Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Is it Spring yet?

It's been a while since I've posted, and a couple of friends have sent email to see if I still live and breathe.  I do.  Last post involved the caregiver we were trying to integrate.  Well, the one who was in the accident is still recovering.  We met a new woman, Linda, and it's been quite a trial getting her on board with mom.  Linda is kind and considerate and I think once she gets her feet under her she'll be really capable.  It turns out that Senior Helpers doesn't really do any "training" for their employees.  They learn as they go.  So, anyway, Tom and I have been persistent, and Linda is now coming 3 days a week for 2 hours in the afternoons.  This leaves me and Tom each a day off during the week, maybe two for Tom, since he also works and has a family.  Even the promise of one full day mom-free is a wonderful thing for me though, and I treasure those days.

I had the opportunity to leave town for 5 days at the end of January, and went to Orlando to hang out with Nina.  We had a great condo with a pool and game room and hot tub.  We drove to Daytona one day, went to Animal Kingdom one day, got a bit of color.  I kicked her butt in Wii bowling and she KO'd me in boxing several times.  We ate an entire gallon of chocolate ice cream in those five days, and devoured at least one pizza and a whole fried chicken among other things.  The day I got back, I came down with bronchitis, so was sick for a week and trying to deal with that and with mom was sort of a trial for me.  But we're through the worst now.

Mike, the wayward brother is due back in a couple of weeks.  Talk about keeping our expectations low.  I almost wish he'd just stay gone.  But, once he shows up, we're all going to sit down and make a decision.  That means that I want to place the mom in a facility so that we know she is cared for and safe 24/7.  There aren't going to be any ifs, ands, or buts.  It has to be for the peace of mind of all of us.

Let me leave you with a picture of Nina and me sitting with Walt Disney.  Bless you friends.  I hold you all in the light.

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2 comments:

  1. SueFebruary 10, 2011 at 8:32 AM

    Kath,
    SOOO good to see you back. I was wondering if I had to come over there. :) (wish I could!).
    It sounds like you and Nina had a great time - you both look wonderful. R and R is good.
    I think your decision to MAKE decisions is a good thing - for you, your brothers, and most of all, for your mom. It won't be easy and she won't be happy - not at first. You have done an awesome job - better than many others might have done, but your health is important too. Not just your physical well being, but your emotional well being too. AD takes a huge toll on everyone concerned - it doesn't matter if you are the one doing ALL the care giving or just doing the occasional barrel ride. It's just plain rough for all of you. I am glad your brother is coming home - much needed support for you and Tom.
    Remember, please, that many prayers are being lifted for your family - that your mom will feel at peace about all of this.
    But now, we must wait and listen for His answers. I am waiting for some answers too so we are both in good company. :)
    Huge hugs my friend.
    Sue

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  2. SandyAnnFebruary 10, 2011 at 10:42 AM

    I am SO glad to hear that you had a few days of R and R to have fun with! You look great, the sun is good to you! I too, am happy that you will finally have "that" family meeting to iron this out. Stick to your guns, you know what's right for your mom, you spend the most time with her. It's a very tough decision, but as you said, your mom needs a place where she is safe 24/7. And you need the peace of mind. So GLAD to see you post here again. Blessings Kath!

    Sandy

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