Blest Be The Tie That Binds

We gathered together at our home tonight to bid farewell to a family that we love dearly. Paul, Diane and Gracie will be moving back to Ohio to be closer to family and seek employment that California just can't provide them.

We had a meal together and tried to put off the inevitable goodbyes. As we gathered in a circle for prayer, our Deacon\Friend encouraged us.

No, that isn't Brent in the picture above but the very same author of the song we sang as we held hands and prayed for our friends. "Blest Be The Tie That Binds".

I encourage you to do a search on this song. The original family unpacked their wagons and stayed with their congregation because they couldn't bear to leave.

I only wish that history could repeat itself.

Farewell friends.

My Chains are Gone

"My chains are gone, I've been set free"

It doesn't seem like three years. When I visited Mom this morning she didn't have a clue that it has been three years since "her friend" went to Heaven. Actually, he is a distant, fond memory to her. The only image she can recognize is the picture of them walking down Market Street in San Francisco when they were first married. I can't even remember how many years they would have been married. I'm thinking at least 65 years.

I noticed recently that some of their pictures are put away in her drawers. At first I thought it was because the memory was too painful. Now I realize it is because Mom doesn't recognize the people in the pictures. I don't understand dementia. I'm not even sure of my role in this process. From what I have researched I know there will come a day when Mom doesn't know who I am anymore. Tyler and I treasure each day. I take care of her daily needs and he sits and watches TV with her while raiding her candy dish.

Life is good.

Happy Birthday Lizzie!

It's your birthday! I don't know anyone else who can hang drywall in the morning and look gorgeous by evening.

I hope your birthday weekend is all you deserve. Make sure those boys of yours spoil you rotten. You are loved sweetie!