Mexico - chill out video

[momoffduty]

This may be TMI or TLDR, but a little back story on my Mexico trips.

About 15 years ago I had an illness which I did recover, but the residual was intense anxiety. For a while there I was afraid to leave the house. Going outside on the porch was difficult. It took a while to regain my strength and venture out more driving. Me not driving was not an option with 2 kids and elderly parents. Long story.

We took a car trip vacation not too far from home and it was a big challenge. A few years went by and I decided I wasn’t going to live limited anymore. Mr. Mom & kids were shocked when I suggested a trip to Mexico for our 25th anniversary. As they were boarding the plane, I was in the restroom dry heaving. Mr. Mom and I were the last ones to board. I wanted to bail, but our kids were on the plane. I decided I would go even if it killed me. That week was not all smooth sailing, but I did have some good times. I spent one day in the hotel room reading and almost bailed on an outing. They were loading the ferry and my girls were excited to swim with the dolphins. I was sick waiting to board and Mr. Mom said we didn’t have to go on the tour. But, I didn’t want to disappoint the girls and didn’t want to limit myself.

There were some years we didn’t go on Mexico trips. Both Moms aging, etc. My mother passed 2 years ago after a long illness and one day as I was sitting with her while she slept, I realized we are all going to be in that situation one day. I asked myself what regrets will I have if I don’t step out of my box. I think that is why I signed us up for the zip lining and canoeing.

When I first joined Muvipix it was difficult to ask questions. My daughter had created an account for me since at the time I was computer illiterate and the fear factor. After a short while I realized everyone here didn’t bite and was helpful. Everyone here was more than patient with me. I have all of you to thank for my video hobby.

My volunteer group at the Uni asked me to take photos at their events. I walk around and chat with people, etc. When I have a camera in my hand I can do things that I normally could not do. Like going on excursions or chatting with strangers. It is still difficult, but not like it was 10 years ago. So again I have all of you to thank for my hobby.

A quote I like:
“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”

[ed]

Love your story and your videos Mom. I have a step-daughter with severe anxiety that struggles in the "real" world. It's great that you've been able to rise above.

[Dave McElderry]

What a great story. Good for you Cheryl! The location is gorgeous and you did a great job of capturing it.

[Gerlinde]

Beautiful video Cheryl!
I'm glad you found your way back into living again. Thanks for sharing your story. I can only imagine how difficult this was for you. Being a mom of two little girls and not being able to function must be devastating.
But it seems you came out of this experience stronger than ever before. It is so important to find a way to distract you from yourself. You are so creative and you were able to express your creativity and share it with others. Thanks for jumping over your own shadow.

What is that thing at 00:36? It looks very interesting.

[Ron Hunter]

Thanks for sharing your inspirational story of overcoming adversity. I have no doubt your journey has been difficult but you didn't just surrender, you fought to get your life back and you succeeded. And all of the people in your life have been positively impacted as a result. Seems to me that you have been a perfect role model for your children.

I had no idea the Mexican beaches were so beautiful! Maybe someday...

[momoffduty]

Thank you all for the kind words. It was hard at first with the inside shakes & had depersonalization. Life appeared as a card board cut out. I was given a lot of meds and weaned off gradually. My husband went to a few CBT sessions with me and he gained insight which helped. I rarely have panic attacks now. My triggers are lack of sleep and crowds or over-heated. I have a med and take 1/4 of a pill on occasion. My doctor kids me and says that small amount is like a placebo effect.

My husband had his one and only panic attack last year. We were in Playa del Carmen for the evening and taking the shuttle back to the hotel. They had us crammed into the van like sardines and the A/C wasn't on. The door was open, but hot and no air flow. My husband had to bail out. He was surprised it didn't bother me, but it did. I was using my breathing techniques and thinking on the video I shot that evening. It helps to tell yourself that this too shall pass.

ed, I hope your step-daughter gets the help she needs. At one time I thought I would never be normal again. I still have some limitations, but not nearly as much as I did 10 or 15 years ago.

Gerlinde, you said it best to find away to distract you from you. I've always been a go-getter achiever type personality and then hit the bell curve. I do overthink things way too much.

Ron & Dave, thanks too for your kind words. Mexico is beautiful and awaiting you!

[Peru]

Wonderful story and beautiful video.

It's hard to imagine that you were computer illiterate.

[momoffduty]

It's hard to imagine that you were computer illiterate.

Not illiterate anymore thanks to you and others for answering my pesky 101 questions. My knowledge is like swiss cheese so there will be more questions in your future. I don't think anonymous will recruit me.

[momoffduty]

What is that thing at 00:36? It looks very interesting.

It is one of many sculptures at Punta Sur park. Beautiful place.
http://www.garrafon.com/activities-punta-sur-cliff/

[sidd finch]

MOM what a heart warming story. That is pretty awesome to share... I am sending you a virtual hug. Be strong Sister.....



Sidd

[momoffduty]

Awww thanks for the hug Sidd!

[John 'twosheds' McDonald]

I can't really add anything to the words that others have written other than to say what an inspirational story. It has been my pleasure to know you albeit through the medium of Muvipix and through the email exchanges that we have shared.

If you ever you and Mr Mom decide to forgo a trip to Mexico and travel to Europe instead, then you know that you will be most welcome to make a video of "feet on the beach" here on Sicily.

[momoffduty]

Thanks for the offer John! You live in paradise and that is tempting. I'll be sure to send you more photos of the grand puppy Husky. Well, he isn't so little anymore.

[Chuck Engels]

Awesome story and a wonderful video too. Loved the time lapse and the feet

I am so happy that you found us and that we have had the pleasure of sharing so much with you

It's amazing what faith and a camera will do for us

[sidd finch]

I really liked how you kept coming back to that blue water. I think that made the video really cool. I also liked some of your transitions. It had the feeling of blinking of an eye then looking at something else. The music gave it a nice chill out effect. Once again Very Well done.

Sidd