Author Archives: rstaples2013

Cookie Crumbs and Cat Hair

Posted on September 12, 2019 by rstaples2013

As I step into this new season, I wake up to quiet. I no longer hear the rhythmic thud of my husband’s quad cane as he struggles to cross the kitchen floor. I no longer hear the ding of a … Continue reading →

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The Words I Needed to Hear

Posted on September 1, 2019 by rstaples2013

Thoughts intrude upon my mind with messages not of my own creation. In the blur of the night following my husband’s death, these words woke me form my fitful sleep: “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our … Continue reading →

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Maybe we Paint an Onion

Posted on July 30, 2019 by rstaples2013

“What would you like us to do today on your 92nd birthday?” This was my question yesterday to my husband.  His immediate response was “Maybe we should paint an onion.” Given his dementia, I am usually not surprised by unexpected … Continue reading →

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Just this one relationship…

Posted on July 2, 2019 by rstaples2013

I doubt that there is anyone who has better friends or more friends than I do.  I am grateful to God and to my friends for the gift they are to me. Yet, I find myself mourning the lack of … Continue reading →

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A Smile and a Receipt

Posted on February 17, 2019 by rstaples2013

(Please read yesterday’s post “I don’t feel like me” for context here.) I woke up this morning to greet my new hair color and subsequently my new face in the mirror. As I pondered and tried on different expressions, I … Continue reading →

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I don’t feel like me

Posted on February 16, 2019 by rstaples2013

It’s when I look in a mirror. The me that looks back at me is not the me I know. I even introduced myself to the me in the mirror, but no meaningful connection was made. I go to my … Continue reading →

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Did I Miss the Parade?

Posted on July 4, 2018 by rstaples2013

I really don’t mind missing a parade. I know today is July 4 and a parade comes naturally to mind. For some it’s a tradition and a fun way to celebrate. Watching the parade implies appreciation for those passing by … Continue reading →

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My Morning Gift

Posted on June 30, 2018 by rstaples2013

I have been expecting to see a doe and a baby fawn in our backyard. It usually happens in the spring. A few days ago, my hope was realized as a mother doe walked carefully through the trees followed by … Continue reading →

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False Reading…Please Try Again

Posted on May 29, 2018 by rstaples2013

Before I get to the point of this post, I need to share some of the background thoughts that have led to this moment of awareness. As a nurse, although my practice dates decades, I have a distinct memory of … Continue reading →

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May I Listen In?

Posted on April 19, 2018 by rstaples2013

It seems like a bold request that I am making directly to all three Persons of the Trinity. I am risking this question because of a comment where prayer was described as joining a conversation that is already taking place … Continue reading →

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