Gratitude's and Celebrations Journal - Week 86 - Grow...

Gratitude and Celebration Journal - Amanda Trought

Thank you for joining me for another Gratitude's and Celebration Journal, where I have been making my weekly journey within my journal to create, but to also look at those things that I am grateful for and also take time to celebrate the life that I have been given.  This week is about growing, there are many things that we learn through our growth...

Having spent my time in the journal each week has been a great way for me to discipline myself.  I can often be impatient at my progress and want to 'do it all now'!  The years and experience has taught me that patience and making sure that you do a good job (the best of your ability) are things that you cannot rush.

Mixed Media Art - Journal - Amanda Trought

How many times have you tried to rush something only to end up having to do it over?  My journal is a way for me to learn patience, there is no time frame where all the images have to be painted and each day I have to spend some time developing the image that you then see at the end of the week.  Some weeks other things have got in the way and so you don't see a post.  But I am extremely proud of myself for taking it this far......86 weeks worth of insights, celebrations and paintings.

Mixed Media Art Journal - Amanda Trought

I was reminded these past few weeks about connections and friendships that we can make, and how some people just go above and beyond what they have to do in order to be a blessing.  We have found our new neighbors Sarah and Haddy to be such people, not forgetting Jacob - who gives out such a delightful giggle when I threaten to tickle his belly!

Mixed Media Art - Journal - Amanda Trought

Our lives have a purpose and meaning and we are all interconnected.  What I do today will have an affect on someone else around the world, and therefore we have to treat each other with a bit more kindness (you will reap what you sew) so why not start today.

Gratitude's and Celebration Journal - Amanda Trought

I celebrate and I am grateful for growth, lovely neighbours and the new lessons that life will show me as time goes on.

I am on a creative journey in my journal and hope you come along and join me. Why not start your own journal, keep it as simple or complex as you wish, but do something!

Gratitude and Celebration Journal

N is for Neighbourhoods

A view from Parliament Hill Fields, over looking the City of London

When we were growing up as kids you knew all your neighbours and they looked out for you.  We were always scared of doing something wrong as dad seemed to know everyone and it might get back to him and then we would get in big trouble.    I remember riding with my brother on our pale blue scooters, doing wheelies, feeling free - not the slightest idea of what changes were to come. Defying the ‘NO BALL GAMES' sign and playing football, climbing walls, laughing out loud with the other kids on the adventure playground, flying kites and so many adventures on Parliament Hill Fields.  It is very different now, as we have grown older, some grey hairs are peeping and the knees are not quite what they used to be. The neighbours have passed away and the new families now living in isolation, a quick hello then they rush behind closed doors to find sanctuary.

Last year, one Saturday afternoon mum was dropped off early from her day centre and before anyone could get there she decided to go for a wander with a 'new' neighbour holding the door open for her.   When the police arrived I felt annoyed by what seemed like pleasantries, and routine reassurance, we just wanted her back.  We scoured the streets for hours and paced the floor wondering how she would cope when it got dark - we were sick with worry. The doorbell rang, and mum waltzed in with two strapping police men laughing and joking "hope to see you again" she said .....She was found 5 miles away, having crossed several large roads and taking a bus ride.....What can I say!!  She never has told of her own adventure but we were thankful that the people she talked to on the way had the foresight to realise she was lost and call the police.

Words so far....

A is for Alzheimer’s, B is for Behaviour, C is for Carer, D is for Dependant, E is for Enough, F is for Fear, G is for Guilt, H is for Health Professionals, I is forIdentity, J is for Judgement K is for Knowledge, L is for Love,  M is for Motherhood

These posts are part of the A-Z Challenge taking place during the month of April.  I have been sharing about my experience as a carer to a mother with Dementia.  If you would like to know more join the Arts in Health Network and also check out my website for information on some of the work I have done with Creativity and Dementia.