Savior Work...

Mom got an early start yesterday and went to visit Dad earlier than she usually does.  She stopped off at the Social Worker's office to drop off some paperwork requested at Dad's last Care Conference...

Mom also brought in a wedding picture when Mom and Dad were first married....Mom so beautiful with her flowing locks and satin wedding gown...Dad a handsome Marine in his dress blues.  The staff commented on how great the picture was and the Activities Director asked if Mom could get it enlarged so she could do a memory frame for it.  She told Mom to bring any other photos she would like to add to it.  We all are so touched by the offer, as it shows us just how special this nursing home is and how much the staff really care for Dad and our family.

One nurse complimented Mom on what an attractive couple they were and it was no wonder her sons were so handsome... ( I have no doubt my brother's got a kick out of her opinion...)

It was 87 degrees yesterday, so Mom wheeled Dad out on the patio so he could enjoy the sun on his back.  Dad commented several times how good the sun felt.  Dad was very vocal and talked Mom's ear off.  Most of it did not make a lick of sense, but she smiled, nodded and agreed with every thing he said.

"I'm kind of tired of visiting and helping people who are always sad. 'Savior work' is getting boring..."

Mom reminded him they had both taken the Stephen's Ministry classes through their church...

"I don't remember that...it is kind of fuzzy to me...Indoor services is pretty nerve racking...they keep talking about such simple things which is so stupid.  I am not getting enough  sleep because they talk too much..."

Mom suggested he let the staff know if he needs rest and wants to take a quiet nap....or he could just close his eyes and pretend he is asleep...

Dad roared with laughter and told her "That is great advice.  I have to remember that so I can do it next time..."  Dad laughed again and told her it was a great idea.  It is so good to hear Dad is laughing again...leave it to Mom to get him cheered up...

Mom shared with Dad how my brother's family in Ohio is having snow flurries... Dad put his head back and belly laughed....telling her what a glorious day it was today and how he loved to feel the sun on his face and back...

Mom heard the lunch trays being brought in, so she told Dad it was lunch time and she wheeled him inside.  One of Dad's favorite male attendants took Dad from Mom and seated Dad at a table and placed his lunch tray in front of him, settling himself beside Dad to feed him.  Mom smacked her lips at Dad's fresh tuna salad sandwich, lentil bean and carrot soup, green salad, pears in green Jell-o, strawberry ice cream, coffee and milk.  Mom thanked the attendant but said she would feed Dad so he could help one of the other residents eat their lunch...

Dad polished off everything and let out an enormous belch.

Mom told him, "Well, EXCUSE YOU!" and Dad howled with laughter, looking very proud of himself.

"I am ready for some good sleep, " Dad smiled, and patted his stomach...

A lady resident at Dad's table refused to eat her lunch and Mom said she almost snatched it... The food always smells so delicious we all salivate when Dad's meals are served.

Mom shared their wedding photo with Pickles, Doctor-Doctor, the Skin Angel (Dad's wound care nurse) and a few other staff members after she hugged and kissed Dad good-bye, wishing him sweet dreams...