I've watched family members care for loved ones, but I am seeing this with a new pair of eyes. Mom cared for Ward for the years that they were together. She did that faithfully. I also admire Don and Gloria for their care of Gloria's mother. More recently, I watched as David cared for Marti. They have been good examples for me to follow.
Although I love my father-in-law, I have felt overwhelmed at the changes that will need to take place in our lifestyle. One of the big changes for me has been the change in our television viewing. It has gone from excessive to almost none. That might be a good change. I think I've always been like some other members of my family. I enjoy going all the time. Since he has come to stay with us, I haven't been out of the house even one time. That is a hard one for me.
We've had a lot of people coming and visiting. That has been nice, and it has been difficult. It's always good to see old friends, the it would be nicer under different circumstances. Pete's voice comes and goes so it has been difficult for him to carry on a conversation. It's also been a bit difficult because we have been in the process of reconfiguring things to match our new situation.
I was really grateful when my friend Joe came over and taught Betty and I to lift and turn Dad correctly so that we don't hurt ourselves. I am also grateful for his wife, Wendy who took time with Betty to help her understand things that we need to do to care for him and for ourselves as we experience a new challenge.
