Tomorrow, I have my long-overdue eye checkup, and honestly, I’m not looking forward to it. It’s been over three years since my last thorough checkup, which was at ISEC. This time, I’m heading to Optimax, thanks to a recommendation from a relative who recently had cataract laser surgery there and spoke highly of their service.
While I know it’s necessary, I still dread the entire process—especially the part where they use eye drops to dilate my pupils. The stinging sensation is uncomfortable, and walking around with blurred vision afterward is never fun. But what I fear most is the diagnosis. I can already tell that my eyesight has worsened, which is only natural as the years go by. The reality of aging eyes isn’t easy to face, and I know that cataract surgery will be in my future one day.
For someone like me who spends countless hours in front of a computer screen, eye strain and vision problems are inevitable. This checkup is a crucial step to ensure I can take preventive action to slow down macular degeneration and protect my eyesight for as long as possible.
Though I’m anxious about what the doctor will say, I know it’s better to face these things head-on rather than ignore them. Wish me luck as I step into this next chapter of eye care. Hopefully, it’s nothing too serious, and I can walk away with a plan to keep my eyes healthy for years to come.
Lunner for Cass – roast chicken breast, stir-fried lean pork with shredded ginger, broccoli and choy sum. And a bowl of raw greens.
Understand the connection between gut health and brain function.
Discover functional medicine strategies to enhance gut health.
Learn practical tips to support neurological well-being through diet and lifestyle changes.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Gut-Brain Connection
Functional Medicine Approach
Dietary Strategies for Gut Health
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Gut Health
Supplements to Support Gut Health
Conclusion
Introduction
Have you ever experienced a “gut feeling” that something wasn’t right? That’s more than just a saying; it’s a glimpse into the intricate relationship between your gut and brain. Emerging research has highlighted the critical link between gut health and neurological function. The gut-brain axis is a complex communication network that links your gut and brain, impacting overall health and wellness. This article explores how improving gut health through functional medicine principles can support neurological function, offering practical tips to enhance well-being.
The Gut-Brain Connection
The gut-brain connection is a bidirectional communication network that links the central nervous system with the enteric nervous system in the gastrointestinal tract. The vagus nerve, hormonal pathways, and the immune system facilitate this connection. A healthy gut can positively influence brain function, while an unhealthy gut can contribute to neurological issues. Many neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, are produced in the gut, highlighting the importance of gut health in maintaining emotional and cognitive well-being.
Functional Medicine Approach
Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. By adopting a personalized approach, functional medicine practitioners aim to restore balance to the body’s systems, including the gut-brain axis. For those interested in functional medicine Denver, this approach can provide a comprehensive plan to enhance gut health and support neurological function. Key strategies include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplements to optimize gut health.
Dietary Strategies for Gut Health
Dietary modifications are one of the most effective ways to improve gut health. Here are some key strategies to incorporate into your daily routine:
Eat a Diverse Range of Foods: A varied diet rich in different fiber types can promote a diverse microbiome, which is crucial for gut health.
Consume Fermented Foods: Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are rich in probiotics that can help balance gut bacteria.
Include Prebiotic-Rich Foods: Prebiotics such as garlic, onions, and bananas feed beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Avoid Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that can harm gut health. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
Hydrate Well: Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and overall gut function.
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Gut Health
In addition to dietary strategies, specific lifestyle changes can significantly enhance gut health:
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt gut health by altering the microbiome and increasing inflammation. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage stress levels.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity has been shown to promote a healthy gut microbiome. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Get Enough Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for overall gut health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep routine.
Avoid Antibiotic Overuse: While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, they can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. Use them only when prescribed and necessary.
Supplements to Support Gut Health
Supplements can also play a role in enhancing gut health. Some of the most beneficial supplements include:
Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can introduce helpful bacteria into the gut, helping to maintain a balanced microbiome.
Prebiotics: Prebiotic supplements can feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy microbiome environment.
Digestive Enzymes: These supplements can aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, supporting overall digestive health.
Fiber Supplements: If you struggle to consume enough fiber through diet alone, fiber supplements can help promote gut health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These anti-inflammatory supplements can help reduce gut inflammation and support overall health.
Conclusion
Incorporating functional medicine principles to improve gut health can profoundly impact neurological function and overall wellness. You can support a healthy gut-brain axis by focusing on dietary strategies, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplements. Remember, the journey to better health is multifaceted and personalized. Start by making small, sustainable changes and observe how your body responds. Enhancing your gut health is an investment in your overall well-being and can lead to a brighter, healthier future.
Learn practical tips to prevent water damage in various areas of your home.
Discover the importance of routine maintenance and timely repairs.
Find out how to identify and address early signs of water damage.
Common Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur from various sources, many of which might not be immediately apparent. Natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and heavy rainfalls are the most severe causes. However, closer to home, issues like leaky pipes, faulty appliances, clogged gutters, and poorly sealed windows can contribute significantly to water damage. For instance, a minor leak from a pipe behind a wall can remain unnoticed for a long time but cause substantial damage over time through mold growth and structural damage. High humidity levels can also exacerbate the problem by creating a conducive environment for mold and mildew.
Maintaining Your Roof and Gutters
A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against water damage. To eliminate leaks, inspect your roof for missing or broken tiles and repair them immediately. Similarly, gutters are vital in channeling rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Blocked drains can cause water to spill over, affecting your walls and foundation and leading to significant damage over time. To avoid blockages, ensure your gutters are debris-free and clean them regularly. Gutter guard installation can also lessen the need for frequent cleaning. If you encounter severe roof or gutter issues, consider professional services such as Pure Restore to keep your home safe and secure.
Preventing Water Damage in the Basement
Because your basement is below ground level, it is more susceptible to water damage. Water seepage can occur through cracks in the foundation, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and a host of other issues. To safeguard your basement, ensure it is waterproofed adequately with a suitable sealant. Check the foundation for cracks regularly and fix them right away. Using a sump pump can also help manage standing water issues effectively. Furthermore, installing an interior or exterior drainage system can be highly beneficial. For more insights on basement waterproofing, refer to this Home Improvement article.
Protecting Plumbing Systems
In many houses, plumbing problems are the primary source of water damage. To avoid such problems, inspecting your pipes periodically for leaks or signs of corrosion is crucial. Look out for symptoms like unusual dampness, water stains, or a sudden spike in your water bill, which indicates a hidden leak. Timely repair of faulty plumbing can prevent significant damage. Setting up a water leak detection system can reduce potential damage by quickly notifying you of leaks, allowing you to respond accordingly. Taking precautions can prevent costly repairs and possible health hazards from mold and mildew.
Appliance Maintenance Tips
Water damage is frequently caused by domestic equipment, including water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. To prevent leaks, it’s crucial to regularly inspect these appliances, paying careful attention to hoses and connections. Over time, hoses may become brittle or frayed, increasing the risk of leaks. Replace any worn-out parts promptly and consider upgrading to burst-resistant hoses. Additionally, appliances should be installed correctly to ensure connections are secure. Placing water alarms near appliances can also provide early warnings of leaks, helping you address issues promptly and avoid extensive water damage.
Proper Landscape Management
The landscape around your home can significantly affect its vulnerability to water damage. It’s crucial to ensure that the ground slopes away from your house to prevent water pooling near the foundation. Long-term foundation issues and water seepage can result from poor drainage. Consider adding a gutter extension or a French drain to divert water from your home. Trees and flower beds are landscaping items that should be positioned carefully to prevent obstructions to drainage pathways. Learn more about landscape management and its impact on home safety from experts in this Landscaping article.
Identifying Early Warning Signs
Avoid expensive repair bills and time-consuming repairs by detecting water damage early on. Look for indicators of a potential leak, such as water stains on walls and ceilings. Mold growth, often appearing as black or green spots, is another clear sign. Unusual, musty odors signify hidden mold or mildew, indicating underlying water issues. It’s also essential to notice sudden changes in your home’s environment, such as increased humidity or dampness. Address these symptoms immediately by identifying the source of the problem and taking the necessary steps to rectify it.
Routine Maintenance and Timely Repairs
Routine maintenance is critical to preventing water damage and maintaining the integrity of your home. Regularly inspect your home, from the roof to the basement, and make timely repairs to any identified issues. Schedule annual inspections for your roof, plumbing, and appliances to catch potential problems early. Creating a maintenance schedule and tracking completed tasks can help ensure every area of your home is noticed. Over time, you may save great trouble and money by making preventative steps like sump pumps, drainage systems, and waterproof sealants. Prioritizing maintenance protects your home and preserves its value and your peace of mind.
It’s been almost a month since Maria, my part-time helper of nearly 13 years, hasn’t come to work. She’s struggling with bad morning sickness, leaving her unable to continue as a domestic helper for now. While I could search for a new part-time helper, the thought of training someone else feels too exhausting. After all these years, I’ve grown weary of having to teach someone the specifics of how I like things done. So, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going! I’ve had to make some sacrifices in order to manage household chores on my own, even the ones I dread, like wiping ceiling fans, cleaning windows, and scrubbing bathroom tiles. Not to mention my daily routine of washing two toilets and mopping the floors multiple times a day (OCD, much?).
Surprisingly, I’m getting the hang of life without a helper. I’ve had live-in maids for over a decade and then part-time help ever since my last live-in maid left. Now that it’s just me, the key is pacing myself—breaking down chores into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, I don’t scrub all the bathroom tiles at once. Instead, I scrub one section of the wall in the morning when I shower and tackle another part in the evening. It might take days before the entire bathroom is done, but that’s okay. I’ve taken the same approach with wiping the blinds in my room—slow and steady wins the race. One day, I’ll clean the lower part of one blind, and the next day, I’ll clean the upper part. Little by little, I’m making progress, and things eventually get done.
Of course, this change hasn’t come without some sacrifices. I’ve had to give up regular exercise, as by the time I finish all my chores, I’m too exhausted to even think about it. And there’s still my part-time writing job to attend to. On the days we don’t cook, though, I try to squeeze in some peaceful brisk walking in the evening—it’s my form of relaxation and self-care.
As for Maria, I’m not sure when, or if, she’ll ever return to work. She’s been pretty unreliable for the past few years anyway, so even if she doesn’t come back, I’m fine with it. I’m slowly learning to live without her help, and while it requires some adjustments and sacrifice, it’s also teaching me resilience. Life without a helper isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible. And who knows, I may find a rhythm that works just fine for me.
My lunner (tapau!). I try to select healthier choice of dishes with emphasis on green veggies and fish. I’m glad that a new ‘chap fan’ shop opened in our hood and their dishes are very tasty, not very oily and salty. Just right for my tastebud.Lunner for Cass. Tapau from Big Boss ‘chap fan’ restaurant too. Besides this plate of protein and fiber, she ate some salad, all the chicken breast meat from the ginseng chicken soup that MIL boiled, ate two slices of we.loaf.bread walnut bread with cheese, a big bowl of Greek yogurt, and a big portion of berries and fruits.
There’s this man in his late 60s, let’s call him MC, whom I’ve known for about 13 years now. Our first encounters were at the condo gym where we both worked out regularly. MC, who owns a unit at our condo but lives in a bungalow nearby, is a wealthy man—once an engineer, now a retiree. His children live overseas, and by all accounts, they are successful. MC, however, is divorced and spends a lot of time alone.
From the beginning, MC would always strike up a conversation with me at the gym. He’s nice enough to chat with, but I find him a little annoying. Despite knowing I’m married with three daughters, he has repeatedly asked me out to eat with him over the years. At first, I thought he was joking, but it became clear he meant it. As we live in the same neighborhood, I often bump into him at random places—restaurants, shops, or while running errands.
This week, it felt like fate had us on the same schedule. Every day, I’d see him at the same ‘chap fan’ (economy rice) shop, picking up food at the same time as I was. Afterward, I’d head to the supermarket, and there he’d be again, as if our paths were destined to cross repeatedly. MC never misses an opportunity to tease me. He often comments on how good I look and that I don’t look my age, saying that if he didn’t know me, he’d “tackle” me on the street. Charming, right?
My husband knows about MC and finds the whole situation amusing. Every time he sees MC, he gives him a subtle side-eye, fully aware of the unwanted attention. MC is chatty and friendly, but even if I were single one day, I don’t think I could ever entertain the idea of dating him. His personality just doesn’t appeal to me, though he may be wealthy and drive luxury cars. Honestly, if the day comes that I am alone, I’d rather stay single than deal with someone like MC!
MC remains part of my daily encounters, and while I’ve grown used to his presence and Whatsapp messages, he’s not someone I’ll ever take up on his offers for lunch or dinner. Some things are better left unspoken 😆
Skincare is not just about looking good; it’s about maintaining the health of your body’s largest organ—your skin. Healthy skin can prevent various conditions and boost your confidence. Regular skin care routines help maintain an even skin tone, reduce acne breakouts, and delay signs of aging. For those looking to enter the beauty industry, taking an advanced esthetics class Denver can provide essential skills to thrive in this field. Understanding the science behind skincare allows estheticians to offer customized and effective treatments to their clients, enhancing overall skin health.
Latest Skincare Trends
The beauty industry is ever-evolving, and staying updated with the latest trends is crucial. Keeping up with such trends can help estheticians offer their clients the most current and effective treatments. Personalized skincare, which tailors products and treatments to an individual’s specific skin type and concerns, is becoming increasingly popular. Another significant trend is the use of natural and organic ingredients. Both trends reflect a shift towards more holistic and individualized approaches to skincare.
Essential Techniques for Estheticians
Aspiring estheticians should be proficient in various techniques such as facial treatments, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. These techniques are fundamental in providing clients with effective skincare solutions. Facial treatments help cleanse foliate, creating a transparent and well-hydrated complexion. Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells, rejuvenating the skin. Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that exfoliates and eventually peels off, allowing new, regenerated skin to appear. Additional training and certifications can further enhance an esthetician’s skill set, helping them stand out in a competitive market.
Sustainable Practices in Skincare
As consumers become more eco-conscious, the demand for sustainable skincare practices grows. To cater to this eco-friendly shift, aestheticians should adopt methods that minimize waste and use organic products. Implementing sustainable practices helps the environment and attracts a growing segment of eco-conscious clients. Recyclable packaging, cruelty-free products, and reducing water usage during treatments are a few ways to incorporate sustainability into skincare routines. Emphasizing sustainability can also enhance a brand’s reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Career Opportunities and Growth
The beauty industry offers many opportunities, from spa management to skincare consultation. The field is expected to grow substantially in the coming decade, making it an opportune time to enter the profession. Estheticians with specialized skills or advanced certifications often find higher-paying and more prestigious positions. Career paths include roles such as makeup artists, beauty bloggers, or educators in esthetic schools. The industry’s growth indicates an increasing acceptance and demand for professional skincare services globally.
Tips for Success in the Beauty Industry
Success in the beauty industry requires more than just technical skills. Networking, continuous learning, and having a passion for helping people are crucial elements for a thriving career. Building a robust professional network can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Continuous learning can involve attending industry conferences, enrolling in advanced training courses, and staying updated through professional journals. Demonstrating a genuine passion for skincare and client well-being can also set you apart and ensure long-term success. Building solid client relationships through excellent service and personalized care can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Continuing Education and Certifications
The beauty industry is dynamic, and continuing education is essential. Certifications in specialized areas like laser treatments or advanced esthetics can set you apart from the competition. Continuing education ensures that an esthetician’s skills are up-to-date and relevant. Additionally, many states require continuing education as part of license renewal for estheticians, emphasizing the importance of staying knowledgeable about the latest industry standards and techniques. Additional certifications also open up new career opportunities and can lead to higher earnings. It’s an investment in personal and professional growth that delivers long-term benefits.
Lately, I’ve struggled to fall into a deep sleep, despite being utterly exhausted most days. It’s ironic—I’m constantly sleep-deprived, yet when it comes time to rest, sleep eludes me. This year has been especially challenging, with so many hurdles and challenges to navigate. I suspect that perimenopause may be playing a role, or perhaps it’s just the weight of everything on my mind that keeps me awake at night.
In search of some relief, I’ve recently turned to relaxing music from YouTube to help lull me to sleep. Soft piano tunes combined with the soothing sounds of water have become my go-to. I don’t know exactly why, but the sound of water—whether it’s trickling, moving, or ocean waves crashing—brings me immense peace. The same goes with sounds of crickets chirping at night.
My love for the ocean and water stems from childhood. Some of the best memories of my life were from when I was 15 or 16, during the beach camping trips I took with friends almost four decades ago. We would sleep on the sand with nothing but a towel between us and the earth, under the stars, listening to the waves crash. It was pure bliss. The sound of the ocean was our lullaby, and the crisp breeze acted as our natural air conditioner. I still remember the thrill of waking up to waves gently hitting our feet and rushing back to the tents in the early morning. It was a time of carefree joy, far from the worries of adulthood.
Even today, those sounds of the ocean give me a sense of calm and comfort. It’s funny how something as simple as water can have such a powerful effect. Now, I try to recreate that peaceful feeling with calming music—anything with soft ocean sounds or trickling water does wonders to help me unwind.
I may not be able to sleep on a beach like I did in my youth, but listening to these sounds brings back those memories and helps quiet my racing mind. If you’re struggling with insomnia or finding it difficult to fall asleep due to stress, I highly recommend trying calming music with water sounds. It’s been a lifesaver for me, and it just might help you find the peace and rest you need.
Recently, my hubby’s client requested boxed drinking water for their event, which led him to source this unique product. That was also the first time I heard of boxed drinking water.
One of the primary reasons why boxed water is a better choice is its eco-conscious packaging. Plastic bottles are notorious for contributing to environmental pollution, taking hundreds of years to break down in landfills. In contrast, boxed water uses renewable materials, such as paper and plant-based plastics, to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The box itself is made from sustainable paperboard, sourced from responsibly managed forests, which can be replenished and recycled more efficiently than plastic.
Aluminum cans, while recyclable, also have their own environmental drawbacks. The production process for aluminum is energy-intensive, releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
If you’re looking for affordably priced boxed drinking water, you can get Borneo Springs natural mineral water, available at 99 Speedmart. Borneo Springs uses eco-friendly packaging materials, making it a fantastic alternative to both plastic bottles and aluminum cans. The packaging is 100% recyclable, and what’s even more impressive is that the cap and lid are made from sugarcane—a sustainable and renewable resource. This means you’re not only reducing plastic waste but also supporting a product that values renewable energy sources.
Borneo Springs natural mineral water selling for RM1.50 for a 330ml box at 99 Speedmart.
As our loved ones grow older, the need for care, support, and compassion becomes more critical. Providing care for aging relatives requires both practical solutions and emotional understanding to ensure their well-being and quality of life. While many aspects of elder care involve familiar strategies, here are some fresh and practical ideas for supporting your aging relatives with compassion.
Collaborate on a Daily Routine
Instead of imposing a schedule or making decisions for your aging relatives, collaborate with them to create a daily routine that suits their preferences and needs. This collaborative approach ensures that their voice is heard and their independence is respected. A daily routine can include meal times, physical activity, social interactions, and time for hobbies or relaxation.
By working together, you’re helping them maintain control over their life while ensuring that important aspects, like medication reminders or doctor’s visits, are included. This routine offers stability and structure, which can be comforting, especially for seniors who are experiencing cognitive decline or health challenges.
Encourage Lifelong Learning
Just because someone is aging, it doesn’t mean they should stop learning or exploring new interests. Encouraging your aging relative to take up a new hobby or pursue lifelong learning opportunities is a powerful way to keep them engaged, mentally stimulated, and emotionally fulfilled.
You can help by finding online courses, community programs, or hobby groups they might be interested in. Whether it’s learning a new language, painting, gardening, or taking up digital skills, these activities provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose. You might also participate in these activities together, creating shared experiences that strengthen your bond.
Incorporate Technology for Independence
Technology can be a powerful tool to enhance both independence and safety for aging relatives. While some seniors may be hesitant to adopt new technologies, there are user-friendly options designed to help them stay connected and manage their daily activities with ease.
You can introduce devices like smart home assistants, which allow seniors to control lights, locks, and thermostats with voice commands. You might also set up medication reminder apps or wearable devices that monitor health and alert caregivers in case of emergencies. Video calling platforms can also help them to stay in touch with friends and family. With a bit of patience and guidance, technology can offer your loved one a greater sense of autonomy while giving you peace of mind.
Arrange Regular “Me Time” for Caregivers
Providing care for an aging relative can be both rewarding and exhausting. It’s important to recognize the need for self-care, not just for the senior but for the caregiver as well. Encourage everyone involved in caregiving to schedule regular breaks, time for relaxation, and self-care routines.
Organizing respite care—either through Morris Care Homes in Shropshire & Cheshire or with help from other family members—allows the primary caregiver to take time off without worrying about their loved one’s well-being. This ensures that caregivers are emotionally and physically replenished, which is critical for maintaining long-term compassion and support.
Assist with Financial Planning and Organization
As seniors age, managing finances can become increasingly challenging. Assisting your loved one in organizing their financial affairs can reduce stress and prevent future difficulties. This might include helping them with budgeting, setting up automatic bill payments, or consolidating accounts to make their finances more manageable.
Additionally, discussing long-term financial planning—such as healthcare costs, estate planning, or insurance coverage—can offer peace of mind for both your relative and the family. Approaching these conversations with compassion, and ensuring they feel in control of their finances, is crucial to maintaining their dignity.
Focus on Emotional Support, Not Just Physical Needs
Often, caregiving is focused on meeting the physical needs of aging relatives—helping with medication, mobility, or daily tasks. However, emotional support is equally important. Take time to have regular conversations with your loved one about how they’re feeling emotionally and mentally. Let them express their frustrations, fears, or hopes for the future, and listen without judgment.
You can also support their emotional well-being by encouraging activities that bring them joy, whether it’s listening to their favorite music, engaging in creative outlets like painting or knitting, or simply spending quiet time together. Emotional support strengthens your relationship and helps your loved one feel truly cared for on a deeper level.
To Conclude
Supporting an aging relative involves more than just ensuring their physical care—it requires compassion, thoughtful planning, and emotional connection. By collaborating on routines, using technology, creating intergenerational activities, and offering emotional support, you can help your loved one to live a fuller, more satisfying life. These fresh strategies offer practical ways to provide care while respecting their independence, ensuring that they feel supported, loved, and understood as they age.
Welcome October 2024!! As we step into the last quarter of 2024, I’m reflecting on how fast the year has flown by and how busy life has become for everyone in the family. My three daughters are all moving full steam ahead with their studies, hobbies, and personal goals, each on a unique journey. Here’s a brief update on where each of them stands as we begin this new month.
Alycia and Sherilyn: Deep into University Life
Alycia and Sherilyn are now in their third week of the new academic year at university, and their schedules are as hectic as ever. Both girls leave the house early in the morning and don’t return until late evening, consumed by classes and extracurricular activities.
For Alycia, this is her final year, and the workload is more intense. On top of that, she has evening classes that seem to fill up most of her days. She’s been looking forward to a well-deserved break, and in just three weeks, she’ll be heading to South Korea with her friend/colleague for a week-long holiday. I’m sure it will be a wonderful experience for her to unwind before diving back into the final stretch of her university life.
Last Friday Alycia went for an interview for her three-month internship set to take place next year. A few days later, the company called her to offer her the job. I hope she will enjoy work life and meet people who will uplift her and be helpful to her.
Sherilyn, on the other hand, has an even more jam-packed schedule. As a first-year student in architecture, her course demands a lot of time and effort. Yet, she still finds the energy to be deeply involved in her university’s Barista Club and Dance Club, which are her passions. In addition, she continues to attend dance classes at two different studios late in the evenings. I admire her dedication, but I also hope she’s not stretching herself too thin.
Cass: Balancing School and Skating
Cass is gearing up for her Senior High 1 (Form 4) Final Exam, taking place soon. It’s hard to believe that she’ll be sitting for her SPM exam in just a year. On top of her studies, Cass is also preparing for her figure skating test (Free Style 1), which is an exciting milestone. She’s been going to the skating rink three times a week and training intensively both on-ice and off-ice. There’s a possibility she might participate in one or two more skating competitions next year, even though it will be her SPM year. While I’m naturally concerned about how she’ll balance everything, she reassures me that her skating won’t interfere with her studies. I can only trust her judgment and hope for the best.
As for Me: Battling Tennis Elbow and Juggling Everything
On a more personal note, my own challenges have been catching up with me. The pain in my right hand from tennis elbow hasn’t improved one bit, mainly because I’ve had no rest at all. With Maria, our part-time helper, still out of commission due to severe morning sickness in the early stages of her pregnancy, I’ve had to take on all the household chores. It’s been nearly a month without her help, and I’m feeling the strain, both mentally and physically.
To make matters worse, I’m not sure when Maria will be able to return. Even if her morning sickness subsides, she might not be in full form to work. Plus, she will eventually need to take time off to give birth and return to Indonesia for several months. I’m trying to prepare myself for managing without her help, but it’s a daunting thought.
Looking Ahead
As we welcome October, I wish nothing but success and happiness for my daughters in their studies and future endeavors. They all have their individual dreams, and as a mother, my greatest hope is to see them thrive. As for myself, I’ll have to muster the strength to push through the challenges ahead.
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