February 22, 2012

Country Roads, Take Me Home...

l-r: Donna, DeeDee, granddaughter Sarah and Deb
Yesterday was a good day. Grace's daughters and I spent the day together with one of her granddaughters (Sarah). When the nurse came in to see Grace, she asked if we were all sisters and before I could say anything, her daughters said, "Yes. Donna is our half-sister." Later, they told me, "You know Donna, you even look like you belong to our family." (The conversation started when they that all of Grace's children's names begin with a "D", as does mine.) I smiled to know that they love and embrace me as much as I love them.

It warmed my heart to witness the love and generosity Grace has instilled in her family. I can say, without a doubt, that she also had a hand in shaping the woman I've become, and I'm proud to be her "daughter". Although so much of what has to be done was difficult, watching her daughters make decisions with consideration and concern for her was further testament to the examples she set for all her children.

The four of us toured a nursing home/assisted living facility in town and we agreed that it would be a perfect place for Grace (as she won't be allowed to go back home to live alone). Even better is that there was a lovely room with a garden view immediately available for her. It was most important for them to find a place where she will be happy and cared-for, and this place perfectly fit their parameters.

I'm leaving for home today, but my heart is at ease knowing that Mom will be moving into her new home while I'm driving. We all enjoyed the time we were able to spend together while I was there, and although the doctors still cannot pinpoint the source of her most immediate health issue, they were able to stabilize her and improve her condition so that she was alert and comfortable while we visited. I prayed that she would be this way when I arrived, and my (and your) prayers were doubly answered.

There were no tears at our parting (which has not always been the case). She is happy and hopeful, and I am leaving her with a calm heart. We are looking forward to seeing each other again this summer and she told me she'll do her best to get stronger.

My goal is to reach Chattanooga, TN today and then finish my journey mid-day tomorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing Handsome and Tag, so I won't be taking the long route!
DonnaAcornSignature

(Note: This is what a picture looks like when a short photographer uses the screen instead of the viewfinder on the camera. There's more than a little image distortion. Note to self: Next time, set up to use the viewfinder.)

12 comments:

  1. have a safe drive my friend .. i know you feel blessed you were able to make the visit .. i also know Tag will be so happy to see you .. my angel wings surround you and hold you tight .. love Troy

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  2. I am so glad you had a good visit Donna. I am also glad you got to visit Wisconsin without all the below freezing temps and lots of snow. I have prayed for your safe travels today. :)

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  3. Have a safe trip. It is wonderful to have the perfect place for "Mom". A room with a view of the garden would cheer anyone up and it will give her something to watch.
    Deb

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  4. Donna, I have been so blessed each day reading of your time with Grace. It is so heartwarming to see the relationship you have with this family. It is also amazing to see God at work in her situation. I continue to pray for her and for your safe drive home. Twyla

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  5. Safe journey, my friend.
    It is so good that Grace is going to be living somewhere where she will be safe and health can be looked after. Such a relief for you.
    Thinking of you,
    Best wishes,
    Mandy.

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  6. Hi Donna, What a lovely post, such a wonderful family. I am so glad that you are getting out of the midwest, with the snow storm coming. Have a safe trip. Hugs, Terri

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  7. Wishing safe travels for you, and an easy and pleasant move for Grace. So glad you can leave Wisconsin with a happy, grateful and peaceful heart.

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  8. Safe trip home. I'm glad Mom is doing better and you had a nice visit.

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  9. Be safe Donna!! Glad you are not leaving with a sad heart. HUGS to you my friend!!

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  10. So glad to hear that things are working out well for Grace and she will be settled into her new home by the time you get home. Safe journey my friend.

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  11. I'm so glad you had a good visit and that things are better. Safe travels home.

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  12. First, glad you had a great time with your "family!" Second, glad Grace is moving into a place she likes and is smiling. Third, you suck as now I'll be singing that darn song the rest of the night!!!!!! hee,hee,hee.
    Love ya Deece. Safe travels.

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Thank you so much for leaving a comment today. I'm using new settings on my comments so that I'll be able to respond to your messages to me. Be sure to come back to see my replies!

Blessings, Donna