6TPOz47Z6kQ-BY6-DUuYTWtbMLZC7jdS9b2ZdEwBv9A/s852/clip_image001.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="852" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KQJeodiDvMIxcplpy044pgHi_ZJKAchqpm7TOudMJ78C1nUXqJK0uv7GvfA2MZxtOpVFC0yZveKU8khH8p0Knk10aRLClPrEsSYbHqNQhf8vKwQ6owShUr7qDeEwc94PMYBjO4SJ7MPAmIz6TPOz47Z6kQ-BY6-DUuYTWtbMLZC7jdS9b2ZdEwBv9A/s320/clip_image001.png" width="320" /></a></b></div><div style="min-height: 100%; position: relative;"><div class="nH" style="width: 1536px;"><div class="nH" style="position: relative;"><div class="nH aqk aql bkL" style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; position: relative;"><div class="nH bkK" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; flex-grow: 1; overflow: hidden;"><div class="nH" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8); border-radius: 16px; margin-bottom: 16px; overflow-y: hidden;"><div class="nH"><div class="nH ar4 z"><div class="aeI"><div class="AO" style="position: relative;"><div class="Tm aeJ" id=":3" style="background: none; height: 568px; overflow-y: scroll; padding-right: 0px;"><div class="aeF" id=":1" style="min-height: 378px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;"><div class="nH"><div class="nH" role="main"><div class="nH g"><table cellpadding="0" class="Bs nH iY bAt" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; display: block; padding: 0px; position: static; width: 1180px;"><tbody><tr class="aTN"><td class="Bu bAn" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); display: block; font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><div class="nH if" style="margin: 0px 16px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="nH aHU" style="position: relative;"><div class="nH hx" style="background-color: transparent; color: #222222; min-width: 502px; padding: 0px;"><div class="nH" jslog="20686; u014N:xr6bB" role="list"><div aria-expanded="true" class="h7 ie nH oy8Mbf" role="listitem" style="clear: both; max-width: 100000px; outline: none; padding-bottom: 0px;" tabindex="-1"><div class="Bk" style="border-bottom-color: initial; border-bottom-style: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-radius: 0px; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(239, 239, 239); border-top-style: solid; border-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; position: relative; width: 1164px;"><div class="G3 G2" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: 0px rgba(100, 121, 143, 0.12); border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-radius: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div id=":2sg"><div class="adn ads" data-legacy-message-id="182c5b0a8674ebd2" data-message-id="#msg-f:1741867256649149394" style="border-left: none; display: flex; padding: 0px;"><div class="gs" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 20px; width: 1092px;"><div><div class="ii gt" id=":2sd" jslog="20277; u014N:xr6bB; 4:W251bGwsbnVsbCxbXV0." style="direction: ltr; font-size: 0.875rem; margin: 8px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative;"><div class="a3s aiL" id=":2se" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: 1.5; overflow: hidden;"><div dir="auto"><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">As Aphasia evolves from behind the cloud </span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Showing her beautiful rainbow where she stands so proud</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">We gently bind to her side</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Waiting patiently for her light to guide</span></b></p></div></blockquote><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">When we do not know which road to cross each day </span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Fleeing under the north wind that summons us away</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Hoping our healing will be embraced</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">As Aphasia puts our sweetest moments in place</span></b></p></div></blockquote><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Aphasia understands the peaks and valleys of our path </span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">She also understands our aftermath</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">When our soul gets weary knowing our shine is not bright</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Aphasia graciously moves us into her sight</span></b></p></div></blockquote><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">As we go searching for our premiere</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Waiting for our words to appear</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Aphasia gives us the wisdom to show our glow</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Elegantly allowing our words to flow</span></b></p></div></blockquote><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Our stillness comes in many forms </span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Some may think this is not the norm</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">But when Aphasia whispers in our ear</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">We know all is well now that she is here</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;"></span></i></b></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote type="cite"><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style", serif; font-size: 16pt;">Aphasia Our Beautiful Rainbow</span></i></b></p></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: left;"> </span></div><div style="min-height: 100%; position: relative;"><div class="nH" style="width: 1536px;"><div class="nH" style="position: relative;"><div class="nH aqk aql bkL" style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; position: relative;"><div class="nH bkK" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; flex-grow: 1; overflow: hidden;"><div class="nH" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8); border-radius: 16px; margin-bottom: 16px; overflow-y: hidden;"><div class="nH"><div class="nH ar4 z"><div class="aeI"><div class="AO" style="position: relative;"><div class="Tm aeJ" id=":3" style="background: none; height: 568px; overflow-y: scroll; padding-right: 0px;"><div class="aeF" id=":1" style="min-height: 378px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;"><div class="nH"><div class="nH" role="main"><div class="nH g"><table cellpadding="0" class="Bs nH iY bAt" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; display: block; padding: 0px; position: static; width: 1180px;"><tbody></tbody></table></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-19654388144876803402022-04-21T12:56:00.014-07:002022-06-08T13:42:51.133-07:00<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p align="center" class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-size: 16pt;">A Rose is a Rose is a Rose<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Love Letter to Nature</span></i></b></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_rvdPXVweDprKzdqilXTQSQW6YIIS2is8nI2kiVzyC9nKEK2f2ncIHpix8_wJcd02Qc6WWujeMUadsgBXTGwEERYPPMTj_vhNwLs64vbSn0UauRygpdDz0BwK_7fRROjnnfzSHMiWcK9fBbZfeQ-l_kSe0v1xAsGDzKOSUfya_XKPzc1N-eQEyBEyA/s640/IMG_1584.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="640" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_rvdPXVweDprKzdqilXTQSQW6YIIS2is8nI2kiVzyC9nKEK2f2ncIHpix8_wJcd02Qc6WWujeMUadsgBXTGwEERYPPMTj_vhNwLs64vbSn0UauRygpdDz0BwK_7fRROjnnfzSHMiWcK9fBbZfeQ-l_kSe0v1xAsGDzKOSUfya_XKPzc1N-eQEyBEyA/s320/IMG_1584.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">With bated
breath, waiting in the shadows</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">for our special<i>
Rose </i>to appear</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Waiting in
anticipation for our <i>Rose</i> to evolve</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">from birth to
full bloom</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">We are anxious
to observe the beauty of her petals</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Not knowing what
the Spring season will bring</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">We are
mesmerized by the love that she shares</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Even if it is
just for a moment</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As we go from
one station of life to the next</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Our<i> Rose</i> reminds
us that love of life</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">is carried by
the weight of one petal</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As she allows
her bright light to shine</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Watching our <i>Rose</i>
change her form like energy</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Each one of her
petals gently show us, step by step,</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">how to grab on
to the love of life…</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">and never let it
go</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As our <i>Rose </i>show
us how to slow dance through life</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">inhaling and
exhaling her beauty</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">As she shows us
how to reach for joy</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">With the hope of
promise for a new day</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Let us take a
breath and</span></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Spring Forward<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p></p><br /><p></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-448079210900746902022-02-07T06:09:00.003-08:002022-02-07T06:42:24.531-08:00What the Heart Wants by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggT6gFSIcLfFrBWLkZVFePyDdgmU3IRkN5mN2jIVxT-YVX1vRtVWxbvtbrbET5Muax4sunt9oQOhMy1d3FT1YRqJmL4ZUxjEtlJsMKOVmt1owGBvrw9E2iE7eIypMNb1wqtTn-Nx1oBDM6XNFGsMBLrxJPPzxc5TOaUE1dW7JTQQ-G9hJz-trs95KoNg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="938" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggT6gFSIcLfFrBWLkZVFePyDdgmU3IRkN5mN2jIVxT-YVX1vRtVWxbvtbrbET5Muax4sunt9oQOhMy1d3FT1YRqJmL4ZUxjEtlJsMKOVmt1owGBvrw9E2iE7eIypMNb1wqtTn-Nx1oBDM6XNFGsMBLrxJPPzxc5TOaUE1dW7JTQQ-G9hJz-trs95KoNg" width="240" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br /> <span style="font-size: medium;">Floating from Heart to Heart</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b><p></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span><span style="font-size: medium;">the heart wants to give love and receive love in
return</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Bearing witness to each heart</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Hearts intertwined with each other</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Your heart is your strength and armor<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">On the days your heart leaps for joy</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">and takes you to that happy place</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">delicately show your heart how much you adore her<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Remember the sparks of love your heart brings into
your life</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">As your heart loves you more and more each day</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">she gracefully reminds you to love yourself<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">When your heart is broken by a heartbreak</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">find the strength to replenish your heart with love</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Your heart will show you how to take on the weight of
forgiveness<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Remember the hallmarks of your heart that have been so
kind</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">and brings such peace beyond all measures</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Allow your heart to go forward and bend towards the
light<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The heart knows what the heart wants</span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">And that is to love and to receive love in return<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-15595807813310470532022-01-10T11:40:00.001-08:002022-01-10T11:40:25.767-08:00Reflections; Allow the Healing Waters to Flow by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Reflections<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Allow the
Healing Waters to Flow<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVJFcr_VYF5Z0Fj_lxO0GxckM9zZHS4LSl9KG44tNYyNMz8PZDncBjfQkrLdOnwDUyhpKoj15kqj1pGdeixOMlvKQR-d89GnWWhuN5jcr2n6OJ8s4sEv_iYSS5IZ8kZFIM8cG06PoZuQsPmm8jlU1UXxjS1eMD3ounKolpnapSm4QVyLGh7V0MQDWNrQ=s624" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="624" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVJFcr_VYF5Z0Fj_lxO0GxckM9zZHS4LSl9KG44tNYyNMz8PZDncBjfQkrLdOnwDUyhpKoj15kqj1pGdeixOMlvKQR-d89GnWWhuN5jcr2n6OJ8s4sEv_iYSS5IZ8kZFIM8cG06PoZuQsPmm8jlU1UXxjS1eMD3ounKolpnapSm4QVyLGh7V0MQDWNrQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">As you blossom
into 2022</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Bringing hope
and courage into each day</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Guide your feet
in a peaceful way</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Allow the
healing waters to flow<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">As you release
the old and bring in the new</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">See the bright
lights in your shine</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">This is a season
of recovery, you will fine</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Allow the
healing waters to flow<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you feel lost
and broken down</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Not knowing what
the future holds</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Unwrap your entire heart, and let your story be told</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Allow the
healing waters to flow<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">As you look deep
into your better self</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Know that lowering
expectations is not the way</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Turn your
midnight into day</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">All<i>ow the
healing waters to flow<o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b><b style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">As you enter the
cusp of a brand-new year</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Don’t deviate
from the whisper of your gentle chime</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I promise you,
your blessings will arrive right on time</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Allow the
healing waters to flow<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflections<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-3524796026656979022021-11-23T14:58:00.001-08:002021-11-23T14:58:23.467-08:00Give Thanks to a Grateful Heart by Nicole<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrH4k1SUODKVdkyis2TM-gNS5EsIQqfsR8-cbICicQ8w3MRGHTv1-lnXZVm1XKfUhGD2NEy9G9HvQBfBRfqH1bZJJAlMNjO4DRdNuRS1WceoJq1qvwm0RA09quQasehBLiyT2_PWdxy28/s293/leaf+pic.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="220" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrH4k1SUODKVdkyis2TM-gNS5EsIQqfsR8-cbICicQ8w3MRGHTv1-lnXZVm1XKfUhGD2NEy9G9HvQBfBRfqH1bZJJAlMNjO4DRdNuRS1WceoJq1qvwm0RA09quQasehBLiyT2_PWdxy28/s0/leaf+pic.gif" width="220" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">On
this <i>“Thanksgiving Day” </i>as I give thanks to my grateful heart, I also give
thanks to grace for my endless love of life.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Like
the beautiful autumn leaves that fall from the trees, I try to rekindle each
day as if it is a new beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">When
I feel a sense of unrest and my fire loses its spark, I take a leap of faith to
open-up to exceptional possibilities.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I
find that during my elder-hood years, while dancing in the sunrise, allowing the
sun to play me like a violin, it reminds me my strength is strong and steady.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The
different paths I have taken on my journey relaxes my gentle soul and teaches
me how I have loved each stage of my life.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Knowing
my higher power <i>recycles rubbish into treasures</i>, I give witness to each
day, understanding that…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">All Things Work Together
for Good<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">“To All Happy
Thanksgiving”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-25650211471114276512021-10-18T16:05:00.000-07:002021-10-18T16:05:02.841-07:00Rise to Higher Ground by Nicole<p> </p><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMj3hvgpG5ATCghOtrs_wDlRAk3yBfnqvbI77DEgx80h5orKFS2ytK3bd7vlJoRnuLQwP7u9QSvPgzmYBc35aMn7rRcQZCQtgNR32RUT4dgPQM2JUo0zMbUrYs5zYnycBfAUdupSnU9EuZ/s451/Nicole+blog+pic.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="410" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMj3hvgpG5ATCghOtrs_wDlRAk3yBfnqvbI77DEgx80h5orKFS2ytK3bd7vlJoRnuLQwP7u9QSvPgzmYBc35aMn7rRcQZCQtgNR32RUT4dgPQM2JUo0zMbUrYs5zYnycBfAUdupSnU9EuZ/w326-h358/Nicole+blog+pic.tif" width="326" /></a></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif;">Illustrated
by Grand Baby Girl Nicole</span></i></b></i></b></div><p></p><p></p><p>
</p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rise to Higher Ground<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On
this autumn day, as I rise to higher ground in my beautiful balloon, I realize
I am falling madly in love with the sunshine.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I Invite the sun into my life, the lamp of light taps on my spirit and humbles
my heart. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
gentle guiding force of the sunshine reminds me, it does not matter how
difficult my day was on yesterday, the sun rises and brings joy in the morning.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Float Up with Me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Looking
up in my exquisite balloon and watching the cirrus clouds as they quietly pass
under the rainbow, I am overwhelmed with peace. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I relax in my dwelling place, I feel the calm air that calls me in with delight.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Drawing
nearer to the magic of the sun, I briefly review the peaks and valleys of my
life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Float Up with Me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 202.4pt center 3.25in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a twinkling of an eye, having the sunshine in my direct view, I realize my air visit
is just for the early morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Descending
from the sky, I will end this wonderful visit knowing that the sunshine is my
lifeline.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Understanding
that grace is extended by accepting this sunny brand-new day, I see this day as
a sign of passage.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Float Down with Me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Returning
to hallow ground, I know this glorious experience brings me to a point whereby
I will be at peace with those things I cannot change.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Knowing
I am the leader of my destiny, I will move forward to who I hope to be.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Being
blessed in thy sight, I am now inspired with the freedom to write the first
page of the next chapter of my life.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Rise up with wings like eagles <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Run and not grow weary <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Walk and not faint” <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><br /><p></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-25380252317468283912021-08-23T14:53:00.001-07:002021-08-23T14:53:31.868-07:00Blessings From the Mulberry Tree by Nicole<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0e7nl9e7_vEVBoJUronidXhBCMro7hElxZRBiUUwEuaf4lHBnNLjlHQwHzbszU5UPVHRj2TCkQJ6kCe3Dc4DKAQzP5F9di1g9orvFwLBHFZzAivvomRU0evkMM1SAc3tGpsgqdOoXTRz/s600/mulberry.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="495" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0e7nl9e7_vEVBoJUronidXhBCMro7hElxZRBiUUwEuaf4lHBnNLjlHQwHzbszU5UPVHRj2TCkQJ6kCe3Dc4DKAQzP5F9di1g9orvFwLBHFZzAivvomRU0evkMM1SAc3tGpsgqdOoXTRz/s320/mulberry.png" width="264" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As I sit near the mulberry tree waiting for my blessings to
return, blessings of memories I lost during my stroke, I began to feel the cool
breeze dazzling through the mystical tree leaves. As I look up, I immediately
realize my blessings are returning like <a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">flash</span></a>
lightning.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Like fireflies during warm summer nights, the wonder of it all
shows me how to reach out and gently catch the memories as they pass by.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The new reflections of my recurring memories allow the leaves on
the mulberry tree to touch like warn silk on my skin, taking my breath away.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Unto me,
thank you for the blessings…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am in awe of the beauty of the long summer nights that bring joy
from the shading of the mulberry tree leaves. <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reaching for my guiding light, I look up between the leaves and
see the twinkling stars in the sky that take away the darkness and bring
beautiful sparkles to my memories.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In the past, as I lived the dream and reminisced about how I could
recapture my memories, I never imagined they would return like a brilliant
whirlwind when I least expected.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Unto me,
thank you for the blessings…</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As my blessings gently tap on my inner strength, bringing many
moments of clarity, I am deeply grateful for the healing.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Although my short-term memory continues to be a bit of a brain fog,
I am overwhelmed with the swift return of my enriched long-term memory.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There is no greater love than to share the commitment of my
blessings I recovered through life experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Unto Thee<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Thank you
for the Blessings of my Memories</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-49943939681321385502021-06-14T09:25:00.000-07:002021-06-14T09:25:28.559-07:00Aphasia - What a Beautiful Name by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmti4dEOQsS1uXtBKp_pk5MAmQh25sxf4445pWE4jkwippfO2rUU5uhGFSa2HtYEOYvuR_aNt_kNYq9fURe9TuxMmTyBqgcrw56etP8IWrc1d6EH15-Kh0iVcnhZPwADsGXazLowtl14b/s1599/pink-lotus-1396744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1599" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmti4dEOQsS1uXtBKp_pk5MAmQh25sxf4445pWE4jkwippfO2rUU5uhGFSa2HtYEOYvuR_aNt_kNYq9fURe9TuxMmTyBqgcrw56etP8IWrc1d6EH15-Kh0iVcnhZPwADsGXazLowtl14b/s320/pink-lotus-1396744.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></b></div><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Allow Aphasia to Have
Her Say”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am Aphasia</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, the flower in the field that
picks you up<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">when
you have no doubt<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am Aphasia</i>, with my beautiful pink
petals<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">that
is ready to evolve and show you about<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Like
a river that flows through the sea<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">and
shows you the way<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
promise to teach you, if you allow me to just…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have my say”<o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am Aphasia</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, my acceptance and great
resilience <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">call
you to arms<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am Aphasia</i>, one thing I assure you,<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
mean you no harm<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
your reflection see the love that I give<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Not
just for the moment<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">but
teaching you how to really live<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I, Aphasia</i>, show you my pure passion
and love each day<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Allow
me to dance and just…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have my
say”<o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am Aphasia, </span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">shall I open up my vines or just let
you be<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am Aphasia</i>, allow there to be a
witness<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">between
me and thee<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
you try to escape the prison of your pride,<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Aphasia</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> will accommodate you<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">by
removing the thorns from your side<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I impart wisdom, may I show you my appeal<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You
are the master of your own faith and ready to heal<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
you patiently call me, I will be there<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Giving
you every inch of my resolve<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Showing
you how much I care…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“But Only If You Allow
Me to Stay<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And Just Have My Say”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-61807926272454107892021-04-27T15:51:00.000-07:002021-04-27T15:51:01.620-07:00April Showers Bring May Flowers, by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">April Showers<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fMRDCYaUVspADrd1qZUFLihrIsBEjVHyuXD5ivHOYeEzRcNF_w1wFJURF9gH3b9Itdx3pc7auhEVd-b3aiq765sfpC9efFfTKS9LNnhQMCokWGYpu_12lR9zfcfvb3j0RBirp3r1pN2r/s414/flower+blog.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fMRDCYaUVspADrd1qZUFLihrIsBEjVHyuXD5ivHOYeEzRcNF_w1wFJURF9gH3b9Itdx3pc7auhEVd-b3aiq765sfpC9efFfTKS9LNnhQMCokWGYpu_12lR9zfcfvb3j0RBirp3r1pN2r/s320/flower+blog.tif" /></a></div><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bring
May Flowers</i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Three
years ago, on April 2<sup>nd</sup>, I had a stroke which debilitated my speech
and hindered my movements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, I live
to tell the story how I came out on the other side by accepting the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">April Showers</i> from my stroke that rose
into beautiful <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">May Flowers</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
path I traveled on yesterday, travel today and will travel tomorrow gives me
great hope.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">First
and foremost, I give thanks to the Stroke Comeback Center <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(SCC)</i> guardian angels that show the stroke survivors and strivers how
to live with the equality of life.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yesterday,
</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">when I found my
back against the wall, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">SCC</i> taught me
how to allow Aphasia to softly push the words that waver, until the words are ready
to appear.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If
I am bound by the barriers of forgetfulness, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">SCC</i> taught me how to shake it off and patiently wait for Aphasia to
take a bow, showing me the way.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">SCC</span></i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> taught me to bounce back and make
positive steps by marching forward.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">April
Showers bring May Flowers</span></i></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Today,
when I have problems expressing my words, I have learned to adapt through
patience and gentleness. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">SCC</i> earthly angels gently show me how
to fly high and land on one wing.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I observe the wind blowing beneath my wing, I can see the beauty of the world.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">April
Showers bring May Flowers</span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tomorrow,
as I open a new gate in my world, I will look back on the wrinkled roads I have
traveled to get where I am today.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
appreciating my spirit is stronger than it was before my stroke, I will learn
to adjust to the wisdom of lessons learned, which magnifies and light up my
heart. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
my post stroke era, I will glide through my new journey that settles my hungry
soul. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">April
Showers bring May Flowers</span></i></b><b><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What
is my victory? I now understand when I feel all hope is gone, I will allow the rainy
days from the April Showers to overflow and shine on me; and, I now understand,
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am blessed with May Flowers that show
me…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I have been tried and
true beyond all measures<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">April
Showers will Bring You May Flowers<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To Brooke, the one with the golden heart; and to Amy, who also speaks with a gentle and graceful spirit.</span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-14249068727043779412021-02-26T06:02:00.002-08:002021-02-26T06:02:40.755-08:00Listen to Your Heart, by Nicole in honor of National Heart Month<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Listen to your Heart<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3GUZSSAAomuaR0uQeHf_6tm8F1gWA2vG_eMQSRw4v6NilUrWGmvzIyNQD721vQq-s6V_bfJttmPkKklAyO9-q7h-MyXA0TUOOGlByxD4QkZeO4ci_Z8LHR7nAWA-wMZn4yN9ci8uwFTI/s300/heart+blog+NH.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3GUZSSAAomuaR0uQeHf_6tm8F1gWA2vG_eMQSRw4v6NilUrWGmvzIyNQD721vQq-s6V_bfJttmPkKklAyO9-q7h-MyXA0TUOOGlByxD4QkZeO4ci_Z8LHR7nAWA-wMZn4yN9ci8uwFTI/s0/heart+blog+NH.tif" /></a></i></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></b><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">From the Sky to Hallow
Ground<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
your heart protects and shields you, from the sky to hallow ground, listen to
your heart when it tells you how much it adores you…</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You
know they say, “The heart is our sunshine if we treat it well”<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Listen
to your heart when it brings peace, joy and harmony into your life…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Listen
to your heart as it takes in the melody of the birds singing with delight but
sometimes warn you of sadness to come…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
your heart takes in the repertoire of the birds singing with every fiber of
their being; when the birds sing with their specialized syrinx, they are inviting
your heart to listen to their beautiful songs of rapture…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
you find yourself lost in the wilderness, listen to your heart when it tries to
direct you to a safe passage… <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tap
on your heart and feel the awesomeness around you; tap on your heart and allow
it to remember the beauty of the world…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Keep
the lights burning in your heart telling it that the love you feel, will
prevail…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Listen
to your heart when it gently forgives all of the reckoning you have put it
through over the years…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 182.25pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we try to heal the scares in and around our heart, take the time out to reflect
and believe in a miracle of recovery…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
your heart speaks to you and delicately reminds you although we know sorrow,
above all we know love that sustains us…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
your heart touches your life each day, ‘can you get a witness’; see your
burdens roll away…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“If the heart could
speak to one another they would speak how wonderful not to flutter”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-77318643418574823352021-01-20T07:41:00.000-08:002021-01-20T07:41:02.207-08:00Birth of a Butterfly, by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TDXAU0FGuI9tS0HJpodOReFdPY6dxNp66apJ8ZwrpSbCEGtL4ENqWxjNeEFEX29bC-iTd6-iZ7UH56AtkfXoafROzdqw58zku0S3APYabuxPv3ieQriHSWXYjieO4Ik5-gZr0VB55Sdk/s512/butterfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TDXAU0FGuI9tS0HJpodOReFdPY6dxNp66apJ8ZwrpSbCEGtL4ENqWxjNeEFEX29bC-iTd6-iZ7UH56AtkfXoafROzdqw58zku0S3APYabuxPv3ieQriHSWXYjieO4Ik5-gZr0VB55Sdk/s320/butterfly.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></b></div><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Do Not Surrender<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Like
a caterpillar that rises from new birth, developing into a beautiful butterfly,
boldly go into the year of 2021 knowing that the “best is yet to come”.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we magically fly away from the year 2020 and bravely embark on the New Year
2021, walk through the valley by faith and not by sight.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Do Not Surrender</span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we continue to fear and grieve the pandemic that began in 2020, a year that
seemed to be discouraging for some of us, do not lose hope.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
the life you planned may not work out the way you expected or wished, don’t
lose your sense of wonder; adjust to the new normal.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Despite
all of the psychological miles you may have traveled in 2020, even with all of
your imperfections, “walk in favor” in 2021.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Do Not Surrender</span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
you began a new dawn, invite the sun into your life by observing the beauty of
it all; knowing that when the sun dips below the horizon, there will be another
sunrise.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Notwithstanding
what you see, what you hear or what you read, hold on to that graceful glow in
your heart, knowing from the darkness there will be light.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Do Not Surrender</span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we come full circle in life, understand that the pandemic is real and we must
be on one accord with trying to protect you and others from the pandemic;
spiritually see its chains being broken.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Be
strong, courageous and reach beyond the fear; in 2021 move into a new season
and see blessings working together for your good.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
the butterfly that glides around receiving its blessings upon blessings, the
butterfly reminds you when it is all said and done, carry on and see that there
are brighter days ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">‘Said the Butterfly<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Do Not Surrender’<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-64044724848169664172020-11-22T09:38:00.004-08:002020-11-22T09:38:54.843-08:00Sunshine on My Shoulder by Nicole<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18FyvWS5IVcts_thPpI25r-d6RsKuJTmShFYWM8Fv-6npJbMNz2o4BFRYJ8ZPG2uiIqImmZrMHUZK9gbyYTA-n6V_YgF-B8RP2gdPSrg_ZQJupDCn_MNEYkD_hcftT3aAoD9TaY0cz0iN/s474/NH+blog+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="265" data-original-width="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18FyvWS5IVcts_thPpI25r-d6RsKuJTmShFYWM8Fv-6npJbMNz2o4BFRYJ8ZPG2uiIqImmZrMHUZK9gbyYTA-n6V_YgF-B8RP2gdPSrg_ZQJupDCn_MNEYkD_hcftT3aAoD9TaY0cz0iN/s320/NH+blog+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
am one of those people who is usually a bit reluctant about going into
surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, on the early morning of
Monday, September 28, I awoke and later realized spiritually, there was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sunshine on my shoulder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>As I prepared to go to the hospital for
surgery, there was calmness about me, a calmness I have never felt before…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That
morning as I left home, realizing COVID-19 is swift around the medical community;
yet, I felt my cup runneth over with joy…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Stay in the Race<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
my son drove me to the hospit<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">al, my s</i>pirit<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> was const</i>antly te<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lling me, ‘joy comes in th</i>e mor<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ning,
I must </i>stay in the ra<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ce’…<o:p></o:p></i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">arriving t</i>o the<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> hospit</i>al, I experienced such beautiful, beautiful peace among everyone
I came in contact with; the registration assistant, the nurses, the
anesthesiologist, the surgeon and his assistant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was as if my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Higher Power </i>assigned a band of angels to take care of me, putting
me at ease…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I Am Grateful<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sunshine on my
Shoulder</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My Heart is Filled with
Praise<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prior
to going into surgery, I remember asking my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Higher
Power</i> to bring me through the procedure and allow me to gently fly here on
earth a little while longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow my
heart to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">filled with praise</i> as I
dance fearlessly through the valley and come out on the other side in the
beautiful love of light…</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Stay Steadfast<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prior
to going into surgery, I strongly felt the prayers from those who are here on
earth praying for my recovery; gently requesting I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">stay steadfast</i>; and, I thank them…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Spiritually,
I felt the presence of my ancestors surrounding me with a tsunami of love;
gently directing me to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">stay steadfast</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As they tiptoed through the tulips, dancing
around me, telling me my surgery is nothing but a formality and my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Higher Power</i> got this; and, I thank
them…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I Am Grateful<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sunshine on my
Shoulder<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Wisdom Come from
Experience<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After
going through surgery, for days I humbled myself, rocking and rolling, asking
my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Higher Power</i> to allow my heart to
be still while waiting for the pain to subside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When the pain abate<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">s,</i> I
realized <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am more than a conqueror</i>…</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Healing to the Bones<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And
finally, after going through surgery, my soul was overwhelmed when I
spiritually received this sweet message…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Gracious Words are a
Honeycomb, Sweet to the Soul and Healing to the Bones”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Proverbs 16:24<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I stand on the wall, accepting my healing, these words ascend out into the
universe…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Yes,<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I Am Grateful<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sunshine on my
Shoulder<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-51590644173367577702020-11-12T05:59:00.003-08:002020-11-12T05:59:51.139-08:00Team Awesome<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">We needed to walk a 5km / 3.1 miles walk – the Stroke Comeback Trail.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I needed to set up Mimosas, Nordic-Knot pretzels, juice and my painting: “i am awesome”.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwvmTIpfq310N4frXIyTIkhQ-92lhWQntcRt9GZXPdf0qagL3xO93uZX7uRvgdNSbbrxG7RvuTQOKHz_w7l3tPtku4_ORQsU3NyROkGSVMr_uMLsnyrtbj76P9MaLVcIsjxjC96kFxndg/s373/team+awesome+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="327" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwvmTIpfq310N4frXIyTIkhQ-92lhWQntcRt9GZXPdf0qagL3xO93uZX7uRvgdNSbbrxG7RvuTQOKHz_w7l3tPtku4_ORQsU3NyROkGSVMr_uMLsnyrtbj76P9MaLVcIsjxjC96kFxndg/s320/team+awesome+1.jpg" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I'm grateful to Gerrit, Karl, Kenzie, Wendy, Erica, John and their three kids, Rita, Hammad, Omi, Katia, Amy, Kristen, Alysia, Rylan and two dogs.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajZQuarmg4iNDEXTe0DKj65K0Osybo2_oHMIyelnrkYryKC06MKWt-mxzSiEnp7MHp1yzysfe7NtivGDC94E3j9Rr2P6gqhYV2sCjf08Oy8UUUf2pUbCugvYn34KeUZ7770wOgKXyLeul/s599/Team+awesome+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="599" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajZQuarmg4iNDEXTe0DKj65K0Osybo2_oHMIyelnrkYryKC06MKWt-mxzSiEnp7MHp1yzysfe7NtivGDC94E3j9Rr2P6gqhYV2sCjf08Oy8UUUf2pUbCugvYn34KeUZ7770wOgKXyLeul/s320/Team+awesome+2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I walked and walked and walked.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We chatted with each other and it was fabulous.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Then everyone drank Mimosas and ate pretzels. Then I needed a nap. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Cheers, </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 8pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Kim</span></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-80360752548655399102020-09-24T10:04:00.000-07:002020-09-24T10:04:25.088-07:00The Essence of My Sweet Spirit by Nicole<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Essence of My Sweet Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDM-blAF1_or3Lv2WxVJjNOXx1_hPdqWHkx8gjDx4rylm0ga5OJNpgzp0sA8j03buUaMTGpw83qxDqSdlCkawAriD-CGeYAGregpMv1KZW6CzXOvv1T_cSBg25kCh3ozrUZc3gPASVZy2/s1024/Sweet+Spirit+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDM-blAF1_or3Lv2WxVJjNOXx1_hPdqWHkx8gjDx4rylm0ga5OJNpgzp0sA8j03buUaMTGpw83qxDqSdlCkawAriD-CGeYAGregpMv1KZW6CzXOvv1T_cSBg25kCh3ozrUZc3gPASVZy2/s320/Sweet+Spirit+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
my sweet spirit ascends so bright, essence reminds me its star is shining so
radiantly tonight<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
weakness passes over me, I search and find my essence which utters, ‘it’s time
to dance now that I am free’<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I survive any bad that comes to me, with all the sorrow I have learned to just
let it be<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even
with the fear of failure that holds me back, I am surprised when my essence
shows me the way and promises there will be a new day<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I run through the storm with my head held high, my essence politely directs me,
‘Walk softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a Moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be shy’<span style="color: red;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
essence whispers in my sight; she shows me how to illuminate in the light<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
faith sees best in the dark, my essence shows me how to march on to victory and
leave the world my watermark<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
I see the mist of the twilight I have found, I realize my feet are on solid
ground<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sunset<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I Yom Ma Day (My Joy
Has Come)<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-52203157654377093322020-08-12T09:55:00.001-07:002020-08-12T09:55:46.470-07:00My Footprint in the Sand - Come Walk with Me by Nicole<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71GAwtoG_UD7i1-iRdqSE3_SCRrNCUG4TCIH221bB9UWQ0njpqrfPVM_6awOUT4-x5JxJw7Cg7sfe3iDNDe7uFqpmBhRnHXcB4jrd4-iD3Kc365bN5P8cj9hL6trdBpQPUSG0GDHfzCYD/s640/Footprints+NH+blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71GAwtoG_UD7i1-iRdqSE3_SCRrNCUG4TCIH221bB9UWQ0njpqrfPVM_6awOUT4-x5JxJw7Cg7sfe3iDNDe7uFqpmBhRnHXcB4jrd4-iD3Kc365bN5P8cj9hL6trdBpQPUSG0GDHfzCYD/w320-h213/Footprints+NH+blog.png" width="320" /></a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Today
as I humbly walk the walk, I will never lose the gift of wonder. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I walk the walk embracing my flaws, I will try to get right what I got wrong yesterday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will remold my soul from
sculptured clay while experiencing the rite of passage. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes, come walk with me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I walk the walk, I will virtually visit my connections with family and friends,
while remembering that the sum of all the people I have met in life is like a garden
full of budding roses.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I walk the walk, with my foot in the sand, I must remember, there can be no
tree without the roots; the true roots of my soul that springs up and lives
life out loud. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes, come walk with me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I walk the walk, I will forgive those who have trespassed against me; and, I
will request forgiveness from those who I have trespassed against.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In doing so, I must remember, “When you
change the tribe, the tribe changes you.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I come full circle while testing the winds, I will find that missing link that makes
me whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will release the prison of
my past as I continue to explore the bright light of the stars; the stars that
bring me quiet time which can be a lovely relaxing companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes, come walk with me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I walk the walk, completing my arduous journey, I accept that time is on the
horizon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I pass on the wisdom of
grace and mercy that is so graciously afforded me, I will remember the words
that gently resonate …embrace my faith and protect it.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes,
Come Walk With Me<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-47615818063814709232020-06-19T06:04:00.000-07:002020-06-19T06:04:49.278-07:00Normal. Not Normal. by Kitti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtS1fXurTdkwzVtxW92apz3kF6wolmms2x8SVEVOTxtCu7M00bSeG-yNxZYbLkO9bLrjNF3uA5wbZ-GY7NfIjF6xcAqA9OIXD2C3_QgLAwr-iYFAhZF5azTN7BKCqWPw2Gez9VKu6hubA/s320/kitti+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtS1fXurTdkwzVtxW92apz3kF6wolmms2x8SVEVOTxtCu7M00bSeG-yNxZYbLkO9bLrjNF3uA5wbZ-GY7NfIjF6xcAqA9OIXD2C3_QgLAwr-iYFAhZF5azTN7BKCqWPw2Gez9VKu6hubA/" /></a></div><div><br /></div>“Normal” people are happiness and laughter. Depressed and trouble. Anger and hatred. Regret and sorrow.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal">But “not normal” people are missing something. We might have a crutch, be blind, deaf, in a wheelchair, or brain injuries. I have Aphasia, which means reading, writing and listening are easier but speaking is hard. Speaking is different and slow. “Normal” people are free conversation and gossip but I am just slow—slowing my word difficult process what to mean.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Shemer said, “forward, not backwards.” It’s true. Sometimes, I said, “before Choice... before boyfriend... before Ascend...” But the moment is “now”. The moment is “forward”. </p><p class="MsoNormal">We are “Disable” but we are “not normal”. We are incredible. We are invincible. We are people.<o:p></o:p></p><div><br /></div>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-25678084481023423412020-06-17T05:44:00.001-07:002020-06-17T05:44:44.077-07:00Tree of Life - Hope by Nicole<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizT5oqnNo2DlqwRNV-fhzYSF5qgymVsJ4NJyfMf9XvfxV_-zs2FEZm6VojhkMIFC5WcJ1zbJWDmfVSWGqceG7NLbJmEvLVphnPshWjP06nfrmuY63n0C1Kop0RTjsYQBd4BBiN_aKeZyae/s320/Hope+blog.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizT5oqnNo2DlqwRNV-fhzYSF5qgymVsJ4NJyfMf9XvfxV_-zs2FEZm6VojhkMIFC5WcJ1zbJWDmfVSWGqceG7NLbJmEvLVphnPshWjP06nfrmuY63n0C1Kop0RTjsYQBd4BBiN_aKeZyae/" /></a></div> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>“Hope deferred makes
the heart sick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when the desire
comes, it is a tree of life”.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Proverbs 13:12 </i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>A Moment of Hope</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In “A Moment of Hope”, think about the seeds that you
planted in the ground and decide if it’s time to reap the love of grace and
favor you have sowed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Remember the secret to good things in life is understanding
that there is peace in the midst of every storm.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>A Movement of Hope</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">While you are in the eye of a pandemic, a grief you have
never seen or experienced before, Mother Nature politely asks you to have hope.
Holding the world gently in her hands, Mother Nature requests that you reset
your courage button and restore to the world that hope is not in vain.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">While restoring your hope, observe how the universe is
changing and with this change, fear is not an option, but faith is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">On the journey of restoring your hope, see the universe with
new eyes; see the garment of true love, dancing like the flowers that bloom
after a long night of summer rain.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Have a Fresh Drink of Water</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stand still to see the light in your hope; and remember
justice from the light arrives from the darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow hope to come into your heart, reclaim
your faith and see the wonder of it all.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Adjusting to the New Normal of Hope</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As we began to understand that the old normal is gone and
the new normal is here to stay, you will find that brilliant twinkle in your
hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On your journey, keep on believing
until you see the sparkle that rises up, a sparkle that has unchained your
shackles and set you free to see we are all inter-related.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find the courage to see that “all men and
women are created equal.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And finally, as you listen during your quiet time, trying to
hold on to hope, hope of adjusting to your “new normal,” reintroduce yourself
to the light of the sun that shines down so brightly; and, wait for the ‘higher
power’ to make its move.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>“Father I am available to You<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Father use me to show someone the way<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>And enable me to stay<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>My storage is empty and I am available to You”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Amen<o:p></o:p></i></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-40057836345106442122020-06-13T07:31:00.000-07:002020-06-13T07:31:04.399-07:00 I was and I am. by Kitti<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikNAf-T5meCsh6x4x13pMPeLn4SLiTzTiSZ_asqC2S3YGsdhQiXW05ftMxhP4kPIKARoAJQTM4__YXJ5gRtebMFD3CKSmKXBcVonYlW1lFIhWdQJ1u596jzu3Uu-IWJHYcU1fRwZFTw1XV/s4032/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikNAf-T5meCsh6x4x13pMPeLn4SLiTzTiSZ_asqC2S3YGsdhQiXW05ftMxhP4kPIKARoAJQTM4__YXJ5gRtebMFD3CKSmKXBcVonYlW1lFIhWdQJ1u596jzu3Uu-IWJHYcU1fRwZFTw1XV/s320/image3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>On Nov 12, 2018, I was hit by a car and no more sounded
real. In a dream, I felt like in 2 or 3 days to go home with my friends. But in
fact, I lay coma for 4 weeks, said Regina, my friend/my “sister”. In hospital,
it was frightful and dreadful to me in 5 months. So quick and so slow with
me. <p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After hospital, Regina and I live together. Regina is my
guardian and handles the lawyers, caregivers, NAA and Stroke Comeback Centre.
She is also B2 visa, Tourist visa, with me. Before Choice Hotel International
was H1B visa but I don’t work. Last April and October, I cried in tears and
suicidal thoughts. Times go by, I was and I am. Before accident, Regina and I
were co-workers. After accident, Regina and I are best friends and
“sisters”. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I am still me. I have walk and talk slower than before. Yet,
I am traumatic brain injury survivor and have Aphasia. I am working English
lesson and speaking. My hobby is painting between my thought. I was and I am.<o:p></o:p></p><br />Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-30043394746085213792020-04-14T13:59:00.000-07:002020-04-15T06:35:04.195-07:00Mountain Top Preview - Just Breathe by Nicole<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJ0LQ31d-vIJ5FuugxOhHqiJwyeVhXB02XuxLbq1r0Vkj913aV6JJseqW9eae8Fs296uEWRNzSYMzNZpkuTooZ2FrTwXidSOoUTbgOtMPAH9rIAw3NaIYOG0ys4aOhjbg8ULVpp4DpCvK/s1600/IMG_2677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJ0LQ31d-vIJ5FuugxOhHqiJwyeVhXB02XuxLbq1r0Vkj913aV6JJseqW9eae8Fs296uEWRNzSYMzNZpkuTooZ2FrTwXidSOoUTbgOtMPAH9rIAw3NaIYOG0ys4aOhjbg8ULVpp4DpCvK/s320/IMG_2677.JPG" width="320" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></i></b></div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Today,
as I held on to my breath of life, I saw a beautiful rainbow in the sky
displaying multiple fantastic colors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></b><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I perceived that rainbow bowing down to greet me, I, without awareness, rose up
to meet that rainbow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In experiencing
such a beautiful, beautiful rainbow, I could not imagine where heaven ended and
where the earth began.</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Subconsciously,
I often think about how it feels to catch a rainbow in the sky, while twirling
around its whimsical colors.</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During
the coronavirus, in what can be some of our darkest days, do not be afraid.
This is a time in our life that we must gently work ourselves through silence
and peace around us.</span></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During
your trying times, think about “how your skin feels when it is touched by
nature’s sun.”</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We
may consider this time in our lives as a period of trials and tribulations, we
must constantly remind each other, that our<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">
spiritual self is a higher power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i></span></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
your quiet time, while being quarantined at home, take a moment out to allow
peace to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">come into your heart.</i></span></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Take
time out to stand still and revisit your life’s trials and the lessons learned
from them.</span></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Take
time out to softly listen to the beat of your heart.</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we climb up the “Mountaintop Preview” of our lives, remember each morning when we
open our eyes to witness another day, give thanks for the glory of it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try to live each day for what it is, a brand-new
day.</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Like
a dream that vanishes in the morning light, there is a sign of hope.</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe and
Remember the Rainbow….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Until we are able to
look down from the Mountaintop of our lives and see the beauty of it all….</span></i></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "bookman old style" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just Breathe….</span></i></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-14469700744713463622020-02-10T10:59:00.000-08:002020-02-10T10:59:38.333-08:00Rolling Stone - Finally Home by Nicole<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Rolling Stone - Finally Home<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Freed from the Caged Bird<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xvXLNREBL9dIV3pQONG4lRsFnX7UHEyXnIw46jZBEJLofb9QhCTz27pGSY-NwuitwAGIfg9BIfOnxmKMvi7ydTXo_01Lfsq3_8F2jT273gnzo6pWXl103n_GEtMGEtqCyxc8cxxk-Tgw/s1600/white-dove-flies-out-cage-vector-illustration-eps-136276362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xvXLNREBL9dIV3pQONG4lRsFnX7UHEyXnIw46jZBEJLofb9QhCTz27pGSY-NwuitwAGIfg9BIfOnxmKMvi7ydTXo_01Lfsq3_8F2jT273gnzo6pWXl103n_GEtMGEtqCyxc8cxxk-Tgw/s200/white-dove-flies-out-cage-vector-illustration-eps-136276362.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">For many
years I felt like a captured caged bird that sings and sings and sings, just
waiting for someone to come by, open the caged door and allow me to fly free.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">After
months of rehabilitation, I realized that my post-stroke nourishment is
releasing me from the emotional bird cage that binds me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My post-stroke
feeding is forcing me to look into the mirror and see my kindred spirit
knocking at the door; a kindred spirit that takes me so deep that I do not
realize where I have gone until the zone hits me forward-on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My
post-stroke feeding is healing my soul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">After
having my stroke, I had to flip that feeling of anger. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like many others I asked myself, why did I
have a stroke? Being the youngest sibling, why me? My resounding answer was, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why not me”</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">As a
little girl, up to a large portion of my elder-hood years, I felt like that
captured caged bird, constantly wondering where I belong, where I belong. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do I really belong here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Being a
wanderer, I remember moving from job to job, home to home, searching for that
perfect job and that perfect place to live. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I became so excited with that new job or new
home… until the novelty wore off. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
day I asked myself, what am I running from?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What am I running to?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Being so
restless, like the caged bird, I finally realized, I was running from myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every job I worked, every home I moved into,
each time I was taking me along with it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My post-stroke
rehab is gentle forcing me to take the time out to see my life for what it is, freeing
myself from that cage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My
post-stroke life is teaching me to understand that as aphasia comes in
different storms and waves, you just ride it out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In my
heart of hearts, my post-stroke life is teaching me to understand that beauty
is truth, and that truth is beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My
post-stroke life is showing me that rainbows and butterflies dance in the
sunset. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">My post-stroke
life is showing me how to open up the door of my bird cage, accept who I am,
and come out <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘flying into </i>the storm’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And above
all, my post-stroke life shows me… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">my life is just a rolling
stone that finally, finally has come home.</span></u></i><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Word:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We start off very low and rise up high,
telling people who we really are***</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
</div>
Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-35583590097178363282020-01-06T10:30:00.000-08:002020-01-06T10:30:50.677-08:00Gratitude Letter by Nicole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULHDNi6Vgjr57XmxK08rvCb8R7OcxCYE5bCNejbXr6inifM7xeiYKPsxkKicbDNuHiojL057oDn5jeJpcozu02xtU7o5iHxEgXELCAxpkr_X05NVE0AEYlHy0isaaIC0F-BQr-jWegzSz/s1600/cid_7AE12DD3-3A5A-4055-8BD5-FE9CF6D887DB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULHDNi6Vgjr57XmxK08rvCb8R7OcxCYE5bCNejbXr6inifM7xeiYKPsxkKicbDNuHiojL057oDn5jeJpcozu02xtU7o5iHxEgXELCAxpkr_X05NVE0AEYlHy0isaaIC0F-BQr-jWegzSz/s320/cid_7AE12DD3-3A5A-4055-8BD5-FE9CF6D887DB.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Stroke Comeback Center (SCC),</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After having a stroke, I am grateful for all of the reassurance you have provided when I was lost in the wilderness and could not find my way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thank you for teaching me I can continue to enjoy my journey in life without skipping a beat. <br /><br />At times when I only recognized the old normal me, I thank you ‘SCC’ for gently showing me how to accommodate the new normal me.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you for understanding me and showing me how to accept and embrace the new normal me when the old normal me is pecking at my door.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thank you for showing me, it’s okay to let go of my pride, after realizing I cannot do some of the things I could do before my stroke and showing me how to patiently ride out the storm.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thank you for giving me a temporary home to visit each week and share with the stroke survivors and strivers, although some of us may have an injured left wing, we can still fly on our right wing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thank you for showing me when aphasia comes a knocking, patiently wait and welcome her with gladness.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thank you ‘SCC’ for teaching me how to bring aphasia alive without being afraid and welcoming her with open arms. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After having my stroke, I thank you for gently showing me I do not have to be lost, but be a witness of joy in the midst of it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And above all ‘SCC’, I give you my gratitude for showing me I can adapt to my new way of life with peace, beyond measures I never believed was possible or imagined.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SCC, I Truly Truly Thank You For Your Services….. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nicole –</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Comments: As I began the year of 2020, it is my hope to welcome and invite stroke survivors and strivers to rise up and be at peace with their new normal.</span>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-56058618675448131072019-11-18T07:35:00.000-08:002019-11-18T07:36:40.462-08:00Patience and Gentleness by Nicole<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPdBrQbM6ijv4YKwaEDFnizSv14QSKZezeavMNz5mN9irJaizrSI2X3hq8q0ahJxH4HaQPhbZ9nTYlF_ULTZmQ_ehAa71S-Qr15YSpJxZ_VTS1ooIaATZmy1s_QoE0lrFTOxQVbe8AvsL/s1600/owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1024" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPdBrQbM6ijv4YKwaEDFnizSv14QSKZezeavMNz5mN9irJaizrSI2X3hq8q0ahJxH4HaQPhbZ9nTYlF_ULTZmQ_ehAa71S-Qr15YSpJxZ_VTS1ooIaATZmy1s_QoE0lrFTOxQVbe8AvsL/s320/owl.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In layperson’s terms, we know what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i> is. Aphasia is after having a
stroke, sometimes when we try to speak the words and the words will not come. We
internally know what the words are we are trying to express, but it feels like
it’s, as they say, on the tip of our tongue. The words feel like they are on
the tip of our brain but will not spill over. When the words will not come, it
feels like there are stagnant brain cell messengers trying to switch over to
replace the brain cell messengers that burned out during our stroke.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We find ourselves pushing and breathing from
our diaphragm when the words will not come. When the words finally appear we
can, exhale. Sometimes in a way, after having a stroke, it’s like learning to
speak again from a baby’s breath. We have somewhat gotten use to our daily
chore of speaking in Aphasia language. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Blog
</i>I am going to simulate <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia </i>by
bringing her alive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am going to tell
you a story about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia and her Stroke
Comeback Center partner, Survivor.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Now Aphasia</span></i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> is her code name. Her
first name is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Patience </i>and her last
name <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gentleness. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">At the end of this story, eventually <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor</i> come to a meeting of the minds by deciding to be in a
perfect reunion.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Okay
Stroke Comeback Center Survivors and Strivers, no chains are holding us, so
let’s rock and roll!</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLjdA4uorxy238tX5mTs9ulochNbrRFzyuWYw-vOy7J9vh8LxXwoAYbJ5Qq3M1NE_CjUBRsMn-mQuhxlXTlzTPHkLhypxsX8Bqyos-Ev2MLKcpYKS3CYopuYX1_aV5LMzIAaMdtjsGeX5/s1600/snoopy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLjdA4uorxy238tX5mTs9ulochNbrRFzyuWYw-vOy7J9vh8LxXwoAYbJ5Qq3M1NE_CjUBRsMn-mQuhxlXTlzTPHkLhypxsX8Bqyos-Ev2MLKcpYKS3CYopuYX1_aV5LMzIAaMdtjsGeX5/s1600/snoopy.gif" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLjdA4uorxy238tX5mTs9ulochNbrRFzyuWYw-vOy7J9vh8LxXwoAYbJ5Qq3M1NE_CjUBRsMn-mQuhxlXTlzTPHkLhypxsX8Bqyos-Ev2MLKcpYKS3CYopuYX1_aV5LMzIAaMdtjsGeX5/s1600/snoopy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLjdA4uorxy238tX5mTs9ulochNbrRFzyuWYw-vOy7J9vh8LxXwoAYbJ5Qq3M1NE_CjUBRsMn-mQuhxlXTlzTPHkLhypxsX8Bqyos-Ev2MLKcpYKS3CYopuYX1_aV5LMzIAaMdtjsGeX5/s1600/snoopy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Knock, Knock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who’s there?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Aphasia who?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>You know me, I am <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia, Patience Gentleness,</i> who knocks and knock at your door
each day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Oh, I know you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i>, who knocks at my door each day. Sometimes I get so discouraged
and wish you would just go away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor</i>,
today will you be rough and tough with me, or gently allow me to play and just let
me be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>But what will I do when the words will
not flow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please tell me how I will
allow my vocabulary to grow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Now be patient <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor</i>, I ask you to continue to push and push the words from
your brain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Push and push until your
words began to rain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Oh my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i>, whose brain limbs stretches far and wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have such beautiful branches that almost
reach the sky. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Just remember <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor </i>when your words will not come, don’t run and hide; that’s
no such fun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Aphasia</i>
will you show me your <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Patience</i> when I
am feeling up-side down and inside-out; those days will you please gently
direct my route.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Pay attention <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor</i>, you may have a plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When you lose your words, push and push by showing them, “Yes I Can”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; tab-stops: 1.0in; text-align: left; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When my words tumble up, and they don’t
make sense, will <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gentleness</i> show up
and take a bow when I am too tense.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Now, now, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Survivor</i>, when your words will not come, patiently wait, they are just
on the run. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Survivor:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Well <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aphasia</i>,
notwithstanding a miracle, you will never completely go away. So I guess I will
accommodate you and welcome you to stay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Aphasia:<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Survivor</i>,
believe in yourself and know I will be here if you call, to catch you with my
patience and gentleness whenever you fall. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Words of Thought: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I thank the Stroke Comeback Center (SCC) for showing me, as a survivor
and a striver, I can still rock and roll!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I thank the SCC for reminding me, “mountains are still being moved in my
life; strongholds are still being loose”. We are all special in SCC; we made it
through our stroke.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Comments:
I thank my sister Rev. Maude Harrison-Hudson, who would gently mention to me,
after I returned home from in-patient rehabilitation, to think of <u>patience
and gentleness</u>, when the words will not come. Love you Maude </span></i><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J<span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6320596197053754366.post-37202775721066326672019-10-24T08:33:00.002-07:002019-10-24T10:24:02.498-07:00Good Morning Ms. Autumn Sunshine by Nicole<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistCfMKnWejrUS6Vhwoy4c2FYVQnc_yjqi8CYgXlR9dqc8RrMk59pCSZb0mCPtLR2RZUZ1KCLNNOos7hYKEVxlV-6wgYxuUjJLQEFx95RGgTxIGbbvOa8wy0g4K6yVu6u6vLL2EpHjrymi/s1600/IMG_5341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="167" data-original-width="228" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistCfMKnWejrUS6Vhwoy4c2FYVQnc_yjqi8CYgXlR9dqc8RrMk59pCSZb0mCPtLR2RZUZ1KCLNNOos7hYKEVxlV-6wgYxuUjJLQEFx95RGgTxIGbbvOa8wy0g4K6yVu6u6vLL2EpHjrymi/s320/IMG_5341.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><blockquote style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial","helvetica",sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" type="cite">
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Illustrated by Baby Girl Nikki, Nicole's graddaughter. <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Nikki’s illustration shows each leaf </span><img alt="🍁" class="CToWUd" data-goomoji="1f341" data-image-whitelisted="" goomoji="1f341" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/e/1f341" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial","helvetica",sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px 0.2ex; max-height: 24px; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: middle; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> is pronounced with it’s own individual vines of life </span><img alt="🍁" class="CToWUd" data-goomoji="1f341" data-image-whitelisted="" goomoji="1f341" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/e/1f341" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial","helvetica",sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px 0.2ex; max-height: 24px; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: middle; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My first autumn memory, which stays with me, was returning to
school after summer break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each year, a
few days after Labor Day, of course before there was the alarm of climate
change, it would rain nonstop in our city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For days, it would rain as if we were in the middle of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">monsoon season</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although we wore rain coats and carried an
umbrella, the rain would come down horizontally and we were soaked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I remember as a little girl, at the end of what I refer to
as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">monsoon season</i>, the sun would come
out, shining so brightly, we had to wink to see our hands before us.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I remember as a little girl, after the rainy period, the shedding
of the colorful autumn leaves would appear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As the leaves begin to doze off the trees, I knew the spring and summer
had completed their yearly journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I remember as a little girl, after the true notice of
autumn arrived, the leaves graciously begin to slow dance from the trees with a
gentle slumber.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I noticed the different color variation of the falling
leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I noticed the yellow-green sugar
maple leaves that are more subtle but no less beautiful or distinct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I notice the majestic orange-red color leaves, which peak a
bright vapor of pastel green pattered with orange that presents a striking
diverse appearance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And, I noticed the most colorful leaves in autumn, the
maple red leaves that can be a brilliant scarlet or a maroon, that just takes
your breath away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Those of you who are visual people, who have a more profound
sight of seeing a picture as I see; can you imagine seeing a little girl
twirling around and around in the colorful leaves that are falling from the
trees with the wind gusting her to a point of breathless laughter.</span><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Can
You See Her?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Those of you who are audio people, who can hear what I hear;
those of you with a higher hearing pitch of accuracy, can you imagine hearing
the wind swirling the colorful leaves around a little girl demanding that she
run faster and faster in the blowing leaves, taking her breath away. </span><br />
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Can
You Hear the Wind Blowing?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prior to my stroke, as an elder-hood person, I had
forgotten all about observing nature’s beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take time out in your life, on any day, as they say, smell the
roses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take time out to re-introduce
yourself to nature; the rivers, the lakes, the mountains, the clouds, trees and
flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are nature as you are
nature. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may surprise yourself how
accommodating and peaceful you can be, sharing time with another<span style="color: red;"> </span>species of nature.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I now understand autumn is my favor time of year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Autumn is a beginning and ending of a season
who shows you how gently life can be, if you allow it. </span><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As
a little girl, these are my greatest “Fall Memories”</span></i></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Stroke Comeback Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10811876892398830003noreply@blogger.com0