As I write I'm gazing out on the gorgeous Puget Sound, on a cruise ship headed to Alaska. I'm really looking forward to a week of relaxation and fun, the start of a new chapter where I take care of myself as I've taken care of others.
There are now three kids in the house, well they come home to sleep, and this fall we'll be down to two as one of the twins is planning to go to Eastern Washington University. They have school, work, friends keeping them busy, as it should be. They don't need me to hold their hands, they're pretty much grown up now.
For 2-1/4 years I've been looking after my Dad, although he had been in assisted living for the last year and a half. Still I needed to visit frequently, keep his meds ordered, get them to the nurses as needed, pay his bills, take him to the doctor, buy him personal items and treats, etc. He was pretty much on my mind all the time until the morning of April 29 when he peacefully went home to be with the Lord. It was not a shock, as we'd just enrolled him in hospice, but it was a surprise that he passed so soon. I couldn't be anything but happy for him, though, as he made it clear that all he wanted now was to go to heaven. Mission accomplished.
The first week after was so strange, no trips to Parkview, no meds to get. Instead there were other kinds of arrangements to be made. Most of that was quickly done with the help of the hospice workers and my family. His belongings were quickly packed as he didn't bring much with him from Arizona.There are still a few loose ends to tie up, but much is finished.
So now I can rededicate myself to going through all the things that have accumulated in my house, relearning how to keep up with housework, spending a little more time with the grandkids, and taking more time for me.
Maybe even even stitch a little!
My Life at Home
9 comments:
A new beginning for him and you. Blessings to you both on yours journeys. CJ in OK
Von, I do hope you will enjoy your trip! You most certainly deserve to have that peace and relaxation! Alaska sounds beautiful. I am sorry to hear about your dad, but glad he is at peace now. Blessings to you and yours Von!
So sorry for your loss.
My sympathies to your family for the passing of your father. I'm glad he is at peace now.
Enjoy your cruise!
Sad post, but uplifting at the same time. I hope when the time comes to deal with a similar situation with my parents that I can be as eloquent, honest and dignified as you. I am deeply sorry for the loss of you father.
My heart goes out to you on the loss of your father. I can imagine how lost you must have felt at first when you no longer had to care for his needs. I'm so glad that you are now starting to take care of your needs which have been put on hold for so long. Things will be different but you will have so much more time to spend with your grandkids now and as you suggested, perhaps stitch. Sending hugs and prayers your way.
Enjoy your trip. I've heard that is one of the most lovely cruises to take. Rejoicing that while you'll miss your dad, you know where he is and can picture him receiving the reward of the Lord's presence forever. Love and hugs.
My condolences on the loss of your father.
Have a lovely trip
Ah, Von, this is the first I've heard of it, so sorry to hear about your dad, but I rejoice with you in knowing he is at peace with the Lord. How wonderful for you to be starting a new chapter of life, and kicking it off with a cruise to boot! Lucky you! I am looking forward to the day when I am able to do the same!!!
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