A new start

I have decided to make a new start at this non talking thing. I decided I have to give up control and let others do it. Okay, my kids aren't making it very easy. They love to ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer. And they love to argue!!!! Today I am taking charge!! I downloaded an app to speak for me. Con and I have tried it out today. Works pretty well but not real loud. They can read it if they need to.

I talk all day at school with frequent breaks but it is not enough. I am putting myself on complete voice rest at night! I saw a friend at karate tonight and used my app - went great. People are understanding and supportive. How lucky i am we have this technology. Here's to using my gadgets to help my health. (hold up imaginary beverage) I knew these gadgets would come in handy.

I also realized at the neighborhood Easter egg hunt that I will no longer be the one to call out events. It is sad to pass on that torch but it must be done.

No more pity parties. I am embracing my new normal at least for a couple of months!!!!

Ruining my social life

UGH!!! I hate making decisions that are good for my voice but bad for my social life. I am actually stepping back from doing things because the environment is too loud or I will be to tempted to talk alot. It is ruining my social life. I know it is a short time in the scheme of life but often feel all alone in the struggle. Yes, I am having a pity party right now. I will get over it and enjoy the solitude but if you can tell me when that would be great???

My First Therapy Appt.

This morning, I woke up on a day off and went to my first voice therapy appointment. My son accompanied me I spent much of his pre school years taking him to speech. The irony did not escape me. I did better on some things and came up with solutions for parts of my life that are difficult. I am now practicing taking a good breath before talking and not stressing my voice - airy. Felt a bit like Monica on Friends asking if I was light and airy - if I have ask than probably not :)! It was a great visit and am ready to practice. However.........

We celebrated little man's 8th birthday at Dave and Buster's today!! Not the quietest environment and ten 8 year olds kept me busy. Luckily, I had my family with me to help. So I made a grown up decision to skip book club tonight. I KNOW I can not be quiet when discussing a book - heck discussing anything - LOL!!! He had a blast and everyone enjoyed themselves so it was worth the sore throat today. Love my little leprechaun. My sweet soon to be double digit girl asked to have her party there - when I said no- she said " Maybe next year when your voice is better. " Love her!!!!

Learned some new info on surgery - It is a a MAJOR decision. My polyp is big according to dr. and therapist. So... if it doesn't shrink (which my type of polyp does not often do :() I will do surgery. The voice rest is MANDATORY. If you talk during the 2 weeks after surgery you can scar the vocal cords which will be permanent damage. I have to be sure I can do it. Gonna have to practice some more self control and let someone else take over. I can no longer do it all.

Lots to ponder the next couple of months and new normals to learn so when I am "fixed" I do not harm my voice again.