Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Precious Angel Baby....
Monday, May 30, 2011
Happy Memorial Day Dad!
My sister went to visit Dad this morning. She found him in the rec room playing Bingo. He happily told her he had just won Bingo with all four corners. She patiently waited while he played one more game, then she wheeled him for a walk in front of the nursing home. He loved the warmth from the sun on his back. It was a gorgeous blue skied day and he enjoyed all the spring flowers...
Dad out front of the nursing home
She brought him some oatmeal from Starbucks, so they found a spot of shade and chowed down! He loved it and ate every morsel... Dad remembered when he used to make oatmeal at home in the double broiler. He would put pomegranate seeds, walnuts and craisins in it...DELICIOUS!
After a bit, Dad became warm, so Holly wheeled him back inside and gave him a tour of all the decorating being done inside and in the dining room. They work very diligently at keeping up the facility and making it very homey.
She wheeled him into his room, to make sure it was clean...and it always is.... She said they have a big bulletin board beside his bed with all his pictures and even the birthday cards from his 90th birthday last November.
Doctor-Doctor popped in to say and get a hug... Holly wheeled Dad out for another stroll around the building, saying Hi to several of his friends...then back to the rec room for his lunch. While they waiting for his lunch to be served, my sister massaged his shoulders. He loved it, as usual, but he started to get sleepy... He told her he was ready for a nap. She reminded him his lunch was on its way and he could nap better if he had a full tummy. Dad agreed with a big smile...
When his lunch arrived, they blew their kisses to one another as they always do and left him to enjoy his tasty looking meal. She said she left with a happy heart, knowing Dad looked so good and gets such wonderful care...
I tried to call a couple of times this afternoon. Apparently, he is really tired, because he has been sleeping since 1pm... We are going to a birthday BBQ at 5pm for my husband's grand son, who turns 13 today. There will be music and lots of people, so it would be difficult for Dad to hear me or me to hear him...I will try again later if it is not too late, or tomorrow...
Happy Memorial Day Dad! Thank you for serving in the 2nd battalion of the US Marines at the Battle of Tarawa... love you so much...
Sunday, May 29, 2011
An Excellent Explanation About The Difference Between The Left and Right Sides of The Brain...
It's late...or should I say, early in the morning...and we have big plans today...so I must get at least a few hours of sleep... but I wanted to share the following video...
It is Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a brain scientist, who, while alone in her apartment, at the age of 37, had a stroke on the left side of her brain. Being the scientist she is, she found the experience fascinating and tells us all about it. Her full story is in her book, MY STOKE OF INSIGHT.
I thought this was so interesting, because after watching it, I feel my Dad operated more from his left brain than he did from his right. Now I feel he is experiencing the wonder of the right side... what do you think?
It is Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a brain scientist, who, while alone in her apartment, at the age of 37, had a stroke on the left side of her brain. Being the scientist she is, she found the experience fascinating and tells us all about it. Her full story is in her book, MY STOKE OF INSIGHT.
I thought this was so interesting, because after watching it, I feel my Dad operated more from his left brain than he did from his right. Now I feel he is experiencing the wonder of the right side... what do you think?
Friday, May 27, 2011
Getting A Refund On A Thousand Dollar Pair Of Shoes And More Irish Memories....
Mom arrived at the nursing home a little after lunch. She found Dad parked in his wheel chair, talking with Doctor-Doctor and another care giver. Mom could tell, as she approached, Dad was very talkative and animated. He was on entertainment mode and had a captivated audience...
After Mom pulled away from her hug, Dad asked her if she remembered when he, the Captain and her, went to the three big department stores (Bon Marche, Rhodes and Frederick & Nelson) in Seattle, trying to collect a refund on a $1,000 pair of shoes he had purchased...
Mom said she did not remember it and asked who the Captain was...
Dad told Mom it was not her fault she could not remember, because the Captain was the one who let Dad steer the boat in Puget Sound when they returned from Bremerton.... The reason the Captain allowed Dad to steer, was due to the fact, Dad had told the Captain he knew John Wayne, which gave Dad the potential to be a Captain himself.
Totally going with Dad's fantasy, Mom asked if he had to stop the ferry for the submarine nets to open (that was part of a ferry ride during World War II). Not missing a beat, Dad said he went under the bridge in Chicago too.... He laughed and said he did a good job!!
Dad lived in Connecticut as a boy and did a lot of sailing. He told me on several occasions how he would go sailing alone or take his four sisters. One time in particular there was a big storm. He was scared but knew he had to get his sisters back safely... which he did. I would not be surprised if Dad is getting those memories mixed up with unfulfilled dreams.
The dining room was being painted, so Mom suggested they sit in the nook at the end of the hallway and talk. There were a bunch of students on the patio. Dad wanted to discuss his maternal Grandfather, comparing his health to the healthiest state of his grand father...
Mom reminded Dad, his maternal grandfather was not his direct blood line. His paternal grandfather died shortly after Dad and Mom were married. Dad laughed and told her she was right..
Dad told Mom he was fired from working for the shoe department of Frederick & Nelson, after only working there two weeks. Dad had never explained to Mom why he was fired. Today he told her he was fired for ordering too many shoes because he did not realize someone else had ordered the same shoes. Mom wondered if this was more fantasy, or finally, the truth coming out...
The wound care skin angel stopped by to tell her a visiting vascular surgeon continues to check on Dad's pinkie toe wound once a week. She wanted Mom to be sure and let me know... Mom promised she would, but I already knew this.
Dad skipped back into remembering his maternal grandfather, who was a Chemist in Belfast, Ireland. He used to take ice cold baths to get his body used to the cold waters of the North Sea. He was a champion swimmer and swam daily. Dad remembered he also smoked a pipe. Dad told Mom he is going to make a scrapbook about him. His grandfather used to take Dad, his cousins and sisters up to Mt. Lowe in Southern California. They would all take trips into town on the "red car" which was what they called the trolley...
Dad asked Mom to contact their nephew, who lives near the Hollywood sign and specializes in selling the older Craftsman style homes. He has a lot of the family history in photo albums and scrapbooks... Dad told Mom he is very close with him, his wife and their cat, so he would give him pictures. Realistically, this particular nephew has been estranged from the family and Mom and Dad have not spoken with him in years...Dad is remembering the earlier days, when they did...
Dad was bouncing from subject to subject, not making much sense to Mom. She said her head was spinning from trying to keep up with him. Dad talked of his friend who lived in the same building as Dad but he died 15 years ago... Mom had no clue who he was referring to...
He told Mom about some guy passing out "girlie" magazines and had tried to give Dad one. Dad said he refused it, saying, "The bad lady makes no bones about not being nice."
Dad complained about having to stay awake all night because all the TVs were on and it was too noisy.
"They came over in the same boat and one guy shouted and his wife put on his t-shirt. "
"My third pick is number 5. I made a mistake trying to choose". We have no idea what Dad means, unless he is remembering bits and pieces when he used to go to Santa Anita Race Track and bet the ponies...
As if Dad was tired of talking, or changing the subject once again, he announced to Mom he was really for a nap. Mom wheeled him back to his room, where his male care giver was there to take over.
Mom said he looked neat and tidy and in good spirits. He told her he had a wonderful lunch and fruit plate, but could not remember what he ate.
She has a huge purple bruise on her thigh, but told me it did not hurt. My niece, who is a nursing student, treated it and put an ice pack on her... She has a legion of angels protecting her...and thank you God for that...
After Mom pulled away from her hug, Dad asked her if she remembered when he, the Captain and her, went to the three big department stores (Bon Marche, Rhodes and Frederick & Nelson) in Seattle, trying to collect a refund on a $1,000 pair of shoes he had purchased...
Mom said she did not remember it and asked who the Captain was...
Dad told Mom it was not her fault she could not remember, because the Captain was the one who let Dad steer the boat in Puget Sound when they returned from Bremerton.... The reason the Captain allowed Dad to steer, was due to the fact, Dad had told the Captain he knew John Wayne, which gave Dad the potential to be a Captain himself.
Totally going with Dad's fantasy, Mom asked if he had to stop the ferry for the submarine nets to open (that was part of a ferry ride during World War II). Not missing a beat, Dad said he went under the bridge in Chicago too.... He laughed and said he did a good job!!
Dad lived in Connecticut as a boy and did a lot of sailing. He told me on several occasions how he would go sailing alone or take his four sisters. One time in particular there was a big storm. He was scared but knew he had to get his sisters back safely... which he did. I would not be surprised if Dad is getting those memories mixed up with unfulfilled dreams.
The dining room was being painted, so Mom suggested they sit in the nook at the end of the hallway and talk. There were a bunch of students on the patio. Dad wanted to discuss his maternal Grandfather, comparing his health to the healthiest state of his grand father...
Mom reminded Dad, his maternal grandfather was not his direct blood line. His paternal grandfather died shortly after Dad and Mom were married. Dad laughed and told her she was right..
Dad told Mom he was fired from working for the shoe department of Frederick & Nelson, after only working there two weeks. Dad had never explained to Mom why he was fired. Today he told her he was fired for ordering too many shoes because he did not realize someone else had ordered the same shoes. Mom wondered if this was more fantasy, or finally, the truth coming out...
The wound care skin angel stopped by to tell her a visiting vascular surgeon continues to check on Dad's pinkie toe wound once a week. She wanted Mom to be sure and let me know... Mom promised she would, but I already knew this.
Dad skipped back into remembering his maternal grandfather, who was a Chemist in Belfast, Ireland. He used to take ice cold baths to get his body used to the cold waters of the North Sea. He was a champion swimmer and swam daily. Dad remembered he also smoked a pipe. Dad told Mom he is going to make a scrapbook about him. His grandfather used to take Dad, his cousins and sisters up to Mt. Lowe in Southern California. They would all take trips into town on the "red car" which was what they called the trolley...
Dad asked Mom to contact their nephew, who lives near the Hollywood sign and specializes in selling the older Craftsman style homes. He has a lot of the family history in photo albums and scrapbooks... Dad told Mom he is very close with him, his wife and their cat, so he would give him pictures. Realistically, this particular nephew has been estranged from the family and Mom and Dad have not spoken with him in years...Dad is remembering the earlier days, when they did...
Dad was bouncing from subject to subject, not making much sense to Mom. She said her head was spinning from trying to keep up with him. Dad talked of his friend who lived in the same building as Dad but he died 15 years ago... Mom had no clue who he was referring to...
He told Mom about some guy passing out "girlie" magazines and had tried to give Dad one. Dad said he refused it, saying, "The bad lady makes no bones about not being nice."
Dad complained about having to stay awake all night because all the TVs were on and it was too noisy.
"They came over in the same boat and one guy shouted and his wife put on his t-shirt. "
"My third pick is number 5. I made a mistake trying to choose". We have no idea what Dad means, unless he is remembering bits and pieces when he used to go to Santa Anita Race Track and bet the ponies...
As if Dad was tired of talking, or changing the subject once again, he announced to Mom he was really for a nap. Mom wheeled him back to his room, where his male care giver was there to take over.
Mom said he looked neat and tidy and in good spirits. He told her he had a wonderful lunch and fruit plate, but could not remember what he ate.
She has a huge purple bruise on her thigh, but told me it did not hurt. My niece, who is a nursing student, treated it and put an ice pack on her... She has a legion of angels protecting her...and thank you God for that...
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Big Changes...
No, you did not land on the wrong blog...after almost two years of the original, old blogger layout design.. .long before Template Designer, I have decided to make some changes and do away with my all green background...so please bear with me as I tweak and adjust...
I am open to any and all feedback from my loyal, supportive and incredible blogging friends. I notice I have some new friends following me...so thank you so much for doing so. I will be visiting your blogs as soon as I get this redesign finished...
One question for everyone...Do you think I need a new button to go with the header picture, or will my former button with my Laguna Beach sunset still work? Thought I could keep some of the old, with some of the new....Please let me know, I would really appreciate your opinion...
P.S. I have been attempting to adjust the margins to fit my new header photo so it has even borders, but the right side is not cooperating... Will I have to re-size the header photo?
I am open to any and all feedback from my loyal, supportive and incredible blogging friends. I notice I have some new friends following me...so thank you so much for doing so. I will be visiting your blogs as soon as I get this redesign finished...
One question for everyone...Do you think I need a new button to go with the header picture, or will my former button with my Laguna Beach sunset still work? Thought I could keep some of the old, with some of the new....Please let me know, I would really appreciate your opinion...
P.S. I have been attempting to adjust the margins to fit my new header photo so it has even borders, but the right side is not cooperating... Will I have to re-size the header photo?
Feelin' Irish And Remembering The Vikings...
The nursing called me back yesterday so I could talk with Dad. He had just gotten out of a shower and was feeling pretty chipper...he was speaking in an Irish accent and telling me he felt very Irish and then broke into a rolling laugh!
His voice sounded slurred and garbled to me...I had a difficult time understanding a lot of what he said... I stopped asking him to repeat himself because I did not want to frustrate him....
I'd pick up bits and pieces and we managed to have a pretty good conversation. He was very set on seeing his grand children. He suggested we put on a "wing-ding" and have a good time. I told him I would be coming out in a few weeks in June, and I would see what I could arrange... He was delighted. His tone of voice sounded hopeful...
I could hear women laughing in the background...so he may have been out in the hallway by the nurses station. Dad was distracted and talking and flirting with them, while talking with me...
Dad started talking about our ancestry...( not sure if it was part of another conversation with someone else, or him abrupty changing the subject of conversation...which he has been known to do on several occasions...)He began talking about being Scottish, German, and Irish. I added, we were also Pennsylvania Dutch, Welsh, and Norwegian. Suddenly Dad was excited and astounded! Oh yes! I am so glad you reminded me of that! I had forgotten all about it until you brought it up... Away he went, telling me all about the Vikings... I agreed we do come from sturdy stock...at least that is the part of the conversation I understood....
(Clearly he was distracted, he would say a few words, laugh, or say something, sounding like he turned away from the phone...)
I asked if he enjoyed his lunch and he told me he did... I asked what the workers were doing in the dining room and he told me they were just mopping the floors... (Not sure if that is true or not, because they were working in there when Mom visited earlier in the week...)
I had to eat in my room...but I prefer to drive my car over by the window so I can see out... I asked if he meant his wheel chair instead of a car...and Dad began to chuckle, I did too and pretty soon we were both laughing hilariously...
He told me how much he loved me and appreciated me calling. I reminded him I would be coming to see him in a few weeks...and of course, how much I love and miss him...
His voice sounded slurred and garbled to me...I had a difficult time understanding a lot of what he said... I stopped asking him to repeat himself because I did not want to frustrate him....
I'd pick up bits and pieces and we managed to have a pretty good conversation. He was very set on seeing his grand children. He suggested we put on a "wing-ding" and have a good time. I told him I would be coming out in a few weeks in June, and I would see what I could arrange... He was delighted. His tone of voice sounded hopeful...
I could hear women laughing in the background...so he may have been out in the hallway by the nurses station. Dad was distracted and talking and flirting with them, while talking with me...
Dad started talking about our ancestry...( not sure if it was part of another conversation with someone else, or him abrupty changing the subject of conversation...which he has been known to do on several occasions...)He began talking about being Scottish, German, and Irish. I added, we were also Pennsylvania Dutch, Welsh, and Norwegian. Suddenly Dad was excited and astounded! Oh yes! I am so glad you reminded me of that! I had forgotten all about it until you brought it up... Away he went, telling me all about the Vikings... I agreed we do come from sturdy stock...at least that is the part of the conversation I understood....
(Clearly he was distracted, he would say a few words, laugh, or say something, sounding like he turned away from the phone...)
I asked if he enjoyed his lunch and he told me he did... I asked what the workers were doing in the dining room and he told me they were just mopping the floors... (Not sure if that is true or not, because they were working in there when Mom visited earlier in the week...)
I had to eat in my room...but I prefer to drive my car over by the window so I can see out... I asked if he meant his wheel chair instead of a car...and Dad began to chuckle, I did too and pretty soon we were both laughing hilariously...
He told me how much he loved me and appreciated me calling. I reminded him I would be coming to see him in a few weeks...and of course, how much I love and miss him...
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Missing Dad...
I tried to call Dad this morning... he was in Bible study. It finishes at 11:30am, then he will eat lunch in his room because they are still working in the dining room. I told the nurse Dad would need help eating, as he cannot bend his left hand. I can't call during lunch, because Dad will be focused on eating...and being in his bed, when he finishes, no doubt he will sack out for a nap.
She told me she would call me after he finishes his lunch so I can talk with him...I hope she remembers... I really have a strong urge to hear Dad's voice and talk with him...
She told me she would call me after he finishes his lunch so I can talk with him...I hope she remembers... I really have a strong urge to hear Dad's voice and talk with him...
Friday, May 20, 2011
8 Months Old Today...And Another Fall In The Family...( pic posted)
My youngest grandson Jacob turns 8 months old today...
Unfortunately, his mommy, my youngest daughter, fell in front of Target today while doing some errands on her lunch hour. She ended up going to Urgent Care. The x-ray revealed she sprained her arm.
They all just returned from a wonderful, relaxing beach vacation, so with this mishap, it may be awhile before she can get the rest of pictures to us... I will post them as soon as I get some.
Heal quickly sweetheart...love you...
Looks like they caught him mid sentence...he is getting to be quite the chatter box...
Unfortunately, his mommy, my youngest daughter, fell in front of Target today while doing some errands on her lunch hour. She ended up going to Urgent Care. The x-ray revealed she sprained her arm.
They all just returned from a wonderful, relaxing beach vacation, so with this mishap, it may be awhile before she can get the rest of pictures to us... I will post them as soon as I get some.
Heal quickly sweetheart...love you...
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Mom Had A Fall...
The nursing home had sent me paperwork to sign. Apparently my note to call me first, made some one think I should also get the paperwork. I had to call and let the new guy in the business office know, he should be sending it to Mom, but the previous woman who had his job, would simply call Mom. Mom would go in and sign, then visit Dad afterward.
I called Mom and told her I was forwarding the paperwork to her. She is still very sore from her fall. While I was visiting Mom in California, she told me she had fallen after returning from her Retreat. She had gotten some thongs as part of a gift bag from the retreat. They decorated the thongs, but Mom was not into decorating and much more interested in chatting and visiting than crafts.
She does not wear thongs, but it was hot when they traveled back home, so everyone was wearing their thongs. Mom was very careful when she walked when they went to lunch and very careful when she brought her luggage into the house. She put her purse down and started for the kitchen to get a drink.... the cat ran out in front of her and she moved to miss stepping on her, but unsteady in the thongs, down she went!
Nothing broken, but sore as all heck. I put some of that menthol stuff on her lower back and behind, where she took the brunt of the fall. She braced herself with her hands, so her arms and shoulders were also sore.
She finally went to the doctor earlier in the week, and he told gave her anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxers. She sounded like she had two glasses of Sherry, so I know those muscle relaxers are doing their job. She had been resting and napping a lot, which is the best thing for her.
Today she went to visit Dad since she had signed the paperwork, and was returning it to the business office.
Doctor-Doctor had just given Dad a shower. His hair was cut, combed and all his facial hair trimmed. Mom said he looked real spiffy. He was wearing his foam booties and in good spirits.
There were workers in the dining/TV room and the hallway was real crowded, so Dad asked Doctor-Doctor to wheel him into his room. Dad wanted to lay on his bed and watch the TV. The volume was really loud, but Doctor-Doctor had left before Mom could ask where the remote was...
Her shoulder was really bothering her, so she told Dad she was not feeling well and would not be staying very long. He offered his bed to her, so she could rest. She thanked him, but told him she needed to go home so she could take her medication. Out of the blue, Dad asked her what car she was driving. Mom used to drive her old Camry, the one she had when Dad lived with her. She now has a new Toyota Camry, but rather than confuse Dad, she told him she was still driving the Camry...
Dad laughed and told her what a great bargain that car was...
Mom had brought him some pictures of my grand sons, which my oldest daughter had sent for Dad. My daughter wrote every one's names on the back so Dad could remember. He was thrilled and asked Mom to put them up on his wall of love...
Dad was rambling on about something, but it was difficult to understand with the TV blaring...she was getting a headache, in addition to her sore back and shoulder. She saw the staff wheeling the food carts to deliver every one's lunch, so she took the opportunity to kiss Dad good bye and hobbled down the hallway...
Several of the "regulars" stopped her to say hi and ask why she was limping...everyone wished her well and told her they would take care of Dad...
I just talked to Mom a few minutes ago and she is doing a little better. She was visiting with her future grand son in law.... my newly engaged niece's fiance. They are waiting for my niece to come home. Both of them are so good about including Mom quite often when they go out for food or bring her something back...
I am so glad she was not more seriously hurt!
I called Mom and told her I was forwarding the paperwork to her. She is still very sore from her fall. While I was visiting Mom in California, she told me she had fallen after returning from her Retreat. She had gotten some thongs as part of a gift bag from the retreat. They decorated the thongs, but Mom was not into decorating and much more interested in chatting and visiting than crafts.
She does not wear thongs, but it was hot when they traveled back home, so everyone was wearing their thongs. Mom was very careful when she walked when they went to lunch and very careful when she brought her luggage into the house. She put her purse down and started for the kitchen to get a drink.... the cat ran out in front of her and she moved to miss stepping on her, but unsteady in the thongs, down she went!
Nothing broken, but sore as all heck. I put some of that menthol stuff on her lower back and behind, where she took the brunt of the fall. She braced herself with her hands, so her arms and shoulders were also sore.
She finally went to the doctor earlier in the week, and he told gave her anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxers. She sounded like she had two glasses of Sherry, so I know those muscle relaxers are doing their job. She had been resting and napping a lot, which is the best thing for her.
Today she went to visit Dad since she had signed the paperwork, and was returning it to the business office.
Doctor-Doctor had just given Dad a shower. His hair was cut, combed and all his facial hair trimmed. Mom said he looked real spiffy. He was wearing his foam booties and in good spirits.
There were workers in the dining/TV room and the hallway was real crowded, so Dad asked Doctor-Doctor to wheel him into his room. Dad wanted to lay on his bed and watch the TV. The volume was really loud, but Doctor-Doctor had left before Mom could ask where the remote was...
Her shoulder was really bothering her, so she told Dad she was not feeling well and would not be staying very long. He offered his bed to her, so she could rest. She thanked him, but told him she needed to go home so she could take her medication. Out of the blue, Dad asked her what car she was driving. Mom used to drive her old Camry, the one she had when Dad lived with her. She now has a new Toyota Camry, but rather than confuse Dad, she told him she was still driving the Camry...
Dad laughed and told her what a great bargain that car was...
Mom had brought him some pictures of my grand sons, which my oldest daughter had sent for Dad. My daughter wrote every one's names on the back so Dad could remember. He was thrilled and asked Mom to put them up on his wall of love...
Dad was rambling on about something, but it was difficult to understand with the TV blaring...she was getting a headache, in addition to her sore back and shoulder. She saw the staff wheeling the food carts to deliver every one's lunch, so she took the opportunity to kiss Dad good bye and hobbled down the hallway...
Several of the "regulars" stopped her to say hi and ask why she was limping...everyone wished her well and told her they would take care of Dad...
I just talked to Mom a few minutes ago and she is doing a little better. She was visiting with her future grand son in law.... my newly engaged niece's fiance. They are waiting for my niece to come home. Both of them are so good about including Mom quite often when they go out for food or bring her something back...
I am so glad she was not more seriously hurt!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
In Dedication To My Father...
Dad always loved the outdoors,
so it is natural for me to think of him
as a tall, strong, oak tree,
so it is natural for me to think of him
as a tall, strong, oak tree,
with a thick trunk of integrity
standing tall in his beliefs
standing tall in his beliefs
branching out in quiet confidence,
leaves of grandeur, protecting us,
as much as leaves can, until winter...
for we had to learn on our own.
leaves of grandeur, protecting us,
as much as leaves can, until winter...
for we had to learn on our own.
he always said to listen to our inner voice...
solid advice to each of us,
as we circled within our lives,
growing, expanding,
like the rings of a tree,
showing its age...of our lessons learned...
solid advice to each of us,
as we circled within our lives,
growing, expanding,
like the rings of a tree,
showing its age...of our lessons learned...
still, as an adult,
hearing his voice reminding me
of what he taught,
gentle whispers
like a breeze fluttering the leaves...
hearing his voice reminding me
of what he taught,
gentle whispers
like a breeze fluttering the leaves...
always an example,
with his quiet wisdom,
calm inner peace...
with his quiet wisdom,
calm inner peace...
his willingness to listen,
instilled an individual sense of importance...
instilled an individual sense of importance...
now is the dormant season for my father...
his dementia and Alzheimer's
have taken the best of his life,
leaving him with his belief in God
as his beautiful horizon;
of which he slowly moves closer to each day...
thankfully, still remembering us,
knowing the day will come,
when we will be friendly strangers...
life goes on, the winter winds blow,
sometimes too cold,
freezing out the strong life,
once bringing forth new, fertile growth,
making it brittle,
laden under the burden of lifeless branches,
to break and fall,
becoming part of the earth...
memories are
all we have;
making most
of the moments...
for as long as
we have...
closing my
eyes, thinking
of my father
my vision
will always
see a majestic,
tall, strong oak
tree...
I love you Dad.
~dkb~
his dementia and Alzheimer's
have taken the best of his life,
leaving him with his belief in God
as his beautiful horizon;
of which he slowly moves closer to each day...
thankfully, still remembering us,
knowing the day will come,
when we will be friendly strangers...
life goes on, the winter winds blow,
sometimes too cold,
freezing out the strong life,
once bringing forth new, fertile growth,
making it brittle,
laden under the burden of lifeless branches,
to break and fall,
becoming part of the earth...
memories are
all we have;
making most
of the moments...
for as long as
we have...
closing my
eyes, thinking
of my father
my vision
will always
see a majestic,
tall, strong oak
tree...
I love you Dad.
~dkb~
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Dad's Care Conference and An Interesting Visit With Dad...
Mom and I attended Dad's Care Conference this morning. Dad has lost 6 pounds this month, which is an improvement since he gained 9 last month! He weighs 160 pounds. We complimented the head chef and told him how much Dad LOVES his food!
They raved on about how sweet and nice he is, enthused by how much he enjoys the activities.
May 4th, Dad had several lab tests, specifically the HBA1C to check for Diabetes. His fasting blood was 116 and he got a 7.4 on the HBA1C. So far, Dad's doctor has not given any orders pertaining to Dad being diabetic or needing any medication.
We discussed at length why I am not being called with new treatments, medication or tests. It was determined certain staff members were not as conscientious as other staff members in making the calls. We were assured these staff members would be spoken to and reminded. I asked them again to put a large note in big bold print on Dad's chart, to call me first with anything new about Dad.
I also had them make a copy of Dad's current medication and medical issues.
Both Mom and I commended them on the care Dad receives. All things considered, their quality of care is very much appreciated and valued by our family.
***************************
Mom and I went into to visit Dad and met Doctor-Doctor in the hallway. She is recovered from her two surgeries (gall stones and hernia) and had died her hair dark from her bleached blond. She looked crisp and well rested in her pink breast cancer ribbon top with white pants. She told us Dad had been grouchy early that morning and without knowing we were coming, she had told Dad he would have some visitors coming to see him....
After hugging her, we went into the dining room where everyone was playing Italian Bingo... The caller would hold up a picture of something Italian and then the letter in bold print of which letter to look for on the Bingo board.
I snuck up behind Dad so he could not see me. Mom popped her head in front of Dad and asked him if he wanted to go out on the patio with her or finish his Bingo. Dad laughed out loud with excitement in seeing her. "Of course I'd rather go out to the patio with you!"
Mom stood behind me as I pushed Dad to the patio. When I put on the brakes to his wheel chair, he saw me. He reached out to me, calling me by name, pulling me in for a big hug and kiss.
I asked Dad where he got the tennis shoes he was wearing..."Oh they gave them to me, " he chimed... "I can run very fast and take my walks..." Both Mom and I both spoke at the same time, reminding him what happened the last time he went for a run... "Oh, I know...but these shoes are so comfortable and fit so well...and I can walk all over...." Mom cautioned him and I decided I would have to say something to the staff...
Dad used to walk every day prior to be admitted to the nursing home. He had the habit of walking very fast, (I could barely keep up with him), swinging his arms in exaggerated arcs along side his long walking strides... He also did floor exercises and isometric exercises he learned in the Marines. He was impressively limber for a man 88 years of age. Now he is 90 and a half.
We chatted about family. He imagined or remembered past visits with my brothers, as recent. Dad related his visits with my brothers, telling Mom and I about lengthy discussions...I asked if he wanted to see some of my pictures, and then showed Dad the pictures I had taken from my visits with my daughters and grand sons. I also shared photos from yesterday, when our family celebrated Mother's Day, and my niece's announcement of her engagement. They plan to marry next June. Dad laughed with joy, commenting on how good everyone looked.
Dad surprised us by pointing out birds and animals he saw in, I guess, patterns within the photographs. I did a double take on several of the photos, but could not see what Dad saw...
I excused myself after awhile, and went in to talk to the charge nurse, as I was very concerned Dad was wearing the black tennis shoes. He is NOT suppose to be wearing shoes, only his foam or non-stick booties due to his ulcer on his left pinkie toe. I was able to put faces to two people (a male and a female), whose voices I am familiar with. I reminded them both about Dad NOT wearing shoes. The male went outside immediately and checked out the shoes Dad was wearing
I also made sure Dad was on daily showers (which is was not) and asked them to give him a shave and trim his facial hairs...I asked for them to put a big note on Dad's chart to make sure I am called with any changes to his medication or treatment.
His male aide brought Dad's lunch to him out on the patio. Here is a picture. It smelled absolutely delicious!
Coffee, milk, green beans, mashed potatoes, boneless chicken breast (which I cut up), green jello with pears and marshmallows, bread and butter with spice cake for dessert.
Mom and I took turns feeding him. He can not bend the fingers of his left hand and his right hand is still tender from his arthritis flare up...
He was a happy camper and enjoyed his food with great gusto!
It was a nice long visit. He was happy to see the pictures. I had to wipe tears from his right eye...not sure if he was emotional from seeing the grand kids and great grand kids, or the ulcer on his right eye lid...
After his lunch, he excused himself after a large belch and announced he would like to take a nap. We wheeled him back to the nursing station. The nurses prefer we leave Dad with them, than leaving him to wait in his room, because Dad has been getting up and taking himself to the restroom. We all want to be cautious to avoid any falls.
We kissed and hugged good bye. He thanked us for coming and told us to have a good lunch. Mom and I were salivating from his sumptuous lunch! Due to the blustery weather, we decided we would have soup and salad at the North Woods Inn... it was GREAT!
They raved on about how sweet and nice he is, enthused by how much he enjoys the activities.
May 4th, Dad had several lab tests, specifically the HBA1C to check for Diabetes. His fasting blood was 116 and he got a 7.4 on the HBA1C. So far, Dad's doctor has not given any orders pertaining to Dad being diabetic or needing any medication.
We discussed at length why I am not being called with new treatments, medication or tests. It was determined certain staff members were not as conscientious as other staff members in making the calls. We were assured these staff members would be spoken to and reminded. I asked them again to put a large note in big bold print on Dad's chart, to call me first with anything new about Dad.
I also had them make a copy of Dad's current medication and medical issues.
Both Mom and I commended them on the care Dad receives. All things considered, their quality of care is very much appreciated and valued by our family.
***************************
Mom and I went into to visit Dad and met Doctor-Doctor in the hallway. She is recovered from her two surgeries (gall stones and hernia) and had died her hair dark from her bleached blond. She looked crisp and well rested in her pink breast cancer ribbon top with white pants. She told us Dad had been grouchy early that morning and without knowing we were coming, she had told Dad he would have some visitors coming to see him....
After hugging her, we went into the dining room where everyone was playing Italian Bingo... The caller would hold up a picture of something Italian and then the letter in bold print of which letter to look for on the Bingo board.
I snuck up behind Dad so he could not see me. Mom popped her head in front of Dad and asked him if he wanted to go out on the patio with her or finish his Bingo. Dad laughed out loud with excitement in seeing her. "Of course I'd rather go out to the patio with you!"
Mom stood behind me as I pushed Dad to the patio. When I put on the brakes to his wheel chair, he saw me. He reached out to me, calling me by name, pulling me in for a big hug and kiss.
I asked Dad where he got the tennis shoes he was wearing..."Oh they gave them to me, " he chimed... "I can run very fast and take my walks..." Both Mom and I both spoke at the same time, reminding him what happened the last time he went for a run... "Oh, I know...but these shoes are so comfortable and fit so well...and I can walk all over...." Mom cautioned him and I decided I would have to say something to the staff...
Dad used to walk every day prior to be admitted to the nursing home. He had the habit of walking very fast, (I could barely keep up with him), swinging his arms in exaggerated arcs along side his long walking strides... He also did floor exercises and isometric exercises he learned in the Marines. He was impressively limber for a man 88 years of age. Now he is 90 and a half.
We chatted about family. He imagined or remembered past visits with my brothers, as recent. Dad related his visits with my brothers, telling Mom and I about lengthy discussions...I asked if he wanted to see some of my pictures, and then showed Dad the pictures I had taken from my visits with my daughters and grand sons. I also shared photos from yesterday, when our family celebrated Mother's Day, and my niece's announcement of her engagement. They plan to marry next June. Dad laughed with joy, commenting on how good everyone looked.
Dad surprised us by pointing out birds and animals he saw in, I guess, patterns within the photographs. I did a double take on several of the photos, but could not see what Dad saw...
I excused myself after awhile, and went in to talk to the charge nurse, as I was very concerned Dad was wearing the black tennis shoes. He is NOT suppose to be wearing shoes, only his foam or non-stick booties due to his ulcer on his left pinkie toe. I was able to put faces to two people (a male and a female), whose voices I am familiar with. I reminded them both about Dad NOT wearing shoes. The male went outside immediately and checked out the shoes Dad was wearing
I also made sure Dad was on daily showers (which is was not) and asked them to give him a shave and trim his facial hairs...I asked for them to put a big note on Dad's chart to make sure I am called with any changes to his medication or treatment.
His male aide brought Dad's lunch to him out on the patio. Here is a picture. It smelled absolutely delicious!
It was a nice long visit. He was happy to see the pictures. I had to wipe tears from his right eye...not sure if he was emotional from seeing the grand kids and great grand kids, or the ulcer on his right eye lid...
After his lunch, he excused himself after a large belch and announced he would like to take a nap. We wheeled him back to the nursing station. The nurses prefer we leave Dad with them, than leaving him to wait in his room, because Dad has been getting up and taking himself to the restroom. We all want to be cautious to avoid any falls.
We kissed and hugged good bye. He thanked us for coming and told us to have a good lunch. Mom and I were salivating from his sumptuous lunch! Due to the blustery weather, we decided we would have soup and salad at the North Woods Inn... it was GREAT!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Dancing With The Stars and Loving The Children...
Mom went to visit Dad today. She found him in the dining room with his eyes closed. He was glad to see her, but Mom said he seemed more subdued and quiet.
Dad still has his cough, but it does not sound as prolonged. Dad's doctor saw Dad last Friday. He has ordered a slew of lab tests. I know he is re-doing the blood tests to determine if Dad is diabetic. I plan on getting a lot of information on Monday during his Care Conference.
Lunch arrived and Dad perked up. I have been checking on Dad and his appetite has been excellent, eating 100% of all his meals...
Mom cut Dad's BBQ beef sandwich in half so he could feed himself. She fed him his lemon jello with fruit in it, fresh Mexicali corn and green peas. For dessert, Dad enjoyed one of his favorites, Lemon Meringue pie with coffee and milk. It was such a lovely day, Mom suggested they sit and talk out on the patio...
There were some young children visiting. They were running and tumbling on the grass in the court yard. Dad loved watching them. He told Mom he missed his grand children and great grand children.
They talked and Dad was in and out of making sense... He told her again how happy he was living there. He was relieved not to be driving any more because he constantly worried about having car accidents.
Dad told Mom he really enjoyed watching the dancers...Mom kind of wondered what he was talking about and then realized he may been watching, Dancing With The Stars. Dad told her he owned the company and has final say on who wins. He loves walking in the hall ways with the ladies upstairs... Again, puzzled, Mom knew there is no second floor of the nursing home...
Mom shared with Dad I will be coming to visit him on Monday. Dad said her news made him very happy.
Doctor-Doctor must have had the day off. Mom chatted with several of the staff, but did not see her...
All in all, Mom was grateful and felt it was a good visit...
Dad still has his cough, but it does not sound as prolonged. Dad's doctor saw Dad last Friday. He has ordered a slew of lab tests. I know he is re-doing the blood tests to determine if Dad is diabetic. I plan on getting a lot of information on Monday during his Care Conference.
Lunch arrived and Dad perked up. I have been checking on Dad and his appetite has been excellent, eating 100% of all his meals...
Mom cut Dad's BBQ beef sandwich in half so he could feed himself. She fed him his lemon jello with fruit in it, fresh Mexicali corn and green peas. For dessert, Dad enjoyed one of his favorites, Lemon Meringue pie with coffee and milk. It was such a lovely day, Mom suggested they sit and talk out on the patio...
There were some young children visiting. They were running and tumbling on the grass in the court yard. Dad loved watching them. He told Mom he missed his grand children and great grand children.
They talked and Dad was in and out of making sense... He told her again how happy he was living there. He was relieved not to be driving any more because he constantly worried about having car accidents.
Dad told Mom he really enjoyed watching the dancers...Mom kind of wondered what he was talking about and then realized he may been watching, Dancing With The Stars. Dad told her he owned the company and has final say on who wins. He loves walking in the hall ways with the ladies upstairs... Again, puzzled, Mom knew there is no second floor of the nursing home...
Mom shared with Dad I will be coming to visit him on Monday. Dad said her news made him very happy.
Doctor-Doctor must have had the day off. Mom chatted with several of the staff, but did not see her...
All in all, Mom was grateful and felt it was a good visit...
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Sharing Our Creative Weekend...
Been a very busy week...Dad is doing a lot better. I leave tomorrow for California for a week. I will attend Dad's Care Conference on Monday with Mom.
My sister, girlfriends and I had a GREAT creative weekend (except for one accident...) please read and view photos about our creative weekend on my other blog here. I have to get back to my packing... Talk to you all when I get back...
My sister, girlfriends and I had a GREAT creative weekend (except for one accident...) please read and view photos about our creative weekend on my other blog here. I have to get back to my packing... Talk to you all when I get back...
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