Settling In

It is amazing to me how easily I forget carefully acquired habits, once away from the situations that promote them. Mom's first week has gone along fine, but I seem to need to relearn the habits I acquired last year, in caring for her. It all comes back, but why did it leave in the first place? Mom is definitely weaker than she was last year. She is 93 now, so I must remind myself not to expect too much in the way of physical progress for her. It is time to ease down.

We did take her to a Bluegrass concert Friday night. It lasted much longer than I expected--we didn't get out until after 10 PM. Mom's usual bedtime is 8 PM. But she hung in. As with so many outings, I wasn't very excited about going. But, as with many outings, once there, I enjoyed myself. The music was lively as can be. I liked it; especially when they did some gospel tunes. I've decided that I like gospel music!

Right is a picture of grandson Isaiah (son of our Audrey) with his new contact lenses. He's pretty excited about them.

I taught my 14 year old Sunday School class today, after a long absence. It didn't go especially well. It makes me sad to feel such a sweet spirit during preparations, only to feel none of it in the classroom. Maybe I expect too much. I told the kids today that they are as responsible as I am for an inspired lesson. I know from experience when the Spirit is there the material expands and when it is not, things contract. Today was a contraction day.

It is good to be home for a full week without the anticipation of leaving again. I love walking through the yard and house. There is so much to do to "finish" things, but just being here is joyful. Our neighbors, the Trutners, sold me their extra patio furniture. I placed it in two places around the house. One of them is the patio off of our bedroom. I'm so excited about it! I see Layne and me sitting on our little patio, enjoying the view and bonding. I wonder if that will actually happen.

It is raining today. When the rainy season begins I feel a sweet relief. It is as if all is well with nature and we will have a provident season. In spite of the little collection of worries that live in the back of my mind (mentioned last week), I believe I am an optimist. I think I learned to believe in happy endings from my parents. I'm glad for it, for, in the end, all really will be well. It's the getting there that promotes the worries of course. But even those have a way of working out.

Bottom picture is of Mom in her lazy-boy chair. In the background you can see the rain!