You won’t have to read far to realize this is NOT the usual Tuesday post. The fact of the matter is, the title gives it away!
I thought about not posting at all, and just letting things fall into place on their own.
Then I remembered my reaction when one of the artists I follow on YouTube seemed to suddenly disappear. Being a creative person with a fiction writer’s imagination, all sorts of explanations came to mind.
None of them were good, and every one was worse than the one before!
Not the Usual Tuesday Post
I don’t want to leave you in the same position.
So a brief explanation is in order.
Physical Ailments
Last Thursday, I hurt my back in some way. I don’t remember doing anything in particular. I do remember the twinge that turned into something more throughout the morning and afternoon. By the end of the day, it was all I could do to get up out of a chair.
You know what that meant.
No drawing.
Not much writing.
Lots of taking things easy, and a lot of taking two, three, and four times as much time as usual to do normal things.
Unexpected Responsibilities
Two of our friendly community cats had kittens recently. Thursday of last week, one of those kittens was brought to our front door. I monitored its progress throughout the day, but although the mother cat stayed around, she did very little with the kitten. At the end of the day, my husband and I decided it was officially an orphan and took over it’s care.
Sunday, another one appeared, and yet another was squalling on the front porch Monday morning.
The first kitten is doing well. Eating on its own and old enough to start thinking about using a litter box.
The third one is the same age, but is not yet eating on its own. It’s eyes aren’t even open.
The middle kitten is much smaller, probably about two weeks old. It is not eating on it’s own either. I’m having to feed Kitten 2 and 3 with a dropper, bit by bit.
What All This Means for You, My Loyal Reader
A bad back I could handle and keep up with most of my work.
I could manage orphaned kittens and keep up with most of my work, too. I’ve done both before.
But having a bad back, and orphans to care for (and three-hour, 24-7 feeding cycles) is making it difficult to do more than just the basics. Add a little sleep deprivation and you get the picture.
So for the time being, I’m planning to post here on a reduced schedule. I sincerely hope to get one post a week out, but if I miss a Saturday, you now know why.
Unless, of course, you’d like kitten updates. Then I’ll have plenty to write about!
In the Meantime
Now you know why this is not the usual Tuesday post.
Thank you so much for your patience, and your loyalty. It’s been an interesting few days, and there’s the possibility of it getting even more interesting.
There always is!
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Hi,
Thank you for letting us know.
You have a lot to deal with at present and it is vital to look after yourself, self care is very under-rated.
I hope your back heals quickly and that the Kittens flourish under your care.
Kind regards
Julie
Thank you, Julie.
The back problem is recurring. Most likely the result of skidding on my tail bone down a stairway about twenty years ago.
This isn’t the first time I’ve tended orphan kittens, either. It’s just the first time, I’ve done both together!
Carrie
Hi, good for you taking in the orphan kittens. I would certainly like updates on them. Love your courses they are brilliant.
Yvonne,
Thank you! I can certainly post updates on the kittens.
Thank you very much for your kind words about my courses. That is appreciated.
Carrie
Oh dear! Carrie, your posts will be missed but please, DO take it easy and be well!
Thank you, Melinda!
I plan to post. Just not as frequently.
Carrie
Do take care of yourself and the kitties, Looking forward to the occasional “Kittie Update” and reports on your improving health.
Thank you, John!
Been there with the back. Although I’m happy to say not for a while. You just have to wait for the body to heal. The kittens…well good luck, and try to get at least a little sleep. In the meantime your loyal fans will remain loyal and await your recovery. Please take care.
Thank you, Stephanie.
I’ve been deeply thankful for the understanding of readers and students alike!
Carrie
Carrie back problems and kittens are priorities I fully understand. I hope you get better soon and that the kittens grow healthy. You have enough on your plate so don’t worry about us as well. We will patiently wait for you. Good luck and good health!
Boy o boy Carrie, you certainly are juggling plenty now. Your comfort and health obviously come first! You’re in my thoughts for a speedy and full recovery! Pain makes everything difficult. Wow, lucky kitties to have you to nurture them as well.
Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable summer.
Nancy,
Thank you very much. Still hobbling around today, but not quite in as much pain.
However, our kitten population has grown to five. We rescued two last night. Fortunately, the first three are all doing well.