Sunday, June 17, 2007

Father's Day. I selected cards for Mom and I to give Dad. After church I went over to have lunch with Mom before we drove over to see Dad at the nursing home. I try to eat with Mom when I can now as she doesn't seem to be very interested in food.

She looked at the cards and signed hers. She said that both cards were beautiful.

When we arrived we found Dad in the activity room eating. I took over feeding him and kept up a running dialog. He seems to have a fair appetite...he eats a little of everything on his tray. His sister called on my cell so he had a chance to talk to her and her husband. After that we had a meeting with a woman who finds home health care placements for folks. I could tell that Mom wasn't hearing most of what was being said. She finally caught on as I told her things and then said that she didn't think that was the way she wanted to go. She got a little confused and thought the the woman was there to place her in a facility. I think she is just overwhelmed and exhausted with all of the things that have been happening for the last month and a half. I talked more with the woman and then told her I would call her once I could get a more specific decision from Mom.

We showed Dad the cards ....I read both to him. I got a little choked up when I was reading the card from me. He is just such a great and caring man. I have learned so much from him over the years. It breaks my heart to see him so sick and vulnerable.

After a while we went back to his room. He was tired and wanted to lay down and take a nap. We both kissed him goodbye and took off. I drove across the street to Safeway and got Mom to do some grocery shopping. I had to really prompt her to get her to buy food. She made some selections and then was ready to go home.

We are going to have to find another living situation for her. She is lonely and isolated now in that apartment. Once I get Dad settled I will have to switch my attention to Mom's situation.

Yesterday I visited two nursing homes and a home care situation. Of all of them, I liked the nursing home in West Seattle. It definitely has a clinical feel...but it is safe, clean and close. All this driving from Southcenter to Shoreline is taking a toll on me. I am going to check in with the facility in West Seattle tomorrow morning.

Right now I am exhausted. I am sitting with an icebag on my back...my lower right hip is really hurting. I need to go lay down and take it easy for awhile.

One bright note...today is Pamela's 38th birthday. She loved all her presents from friends, me and my parents. I haven't been around much today...but we are planning on having a nice dinner together. She has been a wonderful support for me over the last month and a half.