Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Is it Christmas already?


Christmas is almost here, and I hate to say it, but things are running a bit behind around here. I'd love to say I had some really cute pictures of Kendall by the Christmas tree, but I don't. I had to borrow this one from the web. I'd give credit where credit is due, but I don't know whose it is. Things have been a bit hectic. We did get a small tree put up and my Christmas shopping is done, but not a single card went out this year. 

My mom passed away on Monday, so I've had a bit to deal with these past few weeks. As I mentioned in one of my October posts, my mom came to live with us and was able to stay with us until just after Thanksgiving when her health declined to the point that I could no longer give her the care she needed. We moved her to a wonderful foster home where she got excellent care right up until the end. She was one of four ladies living in the house. She was an avid Christmas card sender and has a notebook of cards sent and received for the past twenty years or so. As her cards are coming in, I'm sending back notes to let them know.

I have certainly learned a thing or two over the last four months! Here are just a handful of them:
  • Don't assume that one doctor is ever talking to another doctor and that they know what the other is doing.
  • The wheels on a walker can be put on the inside so it fits through a normal-sized door.
  • You're capable of handling a lot more than you ever thought you could.
  • Go with your gut when looking for a care facility. There are some great ones out there.
  • Be kind to your friends. They'll help you get through things.
  • If you want to fit a commode over top of your regular toilet, take the bar off across the back and you won't have to remove the toilet seat.
 I was able to make it through my grad school class with a B and will start a new class in January. I've decided just to chip away at the degree rather than taking two classes a term. Life's too short to spend it in school if I don't really need it for my career.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. I hope to get back to my regular postings as soon as things calm down a bit.

5 comments:

Lindsay said...

I'm really sorry to hear about your mom passing. Anyone passing this time of year especially makes the hurt some how sharper. Our thoughts are with you and I hope that you can find some time for yourself to enjoy the season!

Whitney and the Preppy Puppies said...

Gretchen, I am terribly sorry about your mother. Any time you lose a loved one is horrible but it's especially heartwrenching during the holiday season. I am glad you were able to spend so much time with her and know you'll treasure those memories. Hugs to you. xo xo

sara said...

Oh wow I am so sorry you've been dealing with so much. :( I am sorry to hear about your mother. that is heartbreaking, especially so close to the holiday season. I am sorry you had to experience the run-around with health care. It's so frustrating! I just finished nursing school so I totally get what you're saying when you say one doctor doesn't talk to another doctor. I hope you were able to enjoy your Christmas a little and that Kendall gave you some extra special snuggles! Happy Holidays! :)

Beyond the Dog Dish said...

Losing a parent is very hard. Unfortunately I lost my father many years ago during the Christmas season as well. My advice is, in time the good memories will over shadow the heartbreak. Give it time.

laurie said...

i am loving your blog, thanks to your visit via the blog hop. but i am so very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. my dear, dear mother-in-law died right before thanksgiving. i am so sorry and i know a little of what you are going through.