Yesterday, when I picked up Mom from the hospital, I was delighted to see that my dear Rosalie (Congolese nurse) had brought her down from the sixth floor. Thus, I got to tell Rosalie how much our French conversations had meant to me and how much I would miss them. In return, I got a lovely hug and many complimentary words about Mom: "She's everyone's favorite. She's so kind and spunky and interested in all of us and our families." All true. Mom is, in fact, a much nicer person than I am. Then it was off to the rehab center where they weren't ready for Mom's arrival; it was fortunate that I had transported her and could hang out and be my entertaining self. ;) As of right now the place still hasn't received the orders from the hospital for her insulin. Which is quite critical for a diabetic!
One example of my not-niceness (of many) is that I'm now forced into closer contact with my sister-in-law; when I ran into her (plus children) coming into the facility when I was leaving, all bare-faced, I pointed out that masks were required. She tried to get snippy with me until her son stepped in to tell her that it had said so on the entrance door sign. Is a smart idea to potentially bring in germs to a place where everyone is medically fragile? DUH?
Niece brought some books for my mom to read, even though Mom is only interested in magazines. I've never seen her read a book, ever. I approved of "Anne of Green Gables" and "Boxcar Children" but when I saw this one, I wanted to take it away and burn it. Not only is it worthy of the Onion (satire), it's also very disrespectful. For many years, my parents have had a photo of the Obamas on their refrigerator. It's obvious that we don't share political views, so why in the world would they think that Mom would want to read anything by RL: bag of hot vitriolic air, convicted drug addict and generally horrible person?
Don't worry--I'm trying to focus on positive things like Younger Daughter's "new" $75 couch and cheap area rug. There's still a lot to do but the house is starting to look homier.
Although I haven't seen John for a while due to his various illnesses (Man Cold, ear infection) and my mom's issues, the tulips he got me for Valentines Day are blooming beautifully!
It's very chilly right now, but the sky is blue and our mountain is out. I was on my way to get gas and had to snap this photo at a stoplight. Because, you know, I don't already have thousands of pictures of Mount Rainier. :)
I'm dealing with a lot of sadness at the moment over a variety of things. It takes me a while of sitting with my emotions to transition to the point of letting them go. Time is indeed the great healer.
Well Margaret, this was a nice read about your mom and you speak french!? That would be very cool. I have to admit my stomach turned when I saw the cover on that book, Rush limbaugh?? Your sister-in-law sounds like a real winner. I'm sorry, I don't know her I have no right to say such a thing but still.. revolting. On a happier note, I like your younger daughters living room rug, it's very nice! I hope John recovers real soon. 🙂👍
Posted by: Doug M | February 24, 2023 at 03:59 PM
Owning everything that comes our way is the best way. Too bad expressing your true feelings may be illegal.
I'm glad your mom is settled into rehab, but Rush? Some problems you can't just "own" and leave.
Posted by: Joanne Noragon | February 24, 2023 at 04:58 PM
Glad you got mom somewhat settled and got to say goodbye to nurse Rosalie. Also it's good to see YD getting settled as well and making a comfy home. I think I'll just leave the rest alone...
It was gorgeous today and so nice not to have the wind blowing. That makes such a difference. You have seen the forecast right...snow tomorrow-into Sunday :) and probable rain/snow most of next week. Maybe you will just be video chatting with mom although our highs are supposed to get back into the 40's thankfully.
Posted by: Deb | February 24, 2023 at 05:22 PM
Nice mountain pic.
Posted by: Bruce | February 24, 2023 at 06:39 PM
Um, I think your first paragraph in this post proves that you must be a very nice person. Just because you are discerning and have good boundaries does not make you "not nice". I enjoy reading the blogs of nice people I've never met, including yours. Hugs.
Posted by: Maureen | February 24, 2023 at 06:42 PM
Margaret, I have been down this path before. It is not an easy trek. You will be asked to do more than you ever thought you could do. But you will do it, because you can. Thinking of you.
Posted by: Allan | February 24, 2023 at 07:06 PM
I was wondering about that RL book. I wish I could add my eye roll emoji. He's such a jerk.
I'm glad your mom is improving and that she had good care.
There are times that depression can visit us and we can recognize it, deal with it and move on.
Posted by: Musings | February 24, 2023 at 11:35 PM
If it gets too cold, put that RL book in the fire! Glad the brother pointed out the sign to the disrespectful SIL. The couch and rug look great! Baby steps for YD too ya know. Willing to bet there's another French-speaking staffer at the new Rehab place. Linda in Kansas
Posted by: DrumMajor Linda in Kansas | February 25, 2023 at 12:05 AM
I guess though I share your assessment of RL, I wouldn’t be so harsh assessing the book without reading it, especially one that is on the subject it supposes by the cover. I’ve read many a good book by some people who do t share my political beliefs.
Posted by: Ed | February 25, 2023 at 03:57 AM
Ah, the book! What absolute rubbish. Your SIL sounds like a real peach.
On the sadness, I hear you loud and clear. I definitely deal with it on occasion. It is not what I would call depression, it's not that deep, but it has its own darkness and can stay way past its tolerable period. I also accept and then I rejoice when it lifts.
Take care.
Posted by: linda dev | February 25, 2023 at 06:27 AM
You are dealing with much, but I hope that book takes a walk to the nearest bin.
Extremely cold here this morning. It’s late Feb, so hopefully, it won’t last.
Take care.
Posted by: AC | February 25, 2023 at 06:36 AM
Good for your nephew for reading the sign and "reminding" his mom. I have long gotten comfortable with grocery shopping (masked) and seeing the unmasked. I just stay away from them. But in a rehab facility? You darn betcha folks should CARE enough about the patients (and staff) to mask. And other viruses besides covid can also be dangerous. (I know I'm preaching to the choir.)
Also, that Rush Limbaugh book cover is so ridiculous it's *almost* funny.
Posted by: kayak woman | February 25, 2023 at 06:39 AM
No one much wears masks any more here, though I would, in a hospital. I never minded wearing one but now we've all got out of the habit. Sorry about your sadness. As you say, in time things will seem much better. But it's not a great help now. xx
Posted by: Pam Donaldson | February 25, 2023 at 07:46 AM
I would definitely disappear the RL book and just plea ignorance. Your mother's personality making her well liked will serve her well in the Rehab. As we all know, nasty gets you nowhere. Group living in large facilities carries risk of infection. It is hard to manage with 100% success. YD is making herself a comfy home. Poor John, he's not been feeling well for quite a while.
Posted by: Susan | February 25, 2023 at 09:45 AM
That quote is so true. I'm sorry about SIL. Some people never really get it. How neat to talk to the nurse in French.
Posted by: Marie K | February 25, 2023 at 04:43 PM
So glad you were able to drive your mom to the assisted living facility. I bet she will settle right in and be happy to have someone to visit with each day and not worry about meals and medication taking. Kind of crazy when the door sign states that masks are required that people still try to get by without them. Especially at a care center with yes, fragile healthed people.
Your tulips are gorgeous. I need to buy some in the next month haha! Nice that YD is getting settled and getting the house to be her own. I sure hope John feels better soon
Posted by: Wendy | February 28, 2023 at 05:17 PM