I make no secret of the fact that I am a sober alcoholic. I am a disabled person who has to keep track of two households, both my Dad’s and my husband’s.
I was lucky in that I took on this life with several years of recovery under my belt. I was also lucky in that I found the bullet journal system around this time.
So, how do I keep ahead of it? With my disability, my alcoholism, my health and my tiny budget, how do I do this?
I keep trying, no matter what. I also do many inventory lists of what works and what doesn’t.
For example, with yesterday’s storm. I knew that Dad dawdles a bit. I told him a leave time about 15 minutes before we had to really leave. I do this because it works.
For appointments with my husband, I keep a copy of his schedule as well. Neither my Dad nor my husband drive. My husband is 60 miles away.
I keep a “bug out” bag with my diabetes and medical essentials hidden inside. I always have it with me every time I leave the house, as well as my BuJo. I plan the whole day for appointments. I also keep otc recovery friendly medicine with me.
I schedule appointments around Dad’s VA schedule, since his are scheduled further out.
In my bujo, everything is laid out. I have monthly, weekly, and daily plans. I have A.A. meeting schedules for both my South Dakota and Minnesota home groups as well.
When I have to travel for my own medical needs, I always plan for meetings and errands as well. This keeps me in line and focused.
Dad and I live about 12 miles north of town, so scheduling things in bunches really helps. I also plan breaks.
For example, when taking Dad to town yesterday, I brought the bujo and reviewed all the upcoming appointments. This was my break time, my relaxation, and my comfort.
I also keep my recovery literature with me at all times. There is a kindle version of most AA books on my phone, and I am able to get my daily readings and homework done at a glance.
Errands day, usually once a month, is broken up into manageable chunks so that I am not overwhelmed. My breaks can involve getting a bite to eat or sitting and having a cup of decaf and watching traffic from a parking lot.
I can also get to an A.A. meeting if I plan my routes correctly.
Even though, I cannot physically stand for long, or walk very far, I compensate for this with either a walker or a cane. While I can not ever drive professionally, due to insulin dependency, I can do my best.
Thank You for your time, have a great day.
L
AnonymousKnitter 