Thursday, November 23, 2023

Thursday, November 23, 2023

Tonight's picture was taken in November of 2008. Mattie was given this adorable turkey hat from his school counselor. I always reflect on this photo, and immediately think of Thanksgiving. Despite our cancer journey at that time, Mattie was alive and I hoped we would have a future together. Our greatest hope was that we would find a cure for Mattie's disease. That said, Thanksgiving 2008 was a challenging time. Mattie was home recovering from limb salvaging surgery and it became clear that he was suffering from what looked like PTSD. Mattie did not want to hear noise, which included talking, and though we tried tuning into the Macy's Day Parade, Mattie felt absolutely miserable and I will never forget the feeling of hopelessness and despair witnessing all of this. 

Quote of the day: Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything. ~ CS Lewis

For the past several Thanksgivings, I either cooked a big meal in Los Angeles or here at home. This year, we went out! Here's the funny part about this.... I did not miss cooking, cleaning, and serving one bit. That said, I am cooking a small turkey at home tomorrow, because I just LOVE turkey. 

My mom and me!

I have to say my dad was more out of it than ever today. He ordered ham and after quickly eating it, he forgot what he ate. My dad was never a very fast eater, but now with dementia, he eats so quickly that his memory care center is afraid he will choke. 

The ham!

The turkey... which was excellent!

There was pumpkin, apple, and pecan pie as well! When we got home, I walked Sunny and then treated him to Thanksgiving leftovers. All of Sunny's food now needs to be pureed as he has a great deal of trouble chewing. The chemo has produced large sores in his mouth and no matter how we treat them, they just won't go away! Literally I take it one day at a time with Sunny!