Home

Ah, it's good to be home again. Of course, the Daily Grind was awaiting my attendance, and the list of extra-curricular activities is never ending, however, I'm happy to be home with my hubby and my doggy.

I am so grateful to have re-connected with some childhood friends. What a treasure they are, and what a massive support they were to me this past month.

I also got to spend some precious time with my family. Not only were they my safe haven, they were a joy to be around. I miss them already.

Without being there, I had no idea the lengths to which they were going to take care of Grandma. It was positively exhausting, looking after her for just a month; I can't imagine how they must feel after three years of it. Grandma is one blessed lady, to have a son and daughter-in-law and granddaughter who love her enough to consistently and compassionately care for her, even when she's being difficult (which is just as consistent :) ). She's doing as well as she is because they gave so much of themselves to keep her safe and healthy. I'm amazed and eternally thankful. If they'd not been there, if they'd not moved back from PA when they did, where would she be?

Another note: I've noticed, since I've been back, that my BS tolerance level is way down. I surprised myself yesterday: one email to our landlord, telling him quite assertively that he must fix our soggy wall, and one to a client who sorely misunderstood the original contract he signed. Before, I would said to the landlord, "when you can" to keep from seeming...upset. I would have said to the client "ok, whatever you say," even though he's really in the wrong. I approached both with a new sense of confidence. I can only attribute this to a.) being emotionally exhausted and not interested in meow-ing my way through things right now and b.) being around family that has a No BS Tolerance Policy, and seeing that it's really quite OK to set boundaries and stick to them. This is new to me, but I'm grateful for it.

It was a good/sad/bittersweet trip. Again, I'm glad to be home, and yet again, I miss my family. I miss Grandma, too, and find myself welling up, thinking of her current mental state. I love her so very dearly and for all my efforts, I'm still unable to fight off the real enemy: the Alzheimer's. At least I know she's safe now. That's the very best any of us could do.