At Grandma Lorraine's House

Hello from Red Bluff, California!

I arrived safely into Sacramento Thurs. evening, and my friend Kim Faires was there waiting for me. It was so nice having a smiling face to greet me! (Rental car agents just aren't the same!) We had a nice drive back "home" stopping for an enjoyable dinner on the way on the way. My mom needed to go to bed early, so I wouldn't get to see her on Thurs. When I arrived home a new caregiver was there, and it felt awkward having a 'stranger' in the house as I had become familiar with the 3 caregivers on my mom's "team." The other two remain the same, so that is good to maintain that consistency for my mom. The new gal is a former police officer and court baliff, and she seems very capable and kind.

Yesterday, my mom enjoyed being pushed in her wheelchair around the neighborhood, and then felt refreshed after a CNA came to assist with a shower. Her Hospice nurse came by to meet me, as we will be working closely over the coming weeks and months. He was a kind and attentive gentleman about my age, and he related very well to my mother, so I felt comfortable with him as well. Her main daytime caregiver, Gayle, is an absolute angel to my mother, and does "everything right" as my mom would say about her. That makes her the perfect caregiver, and my mother has become quite attached to her referring to her as "My Gayle." My mom and I had the opportunity to visit yesterday, and it seems like discussions about the past are easiest for her remember facts about. We enjoyed reliving childhood memories and funny stories about my dad, family trips, etc... It was fun to laugh together and to hear her gregarious laugh once again!

I spoke with Tom several times and all was well at home in Colorado. Kyle arrived safely into Las Vegas so I was greatly relieved when I heard that news! I am anxious to speak with him in person and hear all the details of his first day of adventures in Las Vegas. The last I heard the boys adjoining room to Tyler's parents was upgraded to a suite, so I am sure the two 13 year olds were thrilled to have their own TV and space to stay up late! I'll let you know once I can speak with him in person to hear about the days events!

Last night I went over to Tom's parents home once my mom went to bed, and had such a nice visit wth them as well. Ron and Billie have always been so welcoming to me, and for the past 20 years they have been like a second set of parents. Billie is ready upon my arrival to cook and cater to my needs like I was a first time house guest! They are truly wonderful people! I left their house last night with a big bag of walnuts freshly shelled from Tehama County! I also inherited some beautiful sweaters that Cousin Kathy didn't need, so I left with full arms, and a full heart!

Thank you so much for following my mom' s story, and walking beside us during this journey. She feels blessed to have so many friends that care, and she is so tickled by all the blog comments for prayers and well wishes! Her eye sight is deterioating quickly, so it is quite difficult for her to look at the computer now, but I will be sure and read to her your well wishes!

Enjoy your Saturday, and I will post another update soon!

I forgot to tell you that two ski resorts opened last week in Colorado?! I am enjoying the beautiful weather here, although we are anxious for our first snow back home!

Love from sunny 82 degree Red Bluff,
Denise :-)