Dad is at peace

The phone rang at 2:30am this morning, hospice telling us that dad was declining and we needed to come. So I went.

Jenny was there as I walked in the door, eyes dewy and sleepy. Dad was breathing, intermittently and shallow.

We talked to him, joined hands and prayed over him and told him it was okay to go on home. We spoke in quiet tones as we watched the life our dad lived for 70 years slowly ebb away. He didn't struggle, he just slowly stopped breathing.

We made our phone calls, began collecting ourselves, and made the trek home. Our conversations have been about details and plans to be made. Arranging our week to make space to say our final goodbye to dad.

Truth be told, we've been saying goodbye a little at a time. Alzheimer's steals so much for so long. We've said little goodbyes all along the path of this journey.

So now the time has come. We are grateful for the support of family and friends. But most of all, we are thankful for the goodness, grace and support God has showered on us during this most difficult journey.

And we are at peace.

I think I'm missing a gene

Not for any other reason than I hate to shop. I don't like crowds and there is NO deal that would make me want to get out of bed at 3:00 am to go buy something.

I don't understand it and to be very honest, I don't want to. I know many lovely people who get very excited this time of year. Their plans are made, their sale papers are marked, and their wallets are ready. (I hope with cash). Personally, I will be very sure not to clog the lines or get in their way. I will be home. Warm, snuggly and relaxed.

I'm also at the point in life that I don't want something else to dust. Give me the gift of an evening of games, dinner out, a girl's night or a movie. I don't need or want another whatever to clutter my full home. The older I get the more I realize that owning stuff is a fine line too easily crossed over...soon your stuff owns you.

So here is my plan. I will not go shopping, I will stay home. I will not make a Christmas list of stuff but of times I would enjoy. I will offer to others gifts that I believe will touch their hearts, even if they take my time and energy. I will not wait until Christmas to give the most important gift I possess, love.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Be ThankFULL!

peace.

p.s. the cat pic is Henry, my sis' cat, and it's just because. :-)

A Christmas Carol

I got to see the newest version of A Christmas Carol and I loved it!!

The animation is incredible, the 3-D is a wonderful touch and I would highly recommend it. I would not take small children, it is dark and scary in some places)


I have always loved the Albert Finney version called Scrooge. But then, I love musicals!!

So get yourself ready for the season and go see this film.

peace.