My mom, as you know is in a memory loss facility, and when I saw her during the Holidays, I was shocked at much she has declined.  She has lost so much weight you could knock her over with a feather.  Her skin is thin as paper and rips so easily.  Her extremities are swollen because of poor circulation.  She can't walk on her own . . . can't really do anything on her own.  Her mind is all but gone now, and attention span is short.  I'm pretty sure she knew me at first, but that didn't last very long.  I don’t believe she remembers my dad.  She's lost in her own world.

I pray for the end to come, but her heart is very strong, and seems like the colon cancer is moving slowly.

Clare Bridge had a Christmas party for the families and residents who live there.  There was Christmas trees and little white lights; Christmas cookies and cakes, and some local guy singing the old Christmas Carols.  And then, there were the residents.   Some sleeping in wheel chairs, some just staring off into space.  One lady was dancing to the music with an imaginary partner, and one sweet old lady crooning a lullaby to a doll in her arms.

My family came down for a few days to visit with Mom.  What a site to see those grandbabies, fresh, young and oh so innocent, running, dancing, and entertaining the old folks, who can’t remember their own children’s names.  Mom was happy to see every one of them, but she didn’t know who they were.

I really can’t decide which is better in the last months of your life . . . Your mind being sharp as a tack or just being oblivious to everything and everyone.  I don’t know.

One thing I do know for sure, and that is the fact that I didn’t smoke at all . . . I thought about it, but knew that it wouldn’t make this Christmas any brighter or merrier.

Now, here is what makes Christmas brighter and merrier for me:


Charlie ~ 3 Years old.


Harrison ~ 2 Years old.

 






Olivia ~ 2 Years old




It’s hard to catch this one in action, but here she is dancing for the old folks.

I am really sorry about your mom's condition.  That must of been hard for you.  But those kids are sooooooo cute I am sure they put a smile on everyone's face.  I will pray for you and your family especially your mom.  Take care and Happy New Year.