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Live Laugh Rowe

Live Laugh Rowe

A lifestyle blog that shares crafts, recipes, tutorials and life's moments.

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Life’s Journey and Changes

09/11/2017 · Kelly Rowe · 13 Comments

This post may contain Amazon or other affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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If you haven’t noticed, the blog has been a little quieter than usual the past few weeks. Today, I thought I would share a peek into why — a few more details into real life at the Rowes. I’m learning that with being a “grown up” comes a number of unexpected twists and turns on life’s journey.

"Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end." Robin SharmaLife’s Journey and Changes…

Change is inevitable, it can be both happy and sad.  Recently, I’ve gotten a bittersweet taste of both. Let’s start with some of the harder changes.

-My Body and The Fall

Since migrating into my forties, my body seems to be throwing temper-tantrums on a regular basis. As you might know, last year I had rotator cuff surgery in January and later in the year found that I had plantar fasciitis.

Recently I fell down a flight of stairs and did a number to my right knee. I had x-rays done and an MRI. Apparently, there is a small fracture in my knee and a strained ligament. I was SO happy to hear that there wasn’t a tear in the ACL, meaning no surgery.

A couple months of limited use should do the trick; however, packing and moving didn’t really seem to help the healing process.  Seriously, such a nightmare… your prayers are greatly appreciated for a complete healing without further complications.

-Sydney Lou and Sad Goodbyes

Secondly, my twins sweet dog, Sydney Lou (what I called her), went to doggy heaven. I have NEVER experienced grief and sadness like that. My husband and I went to support my sister at the vets office.  It was AWFUL, but I wanted so badly to be there for my sis.  Sydney had kidney failure and was fighting the good fight; however, the time always comes when difficult decisions need to be made.

There are so many twists and turns on life's journey -- I love this quote as we are in a state of transition: "Honor the space between no longer and not yet." Nancy LevinI was the one who brought Sydney home to my sister as a puppy, so she was like one of my own. 10 years doesn’t seem like quite enough time with her, but there’s officially no more sorrow or pain for our sweet girl. Since I worked from home, Sydney spent many days with me. I miss her every day.

I’m crying as I type this. I’m not only mourning the loss of Syd, I’m also mourning the loss my sister has had to face too.  I wish I had a magic wand to fix things and make her sorrow go away. She’s having a hard go of it and I can only imagine how difficult it must be.

I was honored to snap the picture of the two of them (see above) shortly before she left us…  Whew.  It was very hard to edit and post this picture, this Thursday it will be one month since our loss.

I am learning to trust the journey, even
 when I do not understand it.” -Mila Bron

-Parker Posey and Confusion

Last, but certainly not least, in the arena of not-so-happy news is in regards to our sweet Parker (maltese).  Unfortunately, he is losing his eye sight. This has also had me in tears on many occasions. There is a new normal in our home (wherever that may be at the time), as he can no longer go up and down stairs and finds himself a little lost and confused on occasion.  It’s heart breaking.

We had tests done (spinal tap and MRI) by a neurologist and everything came back “unremarkable.”  Two grand later and no answers.  Of course we were happy that nothing devastating was found, but we were hoping for some news on a few things that have been going on.

He’s ten and there’s a lot of skepticism that it’s just a part of his aging process.  Parker has been on steroids for several years due to being diagnosed with white dog shaker syndrome several years ago.  I consider every day with him a blessing.

I have to say that his resilience is remarkable though, he hasn’t let it stop him.  Food and treats still continue to excite him more than ever.

There are so many twists and turns on life's journey -- I love this quote as we are in a state of transition: "Honor the space between no longer and not yet." Nancy LevinWho knew these sweet fur babies of ours can steal such a big piece of our hearts? I was never a dog person growing up. We had an outdoor lab and I think I threw him a treat every once and a while. Today, I can’t imagine life without my sweet boys.

Of course I know that losing them is inevitable, but man… I never expected to feel this much sadness in watching them age and eventually leave us. Phew. The thought takes my breath away.

I know not everyone is a dog person, or a pet person – but if you are, you can relate. I remember the hype of getting my sweet Parker. The puppy stage is so cute and as the years pass you realize they won’t be here forever. Why is it that we NEVER think of the end? I’m not sure I could do this all over again. It’s gut wrenching.

Excuse me while I get a tissue…

Sniffle. Okay, I’m back.

Man, all of this sad news is depressing. I don’t want to talk about depressing things anymore. However, as we all know, life isn’t always easy and what doesn’t kill us — makes us stronger.  Can I get an amen?

-Good News and BIG Changes.

Moving onto some good news… if you subscribe to my weekly newsletter, you might already know. (If you aren’t a subscriber, what are you waiting for? SIGN UP TODAY!)

WE SOLD OUR HOUSE!

There are so many twists and turns on life's journey -- I love this quote as we are in a state of transition: "Honor the space between no longer and not yet." Nancy LevinAaaaaaaaaaand we’re moving out of town!!

Gosh, saying that felt good. I even squealed. Yes, this is some pretty freaken exciting news. Why? Well, St. Louis has been one of our least favorite places to live, so we’ve been wanting to make a change, but the timing needed to be right.

In January, the hubs got a new job working from home and can work remotely from anywhere.  Now that we both work from home, we had some serious flexibility!

When we were dating, I lived in Springfield (SGF) and he lived in St. Louis. There weren’t any comparable jobs in Springfield for Steve at the time, so I moved to St. Louis.  The truth be told, we both loved SGF and would’ve loved to stay there. Sometimes things just don’t work out the way we’d like them to.  However, God knew.

We hoped to go back one day and talked about it on occasion. Do you see where this is going? Yeah? Whelp, we’re moving back to the Springfield area. We’ll be about 10 miles outside of Springfield, in Rogersville, MO. We’re downsizing and building a ranch home. We hope to be moving in towards the end of October, early November (Lord willing).  I couldn’t be more excited, friends!

Plus, my parents recently retired there!  I’m super duper excited to be closer to them, we’ve lived thousands of miles apart for YEARS.

There are so many twists and turns on life's journey -- I love this quote as we are in a state of transition: "Honor the space between no longer and not yet." Nancy LevinSo, we packed up our house into two of the largest pods we could get and they’re being stored until we close on our new home.  Our fingers are crossed that we packed them well enough and everything will remain in tact.

Before we officially moved out, we also held a large indoor moving sale.  I still think we were a little insane to do that, but it ended up being a huge success.  95% of the items sold.  Hallelujah!

We’re currently staying with my sister in her one bedroom apartment, then we’ll be dog sitting for a couple of weeks for my parents.  After that we’ll be in an Airbnb for October and November.  I’m praying the time goes by quickly, but I’m super excited we’ll be in our new home for the holidays.  Yay!

Soooo, as you can see, things have been a wee-bit crazy for us.  Although I’m tired and trying to recuperate, I’m feeling blessed beyond measure.  The future holds some exciting adventures for us and I can’t wait to see them unfold.

Be sure to stay tuned as I share some of the fun along the way.  Here’s a peek at the home we’re building…  my favorite part of this picture is the water tower.  Ha ha! Rogersville currently has a population of a little over three thousand people.  Love it!

"Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end." Robin SharmaAs you can see, we’re downsizing by about 1000 square feet and I couldn’t be happier.  A ranch with an open floor plan and no stairs.  Small and cozy sounds just about right (wink).

I recently saw this quote and found it to be fitting for our circumstances,

“Honor the space between
no longer and not yet.”
-Nancy Levin

xo KellyBe sure to visit with me here too:
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about kelly

ABOUT KELLY

A DIY fanatic, Kelly shares her journey through her blog, Live Laugh Rowe, where she showcases her recipes, tutorials, crafts, home projects, and all things DIY. This East Coast Girl at heart believes family is number one as she finds the perfect balance of being a daughter, wife, sister, entrepreneur, writer and woman of God. Be sure to follow along as she shares her passion for life, love and family! Read more...

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Comments

  1. Karen says

    09/11/2017 at 7:56 am

    Congratulations! I have lived in Springfield since 1989 (via Florissant & Potosi) and my husband graduated from Rogersville. Small world. Wishing you much happiness!

    Reply
  2. Sarah says

    09/11/2017 at 9:27 am

    Long time “looker” but not “commenter” here. Love your blog! Praying for your recent sad days (we are dog peeps) and your recent happy days too. Excited with you for your new changes coming up!

    Reply
  3. Diane Miller says

    09/11/2017 at 12:20 pm

    I know how that feels when you lose one of your precious fur baby’s. As I have never been able to have children my puppies are my children. I love them and they love me unconditionally.
    So happy for you being able to move closer to your parents. Congratulation! on your new home.
    And here is your Amen.

    Reply
  4. Sharon aka Mom says

    09/11/2017 at 8:46 pm

    It certainly has been a journey Kel but better and brighter days are ahead…God is faithful!!❤️

    Reply
  5. Tammy says

    09/12/2017 at 9:58 am

    HI Kelly, First of all I know how hard it is to have to let one of your pets go and I’m so sorry to hear of your sisters sweet dogs passing. Its been over a year since we had to say goodbye to aging rescued boxer who was suffering with cancer. I was ready to say goodbye, but my poor hubby just couldn’t do it. When the day came, well, it was the saddest day of our lives. Ernest was such a great dog. He was a family member.

    Secondly, I love Springfield, MO!! I was born and raised in Southeast Missouri and have been to Springfield often. Congrats on the new home. I can’t wait to see what you have up your sleeves when it comes to decorating it.

    Sigh…I remember the 40’s. It was the beginning of menopause for me. It was hard. My husband and I weren’t married during that time but were dating. Thank goodness he loved me so much or we would’ve never married. Hang in there. This too will pass!!

    Reply
  6. Vickie says

    09/12/2017 at 10:54 am

    So sorry for your and your sister’s recent loss and for your furbaby having problem with his eyesight .We have been through this three times already and it never gets easier. We have never waited more than a few months to get another dog because of the quiet when you come home and no one to meet you at the door!
    Good luck with your health and the move. Sounds like it was meant to be!

    Reply
  7. Jennifer@Decorated Chaos says

    09/12/2017 at 4:55 pm

    Kelly, I live in KC and my BFF has family in Rogersville. That entire area down there is a nice place to plant your feet. Good luck with the move!

    Reply
  8. Wendi M Brown says

    09/12/2017 at 9:37 pm

    Kelly
    How my heart aches for you…I have a 13 yr old (born deaf I taught him sign language when the breeder said bring him back I will give you a healthy one. She was going to “dispose” of him) red heeler who has been my savior since the loss of my husband. ..anyway…a friend gave me this poem that is so endearing …you are going to need tissues but it is so fitting. Hope it helps…

    My journey to the Rainbow Bridge was peaceful and serene
    The fields are filled with flowers and the grass a luscious green

    I know that is was very hard for you to let me go

    My body was so tired and it’s Okay, I wanted you to know.

    I ‘m glad that you were with me and didn’t leave me alone
    It made it so much easier as I went to my eternal home
    I’m running with the angels and my body is pain free
    You did a most unselfish thing; I hope you can see.

    So grieve for me a little while and keep me in your heart
    Soon only good memories will flood your mind even though we are apart.

    I lived a full and happy life but time on earth must end
    I couldn’t have asked for a better mom, you‘re my forever friend.

    And when your time on earth is done and Jesus calls you home
    You too will make the journey and know you’re not alone
    I’ll meet you at the Pearly Gate just over the first ridge
    And together you and I will cross the Rainbow Bridge.

    I still get teary eyed whenever I read this!!!

    big hugs
    I love your blog BTW!!!!

    Reply
    • Heather says

      09/28/2017 at 2:45 pm

      That poem was beautiful. Just last week I lost my 7 year old coonhound retriever mix. She was my heart and soul. It’s the worst pain I’ve ever experienced…thank you for posting the poem.

  9. Eileen says

    09/18/2017 at 4:53 pm

    Congrats on your new house!

    Reply
  10. Wendi M Brown says

    09/29/2017 at 8:26 am

    Heather …

    I have passed this poem out to many friends.
    It is the most perfect way to help a friend when they are having to go through this !! N

    I glad I posted the poem !!!!

    Warm regards
    Wendi

    Reply
  11. Kissanime says

    10/01/2017 at 9:31 pm

    Wish you have more happiness!

    Reply
  12. Midge says

    10/21/2017 at 4:06 pm

    We moved to Washington Mo 30 years ago to 9 acres of land and a home that we built. I was born and raised in Chicago and always live in a city. The move here was the best move we ever made. My little guy got to grow up in the country and discover animals and explore. He got to learn to fish in the pond and do so many things that kids in the city have no access to. My husband is gone now but I will never move back to a city because this life is peaceful and the neighbors are the best. I wish you all the best in your new house in Springfield. I am sure that you will be extremely happy there.

    Reply

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