Turn of Phrase Blog

Pressing Pause on the Keyboard

by Carmen G. Farrell | March 31, 2026 | 14 comments

two containers of pens in a window against a backdrop of summer flowers

Hi everyone,

I’m writing to let you know that I’ll be taking a short break from the blog starting today. I’m heading in for some scheduled hand surgery to fix a little issue that’s been holding me back.

I’ll be needing a few weeks to rest, recover, and let my hands heal properly. Since typing is kind of my whole job, this is a necessary step to ensure I can get back to doing what I love, writing for you all, at 100%.

Don’t worry, I won’t disappear forever! I plan to be back online with fresh posts as soon as I’m cleared to type again. In the meantime, I’ll be catching up on reading, listening to podcasts, and maybe trying my hand at some non-digital hobbies (fingers crossed I don’t drop anything!).

Thank you for your understanding and for being such a supportive community. I can’t wait to share what I’ve been working on when I return.

Until next time,

Carmen

Written by Carmen G. Farrell

An emerging writer and mother of two, Carmen Farrell (she/her) lives in North Vancouver. In her memoir-in-progress, she explores both personal and societal ableism, sharing her experience of raising a son with impairments in a world that devalues disability.

14 Comments

Beatrice Hirr on March 31, 2026 at 8:58 am

Swift healing Carmen.
- Carmen G. Farrell on March 31, 2026 at 9:51 am
  
  Thank you.
Dex on March 31, 2026 at 9:38 am

Take care Carmen. I hope the surgery goes well; you have a speedy recovery and can enjoy the break and change.
- Carmen G. Farrell on March 31, 2026 at 9:50 am
  
  Thank you. The medical profession doesn’t throw verbs around lightly, and they’re using the word “fix,” so I’m hopeful!
Vicki Greenwood on March 31, 2026 at 10:39 am

Take care Carmen. Would love to see you soon. xxoo Vic
- Carmen G. Farrell on March 31, 2026 at 11:48 am
  
  Thanks,and I was thinking the same thing about you yesterday! I’ll be in touch when I’m lucid!
YOLANDA CHILDS on March 31, 2026 at 12:37 pm

Sending good energy and wishes for the best outcome possible! You know I am only a text away and I will be there to help.
- Carmen G. Farrell on March 31, 2026 at 12:39 pm
  
  Many thanks Yolanda!
Don Ryder on March 31, 2026 at 6:54 pm

HANG IN THERE CARMEN ! HOPING THINGS IMPROVE FOR YOU!
- Carmen G. Farrell on April 1, 2026 at 7:08 pm
  
  Thank you
Carol-Anne Doucet on April 1, 2026 at 6:57 pm

Take care, my dear friend. Please include me in the “Carmen team” for help and good cheer.
- Carmen G. Farrell on April 1, 2026 at 7:07 pm
  
  Thank you!😘
Ian Macnaughton on April 6, 2026 at 10:10 pm

Dear Carmen,

Just take all the time you need to heal. That is enough. We will all be holding space and waiting for your return, and your crafting that is so meaningful.

Ian
- Carmen G. Farrell on April 7, 2026 at 6:21 am
  
  Thank you kindly, Ian.