Between the Christmas reunion and our trip to Arkansas right after Christmas, we've extended the holiday. We all visited Mom and Dad on New Year's Eve to share gifts. I've found that taking it slow with them each is the key. That's why I have not yet showed them all their Christmas cards. That's on my list for next week. I want to make sure I can sit down and read over each card with them.
Mom's Christmas
Opening a gift from Aunt Lucy and Uncle Ping
A dear friend from college visited Mom for Christmas too.
This was a treat for all of us!
Dad's Christmas
Dad was thrilled to open your gift, Debbie!
I brought a windchime and bird feeder back from Conway.
The spot outside Dad's window is the perfect spot!
We bought him some new shelves to help with organization.
We put his new gifts in them until he
has time to organize and use the books and puzzles.
It's hard to know what challenges him and how much Dad's mind can take in, although he does really well to give guidance. The creative person inside me wants to change up things and update. Then I remember that he needs consistency, so I reign it in. He does love receiving cards and notes. I've requested some more shelves in his closet to help organize his things better. Dad seems pleased with his apartment and I am too!
Mom tends to put things in her closet. I'm not sure exactly why, except that she prefers to be at her home in Arkansas. So, anything we take to her usually ends up in one of her apartment closets or the hall closet. She was excited to have the Christmas tree in her room once the kids decorated it with her. Also, the kids have seat cushions hanging in one of her closets for their visits. It's a softer place to sit (when they are not piled on top of Hoo Hoo in her chair), but it also serves as a reminder that the kids will be back to visit soon.
I take pictures to both parents often. In fact, the employees at Walgreens now call me by name. Not sure if that's a good thing or not! I know that pictures help Dad a lot and Mom needs the reminder of events too. We gladly welcome pictures! If anyone likes taking pictures, send them our way. Mom and Dad both enjoy seeing what family and friends are up to. It helps them feel connected and not forgotten!
So, as we start 2019...enjoy God's gifts of today!! We sure are!
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