Changes
Today was Christmas with my siblings.
Normally we gather
in my Mom and Dad's big farm house
with all our kids and grand kids.
But life is different this year.
The folks have moved to assisted living.
Dad is in and out of a fog.
Stupid dementia is stealing our dad.
We are blessed though.
He is 92 and Mom is 87.
They have been wed for over 70 years.
They have had an amazing life.
We took turns crying today
because in truth,
these changes suck.
We wouldn't have picked this path.
But, I am thankful
we have each other.
We hold each other up.
We hang onto Mom
and we love on Dad.
There is no one I would rather
walk this walk with.
They make me cackle and
make me forget the sorrows
for awhile.
I wish I had more pictures with my sisters
but I was too busy talking to take pictures.
It was good to see our little brother, John and his wife.
It was good for Mom.
Life sometimes isn't exactly the way we want
but with faith and family
we can do anything.
We truly, truly are blessed.
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I
know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I
have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,
whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Phil.4:11-13
Labels: family, Mom and Dad
posted by Janie Fox @ 5:47 PM
8 Comments
8 Comments:
These are the things I fear with aging. That part just sucks so much. You are handling it very bravely. Proud of you.
Those verses are so healing. And Paul knew everything about terrible circumstances. You're a great example, Janie, in how to roll with the punches. I have erred, I think, in failing to expect punches. But this life is all about punches, and--in those seasons when we have respite--we should celebrate in knowing easy times aren't the norm.
Awwwww. We'll have our gathering on New Year's weekend. My "report" will probably sound a little like yours.
I am braced and strengthened by that verse.
This is YOUR house, right? (Or do you have a decorating twin?)
I hate this for you, but I'm also glad you have each other . Dementia is a soul stealer, and I' m proud of you for dealing with it like i knew you would...enjoying the good and managing the bad. Xoxo
Oh, Janie. I cannot even imagine. You are an inspiration the way you are dealing with this. Hugs, my friend. xoxo
Janie, It's hard to see our parents age. Especially my Mom, she was always on the go . . . she no longer drives at night, get tired more quickly and now sometimes forgets how to cook. She's has always been my sidekick. We've done a ton of garage sales together and have had too much fun getting in trouble too. Blessings and a hug sent your way :O)
"But, I am thankful
we have each other.
We hold each other up.
We hang onto Mom
and we love on Dad.
There is no one I would rather
walk this walk with."
This is life. Family. Love.
Wishing you peace and joy as you greet these changes this season...
my friend.
It really does seem that things like dementia, cancer, age, and death are stealing these dear ones from us. I felt as though my father's brain tumor took him from me cell-by-cell. Sounds like a lovely, bittersweet gathering.
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