Embracing My Health Challenge

Last week, Janine Ripper was kind enough to invite me to guest post on her blog “Reflections from a Redhead” in her “life change artist series”.

If someone were to tell me that they cried when they were diagnosed with a health issue, I would probably empathize but gently advise them to think positive and focus on doing what it takes to get better. Easier said than done, right? But then, don’t we all know how much easier it is to preach than practice!Of course I don’t always follow my own advice. I was terribly upset to discover that I had been harboring a health condition I was not even aware of.

Diabetes, the silent killer, is like that.

But let me start at the very beginning.

It was a dark and stormy night. Actually, no it wasn’t.

Please visit Janine’s blog to read my post – “Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes”

Thanks for the lovely graphic, Janine!

Janine is a freelance writer, blogger, social media manager and Virtual Assistant located in Perth, Western Australia. She works with clients across Australia and the world, helping them to embrace their authenticity and story to succeed in life and in business.

Janine is also a speaker and mentor, as well as the creator and writer behind the successful blog Reflections from a Redhead, where she shares her personal story of changing her life by overcoming depression, anxiety, and embracing balance and wellness.

Last week, Janine also nominated me for the Sisterhood of the World Blog Award and tagged me with the following questions – I am answering them, just for fun!

Why did you start blogging?

I love to write. Blogging was like a shiny new self-publishing toy. Back in 2003 when I started out on Blogger when Google acquired them, I was fascinated about being able to post and publish instantly. I continue to be intrigued by all the lovely people I connect with. You know what they say – we grow all the time and there is no such thing as strangers – only friends we haven’t  met. Yet. And blogging is an enjoyable way to connect.

What do you love about getting older?

The sheer experience of living one more day. And I could be imagining it – but I feel wiser. With each passing day, I feel more conscious about living my best life just so I don’t have a long list of regrets. I love the memories I am collecting that give me more and more to smile about. Over the past year, getting older has meant getting healthier thanks to being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It has made me take better care of myself and my family. I must also admit I love my grey hair!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I am happy exactly where I am. But yes, my list of places to travel is ridiculously long.

Kids or no kids? There is no right or wrong answer.

For me, definitely yes, kids. I love them. They are one of my main sources of happiness. I enjoy being with them and the conversations, oh!. There used to be a time when I believed I’d never get married and when my Mom asked me what about kids, I’d tell her I’d adopt a whole bunch. When I did get married at 33 and had my son a year later, I was thrilled…and continue to be. Interestingly, most of my closest friends have chosen to be childless. I think it is simply a matter of preference and one is entitled to that!

Where do you want to take your blog in the future?

My goal is to make my blogs – I have five active ones now – into books.

Are you a folder or a scruncher?

As per personality types, by definition a folder is someone someone who is neat and meticulous, is process driven and always on time and a scruncher is someone who is creative, can multi task, can handle interruptions, is outgoing and a people person.

That makes me a multiple personality with a mix of both.

If it is in the toilet paper context – well – again a mix of both, depending on how much time I’ve got.

What are you most grateful for?

Waking up every morning with a smile, followed by my coffee. I am most grateful for every little thing I experience, every moment, because once the moment passes, it is gone forever.

What are you most looking forward to in 2015?

I am looking forward to knowing where my son will settle down for the next few years – since he’s transitioning from Grade 12 to college – and a lot of travel. I am also hoping to publish my first book or two. Of course – it goes without saying that I plan on staying healthy!

What’s your favorite song? Why not share the you tube clip?

This is the hardest question. But I’ll share one video clip I am always ready to listen to. I loved the movie too – Do aankhen barah haath (1957) which was fabulous. The song never fails to make me cry. The lyrics are beautiful.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Reading with a cup of coffee. I cannot live without reading at least three books at a time. I consider books my biggest treasure. I live in constant fear of losing my sight, which is becoming weaker by the year. I have a massive stash of books and am absolutely comfortable with ebooks. I can never say no to a cup of coffee. Sigh.

That’s it!

And now, I nominate each one of you reading this for this lovely award.  Don’t feel pressurized – just enjoy answering the same questions as I did on your blog. ♥ And have fun!

P.S. – Don’t forget to visit Janine’s blog to read my post.