Designing Woman

Have you ever experienced the sheer amusement of vacuuming up the end of a string attached to a spool of thread? Well, let me tell you, until today, that was a novel experience for me too. Round and round, the proficient spin cycles of the vacuum devoured what seemed like endless lengths, akin to several football fields.

In that moment, a memory of my dad helping me hang blinds came rushing back. After we completed the installation, we excitedly pulled the drawstring, only to discover that the blinds were far too long. It was time to undo the knots, unthread the string, and start the process all over again. Picture tiny holes that required delicate threading, all while keeping the weight of the blinds from pulling the thread loose. It felt like navigating a labyrinth, but finally, we reached the last tie. Finally!

The fancy blinds brought the space to life, much like a fresh haircut does. After the ordeal we had gone through, it was a relief to be done. However, my relief was short-lived as I watched in disbelief as each and every blind fell, the string looping out and parting ways with the blinds. The funniest part was the glance at my dad’s stone-faced expression, followed by an exclamation of “Oh, shit.” Although my dad is a man of few words, those two captured the comedic tragedy of the situation perfectly.

I am completely exhausted!

Today, my alter ego, Interior Designing Woman Jackie, has taken over this house. She is a whirlwind of energy! She has been moving dressers upstairs, rearranging furniture, fluffing pillows, stealing hangers from Dave so all hers match, vacuuming, doing all the laundry and dishes. She remade the clothes closet, and even had the energy to sweep after dinner. Let me tell you, if only she could make an appearance every day.

In exciting news, after some persistent coaxing that earned me a swipe from Mama Duck’s bill, I caught sight of one of the eggs with a dime-sized chipped hole. As much as my instincts wanted to peel it open like a hard-boiled egg to see the newest member of our feathered family, I’m choosing to let nature take its course and allow the magic of hatching unfold.

The real question is, once the ducklings are born, how will I separate them from their protective mother long enough to let them know that I’m their actual mother? To be continued!

Can I take a moment to brag? I don’t usually do this, but it’s something I’ve worked hard for and I’m genuinely proud of it. Okay, here it goes. Recently, I came across a Facebook post in a Seattle Therapist group discussing how other therapists plan to navigate the inevitable summer slowdown in client load. But guess what? I don’t have this problem. After some reflection, I realized that my strategy of being selective about who I work with has paid off remarkably well.

Right from the first phone call, I pay close attention to various factors, taking into account past mistakes and effectively communicating my needs as a therapist. I’m not the type to simply sit back and be clinical; I dive in and get my hands dirty. This approach creates a dynamic and mutually satisfying therapeutic relationship that is so fulfilling that we make time for each other, even during the summer months.

Well, here’s to wishing all the fathers out there a happy Father’s Day! We celebrated the occasion by going to the movies and watching “The Little Mermaid.” Personally, I could have taken it or left it, but Melissa McCarthy did a fantastic job as Ursula.

Take care. Love, Jaclynn