Sunday, December 18, 2022

Sunday, December 18, 2022

Tonight's picture was taken in December of 2002. It was Mattie's first Christmas and as you can see, we had a lot going on in our living room. Stacks of Mattie's books, his entertainment saucer, activity walker, and toys filled our home. Do you see Patches, our calico cat? She was never far from the action and she instinctually understood that she had to behave around Mattie. 

Quote of the day: Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible. ~ Francis of Assisi

Don't ask what I did today. It seems like a blur. I am sure many people can relate to this feeling at this time of year. You don't know what you are doing first and yet the holidays are vast approaching. They are coming whether we are ready for them or not. It is hard to believe that my intense caregiving role has been going on for a year now. 

I would say that my parents were resting more than awake today. My mom seemed exhausted all day and I suspect it was because she had no down time during the day yesterday. Any case, while they were sleeping, I was doing Foundation work, Christmas dinner planning, and all sorts of chores. 

Later today, we took my parents out to dinner. We go to the same restaurant every Sunday. I am telling you that the servers who work with us have become an extended part of our family, and a crucial part of my social circle. Without them, I truly would have little to no rational conversation all week long. 

Today we exchanged gifts with Cheryl, our server. So if you are keeping track, yesterday Dawn, one of our favorite servers, comped our entire dinner and tonight, Cheryl brought each of us a Christmas present. Literally at our table, it was like Christmas morning. This is how special these women are! 

Cheryl gave me several gifts, but three of them are now on our tree. Do you see the "peace" ornaments? One in red and white. Both from Cheryl. 

The peace ornament in white. This year, I added a clip on cardinal to the tree. Symbolic of Mattie. 

Cheryl also gave me this butterfly ornament that is hand made out of tin. She knows that butterflies are important to me. Do you see the little elf with a Santa hat near the butterfly? Mattie made this elf while he was in the hospital and I just found it this year.