Senior Moments

Betsy and I went to Hendersonville on Tuesday to be with my parents.  The weather was foggy and rainy most of the day which added to our travel time both ways, but we were glad to be able to make the trip.

Mom and Dad, Spring, 2001.

As I mentioned before, Dad is 96 and Mom is 88.  Both are now legally blind, but they both want to stay in their home.  Betsy and I try to help them as much as we can, although part of that help has to be long distance help.

When I was growing up I thought my Dad could do just about anything.  So there is a certain amount of sadness when I need to help him write checks, activate his credit card, or find things in a store.

But there is also joy associated in being with Mom and Dad.  They are both in good spirits and remain active in their church.  And we can see the basic goodness of many people when we are with Mom and Dad.  We take them out to lunch and take them shopping when we go over.  Tuesday we took them to one of their favorite restaurants and a waitress saw us approaching the front door.  She came out and held the door for Mom and Dad and greeted them warmly.  Our friend Judy tells us that the staff at another restaurant treat Mom and Dad like royalty when they eat there.

Mom and Dad have shopped at the same grocery store for over 40 years.  When they get to the checkout there is one clerk who comes around to empty there basket for them.  As she does this she says what each item is and asks if they want that item.  She then helps Dad sign his check (the cash register makes out the check) and sends them off with a good word.

I wish I could thank all of these kind people personally.  But I am glad that I can at least acknowledge their kindnesses, especially at this time of the year.