Dad's wound care nurse called me this morning. Every Thursday, the wound care consultant checks Dad's left baby toe. Two weeks ago, she thought Dad had some kind of a fungus infection. She ordered an ointment which did nothing for the wound. Today, she wants to do a biopsy on it. She is concerned it might be cancer. The wound never really heals, is getting a little bigger and Dad has had it for over two years.
I told the wound care nurse I would check with the family and call her back. I called Mom, as she usually visits Dad on Thursdays, but her lower back is bothering her too. She was too sore to visit Dad today.
The majority of the family all voted to go ahead with the biopsy. We want to make sure Dad is not in any pain. Luckily, the biopsy can be done in the nursing home. I spoke with the wound care nurse and asked her to make sure no one mentions the words, biopsy or cancer in front of Dad. There would be a good chance he would react negatively, if they did. She assured me she would tell the doctor.
I called Dad and caught him in between lunch and his nap. It was a short conversation. Apparently, they allowed him to answer the phone in one of the offices and he was surprised to be in a room he had never been in before, I think it threw him off...
He recognized my voice immediately, which always makes my day. I told him Mom would not be visiting him today because she hurt her back. She will aim for visiting tomorrow... he was sweet and of course glad she decided to stay home because he wants her to take good care of herself.
Today is my first half way decent day where I have not felt sore and stiff in pain while sitting. I threw out my lower back last Thursday while stooping over to pick up a grocery bag. I've been doing a lot of sleeping and staying off my feet... B-O-R-I-N-G!
Dad asked about my husband and sent his love to him. He told me to take care of my back too. He thanked me for calling and said he was looking forward to his nap... Sweet dreams Papa-doots!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Tiger Brown...
Mom went to visit Dad today. She found him in the dining room waiting for his lunch, sitting in his "thinking man pose".
Dad was in good spirits so they sat and chatted until his lunch arrived. His lunch partners were the man in the train engineer's cap and the gray haired lady who always gets grilled cheese sandwiches and then complains because it is burned. She flipped the sandwich over to show Mom and Dad how burned it was....
Both Mom and Dad said in unison, "Tiger brown", and then laughed... They told her that is how Dad likes his toast. We have always called it that in our family... With their explanation, the woman offered the sandwich to Dad. He politely refused, suggesting she eat something...
Dad had already polished off his Salisbury steak with gravy, baked potato with sour cream, broccoli, bread sandwich (which he dunks in his glass of milk and then sucks the milk from the bread), coffee, red jello and a sucker the engineer game him. Apparently, the Engineer's daughter keeps him supplied with a regular load of lollipops.
The lady who bangs her silverware, who normally sits at another table, swung her wheel chair around to the vacant spot near Dad. The gray haired lady with the burnt grilled cheese, threw a paper napkin at her and told her to get back to where she belonged... So she reversed her wheel chair, and went into the hallway.
Dad shared with Mom how well he has been sleeping lately and she told him she was very glad. He began talking about something Mom could not understand, but he sounded happy, so she smiled and nodded her head as if she understood...
As per his routine, once he eats lunch, Dad is ready for a nap. When he began to yawn, Mom knew it was time... She told him she had to get home as she remembered she had not unlocked the back gate for the Gardner. They kissed and hugged good bye and Mom waved to several of the staff on her way out.
Mom saw a woman who is there EVERY DAY with her Mother. We all see her and comment how often she comes. She looks haggard and very sad. Mom stopped to tell her hello. Mom sensed the woman was ready to unravel. Mom took her hand and reminded her to take care of herself. She looked so guilt ridden and sad, but managed to smile back to Mom.
So many families visit more than they can emotionally handle. They insist on going daily, out of duty, or guilt, or devotion...only to burn out and stop visiting abruptly. It is really important to find a good place for our loved ones, so we can give ourselves a break. This woman is a classic case of burn out. I saw it when visiting with my mother in law, when she had Alzheimer's, and I have seen it with other family's while visiting Dad.
It is a huge emotional challenge for the Caregivers and family. We have learned getting into a good support group is key in adjusting and dealing with such a tragic situation. We share and learn together. Those before us, pass down their experiences, wisdom and reading material, helping and improving the way we treat and deal with dementia and Alzheimer's.
I so appreciate those of you who have shared your stories with me with your loved ones. It helps more than you know, realizing we are not alone, and how other's coped in this situation.
We are thankful for another good visit... Love you Dad.
Dad was in good spirits so they sat and chatted until his lunch arrived. His lunch partners were the man in the train engineer's cap and the gray haired lady who always gets grilled cheese sandwiches and then complains because it is burned. She flipped the sandwich over to show Mom and Dad how burned it was....
Both Mom and Dad said in unison, "Tiger brown", and then laughed... They told her that is how Dad likes his toast. We have always called it that in our family... With their explanation, the woman offered the sandwich to Dad. He politely refused, suggesting she eat something...
Dad had already polished off his Salisbury steak with gravy, baked potato with sour cream, broccoli, bread sandwich (which he dunks in his glass of milk and then sucks the milk from the bread), coffee, red jello and a sucker the engineer game him. Apparently, the Engineer's daughter keeps him supplied with a regular load of lollipops.
The lady who bangs her silverware, who normally sits at another table, swung her wheel chair around to the vacant spot near Dad. The gray haired lady with the burnt grilled cheese, threw a paper napkin at her and told her to get back to where she belonged... So she reversed her wheel chair, and went into the hallway.
Dad shared with Mom how well he has been sleeping lately and she told him she was very glad. He began talking about something Mom could not understand, but he sounded happy, so she smiled and nodded her head as if she understood...
As per his routine, once he eats lunch, Dad is ready for a nap. When he began to yawn, Mom knew it was time... She told him she had to get home as she remembered she had not unlocked the back gate for the Gardner. They kissed and hugged good bye and Mom waved to several of the staff on her way out.
Mom saw a woman who is there EVERY DAY with her Mother. We all see her and comment how often she comes. She looks haggard and very sad. Mom stopped to tell her hello. Mom sensed the woman was ready to unravel. Mom took her hand and reminded her to take care of herself. She looked so guilt ridden and sad, but managed to smile back to Mom.
So many families visit more than they can emotionally handle. They insist on going daily, out of duty, or guilt, or devotion...only to burn out and stop visiting abruptly. It is really important to find a good place for our loved ones, so we can give ourselves a break. This woman is a classic case of burn out. I saw it when visiting with my mother in law, when she had Alzheimer's, and I have seen it with other family's while visiting Dad.
It is a huge emotional challenge for the Caregivers and family. We have learned getting into a good support group is key in adjusting and dealing with such a tragic situation. We share and learn together. Those before us, pass down their experiences, wisdom and reading material, helping and improving the way we treat and deal with dementia and Alzheimer's.
I so appreciate those of you who have shared your stories with me with your loved ones. It helps more than you know, realizing we are not alone, and how other's coped in this situation.
We are thankful for another good visit... Love you Dad.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Father's Day...and 9 Months Old Today...
On Sunday, for Father's Day, we had made arrangements with my youngest brother E____ and my sister Holly, to meet Mom and I at Mom's house at 11am. I would drive us to the nursing home to visit Dad and have lunch after wards...
Mom and I planned on going to church early, but due to us staying up so late Saturday night, Mom apparently turned off the alarm, and went back to sleep. She came rushing down stairs in her pj's which was my first clue something was wrong. Mom always dresses before coming down stairs... We fired up her new coffee maker and had our own Bible study while enjoying our coffee...
When everyone arrived, we headed over to the nursing home. We found Dad eating his lunch in the new dining room. Very nicely re-painted with a lot more room. We stood in the door way, noticing Dad was struggling in cutting his chicken. My brother went over and asked if he could help cut up his food and when Dad looked up, he grabbed him for a big hug! Then he saw the rest of us. We did not want him to stop eating, so he put his head down and snorked his entire lunch of chicken in gravy, potatoes, peaches, jello, a roll and a glass of milk...
We wheeled him out to the patio and gave him our gifts. Mom brought Dad some mint toothpaste, my brother printed out a picture of he and Dad from last Father's Day, my sister made Dad a card and an apple pie inside a glass jar with screw on top. HE ATE EVERY MOUTH FULL!
We called our brother Brian in Ohio, so he could talk with Dad and wish him happy Father's day... When my brother heard Dad had just finished a piece of home made apple pie, he asked Dad if he was going to wash it down with a cup of Joe (coffee). Dad howled with laughter and told him, "OF COURSE!"...
I scurried off and got Dad his cup of Joe.... I asked him to sample it and see if it needed more cream or sugar... E_____ narrated for Brian on the phone, telling him how Dad took the cup and drained it like a shot of Tequila! We all laughed, including my brother Brian on the phone.
I re-worked the original poem I wrote here and framed it for Dad as my gift. Here is a picture below and how I changed the poem:
********************************************
Monday, the 20th, Jacob turned 9 months old. My daughter Jodee wanted to take me to lunch at Olive Garden for my recent birthday on the 8th. Mom really wanted to see Jodee and Jacob, so she came along with me and we met Jodee and Jacob in Riverside...
Despite cutting his top four teeth, Jacob was all smiles and enjoying all the attention from each of us.
Mom (Great Granny) playing "Owl Eyes" with Jacob...right after this, he grabbed her face and laid a big ol' wet lip lock on her! He had everyone around us oooooing and awwwwwing....
Proud Mama Jodee and happy baby Jacob...
Proud Grandma with wiggly Jacob...
After our wonderful soup and salad lunch...we went over to the Galleria Mall on Tyler in Riverside and walked around. Jodee had some errands to run, so we went with her. I took Mom into the Brighton store, but she forgot to pack her gift card, so we looked around for ideas for how she can spend the gift card next time she has it...
We all hugged good bye and Mom and I hopped on the freeway back to her house to avoid the afternoon traffic...
Thank you Jodee for my wonderful birthday lunch and for the beautiful card you and Jacob made me... I LOVED IT!!!
Mom and I planned on going to church early, but due to us staying up so late Saturday night, Mom apparently turned off the alarm, and went back to sleep. She came rushing down stairs in her pj's which was my first clue something was wrong. Mom always dresses before coming down stairs... We fired up her new coffee maker and had our own Bible study while enjoying our coffee...
When everyone arrived, we headed over to the nursing home. We found Dad eating his lunch in the new dining room. Very nicely re-painted with a lot more room. We stood in the door way, noticing Dad was struggling in cutting his chicken. My brother went over and asked if he could help cut up his food and when Dad looked up, he grabbed him for a big hug! Then he saw the rest of us. We did not want him to stop eating, so he put his head down and snorked his entire lunch of chicken in gravy, potatoes, peaches, jello, a roll and a glass of milk...
We wheeled him out to the patio and gave him our gifts. Mom brought Dad some mint toothpaste, my brother printed out a picture of he and Dad from last Father's Day, my sister made Dad a card and an apple pie inside a glass jar with screw on top. HE ATE EVERY MOUTH FULL!
We called our brother Brian in Ohio, so he could talk with Dad and wish him happy Father's day... When my brother heard Dad had just finished a piece of home made apple pie, he asked Dad if he was going to wash it down with a cup of Joe (coffee). Dad howled with laughter and told him, "OF COURSE!"...
I scurried off and got Dad his cup of Joe.... I asked him to sample it and see if it needed more cream or sugar... E_____ narrated for Brian on the phone, telling him how Dad took the cup and drained it like a shot of Tequila! We all laughed, including my brother Brian on the phone.
I re-worked the original poem I wrote here and framed it for Dad as my gift. Here is a picture below and how I changed the poem:
In Dedication to Our Father
Dad loves the outdoors, 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, branching out in quiet confidence...
Leaves of grandeur, protecting us, as much as leaves can, until winter...
He knew we had to learn to live our lives on our own.
as a tall, strong, oak tree, with a thick trunk of integrity.
Standing tall in his beliefs, branching out in quiet confidence...
Leaves of grandeur, protecting us, as much as leaves can, until winter...
He knew we had to learn to live our lives on our own.
He always said to listen to our inner voice...he believes in us.
Solid advice to each of us, as we circled within our lives,
growing, expanding, like the rings of a tree,
showing its age...as our lessons were learned...
Solid advice to each of us, as we circled within our lives,
growing, expanding, like the rings of a tree,
showing its age...as our lessons were learned...
Still, as an adult, hearing his voice, reminds me
of what he taught us in gentle whispers,
like a breeze fluttering the leaves...
of what he taught us in gentle whispers,
like a breeze fluttering the leaves...
Always leading by example, with his quiet wisdom,
and calm inner peace... His willingness to listen
instilled our individual sense of importance...
and calm inner peace... His willingness to listen
instilled our individual sense of importance...
The best of his lessons is his belief in God.
Living a full life loving nature, he cherishes beautiful sunrises and horizons.
He calls himself a farmer, enjoying the feel of the earth in his strong hands…
Vivid images in our minds for all time…
Vivid images in our minds for all time…
Now, at 90 years old, we see him in the winter season of his life.
His face shows his joy, his faith, his hope, his laughter.
His eyes reflect the love he shows everyone.
We love you Dad, Happy Father’s Day!
June 19, 2011
~dkb~
We visited and chatted. We listened to Dad tell us some stories of a chicken he had raised and then given to the school where he worked. Dad would come to the fence and whistle his special whistle for this chicken, and it would remember it and come out of the flock of chickens to the fence where Dad was... He talked of our family pet, Brutus and how much Dad loved him...
Dad told us of being in the movies with John Wayne and how Maureen O'Hara was his dear friend... He told us when he has lived as long as he has, he has met so many wonderful people over the years...
We gave him the updates for the rest of the family and where they were so he would not wonder why they did not come... He was thrilled to hear about all the activities and events going on in the family...
We had the nurse take our picture...
From left to right, Mom in purple, youngest brother E____, bottom in sunglasses, my sister Holly, Dad and myself...
Dad kept us all entertained with his memories and stories and then became quiet and sleepy. My sister took all the cards into his room and hung them on his "wall of love". I asked the charge nurse if we could hang Dad's framed poem next to his bulletin board. She told me she would call maintenance and ask them to hang it.
We all kissed Dad good-bye and as we walked out the front door, I took this picture of the flower area as you walk into the nursing home...
You can see the corner of a sitting bench in the left hand corner...it is so cheery and peaceful...
We had all agreed to have lunch at one of our family's favorite places, Taco Ready. A family owned place with THE BEST food! Unfortunately, when we arrived at 2pm, they had just closed early for Father's Day.... My brother E____ tried to talk them into allowing us to get orders to go...but no luck....
E___ suggested another great place, The Capri Deli, so we went there and he treated us all to a wonderful lunch. I had what my brother had, which was a salami/ham grinder and cold spaghetti salad, Mom had a hearty bowl of soup and Holly had a grilled chicken salad...DELICIOUS!
After. I drove us back to Mom's and we sat around joking and laughing...enjoying every ones company. It was a FANTASTIC Day!
********************************************
Monday, the 20th, Jacob turned 9 months old. My daughter Jodee wanted to take me to lunch at Olive Garden for my recent birthday on the 8th. Mom really wanted to see Jodee and Jacob, so she came along with me and we met Jodee and Jacob in Riverside...
Despite cutting his top four teeth, Jacob was all smiles and enjoying all the attention from each of us.
9 months old today...
After our wonderful soup and salad lunch...we went over to the Galleria Mall on Tyler in Riverside and walked around. Jodee had some errands to run, so we went with her. I took Mom into the Brighton store, but she forgot to pack her gift card, so we looked around for ideas for how she can spend the gift card next time she has it...
We all hugged good bye and Mom and I hopped on the freeway back to her house to avoid the afternoon traffic...
Thank you Jodee for my wonderful birthday lunch and for the beautiful card you and Jacob made me... I LOVED IT!!!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Got Mom Tipsy...
Last night, my sister, Mom and I went to Applebee's to celebrate Mom's 84th birthday. Since I was still on my medication, I refrained from drinking alcohol, but both Mom and Holly had Strawberry Mojitoes. Holly's Mojito had a TON of ice, the glass was chocked full, so consequently, she had very little booze. Mom, on the other hand, had very little ice and MORE BOOZE.
Holly finished her drink in three short sips and I suggested we complain. Holly did not want to make a fuss, so she said it was OK... Mom did not care, because she was three sheets to the wind before our appetizer arrived...
I continued to debate with Holly about telling the waiter about her weak drink...she said she would wait until she found out how much it was. Our dinner arrived and we all enjoyed the dinner, sharing with one another... Mom was merry and jovial company throughout the dinner...
When the waiter arrived with the bill, my sister saw the drinks were almost $7 each. I took matters into my own hands and called the waiter back over.... The waiter suggested next time we say something sooner, right after the drink was served, (which is what I said...) He asked if he should take the bill to the manager and I told him YES, PLEASE! He came back and the manager had taken off half the drinks cost...
When we got back to Mom's... we remembered we needed to pick up some creamer for coffee. My sister and brother had given Mom one of those Keurig Coffee Makers with the different pods of coffee to make individual cups of coffee, tea, or cocoa. Mom has been wanting one for years now... I gave Mom a Brighton Gift Card to get some jewelry or perfume.
Mom mentioned her printer was not working, so Holly suggested we go to the store for the creamer (and cookies) and she would stay behind and set up the coffee maker and fix the printer...
When we returned, Holly had fixed the printer, set up the coffee maker and was working on Mom's cell phone. Both Mom and Holly have the Samsung Fascinate. It is slightly advanced for Mom...but Mom likes to be "cool" and be included in the latest techie stuff. She is quite proud of herself since learning to use the inscribed iPod Holly and I gave her for her 80th birthday...
After sampling several cups of coffee, we were raring to do something....we decided to play some Facebook gambling games (TIKI HUTT and UNDER THE SEA SLOTS) with game tokens I had won while at my daughter's playing it with my grand son...
We were whooping and hollering and having a great time. Holly spent the night, but had to get up early as she, her husband and their son's in laws were going to the Irish Festival. We did not hit the sheets until 3am. Holly staggered out of the house at 5:45am...
Mom was up at 6:30am, doing her laundry, cleaning the kitchen, watering the lawns, reading her Bible, writing down quotes from her Ben Franklin Almanac, and eating some breakfast. I joined her about 10:00am. I am happy to report, my back is a lot better! Mom has insisted I drink some of her Joint Juice...not sure if it is the reason, but after three days, I have gotten progressively better... (No doubt all the laughter didn't hurt either...)
Mom and I spent the day running some errands and buying a drawer for all the extra coffee pods we purchased... We had lunch at In and Out, enjoying the day as only two unemployed, retired, Geminis can do...
We hit the Facebook slots again....to relax from shopping.... (Mom IS NOT A SHOPPER, so it was very traumatic for her...) While answering an email to my sister Holly, Mom's black cat Nikita, joined us on the couch and casually stood upon my laptop keys, typing her own message to her. Mom laughed so hard she wet her pants... It has been a FUN day....
Mom just reminded me to announce we will be selling autographs (remember we are unemployed) as the current Facebook Family Feud Champions....
Mom is in the kitchen working her magic and I am selecting the wine for us to enjoy while finding something to watch on TV... Driving to a show will be impossible this evening and we cannot afford a chauffeur...
Holly finished her drink in three short sips and I suggested we complain. Holly did not want to make a fuss, so she said it was OK... Mom did not care, because she was three sheets to the wind before our appetizer arrived...
I continued to debate with Holly about telling the waiter about her weak drink...she said she would wait until she found out how much it was. Our dinner arrived and we all enjoyed the dinner, sharing with one another... Mom was merry and jovial company throughout the dinner...
When the waiter arrived with the bill, my sister saw the drinks were almost $7 each. I took matters into my own hands and called the waiter back over.... The waiter suggested next time we say something sooner, right after the drink was served, (which is what I said...) He asked if he should take the bill to the manager and I told him YES, PLEASE! He came back and the manager had taken off half the drinks cost...
When we got back to Mom's... we remembered we needed to pick up some creamer for coffee. My sister and brother had given Mom one of those Keurig Coffee Makers with the different pods of coffee to make individual cups of coffee, tea, or cocoa. Mom has been wanting one for years now... I gave Mom a Brighton Gift Card to get some jewelry or perfume.
Mom mentioned her printer was not working, so Holly suggested we go to the store for the creamer (and cookies) and she would stay behind and set up the coffee maker and fix the printer...
When we returned, Holly had fixed the printer, set up the coffee maker and was working on Mom's cell phone. Both Mom and Holly have the Samsung Fascinate. It is slightly advanced for Mom...but Mom likes to be "cool" and be included in the latest techie stuff. She is quite proud of herself since learning to use the inscribed iPod Holly and I gave her for her 80th birthday...
After sampling several cups of coffee, we were raring to do something....we decided to play some Facebook gambling games (TIKI HUTT and UNDER THE SEA SLOTS) with game tokens I had won while at my daughter's playing it with my grand son...
We were whooping and hollering and having a great time. Holly spent the night, but had to get up early as she, her husband and their son's in laws were going to the Irish Festival. We did not hit the sheets until 3am. Holly staggered out of the house at 5:45am...
Mom was up at 6:30am, doing her laundry, cleaning the kitchen, watering the lawns, reading her Bible, writing down quotes from her Ben Franklin Almanac, and eating some breakfast. I joined her about 10:00am. I am happy to report, my back is a lot better! Mom has insisted I drink some of her Joint Juice...not sure if it is the reason, but after three days, I have gotten progressively better... (No doubt all the laughter didn't hurt either...)
Mom and I spent the day running some errands and buying a drawer for all the extra coffee pods we purchased... We had lunch at In and Out, enjoying the day as only two unemployed, retired, Geminis can do...
We hit the Facebook slots again....to relax from shopping.... (Mom IS NOT A SHOPPER, so it was very traumatic for her...) While answering an email to my sister Holly, Mom's black cat Nikita, joined us on the couch and casually stood upon my laptop keys, typing her own message to her. Mom laughed so hard she wet her pants... It has been a FUN day....
Mom just reminded me to announce we will be selling autographs (remember we are unemployed) as the current Facebook Family Feud Champions....
Mom is in the kitchen working her magic and I am selecting the wine for us to enjoy while finding something to watch on TV... Driving to a show will be impossible this evening and we cannot afford a chauffeur...
Friday, June 17, 2011
Dad Is Riding a Horse in the Horse Races this Sunday...
Mom went to visit Dad yesterday. She found him waiting for lunch in the long awaited, newly redecorated dining/activity room. Painted with gold paint, wainscoting around the mid wall. Recessed lighting in the ceiling, with a new coat of white paint. Soon to be fitted with new flat screened TVs at either end to make viewing more accessible.
Dad was excited to see Mom as he thought she had been kidnapped. He had called her answering machine last night, talking to my brother S____'s voice on the recorder, "I need to speak to your Mother...she was supposed to come visit me tonight... I am worried about her..."
Mom joked with Dad and asked why anyone would want to kidnap her, telling him they had no money to pay any ransom. Dad laughed, "I have millions, didn't you know that?" (I am sure Dad feels like a millionaire, free of all the worries and stress of the upkeep of their big home... living with the majority of his needs being met....)
Mom laughed, kidding him again, telling Dad she forgot he owned the nursing home.... "Who told you that?, Dad asked....
Mom changed the subject, letting Dad know my sister, youngest brother, mom and I would all be coming to visit him on Father's Day. "Good! I will be riding a horse in the races that day..."
Just then, the Activities Director came in to say hello to Mom... She told Mom about her plans to have the two flat screen TVs on either end of the dining room so she can have the Sports night or play offs and have special parties for the residents. Mom is always complimenting her on how she decorates for St. Patrick's Day, Valentines, Christmas, and all the holidays...
Mom told her to not forget the hay and oats for Sunday... She turned and looked at Mom with a puzzled expression.... Mom shared what Dad had told her about riding a horse in the races on Sunday... She broke into a chuckle, agreeing with Mom and patting Dad on the shoulder... complimenting Dad on what an excellent horseman he was...
Dad's smile turned to a frown, "Someone stole my $1,000 dollar shoes I bought in Seattle... they replaced them some dark slip on shoes...." (which were some my brother had bought Dad, after Dad told him he wanted some...)
During lunch, one particular woman resident, stood up from her wheel chair, yelling for her caregiver. When she stood, she would set off her alarm. Dad's back was to the woman, so he would only hear the alarm going off and being shut off. Dad looked at Mom with a grimace, "That noise really bothers me..." as he rubbed his thigh..."Watch this, I can make it stop, " as he continued to rub his thigh... The care giver came over and sat her down, re-setting the alarm. Dad thought by rubbing his thigh, he had stopped the noise...
Another woman, who apparently hasn't any teeth, always getting a tray with mashed food, frequently bangs her spoon so someone will come and feed her.... She began banging her spoon and in the process hitting the bowl, sending several sprays of applesauce flying into the air. Mom dodged a flying glob before the caregiver arrived to sit her down to feed her....
Another nice Hispanic lady, who often dines next to Dad, was sitting alone when her lunch was served. Generally, either her son or husband is there to feed her. Both Dad and the woman had a large meat burrito for their lunch. Mom had cut Dad's burrito, so she asked the lady if she would like Mom to cut her burrito too. The lady smiled and nodded. Shortly, her husband arrived and went to her. As soon as he approached her, she fired a rapid blast of Spanish at him. He turned and thanked Mom for helping his wife...
Mom turned around to Dad and before she could stop him, he had poured his green beans, tossed salad, Spanish rice, and green jello with marshmallows upside down onto his plate and mixed it all together. He scooped it up into big mouthfuls and polished it all off in short order. He also finished his coffee and milk, turning the cups upside down when he finished drinking them.
Everyone was dropping in to admire the newly opened lunch room. Mom received and gave hugs to several of the staff...
Suddenly Dad spoke up, "One of fellas (male care givers) took me home last night. He tucked me in and opened the window in my room. I slept like a log all night but woke up this morning in my own bed..." then let out a hearty laugh...
"I'm ready for my nap now..." so Mom wheeled him to his room, while his care giver nodded to Mom and followed behind...
" I need some toothpaste and some money... I want every ones' phone numbers too. If no one will call me, I will call them." Mom reminded Dad I call him... "Yes she does...and now that Jerry has retired, I am going to stay with them for a week...."
After Mom kissed Dad and wished him sweet dreams for his nap, she took a baby gift she had brought for the Administrator, who had just celebrated the birth of his third daughter and two remembrance gifts for the other two daughters. He was very appreciative of Mom's thoughtfulness.
Dad was excited to see Mom as he thought she had been kidnapped. He had called her answering machine last night, talking to my brother S____'s voice on the recorder, "I need to speak to your Mother...she was supposed to come visit me tonight... I am worried about her..."
Mom joked with Dad and asked why anyone would want to kidnap her, telling him they had no money to pay any ransom. Dad laughed, "I have millions, didn't you know that?" (I am sure Dad feels like a millionaire, free of all the worries and stress of the upkeep of their big home... living with the majority of his needs being met....)
Mom laughed, kidding him again, telling Dad she forgot he owned the nursing home.... "Who told you that?, Dad asked....
Mom changed the subject, letting Dad know my sister, youngest brother, mom and I would all be coming to visit him on Father's Day. "Good! I will be riding a horse in the races that day..."
Just then, the Activities Director came in to say hello to Mom... She told Mom about her plans to have the two flat screen TVs on either end of the dining room so she can have the Sports night or play offs and have special parties for the residents. Mom is always complimenting her on how she decorates for St. Patrick's Day, Valentines, Christmas, and all the holidays...
Mom told her to not forget the hay and oats for Sunday... She turned and looked at Mom with a puzzled expression.... Mom shared what Dad had told her about riding a horse in the races on Sunday... She broke into a chuckle, agreeing with Mom and patting Dad on the shoulder... complimenting Dad on what an excellent horseman he was...
Dad's smile turned to a frown, "Someone stole my $1,000 dollar shoes I bought in Seattle... they replaced them some dark slip on shoes...." (which were some my brother had bought Dad, after Dad told him he wanted some...)
During lunch, one particular woman resident, stood up from her wheel chair, yelling for her caregiver. When she stood, she would set off her alarm. Dad's back was to the woman, so he would only hear the alarm going off and being shut off. Dad looked at Mom with a grimace, "That noise really bothers me..." as he rubbed his thigh..."Watch this, I can make it stop, " as he continued to rub his thigh... The care giver came over and sat her down, re-setting the alarm. Dad thought by rubbing his thigh, he had stopped the noise...
Another woman, who apparently hasn't any teeth, always getting a tray with mashed food, frequently bangs her spoon so someone will come and feed her.... She began banging her spoon and in the process hitting the bowl, sending several sprays of applesauce flying into the air. Mom dodged a flying glob before the caregiver arrived to sit her down to feed her....
Another nice Hispanic lady, who often dines next to Dad, was sitting alone when her lunch was served. Generally, either her son or husband is there to feed her. Both Dad and the woman had a large meat burrito for their lunch. Mom had cut Dad's burrito, so she asked the lady if she would like Mom to cut her burrito too. The lady smiled and nodded. Shortly, her husband arrived and went to her. As soon as he approached her, she fired a rapid blast of Spanish at him. He turned and thanked Mom for helping his wife...
Mom turned around to Dad and before she could stop him, he had poured his green beans, tossed salad, Spanish rice, and green jello with marshmallows upside down onto his plate and mixed it all together. He scooped it up into big mouthfuls and polished it all off in short order. He also finished his coffee and milk, turning the cups upside down when he finished drinking them.
Everyone was dropping in to admire the newly opened lunch room. Mom received and gave hugs to several of the staff...
Suddenly Dad spoke up, "One of fellas (male care givers) took me home last night. He tucked me in and opened the window in my room. I slept like a log all night but woke up this morning in my own bed..." then let out a hearty laugh...
"I'm ready for my nap now..." so Mom wheeled him to his room, while his care giver nodded to Mom and followed behind...
" I need some toothpaste and some money... I want every ones' phone numbers too. If no one will call me, I will call them." Mom reminded Dad I call him... "Yes she does...and now that Jerry has retired, I am going to stay with them for a week...."
After Mom kissed Dad and wished him sweet dreams for his nap, she took a baby gift she had brought for the Administrator, who had just celebrated the birth of his third daughter and two remembrance gifts for the other two daughters. He was very appreciative of Mom's thoughtfulness.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Two Year Blog Anniversary...
I just realized today, June 1st was the anniversary in starting this blog. It totally escaped me!
My daughter, her husband, the 9 year old and the 6 year old left this morning for their vacation...I am sitting on the couch watching So You Think You Can Dance... The house is quiet and I am winding down from a nice day...
I had lunch with my girlfriend Connie at Chili's.
We dined and talked and hogged the table a good chunk of the afternoon, then went to Kohl's to spend our 30% off coupons. I got an ochre colored tablecloth and new dish towels... (I have a thing for linens...)
I chatted with my youngest brother E____ on my way home (via my cell phone ear piece)....
And finished up the day with a nice dinner at Bob's Big Boy with my dear friend Pat....we laughed and caught up enjoying each other's company and conversation...
What a nice day....
Tomorrow, I head over to Mom's house....
My daughter, her husband, the 9 year old and the 6 year old left this morning for their vacation...I am sitting on the couch watching So You Think You Can Dance... The house is quiet and I am winding down from a nice day...
I had lunch with my girlfriend Connie at Chili's.
We dined and talked and hogged the table a good chunk of the afternoon, then went to Kohl's to spend our 30% off coupons. I got an ochre colored tablecloth and new dish towels... (I have a thing for linens...)
I chatted with my youngest brother E____ on my way home (via my cell phone ear piece)....
And finished up the day with a nice dinner at Bob's Big Boy with my dear friend Pat....we laughed and caught up enjoying each other's company and conversation...
What a nice day....
Tomorrow, I head over to Mom's house....
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Teething, Legos, Monopoly and the Bachelorette....
I arrived yesterday to my oldest daughter Holly's house. Jodee and baby Jacob had arrived just before me. Jacob has been cutting his upper teeth. Jodee was very concerned with the huge spacing between the teeth. Turns out, he is cutting all four of his top teeth. He was not fussy, per se, but made a lot of grimacing looks as he chomped down to help pop those teeth through..
Jacob is crawling on all fours very well. The 9 year old and the 6 year old encouraged him to chase them and climb all over them. The boys called Jacob the Wrestling Drooler and were hysterical when he drooled on their faces...
We had a rousing game of Monopoly, with rules quite unfamiliar to me... apparently they have traffic cones players can put on their property now... The boys delighted in collecting those fees when we landed on their property.
Jacob discovered he could crawl much faster by pushing the top of the Monopoly box around the living room with his hands and pushing with his knees. The look on Jacob's face was priceless, wish I would have captured it on film... he was so proud of himself. I am not sure who was more entertainment for whom, the boys for Jacob or Jacob for the boys...but there sure was a lot of laughing going on!
The 6 year old entertained us with a repertoire of his favorite dances, complete with facial expressions and a lot of booty shaking. He completed his finale with a perfect succession of "arm pit farts".
The 9 year old did some excellent drawings of castles.... he is quite intrigued with all things Medieval...
Being a lover of castles myself, I enjoyed them immensely...
After Jodee and Jacob left, the boys were showing us their latest Lego creations...a Scorpio bike...Part scorpion and part hover bike, capable of shooting poison, Blaze, a robot capable of shooting flames out of his head and arms (because the arms are candles). The last creation was an upgraded version of Blaze called Android 19 which was bigger , more powerful and waaaaaaayyyyyy deadlier. Android 19 can only be powered down by putting ice on his candle arms. (That's a quote from the 9 year old)
While the boys took showers, Holly and I watched The Bachelorette together. I swear, Ashley is going to KICK herself when she watches the show back and see how pathetic she appears, always talking about how much she misses Bentley, and discovers what a COLOSSAL JERK he is!
Today I am watching the boys so Holly can get every one's suitcases packed and get everything ready for them to leave on their two week vacation tomorrow morning.
I have fed them both two pieces each of my famous french toast for breakfast. Now we are watching videos, playing video games, played a game of UNO (also with new rules I am not familiar with) with the 6 year old while the 9 year old and Holly went out to buy him new water shoes.
Upon their return, the 9 year old and I are having a discussion on Lego design and possibly working for Pixar in his future....
Gotta' go... they are hungry again....
Jacob is crawling on all fours very well. The 9 year old and the 6 year old encouraged him to chase them and climb all over them. The boys called Jacob the Wrestling Drooler and were hysterical when he drooled on their faces...
We had a rousing game of Monopoly, with rules quite unfamiliar to me... apparently they have traffic cones players can put on their property now... The boys delighted in collecting those fees when we landed on their property.
Jacob discovered he could crawl much faster by pushing the top of the Monopoly box around the living room with his hands and pushing with his knees. The look on Jacob's face was priceless, wish I would have captured it on film... he was so proud of himself. I am not sure who was more entertainment for whom, the boys for Jacob or Jacob for the boys...but there sure was a lot of laughing going on!
The 6 year old entertained us with a repertoire of his favorite dances, complete with facial expressions and a lot of booty shaking. He completed his finale with a perfect succession of "arm pit farts".
Being a lover of castles myself, I enjoyed them immensely...
After Jodee and Jacob left, the boys were showing us their latest Lego creations...a Scorpio bike...Part scorpion and part hover bike, capable of shooting poison, Blaze, a robot capable of shooting flames out of his head and arms (because the arms are candles). The last creation was an upgraded version of Blaze called Android 19 which was bigger , more powerful and waaaaaaayyyyyy deadlier. Android 19 can only be powered down by putting ice on his candle arms. (That's a quote from the 9 year old)
While the boys took showers, Holly and I watched The Bachelorette together. I swear, Ashley is going to KICK herself when she watches the show back and see how pathetic she appears, always talking about how much she misses Bentley, and discovers what a COLOSSAL JERK he is!
Today I am watching the boys so Holly can get every one's suitcases packed and get everything ready for them to leave on their two week vacation tomorrow morning.
I have fed them both two pieces each of my famous french toast for breakfast. Now we are watching videos, playing video games, played a game of UNO (also with new rules I am not familiar with) with the 6 year old while the 9 year old and Holly went out to buy him new water shoes.
Upon their return, the 9 year old and I are having a discussion on Lego design and possibly working for Pixar in his future....
Gotta' go... they are hungry again....
Thursday, June 9, 2011
If I Don't Clean My Plate, They'll Freeze The Food And I'll Have To Eat It Tomorrow...
Mom was on her way to visit Dad when she received an emergency prayer request. Normally, she is the back up, but she could not reach anyone and ended up making five phone calls before she could deliver the message.
She found Dad wearing shorts, waiting for lunch in the temporary lunch room. Sitting with his eyes closed and tapping his toes to the soft music playing... He was very happy to see her, telling her, "You are so very cute Lynnie". His lunch tray was placed in front of him by a gal Dad calls, "Goldie". Mom was kind of surprised to see a hot dog for Dad's lunch. Goldie asked Dad if he wanted mustard or mayo and Dad said "Yes, please." She asked Dad if he wanted mustard too... "Sure, why not, " he replied...
While he waited for her to dress the hot dog, Dad turned the name/menu card around and noticed it was not his name. "This is not me," he informed her... Embarrassed, she apologized to both Mom and Dad. She scurried away and returned with Lasagna for Dad..."This is much better!" he announced...
Mom said she noticed one lady had a grilled cheese sandwich, another had mashed potatoes, mashed squash, a drink supplement and jello and another had the same plate as Dad...Lasagna, salad, Spanish rice, vanilla pudding with a large strawberry, coffee and milk.
I always thought all the residents had the same thing. I guess I never noticed what the others were eating. I was too focused on Dad... Mom said Dad did not leave even a grain of rice on his plate...
Dad wanted to go on the patio, but it was cool and over cast outside. Mom was concerned Dad would be too cold with his shorts on... so she asked if he would like to go talk in the nook, or back to his room.
Suddenly, Dad said his grand father's name aloud, "He used to take frozen baths...is he still alive?"
Mom agreed, telling Dad his grand father used to take cold baths to get used to swimming in the North Sea in Ireland, as he was a champion swimmer...and no, he died before they had any of their children...
"Yes, that is right," Dad smiled, looking at Mom with adoration...
"I think I am ready for a nap..."
Mom wheeled Dad to his room and asked the charge nurse who would be helping Dad get into bed...shortly a young woman appeared and got Dad all settled in bed. She told Mom when she wakes Dad in the morning and asks him how he feels, he always smiles a big smile and tells her, "I'm feeling happy today!" She said he always starts her day off with a smile and positive attitude...
How wonderful this caregiver can get such positive enforcement from an Alzheimer's patient...and how Blessed we are Dad is still sharing his positive attitude and energy with others...
Mom was sitting on Dad's left side, which is his bad ear. Her questions and comments were sailing past his ears as he spoke what he was thinking...
"I like to watch the basketball game until my eyes close."
"I had liver and onions last night and ate every bite! If I don't clean my plate, they'll freeze the food and I'll have to eat it tomorrow..."
"E____ (my youngest brother who visited him yesterday) hired some tall guy to help him with his business when I told him I would be available to spend a week with him..." (I am sure this is news to my brother.... :} )
With that, Dad shut his eyes and let out a long, relaxed, "aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh", so Mom took the hint and gave him his hug and kiss good bye. "Be careful driving dear..." he mumbled, still with his eyes closed...
Mom assured him she was very careful driver...
On her way out, she saw the Administrator. He greeted Mom, giving her our customary family hug. He told her Dad was one of the most pleasant people they have at the nursing home...
What a Blessing indeed!
She found Dad wearing shorts, waiting for lunch in the temporary lunch room. Sitting with his eyes closed and tapping his toes to the soft music playing... He was very happy to see her, telling her, "You are so very cute Lynnie". His lunch tray was placed in front of him by a gal Dad calls, "Goldie". Mom was kind of surprised to see a hot dog for Dad's lunch. Goldie asked Dad if he wanted mustard or mayo and Dad said "Yes, please." She asked Dad if he wanted mustard too... "Sure, why not, " he replied...
While he waited for her to dress the hot dog, Dad turned the name/menu card around and noticed it was not his name. "This is not me," he informed her... Embarrassed, she apologized to both Mom and Dad. She scurried away and returned with Lasagna for Dad..."This is much better!" he announced...
Mom said she noticed one lady had a grilled cheese sandwich, another had mashed potatoes, mashed squash, a drink supplement and jello and another had the same plate as Dad...Lasagna, salad, Spanish rice, vanilla pudding with a large strawberry, coffee and milk.
I always thought all the residents had the same thing. I guess I never noticed what the others were eating. I was too focused on Dad... Mom said Dad did not leave even a grain of rice on his plate...
Dad wanted to go on the patio, but it was cool and over cast outside. Mom was concerned Dad would be too cold with his shorts on... so she asked if he would like to go talk in the nook, or back to his room.
Suddenly, Dad said his grand father's name aloud, "He used to take frozen baths...is he still alive?"
Mom agreed, telling Dad his grand father used to take cold baths to get used to swimming in the North Sea in Ireland, as he was a champion swimmer...and no, he died before they had any of their children...
"Yes, that is right," Dad smiled, looking at Mom with adoration...
"I think I am ready for a nap..."
Mom wheeled Dad to his room and asked the charge nurse who would be helping Dad get into bed...shortly a young woman appeared and got Dad all settled in bed. She told Mom when she wakes Dad in the morning and asks him how he feels, he always smiles a big smile and tells her, "I'm feeling happy today!" She said he always starts her day off with a smile and positive attitude...
How wonderful this caregiver can get such positive enforcement from an Alzheimer's patient...and how Blessed we are Dad is still sharing his positive attitude and energy with others...
Mom was sitting on Dad's left side, which is his bad ear. Her questions and comments were sailing past his ears as he spoke what he was thinking...
"I like to watch the basketball game until my eyes close."
"I had liver and onions last night and ate every bite! If I don't clean my plate, they'll freeze the food and I'll have to eat it tomorrow..."
"E____ (my youngest brother who visited him yesterday) hired some tall guy to help him with his business when I told him I would be available to spend a week with him..." (I am sure this is news to my brother.... :} )
With that, Dad shut his eyes and let out a long, relaxed, "aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh", so Mom took the hint and gave him his hug and kiss good bye. "Be careful driving dear..." he mumbled, still with his eyes closed...
Mom assured him she was very careful driver...
On her way out, she saw the Administrator. He greeted Mom, giving her our customary family hug. He told her Dad was one of the most pleasant people they have at the nursing home...
What a Blessing indeed!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
A Very Special Happy Birthday To Me...
My youngest brother E___ went to visit Dad today... The main lunch room is still under construction. It is being painted and the floors are being changed. He had to hunt around for Dad and finally asked one of the nurses where he was. The nurse directed him to an activity room, where they have made it into a lunch room... Dad had just been wheeled out into the hallway, after finishing his lunch, when my brother approached...
Dad was very excited to see him, and reached to him to give him a big hug. My brother decided to wheel Dad outside, to the front of the building. Fresh flowers had been planted and we all know how Dad loves bright, cheery flowers... My brother settled on the bench and faced Dad toward the flowers so he could enjoy them...
Dad was full of joy and complimenting about the weather...how beautiful it was outside. It was close to lunch time, so there was heavy foot traffic, visitors, doctors, nurses, staff, coming and going...each time someone would pass, Dad would smile, say "Hello", or strike up a conversation....E____ would join in too...
My brother's birthday was two days ago, and mine is today. E____ told Dad about his birthday and asked if he remembered whose birthday it was today...first he guessed it was Mom's...then he guessed mine. E____ asked if Dad would like to talk with me.... so my brother called me on the phone and told me there was someone who wanted to talk with me...
I had talked with my brother that morning and we had a long conversation about our dogs...my brother has four. For a minute, I thought he was going to have one of his dogs talk on the phone to me...because one of them is very vocal and talks often when we are having a conversation...
I am standing in line at Walmart, returning something...and as I wait, I suddenly hear my Father's voice, singing at the top of his lungs, in full singing voice, singing me Happy Birthday! I tell you, it MADE MY DAY!!!! That was one of the sweetest things my brother has done for me... We chatted a bit and then I told him I would see him in a few days and to enjoy his visit with E____.
As they sat out front talking, a woman parked by the fire hydrant and ran into the nursing home. Shortly after, a police car pulled up and was ready to write a ticket. A nurse parked and went to the officer and asked if she could go get the woman so she would not get a ticket. He allowed her to get her. Moments later, she came rushing back out and moved her car. My brother and Dad discussed how nice it was of the nurse and the Police officer to not give her a ticket...
My brother was curious about some of Dad's memories in the Marine Corps. E___ began by asking Dad what rank he had been. Dad told him he was a Corporal and in charge of the anti-tank guns. I know Dad was also a sharp shooter... but we will have to confirm the rest of what Dad said with Mom... He said he was on the island for the battle of Tarawa for five months. They had to stay to guard the island and wait for the exchange with the Army....
Dad said the Marines came over to the island on the USS Wharton...He talked of all the coconuts up in the palm trees and how the rats would knock them out of the trees at night... He spoke of how the Japanese dug in deep and hid in concrete shelters.... When they were captured, they used to walk in surrender position, with their hands behind their heads....but were hiding grenades. They would wait until they were in the midst of several Marines, then pull the pin and kill the soldiers and themselves...
He could not remember the name of the ship he sailed to Hawaii...he stayed below deck most of the time... They went to Honolulu to inspect the damage at Pearl Harbor...
E___ asked what his best memory was from the War... Dad said when they were on the aircraft carrier, coming into San Francisco harbor... and he could see the Golden Gate Bridge...and all the people were lined up along side the shore, saluting, cheering, clapping and hollering. Many of the Marines tossed their hats into the air... He said he felt so good and it was his best memory of the War...
When he came home, he did prison duty and guarded the prisoners in San Pedro, CA.... he dressed in his greens...
Dad asked E____ how his business was coming along...so they discussed my brother's business for a while...
Dad was looking tired...probably relaxed from sitting out in the sun. My brother wheeled him back to his room, gave him some love and hugged him good bye...
See you soon Dad...
Dad was very excited to see him, and reached to him to give him a big hug. My brother decided to wheel Dad outside, to the front of the building. Fresh flowers had been planted and we all know how Dad loves bright, cheery flowers... My brother settled on the bench and faced Dad toward the flowers so he could enjoy them...
Dad was full of joy and complimenting about the weather...how beautiful it was outside. It was close to lunch time, so there was heavy foot traffic, visitors, doctors, nurses, staff, coming and going...each time someone would pass, Dad would smile, say "Hello", or strike up a conversation....E____ would join in too...
My brother's birthday was two days ago, and mine is today. E____ told Dad about his birthday and asked if he remembered whose birthday it was today...first he guessed it was Mom's...then he guessed mine. E____ asked if Dad would like to talk with me.... so my brother called me on the phone and told me there was someone who wanted to talk with me...
I had talked with my brother that morning and we had a long conversation about our dogs...my brother has four. For a minute, I thought he was going to have one of his dogs talk on the phone to me...because one of them is very vocal and talks often when we are having a conversation...
I am standing in line at Walmart, returning something...and as I wait, I suddenly hear my Father's voice, singing at the top of his lungs, in full singing voice, singing me Happy Birthday! I tell you, it MADE MY DAY!!!! That was one of the sweetest things my brother has done for me... We chatted a bit and then I told him I would see him in a few days and to enjoy his visit with E____.
As they sat out front talking, a woman parked by the fire hydrant and ran into the nursing home. Shortly after, a police car pulled up and was ready to write a ticket. A nurse parked and went to the officer and asked if she could go get the woman so she would not get a ticket. He allowed her to get her. Moments later, she came rushing back out and moved her car. My brother and Dad discussed how nice it was of the nurse and the Police officer to not give her a ticket...
My brother was curious about some of Dad's memories in the Marine Corps. E___ began by asking Dad what rank he had been. Dad told him he was a Corporal and in charge of the anti-tank guns. I know Dad was also a sharp shooter... but we will have to confirm the rest of what Dad said with Mom... He said he was on the island for the battle of Tarawa for five months. They had to stay to guard the island and wait for the exchange with the Army....
Dad said the Marines came over to the island on the USS Wharton...He talked of all the coconuts up in the palm trees and how the rats would knock them out of the trees at night... He spoke of how the Japanese dug in deep and hid in concrete shelters.... When they were captured, they used to walk in surrender position, with their hands behind their heads....but were hiding grenades. They would wait until they were in the midst of several Marines, then pull the pin and kill the soldiers and themselves...
He could not remember the name of the ship he sailed to Hawaii...he stayed below deck most of the time... They went to Honolulu to inspect the damage at Pearl Harbor...
E___ asked what his best memory was from the War... Dad said when they were on the aircraft carrier, coming into San Francisco harbor... and he could see the Golden Gate Bridge...and all the people were lined up along side the shore, saluting, cheering, clapping and hollering. Many of the Marines tossed their hats into the air... He said he felt so good and it was his best memory of the War...
When he came home, he did prison duty and guarded the prisoners in San Pedro, CA.... he dressed in his greens...
Dad asked E____ how his business was coming along...so they discussed my brother's business for a while...
Dad was looking tired...probably relaxed from sitting out in the sun. My brother wheeled him back to his room, gave him some love and hugged him good bye...
See you soon Dad...
Monday, June 6, 2011
A Flurry of Family Events and Some Sad News...
Just wanted to touch base with everyone....my blogging has slowed down this month...at least due to last week and this week preparing a week stay in California... We have ten family birthdays this month, plus have family in town this weekend, leaving tomorrow... I have a ton of preparations to do, car stuff, errands, etc....I leave the 14th and return home on the 21st...
I will be popping in and out when time allows...
Just found out this morning, my friend Barbs, one of the gal pals in our creative group, lost one of their two dogs, Sadie, last night. She had difficulty breathing and had to be put down. Sadie was her husband's dog...big love affair between them. She would knock everything off the table with her tail when he came home. They would be up in his "man cave" watching sports together. She was his shadow... Their other dog, Shaq is having a very difficult time. I am so sad I cannot even write another word....
I will be popping in and out when time allows...
Just found out this morning, my friend Barbs, one of the gal pals in our creative group, lost one of their two dogs, Sadie, last night. She had difficulty breathing and had to be put down. Sadie was her husband's dog...big love affair between them. She would knock everything off the table with her tail when he came home. They would be up in his "man cave" watching sports together. She was his shadow... Their other dog, Shaq is having a very difficult time. I am so sad I cannot even write another word....
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Black Powder In The Water Is Crushed Poppy Seeds....
I am so sick of these Blogger problems...I could not post with Internet Explorer 9 or Chrome...so I had to use Mozilla Firefox. If Blogger does not get things fixed, I may take a sabbatical from blogging...
Dad called Mom tonight sounding agitated. He wanted my phone number. He wanted to come stay with me for a week and he wanted Mom to give him the money... Mom said she would call me and have me call him. She told him to sit on his bed and wait for me to call...
She called to warn me. I called Dad, making sure I sounded very positive and happy when he answered the phone. He immediately was happy to hear my voice. He asked when I was coming to see him, and I told him in a couple of weeks. I told him I had some things to do, then I would get my car checked out for the trip and would come to see him.
Our short conversation seemed to satisfy him and he was ready to hang up. I attempted to engage him in further conversation, but he told me he had just eaten a big dinner and may be soon having problems... I knew what he meant... I reminded him when food goes in....it has to come back out... and my comment made him belly laugh... I told him I loved him and would see him soon.
Mom went to visit Dad earlier today. She found him in one of the party rooms....Mom asked if he wanted to go sit on the patio and he was ready to go. The nursing home is still under construction painting and redecorating both the dining rooms. There was a nice breeze, but not too cold. His lunch of barbecued beef sandwich, peas, corn, jello salad, lemon cake, milk and coffee was served on the patio. Naturally, he ate every bite, smacking his lips when he finished.
Dad told her he slept like a log last night...he thinks it is the black powder they put in the water...
Dad leaned over and whispered in Mom's ear..."I think the black powder is crushed poppy seeds..."
Dad was pretty chatty...so I will just write down what Mom wrote Dad said...
.....He is a consultant to the tree people, communicating with him if they have any problems and need his help....
.....He enjoyed two slices of toast with melted butter...it was the most delicious toast he ever had...
.....He had such a good nights sleep, when he woke up, he thought he was in heaven.... The nights he cannot sleep, he does guard duty...
.....His father left him a huge fortune. There was a huge bag full of winning tickets, cash and $1,000 dollar bills. He covered it all up with plastic and put it under his bed. When he moved it, the sides broke and money flew everywhere. It was a massive fortune and he did not know how his father accumulated so much wealth.... maybe through the box office arena... His dad was too busy in business... All the money disappeared...somebody obviously needed it...
.....He wants to go stay with E_______ (my youngest brother) for a week and see how he does his business.... Mom told him I had spoken with him recently and he was up in the High Sierras fishing. Dad laughed and told Mom he would see him later... Mom suggested maybe E______ will bring pictures to share with Dad the next time he visits...
Dad asked Mom if she remembered the stone house in Connecticut... Mom reminded him he lived there before she met him... He felt a lot of responsibility when he took any of his sisters out sailing in his boat... His sisters used to rope him into drying the dishes....Mom said he laughed at the memory...
..... He had a girlfriend from South Carolina. Her name was Demi. Some of his service buddies knew her too. She hung around with his sister and her boyfriend Bruce... Bruce was a tanker and was dragged in the water... he retired as an officer....
..... He and Demi had some pretty heavy dates... his dad and uncle took her out to dinner... she was 'well developed'... His father was a good business man, but his inventions are what made him so wealthy...
...... They had a scare last night; lightening would strike the building and it would shake. That same night he had three showers.... They need to get some redwood to build a new building because it would not burn...
Mom told Dad she had the trees trimmed at their house. He wanted to know who was doing the yard now, and she told him about her gardener and he smiled. She told him the pomegranate starts they gave the secretary at the school she used to work, had 3 blossoms on it. It made Dad laugh out loud!
Dad asked Mom where she slept...she told him she still slept upstairs...."With your books and jewelry?" he asked...She told him yes... He wanted to know what was done to his room...she told him their grand daughter moved in because she lost her room mate. She painted it and fixed it up very nice. Dad smiled happily... "That is wonderful....
He told her he was tired and ready for a snooze... Mom wheeled him back to his room, where Doctor-Doctor met them in the hallway. She told Mom she would take over and get Dad tucked into bed.
Dad called Mom tonight sounding agitated. He wanted my phone number. He wanted to come stay with me for a week and he wanted Mom to give him the money... Mom said she would call me and have me call him. She told him to sit on his bed and wait for me to call...
She called to warn me. I called Dad, making sure I sounded very positive and happy when he answered the phone. He immediately was happy to hear my voice. He asked when I was coming to see him, and I told him in a couple of weeks. I told him I had some things to do, then I would get my car checked out for the trip and would come to see him.
Our short conversation seemed to satisfy him and he was ready to hang up. I attempted to engage him in further conversation, but he told me he had just eaten a big dinner and may be soon having problems... I knew what he meant... I reminded him when food goes in....it has to come back out... and my comment made him belly laugh... I told him I loved him and would see him soon.
Mom went to visit Dad earlier today. She found him in one of the party rooms....Mom asked if he wanted to go sit on the patio and he was ready to go. The nursing home is still under construction painting and redecorating both the dining rooms. There was a nice breeze, but not too cold. His lunch of barbecued beef sandwich, peas, corn, jello salad, lemon cake, milk and coffee was served on the patio. Naturally, he ate every bite, smacking his lips when he finished.
Dad told her he slept like a log last night...he thinks it is the black powder they put in the water...
Dad leaned over and whispered in Mom's ear..."I think the black powder is crushed poppy seeds..."
Dad was pretty chatty...so I will just write down what Mom wrote Dad said...
.....He is a consultant to the tree people, communicating with him if they have any problems and need his help....
.....He enjoyed two slices of toast with melted butter...it was the most delicious toast he ever had...
.....He had such a good nights sleep, when he woke up, he thought he was in heaven.... The nights he cannot sleep, he does guard duty...
.....His father left him a huge fortune. There was a huge bag full of winning tickets, cash and $1,000 dollar bills. He covered it all up with plastic and put it under his bed. When he moved it, the sides broke and money flew everywhere. It was a massive fortune and he did not know how his father accumulated so much wealth.... maybe through the box office arena... His dad was too busy in business... All the money disappeared...somebody obviously needed it...
.....He wants to go stay with E_______ (my youngest brother) for a week and see how he does his business.... Mom told him I had spoken with him recently and he was up in the High Sierras fishing. Dad laughed and told Mom he would see him later... Mom suggested maybe E______ will bring pictures to share with Dad the next time he visits...
Dad asked Mom if she remembered the stone house in Connecticut... Mom reminded him he lived there before she met him... He felt a lot of responsibility when he took any of his sisters out sailing in his boat... His sisters used to rope him into drying the dishes....Mom said he laughed at the memory...
..... He had a girlfriend from South Carolina. Her name was Demi. Some of his service buddies knew her too. She hung around with his sister and her boyfriend Bruce... Bruce was a tanker and was dragged in the water... he retired as an officer....
..... He and Demi had some pretty heavy dates... his dad and uncle took her out to dinner... she was 'well developed'... His father was a good business man, but his inventions are what made him so wealthy...
...... They had a scare last night; lightening would strike the building and it would shake. That same night he had three showers.... They need to get some redwood to build a new building because it would not burn...
Mom told Dad she had the trees trimmed at their house. He wanted to know who was doing the yard now, and she told him about her gardener and he smiled. She told him the pomegranate starts they gave the secretary at the school she used to work, had 3 blossoms on it. It made Dad laugh out loud!
Dad asked Mom where she slept...she told him she still slept upstairs...."With your books and jewelry?" he asked...She told him yes... He wanted to know what was done to his room...she told him their grand daughter moved in because she lost her room mate. She painted it and fixed it up very nice. Dad smiled happily... "That is wonderful....
He told her he was tired and ready for a snooze... Mom wheeled him back to his room, where Doctor-Doctor met them in the hallway. She told Mom she would take over and get Dad tucked into bed.
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