Suthurn Livin: Heading to NH

Wow, I'm such a slacker ... at least according to this blog ... it's been a long while since I posted anything, (Nov. 2009) and I'm waxing nostalgic as I prepare to head north to Berlin NH to say goodbye to Mom.

Mom's Lewy Body disease has progressed rapidly since I last saw her at Christmas time. She is not eating (4-5 sips of a smoothie daily) not drinking in addition to that. She spends most of her days sleeping and is not able to walk without assist. I look forward to holding her hand, telling her I love her and letting her know that we'll all be fine.

She's a fighter, having come back from her deathbed last May, she worked hard to get back home, but the difficulty swallowing, hallucinations and weight loss are back in full vengeance. Please pray that she go quickly and quietly. Please also pray for my Dad as he prepares to say goodbye to his beloved, who's stood by him through thick and thin and has been his greatest support and cheer leader. Dad spends much time weeping, feeling frustrated that he can't do more for Mom.

My sibs in NH are upping the home health care hours to 10 hours / day now. This way meals for Dad and personal care for Mom can be handled by those best able to help. I want to thank my relatives back in Berlin, the sister/brother-in-laws and my siblings for all they are doing.

My trip starts next Thursday, so I'll be able to spend Friday through Sunday with the folks and head back home on Monday. My sister Cecile from CA will be up the next week, and the week after that, Liz and her boyfriend Pat will stop in when she is on her spring break in NH. (I know, she didn't get the memo that you are supposed to head SOUTH for spring break ... )

I covet your prayers, we don't know how long Mom can hold on, but just pray for peace and strength for all. Nostalgia makes me think of how many times, it was Mom who spent "la nuite blanche" (literally "white night", but means pulling an all nighter) tending to us with cold compresses and hot mustard compacts. Mom was always strong and hard working, now her body is giving up on her. I'm sure she must be so frustrated, not being able to care for herself, let alone others.

I plan on reminding Mom that her work is done, and now she can rest and "go home". She's leaving a good legacy behind her, with 7 children, all married, none divorced. Dad reminded me that they had 59 great years, and that while year 60 has had its hardships, that they've still had each other.

Here is a song which, sappy as it may be, was made famous by Edith Piaf. Here it is in english. For those of you who don't want a sappy song, then don't click on this ... you've been warned ..