''Mr Dancys ' Day''

HI, The snow melted ,withot a trace left.It was warmer today so we went for a walk after lunch.Mr Dancy watched some sports for awhile,later he played the keyboard he seems to like some of the songs.We looked at photo albums and
worked with a word game.He slept throughout the night and seemed well rested this morning.He had all of his meals
And medications.He had a good day.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Snowy Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy enjoyed watching it snow this morning,he sat by the kitchen window after breakfast to watch.The nurse came to visit Mr Dancy,she gave him his b-12 shot and took his blood pressure.130/70 a good blood pressure.
Mr Dancy was up several times last night,he was confused about the time,i explained to him that it was in the am,he
stated that he should be in bed,after the second time getting up he wanted to go to the bathroom afterwards he went
back to sleep the rest of the morning until 7:30 am.We worked some on the puzzle and played the key board.Mr Dancy had all of his meals and medications. A good day.Ilene Simmons

""Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a good day ,we went out for a walk this morning and again this afternoon.He had a nice lunch with
Cathy, also.Mr Dancy was very alert and talkative this evening,he talked a lot about childhood and his family.He played the keyboard this evening and we worked some on the puzzle.He rested very well last night,sleeping through-
out the night.he had all of his meals and medications,all in all,a very good day.Ilene Simmons

"'Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a restful night,he was up very early around 6:am,he wanted to sit in his favorite chair and watch
tv,since he was up i gave him his shower and prepared his breakfast afterwards.We went for a walk after lunch and
he watched some sports programs on tv.Later we worked on the puzzle.He had all of his meals and medications and
had a nice quite day.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a nice evening,he watched news and sports this afternoon.later he had a good supper,ate all of his
meal,had his medications and is still watching tv.seemed to have a relaxing evening.Ilene Simmons

Jason and Ashley and Collin Visit Dad

Jason, Ashley and Collin stayed over the weekend at my house. Dad came over on Saturday and he and I watched Collin while Jason and Ashley went to get the wedding rings.

Collin kept running around the sofa where Dad was sitting (Dad was enjoying the Imaginary Friends on the Cartoon Channel), so finally when he climbed over Dad, he grabbed him and started tickling Collin. Collin got off and proclamed that "he was ticklish". Anyway he later "poked" Dad in the face and Dad lifted his legs and tripped Collin. Collin and Dad seemed to enjoy it!

On Sunday my friend Ann watched Dad. Dad explained how he was trying to keep the Red Chritmas plant alive until Valentines Day. (a challenge sometimes).

Dad woke up early and took off his wet clothes and sat in the chair. The night before he had taken off his briefs and replaced them with two pairs of boxer shorts.

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a good day today.He started playing the key board this morning and continued playing for several
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a good day today.He started playing the key board this morning and continued playing for several
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a good day today.He started playing the key board this morning and continued playing for several
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a good day today.He started playing the key board this morning and continued playing for several
hours.He likes the blue grass and jazz.Later we went for a walk and returned for lunch.We worked on a small puzzle
of the United States,He took pride in pointing out the states and fully participated.He is feeling better everyday and
slept well last night,no coughing.He had all of his meals and medications.All in all, its been a good day.
Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy is feeling much better,i prepared him some stewed prunes for constipation I didnt know if he would like
them but he did and they helped him with the constipation.I noticed that late at night when the furnace came on he
would cough a lot.so i called the maintenance man and he came and changed the filters,they looked as though they had not been changed in awhile.I know he will rest better.He had all of his meals and medications.We went for a
walk this afternoon,i wanted to wait until it was warmer outside.Later he watched some sports and we played some songs on my key board.He had a good day.Ilene Simmons

"Mr Dancys' day''

Hi, Mr Dancy seems to be feeling much better,I encouraged him to drink plenty of fluids and to eat all of his meals.
He slept through out the night and seemed well rested this morning.We went for a walk this afternoon,i waited until
it was warmer before going out.We read some scripture and mr Dancy watched sports for awhile ,he seemed more
tired today and took naps on and off.He had all of his medcations and had a pleasant day.The coughing and congestion are steadily improving.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy has a cold,Cathy gave me permission to give him cough lozengers and mucinex,he seems to be doing
fine.I prepared chicken soup, gave him plenty of fluids.Its very cold here today so, i didnt take him out.He had all his
meals and medications for the day.I know he will be feeling much better very soon.He was up once last night,i took
him to the bathroom and gave him something to drink and he went back to bed.Ilene Simmons

Dad's Weekend

Dad woke me up about 2 am Saturday morning. He was chomping on nuts [He stood at my doorway until I woke up. In my dreams I thought it was the vacuum cleaner]. He wanted to talk about something, but I convinced him to wait until the morning. He spent the rest of the night in the easy chair with the afghan covering him completely (face included).

We went to church on Sunday. Dad was able to walk down the aisle just holding my arm and his cane. As we were leaving he was able to maneuver up the aisle by himself.

Today Dad went to the podiatrist to have his toes trimmed. Sometimes, when the doctor touches his big toes he starts to cry out, then he begins to laugh a bit. Not sure if it hurts or just scares him or both. The podiatrist told Dad to just relax his feet, but Dad keeps wanted to wiggle his feet a little.

We then went to Senior Services for the day. They made gingerbread cookies; he brought back a couple. When we left Dad wanted to make sure that all the ladies who were still there (about three) were "taken care of".

''Mr Dancys' Evening''

Hi,Mr Dancy returned home about 6:pm,He ate a good supper had his medications and later retired to the tv room
to watch some television.He seemed very tired so I ask him if he wanted to go to bed and he answered yes,so he went
to bed around 9:30.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,it was raining here today so we had to wait to go out for a walk.We read from one of the books today ''American Short Stories'' and we also read from psalms.Mr Dancy watched a football game and later we played bingo. Mr Dancy was up one time last night,I took him to the bathroom,later gave him some juice to
drink while he watched tv for awhile,he went back to bed and slept until 7:30. He had all of his meals........ and medications.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Today it was sunny and warm here,so, i took mr Dancy out for a walk this morning and again this afternoon.
Mr Dancy watched the classic football games with Jim Brown and Jim Kelly,he also listened to music.We worked a
word game and went over some of the books on the shelf.Mr Dancy had all of his medications and meals and had a
nice lunch with cathy.He slept well last night and did not get up.Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,it was warm and sunny here so we went for a walk this morning and afternoon.
Mr Dancy watched a sports game and listened to music.We looked at cards and pictures. I read some scriptures and
He seemed to like the reading from the bible. Mr Dancy did not rest well last night he was up several times,I took him
to the bathroom each time and gave him something to drink,he went to bed afterwards. He had all of his medications
and meals for the day and is now watching tv. ilene simmons

'' After New Years Day''

Hi,Mr Dancy is watching the ''wake Forest'' football games tonight,He will get ready for bed when the game ends
around 11:pm. He had a good supper tonight and had all of his medications this evening.He is enjoying the football
games and has been awake watching the entire game. Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day."

Hi, Mr Dancy had all of his meals and medicatios for the day.It was a very nice day so we took a
walk this morning and in the afternoon. Mr Dancy was up several times last night,i took him to
the bathroom and later gave him something to drink,he seemed fine and was agreeable to going
back to bed where he rested until 7:30 am. he didnt want to participate in any games however
i pulled them out anyway.sometimes he is receptive and sometimes he does not want to engage
in that particular activity. He watched sports on tv and listened to music later in the afternoon.
Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a good day.this morning we went out for a walk before lunch.he listened to
music and later watched a baseball game and a boxing match. It was such a nice day that we
went for a walk this afternoon. This morning around 3:am Mr Dancy got up and walked around
I asked him did he want to go to the bathroom and he answered yes. After going to the bathroom he seemed fine and wanted to go back to bed. He slept until 7:45,he seemed well rested. He had all his meals and medications . All in all, he had a good day. Ilene Simmons

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quite day today,we went for a walk before lunch,Mr Dancy listened to music and we worked a puzzle,he also watched a football game.He had all his medications and
meals. Ilene Simmons

''Day after Christmas''

Hi, I got to the Dancy home at 4:pm. Mr Dancy arrived at 4:30. He said he had a good christmas, he was quite most of the evening. I picked his supper up and he ate all of it and took
his evening meds. He slept in the chair and appeared very tired.Around 9:30 i helped him get
ready for bed.Ilene Simmons

Dad's Christmas

Dad had a nice Christmas evening. We celebrated the evening with Suzie and Jacob at my house with an hor d'oueveres meal followed by ice cream cake. We unwrapped the gifts. Dad got some slippers, but since I forgot to take out the cardboard inserts, at first he said they were too tight!

On Christmas morning, Dad and I went to Mass, then had a meal at the dining hall. Then we went to my house for a lazy afternoon.

Today we will go to my house to help clean up and make some clam chowder.

Dad did okay this weekend, but last night he got up and spent quite some time snoozing in the easy chair. (I don't think he slept much in his own bed).

''Mr Dancys' Day''

hi,mr Dancy had a very good day,he was very alert today,he worked a holiday puzzle by himself
and afterwards we played bingo,he seemed to enjoy the day.he had all of his meals and ........
medications he said he was looking forward to christmas.he has been resting very well at night.
ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy went for a walk this morning,took all his medications and had all of his meals.i got the bingo game out and he participated .he watched a ball game afterwards.he is doing very well.
ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi, after breakfast mr Dancy and i went for a walk,he stated that' he enjoyed the bright sunshine
even though it was chilly.''we worked on a word game afterwards and read some scriptures.
he watched a football game for awhile and listened to music in the afternoon.he had all of his meals and medications and seemed to have a good day.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a good day,he has been much more alert the last two days.we went for a walk
this morning,mr Dancy had lunch around 12:pm.we looked at past christmas cards and family
pictures.he said he was looking forward to christmas.he had all of his meals and medications.he
has been in a very happy mood.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,i picked mr Dancy up from senior services this afternoon about 4:15,we returned back to mr
Dancys home around 4:35.i called his meal in,and picked it up around 5:30.he had a good supper
and took his medication.he is still watching tv.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a good quite day;this morning we went for a walk,afterwards we played a game
of checkers looked through magazines.the nurse came this afternoon ,she gave mr Dancy his
b-12 shot and examined him, she said he was doing good ,no swelling in ankles.he had all of his
medications and meals,he also watched a football game ,this afternoon.ilene simmons

''The Christmas Party''

hi,mr Dancy had all of his medications and meals today.i took him out for a walk after breakfast.
at 5:pm i got mr Dancy dressed and took him to the christmas party at the salem dining hall.
he made two new friends who wanted to visit with him sometime.he had a good supper...beef
tenderloin,aspargus,red cabbage,tossed salad,and a glass of wine and water.also desert.carolers
came to sing holiday songs dressed in late 1800 clothing.mr Dancy enjoyed the songs.he had a
really good day.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a pleasant day,we went out for a walk this morning and also this afternoon.mr
Dancy identified family pictures today and we played bingo .mr Dancy watches either a football
or basketball game in the evening. he had a good supper this afternoon and had all his meds.he
rested well last night.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys day''

hi,mr Dancy had a nice quite day.i informed cathy this morning that mr Dancy did not sleep
very well last night.he was up several times,he went to the front door i heard him, and i talked
to him a few minutes and gave him something to drink.he sat up awhile and went back to bed.
his left eye was red this morning,cathy told me to put a warm compress on the eye or use eye
drops.i wanted to get permission from cathy before using eye drops.i used the eye drops and his eye looks a lot better.we went for a walk today and played a game of checkers.i will continue
to monitor him at night and stay alert for his continued safety.ilene simmons

'mr Dancys evening'

hi,mr Dancy returned home this afternoon around 6:pm.he ate a good supper,took medications
watched tv and prepared for bed around 10:pm.ilene simmons

Football Saturday

Yesterday Dad watched the various games on TV while I ran around balancing my checkbook, looking at the computer, paperwork, etc.

However, I did take time out every once in a while to set up a new jigsaw puzzle.

Then Dad and I had a nice meal at the Dining Hall. Dad had trout, I had the lamb chops. Dad also had one glass of wine, as did I. (I told the staff 1/2 glass for Dad but they gave him a whole glass). Several ladies stopped by and said hello. The piano lady also played some Xmas tunes.

Afterwards, I sat for awhile and then proceeded to eat more food, including chocolate, cookies, crackers with butter, etc. I was quite full, but had to eat every bit of chocolate in the house. When Dad looked at me funny, I offered him some crackers as well, plus the ends from his lunch-time sandwich. Luckily, my main chocolate stash is at my home; I will try to hide it well and hope my short term memory does not come back before Christmas!

Dad spent the night in the chair--I woke up early in the am and got him to the bathroom and into the bed.

Then today we had a nice breakfast. Bettie will come by today to watch Dad this afternoon and evening. I will go to church, run, then my Book Club in the early evening.

''mr Dancys' day.''

hi,it was extremely cold here today ,i didnt think it was a good idea to take mr Dancy out walking.he had all his meals and medications.we read scriptures worked a puzzle and mr Dancy
identified family pictures.all in all 'he had a good day.ilene simmons

mr Dancys' day'

hi,mr Dancy had a nice day,he had lunch with cathy,seemed very relaxed today.after breakfast
it wasnt too cold so we went for a walk.he watched a game this afternoon and had supper and
the last medication for the day.we read some scriptures from psalms,he said he enjoyed hearing
the psalms read.it was a good day.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day'

hi, it was cold outside today,so i waited until the early evening to take mr Dancy for a walk.he had all of his meals and medications.we worked a puzzle and read scripture from psalms and proverbs.cathy told me to light a candle for mr Dancy when he is sad,i lit the candle for him this afternoon he seemed a little sad.he is in
happier spirits tonight.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,took mr Dancy for a walk after lunch,he had all his meals and medications for the day,he seemed a little tired this afternoon.he watched tv and listened to music.he had a quite pleasant day.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a nice quite day.we waited until after lunch to go for a walk,it was rainy and windy.mr Dancy
identified pictures and participated in a word game.he had all of his medications and meals.the nurse came by
this afternoon,she checked his bp' and it was good ,lower than before.he is in good spirit and doing very well.
ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a good day,we went to the cheese and wine event at the salem dining room at 4:45.a lot of
the people there new mr Dancy and welcomed him back.he enjoyed the dinner,he had cheese and crackers
and a glass of wine.for supper he had shrimp and pasta,broccoli,rolls, and coffee,red velvet cake.the piano
player was playing tunes from the forties and fifties and christmas songs,i believe he had a good time,he made
light conversation with the people at the table,it was nice to see him laugh and have a nice time.
ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,today mr Dancy went for a walk before lunch,he had all of his meals and medications,played a game of bingo worked a small puzzle and watched tv,outside of sports he likes to watch chuck norris in''texas ranger''
and war shows.he seems to be doing well.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy had a good day,he went for a walk this morning,had all of his meals and medications,we played
a game of checkers identified pictures and mr Dancy listened to music and relaxed the rest of the evening.
ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' evening''

hi,mr Dancy had a very relaxing evening,he had supper,his medications and watched tv.he has retired for the
night.ilene simmons

Dad - Nov. 24, 2006

Dad had a busy day, with Cathy and me carting him all over town. He had an omelette for breakfast, courtesy of Cathy, then we headed over to the Medical Library to scan some slides for Mom's service. Dad had to walk a long way, even though we dropped off as close to the door as possible, but he didn't complain. He ate an apple while he waited quietly with us in the computer room. Next we had lunch at an Italian restaurant, where Dad enjoyed the stuffed shells, salad, and bread. Then off to Supercuts, where he indicated that he seemed to be losing hair in the front! We came home, changed, and went to Mass. Dad declined to receive communion (Later he said it was because he nearly fell over the last time - I think he thinks he has to kneel; he had also told me that earlier in the mass, but I didn't realize he meant that he didn't want to take it this time; even though the minister came to our pew, Dad said "no, thank you." Later, we told him he didn't need to kneel to take it, so maybe he will next time.) Dad turned to me to say, "God bless you" at the end of the service.

We will have leftovers from the restaurant for dinner. I think Dad should sleep well tonight - he was up late watching "Titanic" last night, and then got up at 6 am.

It has been nice to be with Cathy and Dad this weekend, and to meet Ilene. Love, Jennie

''mr Dancys' day after thanksgiving''

Hi,hope everyone had a good thanksgiving.mr Dancy had a good day, his daughter Jennie was here, he was
very happy i could tell.he said that he enjoyed thanksgiviing dinner and being with family.today we took a
walk ,mr Dancy enjoyed the country music show on tv.it was a quite day.ilene simmons

Thanksgiving Day

It is a very pleasant day. Dad, Jason and I went to the Homestead Hills Dining Hall for the Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner.

Jason enjoyed flirting with the staff. Ruth Woodard came up and said she would attend the service on Dec. 4.

We are now snoozing in front of the TV watching Gromit and Wallace Cure of the Were-Rabbit.

Suzie and Jacob will join us later for some dessert after their other turkey dinner at his Mom's. Suzie will pick up Jennie later from the airport.

''mr Dancys' day''

Hi,mr Dancy had a very good day,he talked a lot today about his childhood and his family.he said his mothers name was Beatrice, and three brothers,Allen,charles,Norman,he said he didnt remember his sisters names.
we put a christmas puzzle together today and played a word game.mr Dancy is doing very well.he had all his
meals and medication.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' day''

Hi,mr Dancy had a very pleasant day,we played a word game and also painted christmas door hangers,he
enjoyed that very much,he participated 100%.he ate all of his meals,snacks and medication.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys' evening''

Hi,mr Dancy returned home around 6:pm,he ate his supper,had his meds,and retired to the living room to
relax and watch tv.i will get him ready for bed around 10:oo or when he is ready for bed.it has been a quite
evening.ilene simmons

Saturday November 18, 2006

Dad slept in today. Last night we sat in the living room half sleeping-- listening to music. Finally about midnight Dad got up and got ready for bed. I watched a movie and he fell asleep quickly.

This morning he had the covers drawn over his head. Bettie will be coming in around nine to watch him for a few hours while I go to my exercise class.

It is a real comfort for me to have Dad for company during this lonely time!

''mr Dancys' day''

hi,mr Dancy went to the doctor today,cathy picked him up around 9:30 am. he seemed a little tired today
but in good spirit.we went for a walk this morning,he enjoys his morning walk. he identifys the family pictures.
i write down words for him to read, he does well.he talked a little today,the nurse came by for a visit,she gave
him his b-12 shot he went to sleep afterward.ilene simmons

''mr Dancys day''

hi,sorry i didnt get to send a message,the systom was down.it was a nice quite day.we worked on the puzzle
(catherine victorian house'' most of the morning,we usually go for a walk before lunch,it was raining this
morning so we waited until it was sunny.mr Dancy identifys the family pictures,he likes to do that.i keep him
active most of the time,i try not to overwhelm him,i know when he wants his space.he is a nice man and easy
to work with.he is doing well.ilene simmons

''mr dancys day''

good morning,i tried to write last night,but the server was not working.it was saying the message could not be
published. if you get this message 11/16/06,the message for 11/15/06/ reads as follows... mr Dancy had a
very relaxing day,he worked with me on a puzzle and played dominos.he is talking more and seems alert.i
would like to do more outings with him such as lunch out,going shopping and let him make purchases,please
let me know if you all are agreeable.thanks ilene simmons

mr dancys' day

hi,mr Dancy had a very good day.he played dominos,helped me with a puzzle and talked a little more today.
he says he doesnt like snow but is looking forward to christmas.i hope you dont get this message twice,if so
there was some problem with the service.everything is going great .ilene simmons

mr dancys' day

hi,mr Dancy had a very good day.he played dominos,helped me with a puzzle and talked a little more today.
he says he doesnt like snow but is looking forward to christmas.i hope you dont get this message twice,if so
there was some problem with the service.everything is going great .ilene simmons

''mr Dancys day''

hi,mr Dancy had a very good day.he played dominos,and helped me with a puzzle,he also identified family
pictures and talked about being a captain,he's talking a little more each day.he says he doesn' t like snow,but
looking forward to christmas .ilene simmons

mr Dancys day.

hi,mr Dancy had a good day,he ate all his meals took meds and rested ,watched tv,worked with the puzzle
and played bingo.he is doing very well,ilene simmons

hi everyone, mr dancy and cathy reurned home around 6:pm.mr dancy rested for awhile and later went to
the kitchen to eat,he had pizza,tossed salad and juice and meds.he will watch tv after dinner until he says he
wants to sleep.its been a quite evening.ilene s

im ilene simmons working today for mr dancy.

I've begun a new Journal (blog) to record observations and news about both Mom and Dad, now that they are living together in Homestead Hills. The url is http://dancy2.blogspot.com. There is a link to the new Journal on the menu to the left in this blog. Anyone can add comments to the entries by clicking on the 'comments' link at the bottom of a posting.

Dad will be here at the Homestead for the last weekend! It will be exciting to bring him home, hopefully permanently.

My friend Susan will help move his stuff and Robert will help with his chair.

When he stayed the night before he slept through the night.

Things are a little hectic since Mom has been at the Brian Rehab place for her fractured pelvis. Dad visits with her about 1-2 times a week. We are going again today for dinner. I hope she comes home soon! But it will probably be about a month more.

Dad doesn't say much about Mom, except he wishes he could have been there to help her from falling!

Russ, Faye and I came down on 3/25 to visit Mom, Dad and Cathy. When we arrived, Cathy told us that Mom had fallen Saturday morning and broken her hip. On Sunday, we went over to the hospital after mass, and a resident (or intern) was speaking with Mom. She told us that Mom had not broken her hip, but had two fractures in her pelvis, which I guess is better than the hip. However, because Mom's bones don't have a lot of mass, the breaks don't show up well on x-ray, and though they did a CT scan, they would also do an MRI to make sure they had captured everything. Mom was resting okay, but needs morphine for the pain. We left to go to Faye's birthday party at the bowling alley.

First, we picked up Dad, who was very happy to see us, and was telling the nurse about us. When I told him Mom had fallen and was in the hospital, it confused him, and he said, "No, she was walking around here."

At the bowling alley, we had a great time with Rick, Beth, Yenna, Aida, Katherine, Ellie, Suzie and Jacob. (For the record, Cathy beat Jennie once, and Jennie beat Cathy once.) Cathy made a fabulous cake for Faye with green icing and plastic geckos. Faye enjoyed bowling with her cousins and telling everyone about her pets. Dad also enjoyed the outing, and sat right up front analyzing everyone's technique. He was quite good at that. We all had pizza and drinks in addition to cake and ice cream.

After the party, we went back to the hospital. Mom was watching the tv, but was under the morphine influence, I think, with a little confusion. Also, she had not eaten much, if any lunch. They brought her dinner, and she didn't want to eat any of that, but drank the milk when I offered it. Shortly after, they came to take her to the MRI, and I got them to give her more meds first, as she was saying she needed more. She was very worried about the transfer to the gurney, but said it was not as painful as the last time.

We went back to Mom's house, and we cooked a quick dinner of spaghetti, bread and salad. Dad ate well, but complained that we should not have had salad with spaghetti, but something else like beans. While still at the table, we somehow got on the topic of when Dad was on the U.S.S. Northhampton and it was hit by torpedoes and he ended up in the water. He talked about it a bit, said he had not been in the water too much, maybe 6 hours or so, using inflation devices (not rafts - except for the injured). About 100 men died. I asked him where he was when they got hit, and he said "the highest point in the ship - the foremast." He was working with radar, etc. at the time, he said.

Jason joined us for dinner, and he, Russ, and Faye went off to play in the computer room. Jason said he also does some work with the AutoCAD like Russ. Dad and I played cribbage, and he was beating me until Russ came to give him advice (Dad seems to want advice if someone else is standing there, otherwise he just does it himself). After Russ left, Dad was able to come from behind and beat me. HA! When Cathy said she needed to take him back to the living center, he didn't want to leave, and asked why he couldn't just sleep here. Cathy told him they had his medicine, and we assured him that he needed to take it, so then he left with her.

Love, Jennie

I called Dad on his 90th birthday, over at Mom's house. I had laryngitis, so first had a hard time getting anyone on the other end to hear my voice! But after we got over that hurdle, I spoke to Mom, Dad and Cathy. Dad sounded happy, but confused. He was talking about all the people there, but having a hard time knowing them all, kept mentioning Ruby. Also that so and so was "manning the desk" (he said that a few times), and also that he had to get his "white shoes." I wished him a happy birthday and that I loved him, and he was cheerful. I asked if he had received my flowers, but couldn't get him to understand that. Cathy said that Dad was happy, and that's all that counts. Thanks to all in N.C. for pulling that together!

Jennie

I just remembered that I went with Mom and Dad on a picnic after his visit with Dr. Southerd, dermatologist last month. He did not see any "spots" on Dad's face, so he asked if we wanted to check any other places. Dad took off his shirt and rolled up his pants as well, but there was nothing. Yeah! Dad exclaimed as the doctor left the room, "when are you going to pull this tooth out!" (He had just been to the dentist recently).

Afterwards I drove up to Pilot Mountain in a Chevy Malibu that I was using because my car was being worked on. The weather was not too cold, but it was colder than I thought, so we didn't' dawdle as we ate the cheese and crackers, liver pate, etc. The picnic area was about 100 yards from the parking lot, but Dad navigated it well with his walker, because it was asphalt. Mom had more trouble, and wanted to lie down a bit before she walked down.

When we were about to leave, Dad asked to use the restroom. I pointed towards the building across the parking lot. But Dad must have thought I meant the corner of the shelter, where he went and relieved himself! Luckily, there wasn't anyone around. Oh well. He really DOES take directions literally.

Also a few weeks back when we were sitting in the living area, Marion was walking around touching people, especially Mr. Cranfill. He didn't say anything but a few minutes later he got up and was walking around in an angry state. Dad was watching intently, even though previously he had been in a sleepy state. He mentioned that he was asked not to "interfere" even though I knew he wanted to do "something."

Yesterday, when she got a bit annoying, Dad "clapped loudly". The other man told her to "touch Cranfill", he thinks its funny. I noticed she was wearing an "apron", with beads and other tactile things on it, to help her. They were also playing music from the '40s, "boogie Woogy Bugle Boy from Company C", (and the TV was not playing for a change). Mom had to ask them to change the tape, as it kept playing this song over and over.

Anyway, it was an okay visit all around

I just read over some of the posts. A lot has happened, so much that I have difficulty remembering if Dad has been at Homestead Hills two or three years! I think it was two though.

Dad was over for dinner. He was quiet mostly, but out of the blue he said I should not go in the water, that I would catch a cold. Not sure if he was getting me mixed up with Mom who goes to warm water exercise 3x a week.

He seemed okay, except that he needed to wipe his behind. I mentioned that I had some wet wipes in the bathroom, but he didn't get up.

Last week he took Jason's jacket home. He had it on when I went to get it a couple of days later. I couldn't convince Jason to pick it up himself, but Jason did pick out an old jacket to replace it. Dad was sitting on the couch and it was hard for me to take off the bigger jacket and put on the lighter one, because he seemed a little cold. (It was warm to me, but he had been snoozing, and that was making him a little chilled).

Anyway it was nice meeting Karen, a new activity person, who says that Alzheimer's disease is her "life", that she often goes home at night and looks up new information about it. She mentioned that she might want to do an activity involving postcards and asked us to give some if we had any. Also any ideas that we think for activities. She explained a lot of things, like try not to get offended that the residents were doing "childlike" activities. It was also nice to see all the relatives of people there.

(Homestead Hills was bought out by a new company. They plan to put in some apartments, new fitness areas, etc in the Homestead Hills section).

Here is new schedule presented at the support group last night at Homestead. They plan on having support groups each month with speakers, etc. There is new activity lady who seems enthusiastic about activities for "lifescenes" at Homestead. Each cluster is for a different level, but no one is excluded from an activity.

Daily Activity Schedule

6:00 am - 8:00 am Toileting, combing hair, brushing teeth, dressing getting ready for breakfast

8:00 am - 9:00 am Eating Breakfast; after break- fast, personal hygiene (ie: brushing teeth and/or dentures in bathroom, toileting, washing hands, etc. ..)

9:30 am - 10:00 am * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster # 1 -Current Events
Cluster #2 -Folding & Sorting Laundry
Cluster #3 -Ball Toss

10:00 am - 11:00 am Snack Time in the Dining Room

11:00 am- 11:30 am * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster # 1 -Baking Bread
Cluster #2 -Listening and Sing- a-long to Music
Cluster #3 -Ring Toss

11:30 am- 12:00 am Getting Ready for Lunch

12:00 am - 1:00 pm Lunch Time

1:00 pm- 2:00 pm After Lunch, Personal Hygiene (ie: toileting, brushing teeth, nap time, etc. ...)
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Snack Time in the Dining Room & Toileting

3:00 pm - 3:30 pm **Cluster Activities:
Cluster #1 -Art Fun
Cluster #2 -Men's Club
Cluster #3 -Basketball Toss

3:30 pm –4:00 pm * * Cluster Activities:
Cluster #1 -Sorting Time
Cluster #2 -Parachutes n' Music
Cluster #3 -Pretty Nails

4:00 pm - 4:30 pm Mail Call

4:30 pm - 5:00 pm Getting Ready for Dinner

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Dinner Time

6:00 pm - -7:00 pm After Dinner, Personal Hygiene (ie: toileting and/or bathing)

7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Evening Activity- -Lotion applied to hands and/or feet -Listening to Music -ending with Evening Snack and to bed.

** Cluster Activities -will change daily.
ALL ACTIVITIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Yesterday I picked up Dad and brought him to Mom's house for the afternoon, dinner and evening. When I arrived, he was asleep in the TV room, and I woke him by calling "Dad"...he immediately smiled and said "Hello Barbara", bringing tears to my eyes. We walked back to the room, without his walker, to get his jacket, then walked to the car.

I noticed that Dad looked like he hadn't shaved for a few days, and also that his fingernails were long. Mom brought the razor to her house so he could shave there, and I mentioned the fingernails when I brought him home that night.

At Mom's house, he relaxed. Overall, he seems pretty good, and doing less "rambling" than what I recall since last Summer. He does need "direction", but is still able, with verbal prompting, to do what you say...go to the bathroom, pull up pants, eat his dinner. I put grapes and water in front of him and he went for them right away. He seemed to enjoy watching the television during the afternoon (golf), with little or no napping. We played a game of Scrabble after dinner and a couple of times he found words on his own, but then needed my prompting for putting on the board. He also kept wanting to use his "cookie" as the letter "s" on the board. After each play, he seemed to want to make another play with the remaining letters on his tray, but I would tell him it was my turn and to get more letters and then I would ask him how many more letters he needed to make 7...he would figure it and pull the right letters each time.

Today, I went over around 3pm. When I arrived, Dad was sitting in the TV room, and there was another lady cuddled up next to him, eating snacks with him I think. He got up and followed me to his room. Mom got a new TV for her bedroom (larger to help see better due to her macular degeneration), so I took her old TV to Dad's room, if not for him, but also for when he has visitors. I also attempted to organize Dad's clothing, as his closet and drawers were in a bit of disarray, and it seems there are items that don't belong to him, as well as he is missing his own items. I've added some labels, and also did an inventory that I will post in the closet with the hope that the workers will continue to follow the organization.

I met two of the workers, La Shawn and another gal whose name I can't remember! She commented on how "committed" Mom is to come every day, and loves to see the families. She trimmed Dad's nails and also helped him in the bathroom as I was organizing the closet. Dad had wet his diaper, so needed a new one, and then had a bowel movement on the toilet, for which I suggested she use a wet wipe to ensure he was cleaned up. (Is this too much information?)

Tonight I will take Mom and Dad over to Cathy's house for a football playoff party. Beau will also be there.

My overall observation is that Dad seems calm, agreeable, and responds appropriately, for the most part, to comments and statements. I haven't got into any deep conversation with him, and he doesn't join in on conversations between Mom and me. He is quiet, but content, from what I can tell.

I am here until Tuesday the 24th. Love, Barb

There are several new people at the center. One lady there, Marie, is quite young (40) and does not seem to have too many mental problems, though she had some trouble playing Dominos. She wanted to add the points on the Dominos and then play them. I had to tell her just to match colors. Dad seemed to enjoy playing with her and he was able to explain some things to her as well.

I put together a jigsaw puzzle that depicted the world during World War II. I thought it might spark some memories. He didn't say much but seemed to enjoy watching me put it together!

I called Dad on Dec. 24, and spoke to him. He was glad to hear from me, and wished me a Merry Christmas back. I asked him what he remembered or liked most about Christmas when he was a kid, and he said that he most liked waking up early in the morning to see the tree with all the others, and his father blowing the horn. I think I had forgotten that that tradition came from Grandpa Dancy! (Mom confirmed later that's where they got the idea.) He also spoke about his medication and that he would be okay if they didn't kill him first, and something about what he saw on tv about the medication killing people and with the tree (I had asked him about a Christmas tree where he was), but that his aide told him he should just do what the aide told him (take the medicine). Overall, he was about 60% coherent, and glad to chat. He didn't seem to have changed much since the summertime.

The next day, I called Cathy's house, and spoke to him again. He was enjoying the good food and the presents, and that he didn't deserve it all (or something to that effect). He was clearly in a good mood.

Love to all,

Jennie

Dad and Mom came over on Sunday, also Suzie, Jacob and Jason ate also. I had to divide a lasagne casserole into small portions, but I made up for it with homemade bread sticks, peas and mushrooms and also a filling peanut butter chocolate pie.

Dad is doing okay though twice recently he put his pants on backwards, (they are sweat pants and dont' have zippers, though one has a pocket). Suzie joked that Dad was wearing "Zubu" pants, which are cool!

Mom still can not read normal print, but she can read the large print books I think and watch TV. One of her friends has had the operations five times in the last year. She will change the font on her computer to larger.

We played a scrabble game on Mom's birthday. It went well--Dad did not have to ask any questions about the play. Dad won the game, and I didn't try to let him either! (that may not be saying much!). It went fast because we had only 40 minutes to play.

We had cake on Sunday (two days earlier) at my house. It was a yellow cake with fudge filling and chocolate butter cream icing. Also, barbecue pork, corn, and spinach souffle.

Well, Dad went to the beach in August and seemed to enjoy himself. At least it was a change of scenery.

Not much going on lately. We mostly play Dominos and sit. Dad is quiet most of the time.

When Dad comes over we mostly watch the golf on TV. He always ask what he should do when we sit down to eat, not sure why he asks.

Next week Dad will be going to dermatologist again. He usually has one or two spots that need to be "frozen". It makes me wonder if I will be doing the same thing in 30 years!

Dad seemed to enjoy the beach ball toss that happened while I was visiting him. Most of the other people just gingerly tossed it back, but Dad had a volley going with the lady! Afterwards, we walked up and down the halls a couple of times.

The last few times Dad has eaten at my house, he has been eating very slowly. Uusally he sits at the table for at least 15 minutes later than Mom and I.

He seems to enjoy watching the golf on TV when he visits. (He doesn't get to watch it at the home.)

When I got back Dad didn't seem to notice that Mom hadn't seen him for four days. Since I dont' see him every day I thought he might not notice that I hadn't been there, but Mom and I were surprised that he didn't notice that she hadn't been there for four days.

Dad was angry at Marion though. She comes up a lot and touches people. She came up to Mom and tried to touch here and this time Dad grabbed her arm and said to go away. Mom said Charley don't grab at her. She walked away though. Usually if you ignore her she does not come up. Also Mom or I sometimes take her hand and lead her to the other living area. It is difficult.

Last week she kept touching another man and he finally slapped her and the nurses said not to slap her, she doesn't know what she is doing, just move away, and he was angry because he didn't see why he had to move away he liked sitting where he was!

I have had a lot of sickness which has affected my relationship with Dad.

But yesterday he squeezed my hand as if to say everything was okay. It did make everything seem better!

I spoke to Dad on Saturday, May 28, to thank him for his service in the Navy as it was Memorial Day weekend. He recognized me and appreciated the call. He thought that Mom wanted him to take a train ride to a memorial of some sort, and then said it was to go see Barbara and Russ. I also mentioned Norman and Allen's service in the military, and he said that they were going to be at the memorial, too, but in a "backward fashion" because they were dead. So, it was a bit funny how he worded it, but he was aware of the current situation!

As a side note, from the voices in the background, it sounded like he was either in a wheelchair, or coming over to the phone and getting in a chair of some sort. He was in his room when I called, and they went and got him.

I called Cathy's house on May 1, just to check in with everyone. After speaking with Cathy, she passed the phone to Dad. He sounded cheerful and aware, although he said that he worries about things (like money), even though Mom tells him not to.

I really appreciate that Cathy is able to keep up with having Mom and Dad over for dinner each Sunday. It's a very nice tradition.

Sometimes it is so difficult to be with Dad. I have to answer all his questions about using the toilet. He forgets if he has brushed his teeth, shaved and even whether he has flushed the toilet just a few minutes before.

But he is still pleasant to be around. Sometimes I want to cry though, for what I miss about him that is gone, for what is to come (not sure), and for my own lonliness.

It is better that I be around him than be at home where I feel alone and useless.

I just have to pray for the strength to get through each day!

Yesterday Dad and I talked about Jason. Jason is moving back in with me. I am not sure how long. He wants to work in Winston-Salem. It is the same company that he works for in Charlotte, but they have branches in WS and Greensboro. Dad said he hopes Jason doesn't go back on drugs. I hope so too!!

We played cribbage again. We stayed even most of the game. It is easier than talking sometimes.

Dad seems okay most of the time, he just doesn't make much sense when he talks. Through all the confusion I can understand his feelings--sometimes frustrated, sometimes worried, sometimes confused.

Yesterday Dad and I did something different. I set up the plastic bowling pins. Dad bowled a couple of times making a strike from a chair! I made a spare. He then walked around the room a bit like he was trying to exercise.

I'm heading back to Vancouver today. Yesterday, we took Dad to Cathy's for supper. She made a very nice soy-marinated steak, with fried rice - strawberries and ice cream for dessert. Dad was pretty much the same as he has been most of the week, not really able to have too much of a conversation. We watched golf and some basketball.

On Thursday, I was able to review Dad's chart at Homestead Hills. I was primarily interested in reviewing the notes from his recent hospital stay and seeing what medications he is currently on. The records include an admittance record, and also a detailed report upon discharge. Here is the information on diagnosis of condition (by hospital doctor, Jamehl Demons):
1. Acute renal failure with secondary hypernatremia
2. Coagulopathy
3. Diverticulosis
4. History of GI Bleed
5. Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) with urgent continence
6. History of acute renal failure
7. History of recurrent hypernatremia
8. History of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus
9. Microcytic anemia
10. Hypokalemia

The acute renal failure was likely the cause of Dad's symptoms (confusion and lethargy, not eating or drinking, and eventual dehydration). His creatin level was 2.5 on admittance (normal range .5 - 1.4).

Dad was given a CT to determine if there was evidence of stroke - none. He was given fresh frozen plasma, and the coumadin medication was stopped (the level appeared to be too high - the doctor noted the condition of DVT/PE (?) was 2 years ago and there was no documentation of hypercoagulable state persisting).

Dad was prescribed Oxybutynin for the urge incontinence associated with the BPH.

His current medications include:
Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) - 10mg 1xday
Namenda - 10mg 2xday
Norvasc (amlodipine) - 5mg 1xday
Vit B12 injection - 1xmonth
Oxybutynin - 5 mg 2xday
.
The aricept and nameda are for the dementia. The norvasc is for hypertension.

I've done a little research on the ARF and BPH to try and better understand what is involved and what potential treatment or preventive measures might be useful. Probably need to to do more to really understand - and then have a discussion with Dr. Herman as well.

BPH is essentially an enlarged prostate. This apparently causes problems with urination - constant urge without ability to fully empty the bladder. The fact that the bladder is not fully emptied is what can cause the kidney problems, or urinary tract infection. Although Dr. Herman mentioned UTI to Barb when she talked with him following Dad's hospital admittance, the records do not actually mention this at all - nor any indication that he received antibiotics for an infection. However, the ARF I think must be related to the BPH condition - which likely has existed for some time. I certainly remember Dad complaining about having to pee and not being able to for some time before he entered Homestead Hills. I haven't reviewed many earlier records to determine if he was treated for this. Research indicates several drug treatments to reduce the symptoms of BPH and in some cases to reduce the BPH itself. Surgery is also sometimes done to treat the BPH.

It appears Dad has had ARF before according to the records. I'm not sure if this was also the cause of his hospitalization in November of 2003 or not. And it would seem there is some danger of this becoming Chronic Renal Failure, As near as I can tell this is the most serious concern with Dad's physical health.

As to his mental state, I'm sorry to report that after my first visit on Wednesday, when he seemed very alert and coherent, he has reverted to a very confused state during the past 3 days. He talks in nonsensical terms (e.g., going to the toilet so he could make payments on the mortgages) much of the time when trying to have a conversation. (Mom and Cathy cofirm that this is his state more often than not). Nonetheless, he is still quite capable of playing a mean game of scrabble - and he never has any difficulty knowing who people are. He gets caught up in the other residents' problems - which are also quite confused of course - but Dad doesn't recognize that they are not aware of reality. He gets rather angry with one woman who has a habit of coming up and wanting to touch him (and others), fiddling with his clothes. When I mentioned that she really didn't know what she was doing, he insisted she did it on purpose.

Dad is still somewhat better than when he was in his worst condition. He uses a walker - but doesn't really need it much of the time. He is able to take care of his personal needs for the most part, though some prompting is required sometimes. The nurses' notes indicate that he occasionally gets up at night, and of course is not fully aware of where he is.

I noted the discharge record indicated a follow-up visit with Dr. Herman should occur wihtin 2-4 weeks, but I did not see any record of such a visit. Wanda said the record might be in someone's office and she would check into it on Monday. Mom will follow up with her, as I am travelling back to Vancouver that day.

I arrived in W-S last night. Went to visit with Dad this morning. He seems very well and alert - happy to see me and Cathy. We had quite a nice chat. Dad started telling stories about his youth in NO with his family. I can't recall what led to this, but I found it very interesting. I never really talked with him about this before and didn't have a real sense of their life. Apparently (like many families in those days, I imagine) there were a number of related family members living with them from time to time (other than just the immediate family). He mentioned how Grandpa's clients often sent turkeys or chickens (live ones). When I asked if Grandma had to pluck them, he said no - her mom was living with them and did most of the cooking. There were also apparently several young Spanish women who stayed with them at one time - he seemed to think they were related to John Rosado. There was also a woman and her son, who he couldn't recall the exact relationship to (some relative of his father's). He talked about helping out a dairy man with boxes, and how he hung out at the drug store (soda fountain) with his friends. He claims he had figured out how to tell which candies had prizes inside (apparently some of the candies contained a coupon for a free dixie cup ice cream) - by the sheen on the chocolate. Dad always was pretty crafty, I guess. He said he never shared this secret, but did hand out prizes to his friends sometimes. Cathy said she couldn't believe all those people lived in the house - which she has seen (I haven't), but Dad mentioned he slept with 3 or 4 others in the same bedroom.

Dad does seem to be inconsistent in some things. He looked at his watch at one point. He couldn't seem to figure out how to tell the time - and was trying to work it out somehow. I noticed the watch was way off - so I reset it and told him the time. I also just reminded him about counting the minutes by five with the numbers. Later, when he looked at the watch again, he didn't hesitate in saying what the time was.

I'm heading back again to visit this afternnoon - we'll play scrabble, I think.

We played Scrabble today. It went well.

We played Cribbage yesterday. Dad was ahead but Mom and I were right behind him at the end.

I try to visit once or twice a week and Dad usually comes over on Sundays for dinner.

We played Scrabble yesterday. This was the first time in a long time that I didn't want to win! I was ahead at one point though (naturally). But Dad pulled out ahead and won the game!

Dad seemed happy afterwards. He walked fairly fast (with walker) down to the dining room like he knew where he was going.

Dad talked a lot today. He was talking about Jennie putting the dust in the water. (was he talking about ashes?). I think he was talking about Uncle Allen. I am not sure. He then said a lot of nonsense, like the dust was in his bed, etc. But then we went and played Scrabble, and he played fine with no problems.

Dad had a rough week at the hospital, having to have an IV and a catheter. He still doesn't really want to drink water though, so things do not look good. He does eat okay though.

Hopefully the nurses will try to get Dad to drink.

I sat with Dad while he ate his breakfast. He seemed bored and played with the eggs and grits, mashing them up. He had already eaten his cereal but denied it. He did drink some of his orange juice and the bacon and a bite of toast.

Not much going on this month. I played Scrabble with Dad. We didn't keep score. It was just as much fun.

Not much going on this month. Dad seems to be doing okay. But I am tired a lot.
We had a nice meal at the home of pizza, roasted red potatoes, chef salad and ice cream sundae!
I hope to write more next month!

Russ, Faye and I visited Mom and Dad for a few days around New Year's 2005. He was very glad to see us, and recognized us right away, saying our names. Dad played dominoes with us, needing a fair amount of direction, but had fun. Russ and I took him to play miniature golf. He wasn't sure if he should, but we said "come on," so he did. We went to Cedar Pointe which is nearby and not too hilly or too many steps. We had a great time - Dad would put the walker aside to putt, and took good care to putt. He got the only hole in one, and pars and birdies, too. It was a beautiful day for Dec. 30, about 65 degrees.

We also had dinner at Mom's with Suzie and her boyfriend, Jacob, along, too. Dad thought he needed to save some of his spaghetti for "the fellow" at the unit, and we couldn't convince him otherwise, so gave up. We played Scrabble with Cathy/Mom and Suzie, and Dad won, although I did help him a bit, but he put out some good words and combinations on his own, too.

On New Year's Eve, we all went over to Beau and Page's new house, which was quite beautiful; Dad enjoyed walking around it, and even went upstairs without the walker to see the rooms.

Just some random thoughts from Alzheimers' Group Meeting. It was a nice meeting. Only a few showed up but there was an ombudsman who works as an advocate for nursing home patients in North Carolina. Jean, the leader, talked about how it is a mistake to put a pacemaker in a person who develops alzheimers. It keeps his heart beating long after he is brain dead. And it can be painful as it constantly shocks a person over and over. (and a pacemaker can not be removed!).

Also, I mentioned that Dad sits on the toilet backwards. She said that Alzheimer's patients can not see the toilet behind them so backing up feels frightening (they might fall down on the floor, even if a person holds their arm and tells them that there is a toilet there) Also, they want to "see" what is going on. Strange, but helps to understand what they are going through.

Mom and Dad came over on Sunday for anniversary party. Suzie and her boyfriend Jacob came over as well. I made brownies for dessert. Mom brought over some ice cream for dessert. I made chicken barbecue in crockpot, peas, orange marmalade carrots, and rolls. It was easy to make! (good since I am getting over a cold).

The nurse has to remind Dad to drink still, he doesn't want to drink. Mom reminded Dad that if he doesn't drink he would have to go back to the hospital!

We played some cribbage yesterday. One of the ladies there, Virginia, said he was the greatest!

I asked the priest if he would pray for Dad. Dad isn't sure he wants to see a priest, but the priest said I could give Dad Holy Communion if I wanted to. Anyway, the priest thought that perhaps Dad might be hesitant to see a priest because maybe he was thinking that this was last rites?. Not sure, what to do. But Dad did say a couple of years ago that he wanted me to call a priest at Holy Family Church (after he died!). But I don't want to wait that long.

Well, Dad just spent the last week at the hospital for dehydration. The IV didn't work too well, so after sticking him multiple times and complaining that his veins were too small, the IV was removed after about four days. One time his hand blew up like a balloon. He had a hard time eating and Mom had to feed him breakfast one day. I was able to talk him into eating his dinner that night. Mom said a volunteer helped him eat as well. The rest of the time I just had to nudge him a bit to get him to eat. He had trouble for a while (since he was hooked up to IV) using the bathroom and the Depends from the hospital were very leaky. But with someone walking him and helping him he got better. Though he tried to walk too fast and later to eat too fast as well. He seemed to enjoy chatting with the nurses though when one nurse took his blood pressure he kept trying to pump his arm (like when he gives blood). The nurse had to hold his arm down firmly. While in the hospital, Dad seemed very talkative (his Zyprexa was also stopped last week). He asked about how much money he makes, also that Mom should turn in his guns to the police, that they were not safe to keep around the house. (I am not sure if Ken wants his hunting rifles and bb guns).

Dad keeps saying Hollin Hills and Hollin Meadows when he means to say Homestead Hills. I also say Heather Hills when I mean to say Homestead Hills!

Yesterday I couldn't find Dad's cribbage board so we played a form of dominos. I couldn't remember the exact rules but we managed some type of game. I have another cribbage board that I will bring in.

Dad got a special shoe that looks like a Birkenstock for his right foot. It is supposed to help the "foot bone get back in shape", but the doctor at Homestead says maybe he shouldn't wear it because he might lose his balance wearing it. So Dad is not wearing it anymore. But he still wants someone to fix his foot! Maybe the podiatrist can do something about it. It seems like a bone that got injured a while back and healed badly.

I ate dinner with Mom and Dad at The Homestead. It was quite tasty, fish cabobs, french fries, cole slaw, vegetable capri and ice cream. Dad mentioned that he thought he saw Justine's car in the parking lot. I am not even sure what kind of car she has but sadly I had to say she was not coming here (at least not this weekend!).

After Dad used the bathroom I had to use it as well. He was worried that I might pee on myself!

We played cribbage, but I had to go home after one game I was so tired. Mom stayed and played another game with Dad.

I played cribbage with Dad yesterday, but we were unable to finish the game. We were about even though during the game so it was fun anyway.

The nurse hurt the side of Dad's foot while putting on his support socks. I am not sure why it hurts so much to pull over the side of his foot, but the socks themselves did not hurt his foot once they got put on. We also thought it was his toe nails catching that caused the pain. Dad then started talking about prices of Homestead Hills and taxes going up and she responded by addressing his foot pain.

I noticed that my right ankle is also causing me some pain when I push down on my foot (but only during yoga class doing the downward dog position!) Could this be some kind of sympathetic pain. Strange!

I did not have Mom and Dad over for dinner on Sunday, I slept most of the day. Not sure if I am sick or just tired. But I plan to have them over next week.

I played another game of cribbage yesterday with Dad.

He has some sort of hard skin on the back of his ankle, probably a callus of some sort. I hope he talks to the doctor about it. He doesn't seem in too much pain about it anymore (or else he is very stoic).

Mom and Dad had dinner again last Sunday. I fixed Breaded shrimp, Cajun rice, Squash and brownies. Also some homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream that Suzie made in her ice cream maker.

We watched the golf game on tv. Since I am taking lessons, it seems more interesting to watch now!