Parents Blog
Big Big Changes
Friday, March 27, 2015 by pam
So .... I've been obviously absent here. Lots going on, as you'll see.
In the last couple of years, we've been concerned with my dear mother-in-law, who was showing dementia symptoms. My husband got her to a specialist, and yes, she has dementia. Not from Alzheimer's, a stroke, Parkinson's, or any other disorder. She's simply getting older.
For over a year, the family has been talking about our options. We settled on Daryl and I and Anna moving in with Mom. Mom doesn't need a nursing home. She has been in her home for 60 years. The best thing for Mom is to stay in her home. And really, it's a safer environment for Anna since there are no stairs. So, we moved in on December 28th.
I intended to blog about it right away. I really did! But I didn't count on the emotional adjustment causing me to kind of shut down. It's really taken a lot of my brain space. I haven't done any blogging or writing at all in the last 3 months. But I'm ready to get started again. This is a positive thing, right?
The other thing I didn't count on was feeling homesick. The first week we were here, all I wanted to do was GO HOME. I felt like a kid at camp. And I was embarrassed to tell anyone. I'm a grown woman! Sheesh. The only comfort I received was from Anna, of all people. Every night, we'd climb into bed and I would cry and she would put her arm around my neck and say, "Aw, Mommy!" Isn't it amazing how our special kids pick up on our emotions? Normally, Anna doesn't understand sadness, and she'll often laugh when I cry because to her, it sounds like I'm laughing. But she was spot on this time. I finally told Daryl and after that, I started feeling better.
Anna loves it here. LOVES IT. She hasn't asked even one time to go home. We were worried about her and our cat, Cosmo, but they've settled in and love life with Mom-Mom Halter.
So, I'm back. We appreciate any prayers you want to throw our way, but God is so with us. We're thankful and blessed!
Comments
Laura kirk From Bremen, ga At 3/27/2015 5:14:19 PM
So glad you're back! Sounds like things are smoothing out. I know exactly what you're talking about concerning Anna. Leslie is the same way. She senses my inner pain, and can sooth it better than anyone.Marilyn Cooksey Eller From Pennsville At 3/27/2015 12:13:47 PM
You're amazing--glad we can stay in touch on FBpam From At 3/27/2015 11:14:01 AM
Thanks, girls. I appreciate you!Joy DeKok From Pine Island, MN At 3/27/2015 11:01:58 AM
What a lovely gift you are giving! To your mother in law and to us. When my mom was diagnosed with dementia I found myself overwhelmed by homesickness too. For her. Saying a prayer for you today.Leah Morgan From Sharpsburg, MD At 3/27/2015 9:52:08 AM
Pam, this brought tears to my eyes, hearing of your attempts to hide your homesickness, and Anna's perception. God bless you for your many faithful acts of service. I pray you'll be rewarded in kind.Susie From Fairton At 3/27/2015 9:27:12 AM
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