9 Months Since Dad's Death…Soaring With Eagles…Updates on my life and Grand kids...

I've really had my Father on my mind so much these past couple of weeks.  I've been waiting and wanting him to come to me in my sleep.  I have had one night where I saw him in my dreams, he was there, but not connecting with me.

Knowing my Dad, the way I do, and knowing after death the soul no longer experiences time; more than likely Dad is exploring.  He was a very curious fellow, loving adventure and exploration.  Not having the confines of Alzheimer's, I know he is soaring with eagles.

I will be patient.  I know he will come….maybe at the year anniversary of his death….maybe my birthday next month…

Meanwhile I will be thinking of him this Memorial weekend, for all he did for our country and for all he was to our family.

Two weeks ago I returned from California helping my daughter after the c-section birth of her second child, her first daughter.  I'd like to share a picture of my precious, first grand daughter, Jordynn.

 4-28-14 10 days old with proud Grandma

 4-28-14 Remember my grand son Jacob?  Here he is with his little sister and I on the day I returned to Nevada.  I had the best time staying with them for two weeks.  Words cannot express how difficult it was for me to leave.  Jacob is now three and a half years old.  He is the sweetest and best big brother to his sister.  I am so very proud of him.

5-17-14 Sleeping beauty….my most recent photo of my grand daughter sent from my daughter.  She is thriving and healthy.  God Bless and protect their family.

A couple days after returning home I threw out my back and spent a week in bed with back spasms and back pain.  I have not been doing any painting or blogging…

My other grand sons are all doing well too.  The almost 12 year old is in an Archery tournament this weekend and did very well.  His brother the 10 year old just did a trumpet solo in band and their little brother, who is now 14 months is climbing and running everywhere…keeping the entire family on their toes…he loves playing with his Labradors and helping his Daddy in the yard…

I am very, very, very Blessed.  Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone….

Updates and What's Been Happening Around Here...

So much has been going on….I just had my sister come visit for a week and we had so much fun painting in our Art Journals, buying supplies at the many art/craft stores with our coupons, yard sailing and searching for bargains in the thrift stores.  It was SO GOOD having that one on one time with her.  I miss my family so much…and she is my only sister.  We have four brothers.

Another huge event, is my youngest daughter is having my first grand daughter mid April.  I will be going to stay with her for a couple, three weeks after she delivers.  She only has almost four months of maternity leave, so I will be taking Izzy my dog, and moving in with them in California to help out with the baby until she is old enough to be placed in Day Care.  I'll probably stay with them through December.

I am praying a reliable, child loving person will come into our lives and help my daughter and son in law feel comfortable in hiring a "stranger" who might become a trusted and extended member of their family…

I am also praying Izzy adjusts to an entirely different environment, people and their two Labradors.  Typically, Izzy has a "Napoleon Complex" barking and carrying on toward larger dogs.  I am hoping her preference to be around me helps her adjust and adapt.  I'd hate to leave her home with my husband, because I am STILL trying to walk off the extra weight she gained from my last three week trip to California in January. According to our Vet, Izzy needs to lose 8 pounds…yikes!

My youngest grandson's first birthday is the end of this month and we will board her while we are gone…so no doubt she will lose a few pounds over the weekend…at least I hope she does.

While I am in California, caring for my grand daughter, my husband will come out monthly for a week or two and stay with us and then return home to hold down the home front.

I am hoping, when my husband comes out, we can check out various properties and see if I can persuade him to move back to California.  I miss my two daughters, my four grand sons and now, soon,  new grand daughter.  I want to be more available for my Mom and I miss my family and friends.

I have been watching the news coverage daily.  My heart aches for all the families, loved one's and friends of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370.  I cannot imagine the roller coaster of hope and horror those people are all going through these past two weeks.  I am praying for a miracle….and hopefully, the plane is found.

Last but not least, I am still holding firm with my weight loss and am still deliberating and indecisive about whether to use this blog as my new art blog, or to create a new one.  My painting is more frequent then it was last year, but still no where close to daily, or even weekly….which disappoints me.

Packing up Dad's Things and Remembering. Weekend in Laguna and Visiting Family.

I just returned from an extended trip to California.  I helped Mom with some heavy cleaning around her home and we sorted through all Dad's clothes and things she still had in the garage.  We donated most of it, but I kept three of his handkerchiefs.  I gave one to my sister and I kept two.  Dad ALWAYS carried a handkerchief.  I can still remember his sneeze and the way he blew his nose... Makes me smile just to think of it...

I took some of his shoe-stretchers for my husband, a letter opener and the noisy cow bell Dad used to hang from the front door when he lived at home.  He was so paranoid about someone breaking into the house. He was sure that noisy thing would startle any intruders and would certainly let him know trouble was in progress.

We still have so many of his books in Mom's office.  Dad had made book shelves in the closet to store some of them.  He had old college class books from Cal Poly on Mathematics, Science, Botany, Fertilization, Drafting, Design; books on Chess, Nature, Gold Mining and lots of  How to Fix It type books.

Mom still feels too disrespectful to get rid of them because Dad always held his books with such high regard...

One of the chores I did for Mom was to trim the Pomegranate tree outside her back porch.  I started that tree over fifty years ago when I used to steal the fruit off a neighbors tree, bring it home and sit on the back porch, spitting out the white part of the seeds after I had eaten the juicy red parts.  The tree is huge and produces so much fruit.

Mom sat on the patio and kept me company, often telling me to stop and rest...which I ignored.  I was using one of Dad's old Loppers, which had not been sharpened in several years.  Mom said I grimaced the same way Dad did when he trimmed it.  I told her I felt Dad was with me, helping guide me as to what branches to cut and which to keep.  I really did.

I have fond memories of Dad and I working in the yard together...he would always start by telling me the plants technical name and then it's common name.  He would tell me how much water to give it and how to trim the leaves, as if he were talking about a child I needed to know about when I babysat.  Some how he always made me feel like we were doing something so important and doing it with honor for living things.

He had me talking to the plants and feeling perfectly sane in doing so.  Later, after I moved out into my own apartment, I would leave classical music on for my plants.  I am still convinced it is why they all flourished and grew so big and healthy.

I attended one of my son in law's Mother's Memorial.  She battled cancer for over a year and died early Christmas morning.  It was a wonderful service.  My son in law and one of his dear friends worked on an extremely moving video of her life.  Very emotional.  A young 9 year old girl, unrelated to the family, other than friendship, had adopted Me-Maw (as all the grand kids called her) as her Grandmother-Me-Maw.
She wanted to sing a song in her honor and sang, In the Arms of an Angel.  If the song was not enough, her voice was like an angel, and there was not a dry eye in the entire room!

I spent a couple days with my youngest daughter, son in law and my three year old grandson....who was constantly reminding me of his baby sister residing in his Mother's belly and how she will be here soon to play with him...They had all been sick with the flu after the Memorial and my daughter was due to have her shower for my first grand daughter the day before I was to leave.  I said a prayer to keep me healthy and not to have my back go out as I disregarded all warnings by family members to not go because I might get sick.

I am happy to say, my daughter and son in law were able to get plenty of rest so she was able to attend her shower and I did not get sick or throw out my back.

I also visited my oldest daughter and my three grand sons.  Can you believe the 9 month old is walking already?  Or should I say, running?  And on his tip toes??  He has a rough time cutting teeth and constantly grunts to communicate.... He sounds like a little cave man, or a baby bear or elephant.  Once in a while he lets out a squeal...a laugh...usually when one of his brothers come into the room.  The older brother is 11 and the younger one is 9.  The baby just lights up with both of them and they get the biggest charge out of the little guy.

It was so good seeing everyone...I miss them so much.  I am grateful I am only 3.5 or 4 hours away instead of having to hop on a plane and fly to them.

Mom, my sister Holly, my youngest daughter and I had all planned to spend Martin Luther King weekend in Laguna Beach at the Pacific Edge Hotel.  Since my daughter was still sick, she did not get to join us.  We had a wonderful, relaxing time, but decided to come home one day early because my daughter felt so bad missing the weekend she insisted on still paying her portion.  By leaving early, we paid a little bit less than what our portions would have been if she had come.

My sister and I took a long walk on the beach, taking pictures and walked quite a ways.  There were several people walking their dogs on the beach, but on our way back, I noticed a woman walking a huge, white wolf.  I brought it to the attention of my sister and she did not believe me.  Sure enough, it was a rescued wolf from a sanctuary in Lucerne Valley.

A few months ago, I had been to a Meditation class.  I was particularly focused on wanting to connect with my Dad.  Instead, I got a visit from a big white wolf who guided me through the woods, lush plants and flowers to a clearing on a bluff above the ocean.  I sat with the wolf and enjoyed the view.

I asked the woman if the wolf had a name and she told me his name was Journey.  I got goose pimples thinking of my white wolf vision and the title of my blog being Mystical Journeys... It gave me such a good, peaceful feeling, as if it was destiny.

Getting Ready for the Alzheimer's Walk in Dad's Honor...

This coming Thursday I leave for California.  Our family is walking in the Alzheimer's Walk in Huntington Beach, CA on Saturday November 3, 2013.  

My preparation?  Walking my dog once or twice a day...There is a 2 mile and a 4 mile walk, but I can do 4 miles easy. (I hope).  We'll all be walking and talking, pushing the nephews and grand sons in strollers and the time will fly by.

Mom is not sure if she can find her fold up camping chair so she can sit on the side of the road and cheer us on...depends on the weather.  I know she wants to be with us, but there is no way she could walk it.  If we can get our hands on a wheel chair, we could push her...

My grand son turned 9 years old yesterday.  He was THRILLED he passed the height test so he could ride the bumper cards at the fun place he chose to go for his celebration.  I am looking forward to seeing him, along with the 11 year old and the newest grand son who is coming up on 7 months. He's a turbo-crawler and is pulling himself up into a standing position at the couch and then holding on with one hand, attemping to take a step.  He so wants to walk and run like his big brothers...

My youngest daughter is pregnant again and we were all surprised to learn she is having a GIRL!  My first grand daughter.  Her 3 year old son Jacob is getting more excited about being a big brother to a baby sister. My daughter is due in April, 2014.  This pink bundle will make my fifth grand child!!

I've been lying low and taking it easy this month and it feels good.  Since the weather has cooled off I have been re-focusing on de-cluttering.  I really want to clean out our garage so I can have the option to park my car in there if I want to.

We celebrated our 4 year Adoption Day for our rescue dog Izzy.  I gave her a bath, took her for some walks, got her some chew treats, a new toothbrush, a jacket and a bag of Greenies.  She's a happy girl.

We also celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary by going to a movie (Captain Philips) and to see Big Elvis. For years Big Elvis has been at Bill's Gamblin' Hall but due to their renovations, moved to Harrah's and does three shows a day, four days a week.  The FREE shows are 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm and 5:00 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.  His show at the Piano Bar inside Harrah's is dark on Wednesday and the weekends.
He really sounds like Elvis, but does the entire show sitting in his throne and occasionally stands up to do a short shimmy or Elvis move.... He really sounds like Elvis and puts on a great show.  We had a really good time.  If you come to Vegas, you should check it out.  He has won first place in yearly Elvis Impersonation Contests.

We also went to the MOB MUSEUM in downtown Vegas.  It is housed in the old Federal Building where the Mafia trials were held.  It is three stories of memorabilia and interactive displays and videos.  We spent over three hours in there.  We went to celebrate my husband's birthday.  We both really enjoyed it.  We get a Local discount and got in for $10 each.  Once you pay the entry fee, you get a band on your wrist and can park there all day as long as the museum is open and go in and out in case you get hungry and want to go downtown and get some lunch.  Another Vegas attraction worth a visit...

I will post pictures of the walk upon my return.

Mom Brought Donuts....

Mom went back to the nursing home today...she brought a huge box of donuts and personally took them around, visiting everyone who cared for Dad...

The superintendent of the facility was there and thanked Mom again for her written thank you note for the beautiful flowers they sent for Dad's funeral.  She gave him a picture of the flowers so he could post it.  She also shared pictures from Dad's funeral with everyone.

Everyone was so grateful for the pictures and commented how beautiful it was.  Mom visited with Doctor-Doctor, Pickles, the Skin Angel, the Head of Nursing, and all of them wanted to know how we are were doing.  Doctor-Doctor mentioned my brother E_____ had come in to extend his thanks for the excellent care Dad received there. She and the others were quite touched he made the effort to come in.

Mom asked the Superintendent for some business cards.  Several people in her Support Group had requested cards as well as Mom's physician.  He was very impressed we felt so positive and wished to pass along referrals to others.  We all agreed how happy we are with the care provided to Dad with such genuine compassion and love.

I know it was not easy for Mom to return to the nursing home, especially by herself, but I am so proud of her and I know how welcomed she must have felt by everyone.  We really feel they are all an extension of our family.  We have shared such an intimate experience together...

I still miss Dad.  I know I always will.  Some days I feel raw and very emotional and other days I can think positive, happy thoughts of Dad, eternally youthful, pain free and full of love and joy.  I like to think of him running along a beach with his favorite dog, Brutus, running along side of him...as fast as his stubby legs can carry him.

I know it made an easier transition for Mom, in that Dad had been at the nursing home these last four years instead of being at home with Mom.  The day I left her house to return to CA, after picking up Dad's remains...she got a phone call from a good friend.  The previous week Mom and her girlfriend and her husband shared lunch at a church function.  Her girlfriend called to tell Mom he had died.  I know Mom will be a comfort to her, but despite my Mother's strength and faith, it has to be very difficult going to so many funerals...

The day of Dad's funeral, as we were leaving, I got a call on my cell from my dear girlfriend I used to co-write poetry with, had suddenly died.  She and I had been on the phone long hours the week before as she did not have a computer and I was helping her by giving her phone numbers of places to check out in San Francisco as her daughter's husband had just gotten a job there.  We were laughing and sharing and I told her I wanted to come visit her before they all moved...

Unfortunately, I did not get the opportunity to visit.  Her daughter said they are having her cremated and will keep her remains with them during the moving process and after they are settled, plan on having a Memorial service in Lake Tahoe, which is where she lived so many years and raised her daughter.  My husband and I would love to drive up for it...

Our neighbor across the street from us, discovered he had a tumor in his brain and his lung three months ago.  He just died Friday, September 13, 2013.  We attended his funeral September 16th.

My daughter's Mother in Law has terminal cancer and has been very ill.  Another neighbor down our street just found out she has inoperable cancer on her rib cage and clavicle.  She is stage four and very sick...

I realize at our age, unfortunately, we hear about and experience more serious illness and death, especially living in a Senior Community.... It is never easy to accept, but it is a part of life's process coming to a full circle.  We are so thankful to learn our youngest daughter, who just got married July 20th of this year, is pregnant.  She is due in April.  My brother B____'s daughter in Ohio is also pregnant and due this December.  It is God's gift to our family... and we are grateful.

September 6, 2013....A Day We Will Remember Forever.

Dad circa 1943

My husband and I arrived around 11:30am at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside.  I completed the inscription request for Dad's Monument Plaque.   My husband and I had time to drive over to the Columbarium where my Dad's final resting place will be.  It is a double wide u shaped area, very nicely landscaped with stone benches with blue tile.

The day was muggy and hot with a few rain drops here and there, which quickly dried up after they fell. We met everyone at Staging Area One where we lined up to caravan to the covered area for the funeral.  Our official, Nathan, lead us in the procession to a beautiful grassy area up on a bluff, surrounded by large, thick pine trees.

Two Marines took at the beginning of the walk way and saluted as Mom and I carried the urn and Dad's flag.  I had brought a small picture of Dad and  it was placed beside his urn on a platform for the service.  The nursing home where Dad lived had sent the beautiful floral arrangement in the pictures.

Nathan explained the ceremony would begin with the Marines unfolding and unfurling the flag over Dad's urn, at which time the seven Marines would each fire three rounds each making a 21 Gun Salute, followed by the playing of Taps, by another Marine.  He said it was proper for those who had not been in the Military to put our hands over our hearts and those who had been in the Military would salute. We had ten Marines on deck in their Dress Blues.

He told us after Taps was played, a Marine would present the re-folded flag to Mom along with the spent casings from the 21 gun salute.  We all thought it was so ironic that Mom and Dad have 12 Grand Children, 5 Great Grand Children and 4 sons, which totals 21.  Each of them will get one of the casings.

The two Marines first took Dad's flag and each saluted it. One of those cool, respectful salutes in slow motion.  It really got me.  The two Marines unfolded the flag and then completely unfurled it and held it over Dad's remains during the 21 Gun Salute and Taps.  After Taps, they re-folded the flag, each saluted in slow motion again and then presented the flag and casings to Mom.

The pictures below are the Marines starting to unfold the flag...

Despite knowing the gun salute would begin, I became startled when the firing started and stopped taking pictures....the pictures below were taken by my sister.

The 21 Gun Salute with the lone Marine on the hill who played Taps.

When Taps started, I could hear my Mom softly crying.  I saw my brother out of the corner of my eye go to Mom's side to comfort her.  I was already crying and struggling to keep my composure... I dared not look at any of my family because I could hear them crying too.  I knew I was going to speak after they presented everything to Mom and I was determined to do that for Dad and my family...

While Taps was being played....

Re-folding of Dad's flag...

Presentation of the flag and gun casings to Mom....

I had planned to speak for two minutes... I had it written down on three note cards.  My voice began to quiver at the end of the first card and as I started in on the second, my sister Holly rushed up to my side and stood with me so I could finish...

Afterward, my brother's all hugged me and told me they would not be able to say anything after my words, because they all felt I covered everything.  Everyone was pleased with what I had said.

Nathan took a few minutes and told us how the Marines saved his life during battle so he was so honored to be present during Dad's funeral.  We all were very touched by the things he spoke of and the respect he paid to our Dad.  We all agreed how honored we all feel having Dad's final resting place in such a hallowed location.

My daughters and grand sons had written letters so those went with Nathan, who took possession of Dad's urn and his picture.  He would place all of it in the niche in the Columbarium later on that day and we would be able to visit Dad's final resting place after 4pm.  He told us he would personally see the flowers were watered the next few days.

We all stood around hugging and noticed what a nice cool breeze had come up and was gently refreshing all of us....we all knew it was a gift from Dad. 

I shared the location of Dad's niche with everyone and asked if anyone wanted to see it.  Everyone decided they would wait until the final plaque is placed in 6-8 weeks and then we will go visit.  We agreed whomever is the first to visit would take a picture for everyone.

My son in law took video of the service on my brother's phone, so hopefully, we can figure out how to get it on a CD for everyone.  My brother S_____ is working on it.

I will be taking a break from blogging for a bit...I planned on converting what I have shared about Dad into a book and am looking into how to accomplish it.  If anyone has any suggestions, or has done so with their blog, I would greatly appreciate any information you could pass along to me.  I plan on doing the book for our family.

I want to give some thought as to how to continue my blog because we were so desperate for information when Dad was diagnosed and we remember what a nightmare it was.  If I can help just one family with my blog, I will be blessed.

I have acquired a lot of valuable information and don't want to just file it all away in a box somewhere. In my Father's honor, I would like to play it forward and share the information we have learned along the way...

God Bless each and every one of you who have ever been touched by this disease, be it from a family member or friend.  I send my eternal love and gratitude to all of you who have hugged me and comforted me with your words of support over the past four and a half years during our journey with my Father.

Most of you I have never met, but your warmth, concern, sincerity and caring words always came through and scooped me up as if you were, making me feel so very comforted.  On behalf of myself and my family, I want to say thank you all so very much from the bottom of my heart.... 

A Productive, Busy, Family Week... Dad's Final Plans Made.

I drove to California Wednesday, August 21st so Mom and I could pick up Dad's belongings from the nursing home.  When we arrived we were surrounded by tearful staff members sharing condolences and giving us warm, loving hugs.  Mom and I were there over two hours.  We were so touched by their outpouring of genuine love and loss for Dad.

Another testament to the quality of this nursing home, none of Dad's possession were missing.  I just cannot express how very blessed we were when I found this particular nursing home.  I think of it so highly, if I would ever need a nursing home, I would want to go there!

Thursday Mom and I filled out the pre-arranged paperwork for Dad's cremation with Neptune Society and took the forms in Friday morning.  I cannot stress enough how important it is to make final arrangements prior to your loved one's death...it made the whole process just fall into place.

Friday night, all the siblings, Mom and I met at my brother K_____'s home for a BBQ.  We all agreed we felt we were in a mental fog and knew some good food and laughter would clear our minds...

After a delicious meal of hamburgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, cabbage salad, baked beans and my sister's yummy chocolate eclair cake for dessert; we sat around and talked.  K's daughter, presented Mom with a framed collage she made from some of the family pictures of Mom and Dad before and after their wedding.  She also included pictures of us as a family, when we were all small and all living in the family home, Brutus - Dad's precious dog, Dad in his Magician's top hat and cape....lots of memories and conversations were sparked from those wonderful photos...

My brother E___ had interviewed Dad and Mom back in 2001 when he was doing some family genealogy.  He found the tape and brought it over along with his tape deck so we all could hear it.

My brother put the tape in and everyone gathered in the family room, lying on the floor, sitting on chairs and couches, some of us leaning against one another. As he pushed play, I noticed my brother S___ was lying on his back on the floor with his arms folded behind his head. He had a smile on his face and his eyes closed.  Looking around the room I felt "home-cozy", so comfortable and full of peace being with my family, sharing this moment in time together.

It was good to hear Dad's voice when it was strong and full.  As I heard him speak, I remembered a speech pattern he used to have before going into the nursing home.  He would get so involved in telling a story, his mouth would fill with too much saliva, so he would have to swallow, but in doing so, he kind of make a slight slurp sound as he swallowed as he continued on with his story.  I enjoyed hearing it again...

We all learned something new about Dad, and would turn off the tape to discuss it, or laugh at something, or rewind and listen again because we were all laughing or commenting to something he had said...

Dad told of being held back a year in school because of a "prank" he played at school...Dad had decided to ditch school, but before he faked being sick (so he would be sent home), he put a smoke bomb and a huge chunk of Limburger cheese up inside the school's duct work.

Dad lived up on a bluff above the school, so after he arrived home, he positioned himself at the big window over looking the valley below and watched the smoke bellowing out of the school as teachers and students alike, ran from the school building holding their noses.... Yep, he got in big trouble for that stunt!

My grand father, his Dad, was away a lot, traveling.  Grandpa and my Uncle were inventors.  Dad and his sisters were cared for during the day by the family help.  Grandpa frequently ordered large blocks of Limburger cheese to put on crackers and some thick syrup goop for his pancakes called "sorghum molasses."

Dad brought up the time when he played with matches behind a stuffed arm chair and set himself on fire when he was three years old.  His Mother and the ironing lady put out the flames with a red Oriental rug.  He made sure we all heard that story so we would learn not to play with fire...

It was midnight by the time we finished with Dad's portion of the interview.  We had not had time to listen to Mom's, so we will save it for the next family gathering, this Saturday.

We talked earlier before listening to the tape on what we wanted to do for Dad's service.  We all agreed we wanted the service private...only family...and family would include the staff at the nursing home, as well as the hospice staff, because the quality of care and concern they gave Dad.

I mentioned to the family that the nursing home planned on doing the Alzheimer's Walk November 2, 2013 in Huntington Beach and wanted to know if we would like to join them.  Everyone thought it would be a great way to honor what would have been Dad's 93rd birthday month...  My sister, niece and oldest daughter volunteered to co-ordinate the Walk...

I also shared with everyone, how the Activity's Director at the Nursing home, also wanted to plant a garden in the corner of the courtyard at the nursing home and call it Don's Garden.  Everyone agreed is was a perfect idea and how much Dad would have been so pleased.  When Dad first came to the nursing home, he helped the Activity Director plant window boxes with bright cheery flowers.

We talked of doing a family BBQ at Mom's house, using Dad's BBQ and playing horse shoes...one of Dad's favorite games.  One of the brothers suggested we all wear Bermuda shorts, white tube socks with sandals, Hawaiian shirts and straw hats to salute Dad's unique style of attire at most family outings...and everyone loved that idea!

I was elected to check with Riverside National Cemetery (RNC) to see what was involved so Dad could have a Military Ceremony.  We felt his service during WWII as a US Marine fighting in the Battle of Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands deserved such an honorable final resting place.  We hoped we could have the service in the morning on Saturday, September 7, and then the BBQ that afternoon...

Over the weekend, I discovered RNC does not do services on the weekends, only Monday through Friday,  but first I had to contact head quarters back in St. Louis, Missouri to determine Dad's eligibility by sending his Discharge paperwork.  After obtaining a case number of approval, I could contact RNC and schedule a service.  After I had the date, I could contact the US Marines to schedule an Honors ceremony.

By Monday morning I had emailed Dad's necessary paperwork to St. Louis and secured a case number from RNC.  I was given the date of Friday, September 6, 2013 at 1pm for Dad's Military service.  Dad's remains will be interred in the Columbarium at RNC because Dad did not want to be buried.

I had attempted to schedule the Honors ceremony, but was told I was "too early.  I was instructed to call Thursday morning, which was the day I planned to return to Nevada.

Mom and I picked up Dad's remains on Wednesday, August 28th and brought them back home.  We cannot praise Neptune Society enough for their efficiency, compassion, excellent customer service and the kindness they bestowed on Mom and I when we first brought in the signed pre-arranged paperwork for Dad's cremation and again when we picked up the remains.  We would highly recommend their services.

All the work Mom and I did organizing Dad's paperwork, Mom making pre-arranged plans with Neptune Society (after attending a lecture by Barbara Karnes RN), and organizing all the family photos really made our job so much easier last week.

I helped Mom with some house hold things, one goal was to find Mom a house keeper. Mom, my sister in law and their house cleaner, met to give Mom an estimate to clean her home.  At 86, Mom just can't clean and bend like she used to and she deserves to have someone come in and clean the house for her.  Mom has never had anyone clean besides our family, so this was a big deal for Mom.

I told Mom just as the Alzheimer's Support Group has helped her emotionally and mentally, the cleaning lady would help so much physically and mentally too.  She likes the idea of freeing up her time to read, do cross stitch Christmas Stockings for all the new babies born and on their way, as well as have more time to lunch and do fun things with her friends.

Mom has decided to stay in her Support Group because she feels she would give people hope who are just beginning their journey with their loved ones and Alzheimer's.

My sister in law and brother K____ told Mom they would take her out to Mathis Brothers in Ontario so Mom could select a new couch, love seat, and a couple of comfortable easy chairs.  When my other niece who was living with Mom, got married and moved out, she took her couch with her...so Mom needs some more furniture.

Thursday morning, I called the Marines and scheduled the Honors ceremony for Dad and emailed them Dad's discharge paperwork as well.  I was told we would have three Marines on deck, one to play taps, two to fold and present the flag to Mom.  I asked for full honors which would be a 21 gun salute, but the Marine I spoke with told me I would get a phone call about that, depending on how many Marines would be available...

On my way home, I received a call from a Sargent with the Marines.  I was told there would now be 11 Marines on deck to provide my Father with full honors.  Eight additional Marines will each fire three rounds to honor Dad's service for our country in a 21 Gun Salute.  I could not help it...I burst into tears.  This means everything to our family and this Marine just made my day!!

Mom had told me one of her friends had asked for the gun casings to save for the grand children, so I asked if that would be possible to save them for ours.  He told me he would work it out and present them to Mom along with the American flag.

My husband and I will leave this Thursday and stay over night in Riverside at a friend's home who lives ten minutes from Riverside National Cemetery. I want to arrive an hour early to deliver Dad's urn, the flag, the burial permit and to fill out the monument paperwork.

Dad's plaque will have a Christian Cross, his name, Corporal, USMC, WWII, Date of birth, Date of Death, and the inscription:  Loving Family Man - Semper Fi.

Saturday, September 7th we will all gather at my brother K____ and his wife T____ home, once again generously providing a safe and happy place to reminisce, laugh, eat and enjoy precious time with our family.

My husband and I will spend Friday and Saturday night with my youngest daughter and her new husband in Lake Elsinore and then Sunday with my oldest daughter's family in Beaumont.  We'll return to Nevada on Monday.  I will post pictures of Dad's service upon my return....Hugs, blessings and love to you all...

Newlywed Flashbacks...

This picture of Dad and Mom was taken in Bremerton, WA, August 5, 1945, the day after their wedding in front of the Enetai Inn where his parents and sisters stayed when they drove up for Dad and Mom's wedding.  Mom and Dad are leaning up against Dad's Father's car.  Dad and Mom did not own a car at the time and got around through public transportation.

Talk about a good looking couple...so in love.  They knew one another seven months and their marriage lasted 68 years and two weeks.  Not bad....

Dental Hygiene and Dementia...

I read an article yesterday in our daily newspaper, The Las Vegas Review-Journal by Kristen Hallam.  In the article, Hallam states British researchers in London have determined poor dental hygiene is being linked to Alzheimer's.

A bacterium called Porphyromonas gingivalis were found in four out of ten samples of brain tissue taken from Alzheimer's  patients, while no signs of the disease were found in brains of ten other people of similar age who did not have Alzheimer's; according to their article in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.

The results supported the findings of the the bacteria in the mouth enters the bloodstream through chewing or having a tooth removed and travels to other parts of the body, including the brain. After long periods of time, the build up is believed to contribute to the cause of Alzheimer's, heart disease and some forms of cancer.

The obvious goal is to improve on one's dental hygiene and to prevent the build up of bacteria causing gum disease.  Alzheimer's affect the elderly, but some studies show earlier onset of the disease on younger people in their fifties.

"The World Health Organization predicted dementia cases would triple to 115 million in 2050 from 36 million worldwide in 2010."

********

My Dad should have had his teeth cleaned every 3 or 4 months because of the unusually heavy tartar his body produced in his mouth.  I too inherited this heavy tartar, but have my teeth cleaned regularly every six months and am phobic about flossing and brushing my teeth with my trusty Phillips sonicare electric toothbrush.

Dad always used a regular toothbrush and Close Up Cinnamon flavored toothpaste.  I used to work in a dental office as an assistant and oral health consultant.  I urged Dad to floss and bought him floss and discussed the importance of new toothbrushes and electric teeth brushes.  Dad always wanted to things "old school" and "natural" so he would occasionally use baking soda and water.

I had read about the dental hygiene factor before and remember thinking of Dad at that particular time....

At this point, it is too late for my Dad...but those of you going through the early signs of dementia with a loved one, may take extra measures to insure their dental hygiene.  Personally, I think everyone could benefit from better dental hygiene, but that is just my opinion.

Father's Day, 2013

The plan was for all six siblings to come together with Mom and go rally around Dad for Father's Day. We all were to meet in front of the nursing home at 11am.  We all arrived except for the second to the youngest brother, S_____ who woke with either "pink eye" or "conjunctivitis".  He did not want to take the chance of infecting Dad or any of us...

Two of the brothers went to Dad's room to bring him out front so we could surprise Dad.  The brothers returned announcing Dad was getting his shower.  We all sat and chatted, catching up and celebrating having our brother B____ from Ohio here with us.  I think it has been about 9 years since his last visit.

Before too long, the brothers returned for Dad and wheeled him out onto the nursing home's front, shaded patio.  Dad was very happy to see all of us, knowing we were family, but not calling us by name.  He would say "my son".....to the brothers, or "this is a very important person to me"...

Dad, Father's Day, 2013

Dad called me "Holl Doll", despite me correcting him and telling him I was "Donna"....Dad told me, "I know, that's what I said, Holl Doll"....  My sister comforted me telling me Dad usually calls her "Donna".

We posed for various pictures with Dad...

 youngest brother E___, Mom and Dad

Mom, Dad and brother B___ from Ohio 

brother K___, Donna (me), sister Holly (Holl Doll)

and Dad in front 

Brother K____'s wife T____ and brother K_____

Five out of the six kids, Mom and Dad

After photo taking, we each took turns reading Dad our cards to him.  Dad struggles reading, especially with his one eye closed with cancer, and not wearing his glasses.... Light makes his eyes even more sensitive.  One of the brothers returned to Dad's room to get his sunglasses.

The youngest brother E____ had been inspired to read a poem he wrote to Dad.  It was very moving and made several of us cry.  He also blew up a picture of his three white Havanese dogs, with a bubble above each dog's head with the message, "Happy Father's Day"....  Dad held the photocopy up close and kissed each one of the dogs.  So sweet.

Dad's Hospice CNA came out and stopped to tell us he was so concerned with how Dad had been most of the week...and so surprised to see how Dad perked up when we came to visit with my daughter Jodee on Friday.  Dad's appetite jumped from 60% to 100%.  I had not met the Hospice CNA so I hugged him, thanked him and told him he was an extension of our family.  Others in the family who had not met him, introduced themselves.  The CNA put his arms around Dad and wished him a very happy Father's Day and waved goodbye to all of us.

One of the nurses came out front and invited us all to come in the back courtyard as they were having a BBQ.  We all gathered behind my brother B_____ as he wheeled Dad through the nursing home and into the back courtyard.

Dad wanted a big hot dog with mustard....so I went to the Activities' Director, who was doing the cooking, and asked for a hot dog.  "Sorry, we are just doing burgers, chips, sodas and baked beans...we'll have hot dogs on the 4th of July."

I took a hamburger with lots of mustard, some relish and a little ketchup back to Dad, along with some baked beans and chips.  Dad was already sucking on a soda with a straw.....which he had drained!  My younger brother had given Dad a Coke.  I figured we should steer Dad away from the caffeine so the next soda I gave him was a Sprite.

Dad was anxious to eat his "hot dog" and I was attempting to wait for my brother to bring me a knife to cut it in half and Dad would not wait....he began grabbing at it...so I had no recourse but to hold it up for him to eat.  Dad almost bit my fingers as he growled and took a huge bite.  I cautioned Dad not to take such big bites, but he totally ignored me.  I was doing good if I could get him to finish chewing before he growled and took another enormous bite!

Dad in foreground, wearing black fedora hat, scarfing potato chips....

Dad polished it off along with another soda and asked for another....so while I went to get Dad another hamburger, my brother B_____ fed Dad some baked beans.  I think Dad ate two bag of chips and three sodas in addition to the two hamburgers....and still wanted a BIG HOT DOG WITH MUSTARD!

Ever humorous, brother E____ quipped, " Dad, you're gonna' have to wait until the 4th of July for the big dogs with mustard...just a couple more weeks."

I noticed Dad slowed down on his last few bites of hamburger...  He also started to droop in his wheel chair...a definite sign he was full and ready for a nap.  Dad confirmed he was ready for bed when I asked....

While my brothers, Mom and sister were saying their good byes, I slipped away, back to Dad's room and hung his cards on his "wall of love" (where we hang all our cards, photos, notes, letters, etc on the walls around his bed.)

My brother B_____ , Mom and I wheeled Dad to his room....B____ wanted some alone time with Dad to say his good byes as he fly home last Monday morning back to Ohio.  Mom and I visited with the nurses until B_____ came out of Dad's room.  I went back in to give Dad one more kiss....and Dad asked me as I leaned down to kiss him, "Where is my hot dog with mustard?"

"You'll have it for dinner Dad....in the mean time, get some sleep and dream of it...."

"OK...that sounds good to me..."

"I love you Papa-Doots..."

My sister and her husband invited everyone over to their house in Claremont for a Father's Day BBQ at 2pm....so the party moved to their house...eating...laughter....conversations....great food and merriment continued...

Back row: Four brothers E_____, S______, K_____ and B______
Front row: Donna (me),  Mom and my sister Holly (Holl Doll)

part of our huge family who were able to attend the BBQ

 Four generations:

my nephew (Holly's son) and his 3 month old son, his grand father and father

 Brother S____ and one of his two sons

(sister's pool in the background in the re-surfacing process)

 Mom and nephew's wife posing with stick on mustaches

Cousins... S_______ & S_________

(Brother K's daughter and Holly's daughter)

Yesterday, my sister sent me all her photos and discovered one of them made us all comment and laugh...  Dad has always had very dry skin and scratches himself constantly.  The wound care nurse at the nursing home does an excellent job of caring for Dad's skin and keeping it greased up with Aveeno, Aquaphor, and Vasoline....

The Hospice Nurse obviously was rushing to get Dad dressed so he could join us on the patio and did not put lotion on Dad....We all stop Dad from scratching his skin (which is so thin and bleeds) so the picture below is Dad taking advantage of itching himself...when everyone was distracted taking the picture... Classic!

Dad taking the opportunity for a forbidden scratch....you just gotta' love him!

Woeful Weariness...

My brother B____ from Ohio arrived in Ontario this past Monday.  He was praying Dad would recognize him and realize he had come to see Dad...  He has been at Dad's bedside every day reading the Bible to Dad.

Mom has been going with my brother as she would not want him to go alone because it is flat out too emotionally difficult for most of us to go alone.

His first time seeing Dad my brother asked if he knew who he was because when Dad looked at him, Dad didn't respond.  All of us have always looked forward and enjoyed Dad's exuberant welcoming.  His face lights up and he rushes to greet us with big bear hugs and smiles.  Dad looked at my brother and responded, "Yes, you are my son."  No emotion.  I think Dad is just too tired to muster up any excitement.

I experienced the same thing the last time I visited Dad with Mom....Dad kept his hands clasped in his lap and did not respond happily to my calling him my pet name, "Papa Doots".  He usually ignites into joyful happiness, calls out my name and reaches to pull me in for a hug and kiss.  He did none of that and it made me cry.

I think he is "on his last road" toward the Lord...

It seems everything is an effort....even eating.

We've discussed the possibility of suggesting a soft food diet, but have concerns it might hasten a disinterest in eating...knowing, eventually, he will stop eating...

I was suppose to leave Tuesday, which I rescheduled to Wednesday...and now it will be tomorrow, Thursday, before I leave to drive to California...

I am all packed, but I am emotionally exhausted.

It takes so much intestinal fortitude to prepare myself for the 250 mile drive to Mom's house knowing what we all face when I get there; plus the emotional preparation I need to psyche myself up to go see Dad...I feel wiped out before I even leave.

I feel Dad slipping away, knowing soon he will be out of our sight and will live in our hearts and memories...

Despite preparing one's self for a parent's death, when it gets close, and I am certain when it comes, the flood gates will open and many tears of sadness and frustration will cover our lives for months and possibly years to come...

Yet, at the same time, intertwined with our grief will be relief.  Dad is not really aware of all his physical and medical issues...he lives in the demented bubble, where he may be aware for a nano second, only to have the thought dissolve as he diverts to the face of a pretty nurse.  If he were conscious and aware, he would abruptly have a heart attack.

Dad lived haunted by unmet expectations demanded by his Father.  Consequently, it crippled him from making important or quick decisions.  He was a serial procrastinator with anything urgent.  He lived in denial from the ability to not see how it affected those around him.  He over analyzed to the point of exhaustion.  He made a career out of going in circles.  His one and only focus was his family. He loved all of us without question, we could all feel it...but we knew he was not reliable except for limited conversations.

Mom ALWAYS filled in the gaps Dad left. Much of the time, we resented her for it...Now we look back in awe at what she did daily without acknowledgment. She was the-go-to-person we all went to when there was a problem.  Dad would listen and give advice, but he could not follow up or be responsible for helping, except for physical labor.  We collectively felt and accepted his weaknesses. We never confronted him on it, we just lived with it.  Dad was intelligent, strong as an ox, spiritual, gentle, kind, imaginative, inventive, a nature lover, farmer, spoke to and understood both plants and animals almost better than he could relate to humans; he was introspective, eccentric, quirky and quiet and we loved him for who he was.

I speak of Dad in the past tense because he is.  The Dad we see today is no where close to the Dad we knew and lived with all our lives. Dad was always puttering. I can think of three times when I saw Dad lying down during the day; when he had mumps, when his appendix burst and with blood poisoning from a redwood splinter... We see what we want to see now because we cannot bare to see the shell of a man left behind from the insidious plague called Alzheimer's .  The disease is an invisible thief, sneaking into one's life stealing slowly and indiscriminately until everything is gone and one is left with nothing but loss and death.

It makes my soul ache to see Dad the way he is.  I would not wish this disease on my worst enemy...

When I see Dad I have this soft ball sized lump lodged in my throat, my eyes constantly water and I feel like I am visiting some one else's Father not knowing what to say...

All the history we shared throughout our lives are now intermittent.  Some times he seems to relate, but most of the time, he doesn't.  I am relieved he closes his eyes most of the time, because the blank stare when he looks at me is so much worse.

I find the only way I can motivate myself to go see him is the faith we share, the memories we savor and the knowledge we must gather around him while we all wait for the glorious chariot from the sky to come and carry our Father home...

At Last, A Good Visit...Happiness...

Mom and my sister Holly went to visit Dad yesterday, May 27th, on Memorial Day.  After the arrived they had to wait a bit as Dad was getting his shower.  When Dad was dressed and ready, they wheeled him out front of the nursing home where there is a nice patio and lots of Spring flowers.  They parked him so his sun got plenty of warm sunshine and Mom remembered to bring his sunglasses.  He gave each of them a warm smile and told them how good it felt...

Dad Memorial Day, 2013

Dad called my sister by name and cooed to Mom, "his beautiful wife, Lynnie..."  Mom and Holly chatted with Dad filling him in on family events...My sister told Dad about her first grand son being taken to Big Bear for the weekend with his parents and showed Dad pictures.  Dad roared with laughter at the his picture below...

Baby B...my sister's first grand child (boy) decked out for sun and water fitted with his life vest, beanie hat, sunglasses and his "Binkie" (pacifier).

As they talked, Dad dosed and occasionally put his head up and moved his shoulders with pleasure saying how the sun made him feel so good...

What a difference a change of attitude and some warm sun can make in our lives...Once again it reminds me how it is all about the simple and little things in life which make us happiest.

Family Updates...

Got a good report from the Hospice nurse today...Dad was in activities when she visited him.  He was very upbeat, polite and flirty with her, answering everything she asked with, "Yes, Mam".  All his vitals were good, but he told her he had pain.  Dad could not explain where it was....and when she inquired further, Dad told her someone told him he was in pain.... I will have to follow up on that...The nurse told me she called Dad's doctor and let him know.  The doctor prescribed 5/350 tab of Vicodin for pain as needed.  I asked if it could be taken with his Lexapro and Namenda, and she assured me it could.

                                 **********************

My daughter Jodee and her Fiancé Jeff are engaged and will be getting married July 20, 2013.  They had a photo shoot for their 'Save the Date' photo and other photos for their wedding. Some of the pictures have their son Jacob in them, but during the shots of just them, her sister, my firstborn daughter Holly and her sons kept Jacob entertained...

I don't usually show pictures of or mention the names of Holly's sons, the ten year old and the eight year old...  Holly prefers I don't.  Holly is expecting her third son, my fourth grand son this month...

I did however, get the OK to post the picture above of the ten year old, Jacob, Jodee and Jeff's son, and the eight year old walking ahead of their Mom at the park where the photo shoot took place.  The boys always look forward to getting together and enjoy one another so much....  I just LOVE this picture.

                                        *******************

My only sister Holly (yes, my daughter Holly is named after her Auntie) arrived today to visit for a week.  She and I will drive back together to California to attend her daughter in law's baby shower on the 10th.  I will be staying with my Mom a few days and then return home to Nevada on the 12th.

Have a good week everyone...I KNOW I WILL!!!

It's Good to be Home...

Dad called Mom a couple days ago...

"Hello? K_____?"  (Dad called, thinking he had called my brother at Mom's house, but she was out....)

"You need to call my attorney and get him down here.  I am sick and I need him."

Dad hung up.

I called the nursing home and spoke with the charge nurse.  Apparently, Dad had thrown up his morning meds after taking the bigger pills with applesauce.  He only threw up once and was fine at lunch.

I wanted to speak with him, but he was sound asleep...

We arrived home on Monday, along with a big rainstorm, complete with thunder and lightning... Tuesday we re cooperated some more.  Both of us are nursing backaches from riding around in the car so much.

The memorial service was wonderful...

It is good to be home...

The Marine Has Landed...

I will taking a break for a couple of weeks.  My step-son joined the Marines and flew in today for a five day visit.  He was told to "be ready" any time between October and January to leave for boot camp. The first two weeks, he is not allowed any contact with the outside world.  After the two weeks, he can receive letters.

We don't know if he will be here for Christmas so we want to enjoy our time with him before he leaves. He will celebrate his 21st birthday this April. If he has leave, he said he would want to come back to celebrate with us.

What a difference already.  He no longer eats "junk food" or carbs, soda, or chips.  The Marines require him to do PT twice a week and test once a month.  He works out six times per week "for his own preservation".  His spiky, stylish hair is all shaved to a "1".  He still looks so handsome...

The end of the week, we will all travel together to California to celebrate Jacob's first birthday. Jacob has four teeth on the top and four on the bottom now, cutting some other ones.  Still has peach fuzz on his head, but he walking! Where the heck did this past year go???

Eleven Months Old Today...

Jacob, 11 months old today

My grandson Jacob will be one year old next month.  Does anyone feel like time is speeding past us like we are in some kind of a life race? I sure do!

Tomorrow, my youngest daughter, her boyfriend, co-worker and baby Jacob will arrive in town.  She is working a trade show as she is a spa resort retail buyer.  My husband and I will be driving over to meet them at their hotel, depending if they can check in early or not.  If not, they may drop my son in law and grandson off and we will drive them over later to meet the girls.

We'll get together a couple of days before they return to California early Thursday morning...

I just CAN'T WAIT to get my hands on this precious little boy....my dear grandson.

Happy Sunday everyone.

Magic Mirrors...

"Family faces are magic mirrors. 

Looking at the people 

who belong to us 

we see the past, 

the present, 

and the future"

 

 

Author: Gail Lumet Buckley

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:

 

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.

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...

Still, as an adult, hearing his voice, reminds me
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...

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… 

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...

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!!!