I am feeling a good bit like Sara Jessica Parker again with all the posting lately. I wanted to catch you up on Mimi. My mother is doing fine physically, but still a good bit mixed up with regard to her short term memory. She puts dirty clothes on top of clothes(in washer) that are ready to be dried, she continues to turn the heat up to 72 (I am dying!) and there are always at least 3 drink bottles/cans open and half full.
I asked her this morning if she would like to go to her house for awhile to check mail, and piddle around. At first she declined strongly, then she said she would go for just a little while. I am beginning to feel and act as if my mother is one of my children. Actually, she is the most challenging one of the three! My patience is tested several times every day. Mama repeats herself endlessly and I find myself very frustrated at times.
I had been praying for patience,but heard someone say recently that when you pray for something like patience, God will bring more situations requiring patience into your life.
No more prayers for patience, I am good.
Mama stayed at her house for about an hour, then called me for pick up. Maybe I can  help her slowly become more comfortable going back home if even for a short time. She says going home is depressing, yet to me sitting at my house watching tv and napping seems worse! Then I have to realize, she is old. She would be doing the same things at her house. The only difference is the driving. It is just not safe for her to drive anymore.
So, I continue to raise my teenagers and will try to remember that it is my mother here, not another child!
See you.
ML
The roles are now reversed….not so fun.at times…sorry for the many drink bottles, but try a thermos mug w/ handle ,we found this to be easier for Mom , and just refill as needed…getting cold is part of getting “older” as the blood thins, we put sweater or vest on Mom and made sure she always had warm slippers on…Don’t get frustrated at Mimi for repeating things…can you imagine HOW MANY times she answered your questions when you were growing up…now it’s your turn…lol…sometimes life plays funny tricks on us…But all is good, enjoy with humor, for one day you’ll not have her and that you’ll truly miss more….Being at her house she is alone….just wants company, even if it’s watching TV by herself, just knowing that there are people around is comforting…Lessons learned the hard way, hope this helps you deal with everyday events…Not so much patience but with HUMOR & LOVE…your friend lKP…
MLH, do you think she would like to visit with a former nursing student ?
We had similar circumstances with a family member and it is a wee bit taxing on the caregiver. I’d love to have her come for a visit or take her on a short outing. I’m not just giving lip service. I have such fond memories and still chuckle at her ability and methodology of teaching. Best thing to ever have experienced. Love your Mother!~Crystal Craig 🙂
I had the distinct pleasure of having a favorite aunt who was also my nursing instructor. Your mama has always been smart as a whip, very perceptive and quite a pistol! I will say it again… I named MY Emily right! Love to all!