Dave and I met Kittye and Mom at a park in Defuniak Springs, Florida on Hwy. 98 to begin Mom’s six weeks with us. She waved and smiled when she saw me, like she always does. It makes me happy, relieved she is well, and life is as it has been. I know change is coming, but I am comforted in the moments it remains the same. She will do the same when she sees Kittye the end of November.
On the way home, we picnicked at the rest area on I-185. Mom enjoys chicken wings and Cheez-Its. She is wearing her Napkinection (www.napkinection.com).
Watching her interact with her great-grandchildren is a privilege, I cherish. Grayson (18 m.o.) said “Grandma!” when he saw her this time and my, oh my, how that made her smile. Smiles delight, pass on joy, draw us in, connect us heart to heart.
Olivia was not to be left out, of course. She gives Mom lots of hugs. Kimberly makes sure they have plenty of time with their great-grandmother. She has fond memories of spending summers on the farm with Grandma.
The sourwood tree is my favorite tree, lacy flowers in the spring and luscious red leaves in the fall. Butterflies and bees feel the same way I do. They flit and flutter over the flowers gathering pollen to spread the joy. In the Arbor Foundation “Library of Trees”, James R. Fazio writes, “As I prepare this issue on sourwood trees, my appreciation for bees is greater than ever. If it were not for them, we would not be blessed with what is arguably the finest of all honey.” It is a unique honey that has a buttery or caramel flavor, mild and delectable to the taste buds.
This sourwood is outside my living room window. Mom sits in her lift chair with it in full view, watching it change throughout the seasons, accepting the changes that occur in her life in six-week increments. As much as we want the good things in our life to stay the same, accepting that they will not takes some work and practice in letting go with grace. Mom seems to have it mastered. Gratitude for the wondrous moments, strength and faith for the difficult times and remembering through the good and bad, “This to shall pass.”, will help us find peace and comfort through the caregiving experience.
Napkinection 