I did finish the ninth block for the Designer Mystery 2012 BOM. I sure did make a hash of it while I was sewing it the first time around. My mind was distracted, and I repeatedly sewed the units together wrong. In my defense, this block is put together kind of wacky. If I were to make it again, I would have had all four corners be red half-square triangles. Adding in green ones on two opposing corners makes no sense to me.
I'll leave it for now I guess. What do you think?
Several of you have asked me for an update on how my husband Dennis is recovering from Guillain Barre Syndrome. The answer is, it is very slow going. He does make some small improvements each week: his balance is getting better, he is using the walker a bit more, he has much less pain and numbness, and he is really trying to do more things independently. He now can dress himself for the most part, for instance. He needs help in the shower and with other things that require balance. He is a real fall risk.
We are hoping to make a couple of small trips in the near future. One in April and another in May. This could be challenging as we will have to take the wheelchair, the walker, and some other medical equipment. Both times we plan to stay in apartment-style units that should be comfortable for him. Going out and about is a real question though. He is pretty much home-bound at this time, so my fingers are crossed that he will be up for a few outings in two months' time. I am content to stay in and read my books and look out the window at the view, but I know he is hankering to get out and about.
If any of you readers have experience traveling with a disabled loved one, I'd love to hear your tips and suggestions.
That block just looks too busy for my taste. But that's just my not so humble opinion.🤣 You do a lovely job! Happy to hear you'll be getting out and about. Cabin fever is real for both of you. The only advise I can offer, is take your time. Don't allow the people around you to make you feel you guys need to hurry. Whether it's getting in and out of the car, wheelchair, whatever. When we hurry accidents are more likely to happen. Best of luck.❤️
Posted by: Anita | February 04, 2025 at 04:49 AM
Your block turned out very well. Like Anita's comment, I think it is unnecessarily busy. On your trips I think you will find that the world is not ADA compliant everywhere like it should be. But just getting out will be a good mini-vacation for both of you!
Posted by: sue s | February 04, 2025 at 06:00 AM
I agree with you about red on all four corners being a better choice, but looking at the blocks together on the wall, it's much less distracting. Beautiful work!
Traveling with MS is not easy, especially by plane. I finally have my own electric wheelchair and hope that makes it easier. I'm so sorry your husband is dealing with this. I know how frightening it is, especially at first. It's so good to hear that he is making progress.
Enjoy any trips and make some wonderful memories.
Posted by: Erin | February 04, 2025 at 06:03 AM
Book yourself in handicapped accommodations. That means extra room for wheel chair and very good bathrooms. Book yourself where there will be help (doorman, porter, housekeeping).
Consider hiring drivers where you are going who will haul/stow wheelchairs and luggage. If you are flying, book yourself as handicapped with airlines. They will help with everything.
Whether am traveling by myself or with my husband, I book myself as handicapped. It makes a huge difference.
If you can take someone with you to help, that would also be a good idea. High school or college kid looking for extra $$$ who is strong.
Vickie
Posted by: Vickie | February 04, 2025 at 06:04 AM
I think the block is in keeping with the other blocks. I would leave it.
Vickie
Posted by: Vickie | February 04, 2025 at 06:06 AM
My husband has Parkinson's Disease, he can still walk but not very far (like to the end of our driveway and back, around the grocery store while pushing the cart which acts a bit like a walker). Fortunately for him, he is a homebody and does not feel the need to go much of anywhere but that can be a hindrance too. For example, my mother recently passed away and he is not going with me to the memorial service because he thinks it will be too much trouble. He is fine with staying home while I go places but that will probably only work for another couple of years. It is a big adjustment.
Posted by: Cathy | February 04, 2025 at 06:28 AM
Travel with balance and stamina issues: if you are flying let the airline (s) know that you need wheel chair assistance from door to on the plane. This usually also entails early plane boarding and exiting, and sometimes a ticket upgrade to a seat at the front of the plane if available. Also a quicker trip through security and assistance at security. Let any accommodations you are considering know that wheel chair accessibility is an absolute necessity - sometime you have to adjust your plans but it's better than discovering on arrival that the room isn't accessible. Some hotels also have things like shower chairs that they can put in the room, and special rooms with grab bars in the bathroom etc. If traveling by car a handicapped sticker or hang tag can facilitate close by parking and sometimes help unloading things like a wheel chair and walker. Hope your travels are enjoyable!
Ceci
Posted by: Ceci | February 04, 2025 at 07:10 AM
I think the red & green HST's are a matter of personal preference. They do fit in with the overall quilt, but if you'd prefer red only, then I'd adjust. Do you have a handicapped parking permit? Your husband's doctor can write a request for one if you don't. Is Archie staying home for the trips? That would be one less thing to be concerned about. I'm a dog lover, but trying to look at what's one less thing for you to deal with.
Posted by: Jan | February 04, 2025 at 08:44 AM
The block looks great in the quilt. Like others I think it is too busy on its own.
Make sure there are no steps and take your time while traveling.
Posted by: Jill Matyastik | February 04, 2025 at 09:11 AM
I like the block as it is. It fits in with the other blocks. that's just my taste.
I read all the posts and there are some good suggestions in there. traveling is stressful. I'm so glad to hear he is in less pain.
Posted by: Ina | February 04, 2025 at 10:33 AM
I love the block with the different corners! Different is good, in my mind. Xox So I am curious… did the 2012 Designer Mystery sit in on your shelf for twelve years? No judgement intended. I see one on eBay I like, but it’s a bit pricey. So I thought maybe you got it srcind hand.
Posted by: Carol | February 04, 2025 at 12:37 PM
This is Joy who had G-B when pregnant and three little ones at home. This is a little pick-me-upper for Dennis. I remember a time after I was home. My mother was there and for the first time, I was able to squeeze the toothpaste onto my toothbrush!!! We had a little celebration. 🥳
And here I am 53 years later and I can still squeeze my toothpaste.
You will get there !
Posted by: Joy Joseph | February 04, 2025 at 01:49 PM
Permanent handicapped plates! Very good suggestion!
The BMV here gave me plates for my SUV and my husband’s car and a rear view mirror tag for my daughter’s car. So no matter the vehicle, I am covered.
My form (Indiana) had to go thru my PCP but was very easy.
Vickie
Posted by: Vickie | February 04, 2025 at 02:24 PM
A light weight wheel chair that folds easily kept in the car was helpful for me to manage for my husband. Public bathrooms are a challenge for using with a wheelchair. Look for the family restroom. Drive thru eating places were great too. Porticos are nice for hotels. It’s very tiring for both of you so don’t keep the schedule light.
Posted by: Betty | February 05, 2025 at 05:52 AM
Correction… keep the schedule light.
Posted by: Betty | February 05, 2025 at 05:54 AM