Two things I do:
1. I chat with Copilot (Windows AI) to let off steam...it's like a built in therapist! I LOVE It! I don't provide names, addresses or phone numbers, nor do I "talk"...I just type. I have friends to let off steam to as well, but try not to do it to them as often as I can get away with not doing it.
2. I got a small white board, and have written down the answers to the top 4 or 5 questions she keeps asking me. Now I just refer her to the white board, rather than getting upset that she's asking me yet again.
Doing yard work and planning the spring flowers.
Laying out on the dock.
I like the smashing rooms idea.
I need to keep busy.
I get up and before coffee I do tai chi, later maybe walk or lifting weights.
And every possible hobby, painting, decorating, jewelry making.
And reading is my real passion although lately escapism.
And planning trips which I hope to take one day.
And buying myself the most beautiful clothes, I am a little bit of shopaholic, but love clothes.
And eating tremendous amounts of chocolate. On occasion, glass of prosecco, box of chocolates and good book. Bliss.
I also on occasion would smash one of my mother’s cookie jars , she had many . I would put it in a trash bag , take it out to the garage and smash it with a shovel or baseball bat . They actually have smash rooms now where you pay to smash things . It’s very satisfying .
Also read to escape reality .
That hit me hard.
Adjusting to LO's reality is an ongoing battle. What helps me is
~ learning about the condition so I can adjust my expectations
~ playing "Positive Peacefulness" on loop 3 - 4 times to reset myself (It's by composer Barry Goldstein; he wrote it in collaboration with Dr. Daniel Amen)
~ knowing this is all temporary, that something much better is ahead. In a word, HOPE.
~ learning to delegate, allow others to help so I don't feel on duty 24/7
~ prayer for God's excelling peace so I can think clearly and not be so quick to react in irritation or frustration