Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Looking on the bright side

I cannot begin to tell you how much your comments have meant to me. Uplifting, caring, sweet wonderful people that you are. I am so very thankful for each one of you and happy to call you friend whether you are near or far.

Life has settled into a pattern of sorts. Mom started radiation last week and has now had 6 of 10 treatments. She also started chemotherapy today in pill form which she will do for 2 weeks. There are brights spots. Mom is eating and staying up more now. She was sleeping quite a bit and had very little energy but she seems to be getting some of that energy back. She is eating well each day which was not the case a few weeks ago. We are even finding humor in little things. Monday she decided to go to the kitchen on her own. She uses a walker to get around because she wants the stability it provides. The space going into the kitchen is quite close and she got herself blocked into a corner. My aunt turned around and there was Mom, standing against the pantry cabinet behind her walker blocked by the dryer. My mental image of that is hilarious and I think they both had a good laugh about it.

Mom's spirits are definitely up compared to the past few weeks and seeing her smile and laugh helps me. Of course, there are the talks about how to handle things and getting everything taken care of but that is a fact of the process and we are handling it well. I have even taken a day each week to stay home and do what I need to catch up on. While a major part of me wants to be with her each minute of each day, I know that my body won't handle that so I rest when I can and take advantage of the wonderful family and friends we have to help with the trips to radiation and staying when my aunt needs a break.

She has been having company but surprisingly, it has not been bunches of people at one time. They have been spaced out very well and I am grateful for that. Two weekends ago, my son and DIL came up with their 3 kids for a visit which Mom thoroughly enjoyed although it did wear her out. Three kids 5 and under are a little overwhelming in their energy and activeness. Mom had to go lie down on Sunday of that weekend because she was just worn out. But she was very glad to see them. She had worried how they would react to the patch she has over her right eye but only Lilly, the 3 year old, asked about it. Mom told her she had a boo-boo and Lilly told her Gibson (her cousin) had a boo-boo on his eye. And that was that! Children are amazing.

Last weekend, my daughter Abby, SIL and James came for a visit and again, Mom was happy to see them. James is use to the patch because he saw her so much when we were in Nashville. We have joked that he doesn't know why we aren't in a hotel room. :)  He gives Mom open mouth kisses which she loves.

So we are moving forward, taking each day for the gift that it is and happy in it.

Thank you for stopping by and for your comments. They mean so very much to me.

Hugs,
Sharon

11 comments:

  1. Dear Sharon, So glad that your Mom is feeling better now. Sending her a lot of get well wishes and sending you lots of positive vibes and a big hug. :)

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  2. Dear Sharon - I'm glad you have all settled into a rhythm, and that you're taking that little bit of a breather each week. And it's great that your Mom is feeling a bit perkier. These are precious days for all of you. May your days together be blessed and happy ones, and I pray that your Mom can stay comfortable. Sending you a big hug right now.

    Love, Sue

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  3. Dear Sharon,
    It sounds like a good rhythm to be in and I am so glad to hear that your mother has so much support. Fragile days for certain, but filled with such love and care....also happy to hear that you have a bit of rest now and then.
    Sending so much love and prayers your way, Ellen.

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  4. Good days to be sure and true gifts from God. Each day is appreciated for what it is. I'm glad your Mom is doing a bit better and that family is letting her know she's important to them. I'm continuing to pray for you.
    Blessings,
    Betsy

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  5. It sounds like your mum is doing well, more energy and some smiles along the way. It will make things easier for you all to see the improvement, including the fact that she's eating better too. Keeping you all in my thoughts.

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  6. Glad things are settling in Sharon.

    I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
    Meredith

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  7. I am glad to hear that ya'll are moving forward and doing the best you can with each given day and moment. Staying positive is the best thing you can do, that's for sure. Wishing you all the best, Tammy

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  8. I missed your last post somehow Sharon so hadn't kept up with your news. Tough times, but that you are finding your way to the funny moments they hold is inspirational. What a wonderful family your Mom has been blessed with. I will be thinking of you all x

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  9. So glad that your mom is having some better days and that you and your family are there to support each other and treasure your time together. Love with hugs, Gracie

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  10. Lovely blog thanks for taking the time to share this.

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