…once again I have nothing, no Thursday Doors that is. It’s supposed to be the easy week, favorite doors from this year but I always find it hard to choose but mostly I’ve been busy.
A short explanation is in order because I haven’t been visiting your blogs nearly as much as I’d like. The simple reason is caring for aging parents, the reason we moved to Arizona in the first place but a task that’s become much more consuming in the last several months. I’m now generally at their house 3-4 hours a day to fix the main meal (prepared meals, not from scratch), clean, do laundry, run errands, etc. Sometimes, such as yesterday, it’s much more: a call at 3 am that Mom had slipped getting out of bed to go to the bathroom and was lying on the floor. Dad’s balance isn’t good enough to get her up, so I drove there, got back home in time to get another hour of sleep before getting up to leave at 7:30 am to take Dad to his eye doctor’s appointment, and then due to Mom having a really bad day, didn’t get home until 7 pm that night. They have no internet and obviously I didn’t feel much like doing anything but eating, relaxing a bit with my husband, and going to bed once I got home.
Not complaining, just explaining. On the several days a week when my husband goes over, I’m generally running errands, cleaning our house, and things of that nature as well as squeezing in some time for relaxation by reading while sipping tea. These days I’m hoping to get in some baking and finish and send my Christmas letter. So please don’t feel neglected. It’s what my priorities have to be right now.
Today’s offering for Jude’s December challenge of color, color, and more color comes from one of my walks earlier this year while visiting all our friends in Illinois. Along the back trails, I kept coming across bright drifts of flowers tucked among the tree. Soul food of the very best kind!
This, that and the other thing 
Hat’s of for taking care of your parents in such a caring way. It’s bound to take a toll emotionally and physically. So no need to worry about hurting my feelings 😊 as I am lazy visiting blogs just because it’s dark and I am getting nothing done other than a post here or there. Make sure you take time for yourselves , it’s so important.
Thanks, Ritva. I enjoy visiting blogs and chatting and it’s a nice way to get away too. Just some days don’t leave me as much time. But I know you’re all still there and hopefully will continue to visit my blog as well, even if I can’t always reciprocate.
We all have lives outside the blogosphere and many times it’s rather hectic and other time it is great to escape to see other peoples lives in the blogs
Not an easy time in your life, or your parents’, Janet. I feel for you. Please don’t exhaust yourself too
much with the rushing around. So much easier to say than do! Maybe at some point you’ll need to consider paid care? Meanwhile, take care and I hope you have a blessed Christmas, however you spend it. Sending hugs!
Thanks for the hugs, Jo. We’re looking into alternatives/additional help but my dad is somewhat resistant to that sort of thing, although he may have to accept some of it. We’ll see how it goes. I’m grateful to my husband for being so willing to spend a couple days a week with them so I can be home or doing other things. Makes such a difference.
It’s definitely a test of a marriage, darlin, and I’m glad your husband is a willing helper. Hopefully Dad will come around in time. Not easy to accept that you’re not the rock you once were. God bless, hon!
That’s so true.
I agree with Jo. You need to take care of yourself too. We moved to help with my mother in law and it can be exhausting.
Ah, caring for aged parents. I have been there and done that. I am aged now, but trying very hard to remain independant, because my daughter has her hands full caring for her mother-in-law. A sad situation, but I commend you for caring for your parents. Love that bright yellow picture to brighten the day.
They’re trying to stay in their home and be as independent as possible but they just can’t do that much any more which is very frustrating for them. My dad doesn’t accept change easily which is also a problem. But we’re doing the best we can and we’ll see how it goes.
Hope a good solution presents itself. This is a frustrating time for everyone.
Thanks, Peggy. ❤
Gosh – that must be very hard for you all. The lines in the trees and the bold colour somehow seem very soothing in the context of the demands on your time.
🙂 It was a wonderful trip, Susan, one I was blessed to have made before my mom got worse.
You get a huge pass and a virtual hug. I applaud your efforts but also see the points above about hiring some help. I worked for a short time as HR for a company that provided in home care from RN, LN or as simple as someone keeping people company and doing chores like wash and keeping things tidy or doing the grocery shopping. Life really is a circle, and that last swing is tough on the individuals and the ones supporting them like you. Take care of yourself too.
Yes, once Christmas is over we’ll be exploring possibilities. Just having some cleaning done once or twice a month would be a help to me because I can’t keep up with both houses plus meals, errands, etc. I appreciate your support very much. 🙂
I agree with everyone above me. You get a pass and big hug for all you do for your parents and family. I love the image with all the cheerful yellow flowers. I hope you get in your daily walks, and have a sip of tea over a good book. Don’t worry about answering blogs. We’re here when you’re free! Hugs!
Thanks, Deborah. I got a lot done today, but also got a bit of time for me: a mocha, some reading, and playing some Christmas music on my keyboard. 🙂
What songs are you playing? I dug out my favs. Still, Still, Still, The First Noel, and one not so Christmasy Canon in D Maj.
Both hymns and popular Christmas songs. Do you have a keyboard/piano?
Piano which I play very badly.
🥰
Hugs to you and hubby. I know that it is hard to care for our elders. Come when you can and make sure to take care of yourself.
Thanks, Janet. I love my WP family and always try to keep in contact as much as possible. That’s part of taking care of myself but sometimes it has to take a smaller section of my time.
Sending you the strength you need to keep going, Janet. It isn’t easy, but every single moment is worth it. You may feel flustered, frustrated and tired at times, but always remember the love, laughter and smiles. Keep Light and know you are doing fine. 🙂
Thanks very much, Tom! 🥰
🙂
Thinking of you and your family in these difficult times, Janet. Not easy at all. Caring for your parents is not always easy and is very time consuming too. Take care and we we still be here to encourage you. Hugs from the other side of the world. 🤗💕
Much appreciated, Aletta! ❤
I feel you, sister. I did that for my mother, but it was only my mother, and I live next door, so much more manageable. Remember to take care of yourself, and know that you will NEVER REGRET giving this time and effort. HUGS!
Thanks so much, Marian. I know I won’t regret it and I know we’re where we’re supposed to be doing what we’re supposed to be doing. I really appreciate your words and support.
Hi Janet – I read your comment to Jo and wanted to add that I think it is wise of you to let your hubby have his days while you regroup – because caregiver burnout is real and so the key is to prevent it (if possible)
and I do love the color you found in your feature photo – such layers and that yellow brings cheer
Thanks, Yvette. ❤️
🎄💚
A great nature shot, Janet. Thank you!
You’re very welcome. 🙂