~Living life my way, one day at a time~

~I wear my truth like a suit of armour; I will not expose myself in the fig leaves of denial ~

~ ♥ if you only knew what's in my soul.....you'd never feel such doubt ♥ ~

~**~Welcome to My World~**~

Monday, January 31, 2011

~The Heartbreak Blues~

 ~It's been a very trying week.  I don't know what to say or do, or how to accurately describe how I feel right now.

Where do I begin?  I guess the best place would be to use the one word that says it best.  LOVE.

Love is responsible for all of this.

I am guilty of loving too much.  I have wanted too much.  I have needed too much.  I held on too much.  I feared too much.  I hurt too much.

I can't speak for someone else and this post is only about me, so I can only write about my intentions, thoughts, and deeds.

I've been through a lot in the last several years, which started with my ex-husband's brain injury, but the culmination was the loss of Bennett.

When I watched his tiny body go into that little wee casket, I swear my heart stopped for a moment.  I didn't want to see the lid closing, knowing I would never see his beautiful, little face ever again......but yet I couldn't tear my eyes away.  I didn't want to miss my final moments with his physical presence before me.

I held him while he passed away, and watched his siblings grieve. 



I clipped some of his hair, and made gold embossed feet imprints for keepsakes. 

I rubbed his delicate tissues with Nivea cream and prepared him for the cold storage in the morgue.  I attached his identifying name tag, then wrapped and tied him up with a bow.  I placed his 8-day old body into the body-bag myself, kissed his tiny face one more time, then zipped it shut and waited for the security guards to come and take him away.

At the funeral home I removed him from the bag and unwrapped him in preparation for his final bath and dressing.  The tears flowed and it was difficult to breathe.  My sister, mother, and father were in attendance. 
His naming ceremony is chronicled here:  http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com/p/meaning-of-nimkee.html 

I got into my father's car and held Bennett on my lap.  We took a drive by my home to show him where his family lives.  I took him home to my father's, which was my family homestead for generations.  His body laid in wake for 3 days and we laid him to rest at sunset, on April 10th.

Kissing him and holding him one last time was excruciating.  Placing him into the casket was indescribable.  The closing of the lid was like a dagger in my heart.  The drive to the cemetary is a blur in my mind.

Can you even imagine what it was like to watch his tiny casket being lowered into the ground and have daisies and dirt thrown on top of him?  I couldn't watch.  I felt rage amongst the tears.

~My baby is in here.  Visits to the cemetary are very difficult.

I spent the next few months grieving alone.  Each day was a struggle.  Each breath forced.  I had no appetite, and sleep was my only reprieve.

One day I received a notification that someone from my past had reached out to me.  I graciously accepted it and from that day forward everything changed.

He made himself available to me to lean on in my grief.  He made the breathing easier, and the genuine joy and smiles returned, even though I had thought it impossible.

I've made mistakes during this intense period of grieving.  Not only was my heart broken beyond belief, but I was caught up in a support & custody battle for my boys, division of assets so we'd have a home to live in, and outside interference from people that don't know me.

While I thought that I was being understood and respected, I have found out how wrong I was.

There has been very little compassion and acceptance, next to no trust.......and false empathy.

If any of the love was real, then it wouldn't even be possible for this person to hurt me like this.  Loving relationships and friendships don't end with anger and heated animosity because they have been loved too much.

I don't begrudge his decision to leave me.  I came to terms with that years ago, the day he moved out on his own.  The contact since that day has been sketchy at best, but it was enough to get me through the darkest days of sorrow.

I loved too much......trusted too much......needed and wanted too much.  All in all, I have been very grateful and open about my feelings, wants, and needs.  He can't reciprocate the love or understand what I need and why I am the way I am.

He has no patience left for me.  No caring.  No concern for my feelings.  No kind words or apologies.  Nothing.  Just requests for the return of items, public attempts at humiliation, police threats if I try to see him face to face to talk, and nasty emails.  He claims he is happy with all of this, even though his actions speak otherwise.  I definitely am not one bit happy with any of this.

Why can't he understand and feel compassion?  Just give me loyal friendship and trust I don't have evil or selfish motives.  Why is it impossible to maintain friendship?  I don't understand the hard feelings because I don't possess that within me.

If you don't want to be with someone anymore, why not just walk away peacefully and keep it all private?

The biggest question in my mind is WHY?  Why is it easy to be mean to me?  What did I do to deserve this?

How can anyone expect me to go through all of this and not need and want someone for comfort?

I don't deserve any of this.  I did nothing wrong.  I have been fair, loving, and loyal.  I've been appreciative and publicly showed my devotion and gratitude in photo albums on facebook.

Now I'm on my own again.......struggling and requesting patience and understanding, compassion and peace from those around me.

My heart is battered and bruised.....mangled beyond recognition.  I am hurting and feeling very alone.

Perhaps the saddest revelation of all is that I feel safest alone in my heartache.  Trusting and loving people has only resulted in further losses and emotional scars.  Relying on others has been impossible.

I don't know how to get through this, but I know that I will-----one day at a time.

Somebody help me.......I've got the heartbreak blues...........

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

~Winter 21-Day Meditation Challenge~



~As I begin another year in my quest for spiritual growth and enlightenment, I have committed myself to fitting meditation into my daily routine.  I need to find solace in any way possible, and what better way than to just sit idle----silent----focus on your breathing and BE PRESENT IN THE MOMENT?

The last several years have been so unbelievably painful and alternately mind-numbing.  I have developed the ability to hurt as much as I can possibly endure, and then the numbness kicks in so I can breathe again and lull myself back into a sense of security---an escape hatch.

I read that it takes 21-DAYS to create a routine that becomes almost 'reflex-like'.  The thoughts and patterns become an instinct which automatically kicks in when you require that assistance from your psyche.

If you are at a cross-roads, struggling to figure out what to do next, where to go, or just find yourself consumed with the age-old question of WHY?.....then give these meditations a shot.

What do you have to lose?

http://www.chopracentermeditation.com/winterday1/

http://www.chopracentermeditation.com/winterday2/

~If you have 10-15 minutes a day to invest in yourself, these meditations are very worth it.  As I make my way through these days, I will add new links so you too can follow along.

~**~NAMASTE~**~ Love, Peace, & Nimkee-Blessings to you all ~**~

~ I'm a SPACE INVADER & proud of it ~

~I LOVE HUGS!  Lots and lots of hugs!  I love hugs so darn much that I have a photobucket album entirely devoted to HUGS!

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When I meet you, I will shake your hand and smile.  If we have a great talk involving the sharing of personal information sprinkled with mutual compassion and empathy, then I'll probably hug you when we part ways and hope to see you again soon.

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The next time I see you, I will probably greet you with a hug!  Hugs are awesome, and are generally followed with good karma and contentment.

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Hugs are universal.  You can find huggers everywhere in the world!  If you come to Manitoulin Island and meet me----be ready----I WILL HUG YOU!

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I hug my boys spontaneously at any given time throughout the day.

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I will hug them when they leave for school.  I will hug them when they get home from school.  I will hug them as they pass by me in the kitchen, hallway, anywhere!  I hug them when they go to bed.

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I love hugs in the sunshine.  
I love hugs under a tree.  
I love hugs in the rain, snow, and sleet!  
I just really LOVE HUGS!

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If I like you, and you've been nice to me, I will hug you when I see you.  Even if we're in a very public place.  I don't care what anyone thinks when they witness public displays of affection.  I really don't.  I WILL HUG YOU ANYWAY!

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Hugs are comforting.  They feel good when you're feeling down.  It's nice to receive a hug from someone that cares enough to notice that you appear to need one----or two---or three!



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If you're a dog......I will hug you.  If you're a bird and you need some help, I will hug you gently in my hands and return you to safety and hope you grow up big and strong so you can help and HUG your own babies!

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FREE HUGS make the WORLD GO ROUND!

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If you're not a morning person, and I see you in the morning.....I will hug you.  I will hug you before you even get your first cup of coffee.  I will hug you after you get your coffee.  Then I'll hug you again just because I love hugs!  Have a great day!


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I love my son Brendan.  
I love him so much, that sometimes I will hug him for no reason.
Spontaneous hugs because he is awesome.
Especially on his birthday!
FREE BIRTHDAY HUGS!!!
Is there anything better than birthday hugs???



~HUGS......THEY'RE IN YOU TO GIVE!

~I love HUGS so much that I include them in every email embedded in my signature!



Project Leader for Nimkee Blessings,
http://nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/p/labelledamecomjewelry-to-nurture-and.html
 Miscarriage and Infant Loss Memorial Jewelry
Love, Peace, & Nimkee Blessings,
Melissa:
~proud mum to:
^Angel^Bennett-Chadlen~March 29-April 6, 2007 & ^Angel^Noah-Alexander~Aug.6/99, & 4 other awesome sons~Brendan, Tristan, Mason, & Tanner

http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com/

http://nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/

http://livingwithtrisomy13.org/MemoriesofBennett.htm

Contact Me Blogger Facebook Google YouTube Picasa Facebook

Monday, January 24, 2011

~Bennett-Chadlen ~ NICU Days~

These pics were taken during Bennett-Chadlen's stay in the NICU at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Much love and Nimkee blessings to those who understood and accepted our unconditional love and pure desire to have Bennett-Chadlen in our lives for as long as possible.

The days and nights were long, but I just couldn't get enough of him.  I stood for hours and hours just gazing upon his beautiful face.  He had gorgeous dark, wavy hair and the silkiest baby skin imaginable.  I loved to feel the warmth of his hand in mine as he gripped onto my finger.  I will never forget the times he opened his eyes and looked at me, and stirred his arms and feet ever so slightly.  I still remember his sweet new baby fragrance, and the way he felt in my arms.

I didn't get a lot of the "firsts" that all eager parents await when their babies are born.

I didn't ever get to hear him cry.  He was 4 days old the very first time I got to kiss him, all captured by the photographer's lens.

The first time I held him was the day I rocked him to his forever sleep.


Our lives have been forever touched by this beautiful, courageous soul.

Gzaagin Nimkee, Baamaapii Gawaabmin, Until We Meet Again xxoo

Sunday, January 23, 2011

~Waiting For Nimkee~


~In my quest to fulfill my healing journey, I can't help but be drawn towards memories of life-altering events which had to be put-on-hold as I addressed the far more pressing matters which forced their way into my path and required my unbidden attentions.

During my 5th month of pregnancy with Bennett-Chadlen I received the heartbreaking prenatal diagnosis of Trisomy 13. As I struggled with the implications of what this could mean, I did my best to prepare for an unknown future with my darling, unborn son.

These photos depict our prenatal journey from beginning to end. I share with you such a rare glimpse into the world of the unknown that I, and too many others, have chosen to experience.

How do you prepare to say Goodbye before you've even had a chance to say Hello?

**photos courtesy of Heather Morgan of Lifespark Photography.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

~Solace~

~What does it mean?  Wikipedia describes it as such:     
Solace, from Old French solas, from Latin sōlācium "consolation", meaning comfort or consolation in a time of distress.

~How do you seek solace?

For me, I find that self-induced solitary confinement works best.  I sit and meditate, considering all of the thoughts and feelings that swirl around in my head, listening to that inner-voice that speaks wisdom if we're willing to sit still and quiet enough to hear it.

I sometimes go for long walks and just listen to the sounds of nature, and breath in the fresh air along the shoreline.  I often stop to sit a while on a rock and listen to the waves lapping gently against the pebbles, and feel the warm winds of time softly caressing my cheek, reminding me we're all just individual vessels making our way through this cruel world, one footstep at a time.



At times I love to trek through wooded paths, and smell the pine and mosses, cedar and wildflowers......and listen to the sounds of nature going about life in their own domain.  Every now and again they will let out a little chirp or squeal to let you know you've gotten too close, or to warn others of  your pending arrival.




  

 
My favourite view is from the top of a mountain, overlooking the vast miles of water and rocks, trees, and clouds....feeling the sunshine on my face and feeling at one with the universe surrounding me.



Is there anything more glorious than sitting around a campfire at night, listening to the crackling coals while  the heat from the flames warm your skin?  The sound of crickets and loons serenade you as you bask in the golden glow, mesmerized by the dancing flames before you.
Sitting on the shore in the early morning hours, watching the dawning of a new day, can be so cathartic.
I feel very blessed to live in this place, I often refer to as a little slice of Heaven Here On Earth.

My inner-voice reminds me that there's so much life out there, and not to be afraid to endure all the challenges and joy that comes with it.  There's a world of endless opportunities before us......Carpe Diem ~ Seize the Day!

I look forward to a lifetime of tomorrows with anticipation, and will always take time out to pick the daisies.........

Friday, January 21, 2011

~The Moral Highground~

~It's been a difficult, yet enlightening start to this new year.  I am learning things I never thought possible.  My eyes have been opened, my heart exposed.

It's painful, but also comes with a huge sense of relief knowing it's over.  There is an end to the push and pull, hot and cold, here and gone.  I feel like I've been riding a carousel to nowhere.  Just going 'round and 'round......and when it stops, nobody knows.

I knew what I was doing when I decided to put myself into this.  I held on tight and enjoyed the ride for as long as possible, but it became nauseating and just wasn't fun or fulfilling anymore.  I finally found the strength to pull the STOP lever and let myself off.

I got out of it what I needed, but there isn't anything left to offer to me.  The patience has expired.  The compassion is gone.  The empathy is non-existent at this point, and it makes me sad because all I really wanted and needed was loyal friendship, through thick and thin.......and I returned it ten-fold.

Now it's over.  I see it's time to part ways indefinitely.  I made the choice to pull myself away and let go.

It wasn't easy.

Today I start a new journey on a straight path leading to who knows where----but it's paved with good intentions and endless possibilities.  I am looking forward to this new adventure.

I'm sure there will be a few bumps and curves to maneuver through, but I'm ready, willing, and able.
Maybe one day we will meet at the cross roads.  We both have healing and growth to do on our own.  We awakened things in each other----lots of it good, some of it painful----but let's be grateful for the time while it lasted.

Hold onto the memories.  Remember the joy----the day trips we took to far off places.......the beaches we explored.......the new foods that we tried......the trails that we hiked......the park we got locked in at night.......the love, the passion, and the tears that we shared.  I shall treasure this always, and can look back on the photos and smile.  I hope one day that you can too.
Providence Bay
Prov Bay at sunset
Niagara in November

Happy Canada Day EH!

Science North
The bed of nails
A day in the sun at our camp in Wiky
Niagara with the wee lads
Hypnotizing Fred to make him stand on his head
Thanks for the awesome dinner!  Fred was deeelish!
Really......need I say more?
Thank you for saving us!

Our paths may cross again and when it does I hope the animosity has subsided.

I can't give what I don't have to give.  I am finishing this trek of the journey alone.

I need to find my way.

I feel much gratitude and love for you and greatly appreciate all that you have given to me to get me through the worst of the grief and heartache.  I can't and won't deny that you helped get me to this point.

You are an awesome person, and I feel honoured to have had the pleasure of your friendship and comfort through everything.

Thank you for remembering Bennett's birth & angel days---and for spending them with me.

Thank you for remembering the significance of Good Friday, and for reaching out when you knew I needed it the most.

Thank you for attending the visits to Sick Kids, for you knew it wouldn't be easy for me.

Thank you for all of the tears you have dried while I leaned on your shoulder.

Thank you for listening to all my stories........no matter how sad.

Thanks for laughing at my silly jokes and making me smile again when I thought I had lost my joy forever.

Thank you for everything.

I wish you peace and love my friend.  You will forever own a piece of my heart.  Gzaagin xxoo