Had the folks over agin today. Mom drove over, she insisted, so I didn't argue. Mom seemed a little frustrated when they arrived. I aske her wat was wrong, and she said "oh, just the ususal". Then she got a little teary eyed. She seemed releived to be here. Dad came shuffling in, shoes on the wrong feet and untied, but he seemed alert. Dad ate well, but didn't finish his dinner. He just seemed like he wasn't that hungry. After dinner, they both settled down on the couch, but only Dad had a nap. Mom asked me again if I thought it was the right thing to put Dad in the assisted living. I said yes. It's just like Celia said, she's feeling a little guilty, and thats understandable. Heck, I do too! Anyway, it was very quiet three hours. Mom asked me to get on facebook so she could see everyones pictures. So, I went through most of the family, pulling up pictures of this and that. She really enjoys that. Deb made some lemon squares for dessert. I cut a few up and took them on a plate over to dad. I asked him he wanted some, he said, "well sure". But, he didn't put out his hand to take he plate. He kept them folded on his lap. So, for the heck of it I put a peice of the lemon square up to his mouth, asking if he wanted a bite. He said yes and opened up and let me feed him. Surprised me. He made no effort to do it on his own. I fed him about three small pieces and he said he was done. Never, ever have I thought my dad would let me feed him! But I also thought that it may not be the last time I do this. I didn't like that thought, but I know that it is a very strong possibility.
It was a good afternoon. They left in good spirits, complaining about the cold. Dad seemed very concerned with Mom as they left. He was very adament about taking her arm and walking her to her side of the car. I haven't seen that too often, but it was sure good to see. Mom seemed to enjoy that attention. I told her I would call her later. I love those two!
Love the folks. Thanks, Eric!
ReplyDeleteWhen we were there last month, I went to pick them up to take them to breakfast at The Cracker Barrel, then go to Trader Joes. Since the C.B. was in our hotel parking lot, Marione stayed and got ready while I went and got 'em. I had shoveled the snow off the porch and sidewalk and part of the driveway the night before, but it was still slick and icy. When they were ready to go, I told them, Mom, you wait here on the porch and I will get Pop in the car then come and get you. Well, Dad was not going to the car without helping his wife get there too! He shrugged my hand off of his arm, backed up, and reached for his wife up on the porch,, didnt say anything,,he was just gonna make sure that he got her to the car ok. So I helped Mom down the steps and Dad grabbed her arm, and I held on to both of them as we shuffled, teetered and slid to the car. Dad stood there while I helped Mom get in the back, then we shuffled around and got him in the front. Even as lost as his brain is sometimes, he was still gonna be a chivalrous gentleman and take care of his woman. Even if she does meanly make him take showers! I was amused watching this, and thinking, yep, there's the Chuck we all know and love, looking out for someone alse, and not himself. And he had no problem buckling up the seatbelt himself either.
ReplyDeleteYeah,,,ya gotta love 'em.
You guys be sure and remember all these neat things cuz I'm startin dad's history and I will want a paper from you sibs all about your memories and thoughts on Dad. He has always been solicitous of mom and taken care of her and that's so admirable.
DeleteWhat's the recipe for the lemon bars? Mom said they were real good and it was only an angel food cake mix and lemon pie filling? Please share