Let me start by saying, that those of you who care of your aging parents full-time are my heroes. I did it for a little over twenty-four hours and I feel like I did when my youngest wouldn’t sleep. (Bryce really wants me to let that go, but I like to hold on to it for future reference.) I would say in the last six months, my mother’s physical and cognitive abilities have decreased steadily. It has been a long couple of days. But, even with the constant monitoring, redirecting, and actively caring for her every need, I am incredibly full of gratitude.
When I shared that I was moving my mother in temporarily, my soul sisters rose to the occasion offering their help. My spouse would remind me on a regular basis, that I am a good daughter, when he could tell I was about to lose my shit. Bailey was gentle and loving to his grandmother and she enjoyed every second of it. And please, don’t get me started on the dog. Luna loved her snuggles with my mother and the feeling was mutual.
Was I thrilled that our snowstorm ended up being a bust, that only delivered 3-inches of snow versus 10? Yes. Am I glad I made the decision to bring her to our home? Also, yes. While we aggravate one another, we were able to watch movies together even if I had to pause it every few minutes to explain what was happening. I was able to truly acknowledge that she is rapidly deteriorating and that time is fleeting. It also was another confirmation that I was smart not to go to nursing school as I really despise taking care of other people.
I did what I needed to do, but just like everything in life, I didn’t do it alone.
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