Time to Breathe

Finally....I have some time to sit and do nothing. Life has been extremely hectic since the end of July to now. But now that I have some time, I will update my blog.

We made the decision to place my dad in a home for Alzheimer's/FTD in Bountiful. It was definitely not the easiest thing we have done. My stomach has not been the same since that day, and I have to wonder, if it will ever be the same. Each time I visit him, my heart strings are pulled every which way possible. I finally have to leave because I can't hold back the tears any longer. However, I know it is the right place for him and for his safety. Sometimes it just plain hurts.

FTD is a strange disease and not sure what we are to expect. But according to some wonderful forums and support groups, it is not going to get easier. I have to wonder if he will be here for the Christmas season. The tremors and rigidity are bad and get worse each time I see him. He sleeps all the time, yet he still knows I am his daughter and tells me how much he loves me. I am a lucky girl.

Dad was able to come to the reception for Ellie and Cam. He seemed to enjoy himself, ate an ice cream cone and visited with family and friends. He was very tired, though. On Sunday, he celebrated his 77th birthday. Again, I have been blessed to have him with me for that long. Mom died when she was 62 and it was way too early. She still needed to be a grandma to her grandkids! She still needed to be there for me to whine about things. I know she is playing with my grandbabies up in heaven and taking care of them until they get down here.

It's nice to finally relax, play with Gabe a little, snuggle with Dash and Layla. I have also found that I like to take naps now and again. It's a selfish pleasure. There hasn't been time to vacuum the furniture, finish up all the laundry at once or even read the paper.

Oh, and the most exciting thing of all, we grew a pumpkin! Can't wait for it to turn orange.