Memorial Day

Most people visit the graves of their loved ones and put flowers on them for Memorial Day - Today we planted flowers in Mom and Dad's yard.  Dad has always had a perfectly manicured yard but he is now unable to do it (he can't even take out the trash anymore).  Mom bought the flowers and we planted them - both tasks are ones that Dad normally does.  Mom explained where she wanted them planted but Dad caught my attention one the way out the door and explained again.  I think it is hard for him to not be able to do the things he normally does.

Marybeth and Rob were her last week installing a new walk-in shower enclosure in the master bathroom.  It was a project Dad had wanted to do but didn't get a chance to.  I was over while the project was being started and asked him if it was hard not be be up to his elbows in the fun project - he smiled and nodded his head.

Mom asked dad how he was doing while we were there today and he responded that he was hanging in there.  It is hard to get any rest while my crew of kids fills the house with noise and commotion.  He stays in his chair and watches the kids play - always with a bit of a smile on his face as long as he is awake.  Despite being obviously tired today he found the energy to lean way forward in his chair to bat a balloon that Peter and Jacob were playing with (Mom always give the kids blown up balloons - it is one of her Grandma things).  He did it a few times and seemed so happy to be playing with the my little boys.  Peter and Jacob will not remember how much fun Grandpa had playing with them but I will.