Changes

We've been gone for a few weeks; we traveled to New England to spend time with my parents. It's been the first time in a VERY LONG while that we've traveled without a canine companion. This, among other changes, is but one more in a long list of new things what we're getting used to. My Dad now does much of the cooking at home. When I was young, growing up, and even up until the last few years, my Dad NEVER spent anytime in the kitchen preparing food, that's always been Mom's domain. My mother is doing okay, it's the physical mobility that stands in the way of her getting even the most basic of household chores accomplished anymore. She and I spent days cleaning out and organizing; she is happy to have this done, and was eager to participate, but the fact that she can't do it on her own anymore is emotionally hard on her. She goes to outpatient physical therapy now, twice a week; that's a highlight for her on those days. Mr. G and I took meals that I had pre-prepared, and frozen, it worked out well and they seemed to appreciate that. A lot of things are different now, we're all adapting; it seems that each day brings a new series of adaptations. The good news is that Mom and Dad seem content and accepting of this situation. We watched television together in the evenings, for entertainment, and loved spending time together reminiscing! Before we left to return home Dad and Mr. G readied his snowplow and walk-behind snow blower for the months to come, Dad's happy and excited to see winter, and the snow, return; as much so as a young boy would be! We have much to be thankful for: at 94 (Dad), and 89 (Mom), they're still in their home, are mobile enough to go out for lunch and an occasional dinner and still very much enjoy their friends and their days together. We couldn't ask for anything more.

Life is Good!