Dad's Last Few Days

I haven't had time to write down everything that happened this past weekend.

Just some observations: On the way to the visit with Dr. Lichstein Dad was worried that I was going to wreck the car. He also complained to Dr. Lichstein that I was spending all his money.

Dr. Lichstein seemed to think Dad was doing well. He asked again if someone was staying with him just during the day during the week. I said Ilene was with him 24/7. Then he said you mean 24/5! He will see him again in six months.

On Monday Dad was more active than usual. Instead of just watching me set up a jigsaw puzzle, he came over and attempted to help me turn over the pieces. He did that well, but couldn't seem to get the pieces together. He was trying to put pieces together that obviously did not match. I tried to explain the flat side edge pieces. It was fun to share an activity.

We had a nice dinner, sharing some crusted cod, chicken stir-fry, pea pods and broccoli and fried rice. I also ate half a piece of cake with a small scoop of ice cream and half a piece of impossible pie. Later I had some bread pudding and popcorn.

To work at 9:pm

Hi i arrived at the Dancys around 9:pm
Mr Dancy was watching a movie.I
Gave him his medication and he is still
Watching tv.Ilene

Weekend with Dad

It got really cold this weekend in the 20s. Hopefully it will go back to the 40s soon. I almost got frostbite on my face on my run this Sunday.

Dad seemed a bit lethargic today compared to his norm. He slept a lot during the day on Saturday according to Bettie. He had to be coaxed to eat his dinner.

On Sunday he ate about half of his dinner, one slice of pizza and 1/2 of his salad. Though he did eat all of his ice cream and cake. I ended up eating his other slice of pizza. I have a hard time with pizza! I did manage to save half of the pizza and hopefully it will taste just as good next weekend (stored in the freezer). In the morning he did a few stretches while I was doing my yoga routine. [Mostly his arms go up and down.]

I plan to take Dad to my house on this Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. Then come back for dinner. Ilene will come back about 8 pm.

Dad's Visit With Dr. Lichstein

Yesterday was a busy day for Dad and me. We went to visit Dr. Lichstein. Dr. Lichstein reviewed Dad's medicines. His blood pressure was slightly higher 150 or so. But Ilene is recording his Bp on a weekly basis. He thinks that Dad should have lotion applied to his back and chest twice daily for itching. He doesn't think much of using the Claritin and Benadryl all the time. I am going to stop the Claritin and continue the Benadryl at night for a while and gradually stop it and see how it goes.

Dad seemed very alert. He also got a chest x-ray for the use of the Senior Services for monitoring tuberculosis.

Dad will also get his B12 injection at the VA or Donna Myrick RN (Suzie's mother in law) will inject him once a month. I will give a money card to Ilene once a month for checking BP-such as Burger King or Starbucks. I can give some money to Donna as well. ($40-50?)

When we got back we ate some dinner--Hawaiian chicken and cod, mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables (I made the vegetables). I ate Dad's roll, along with a brownie and a sugar free cookie, (Dad ate one of the cookies). I then passed out on the couch for an hour until Suzie came by and I returned to work until Midnight. Since Ilene is off this Friday for her once-a-month job, Bettie came by after her job at Homestead Hills and is there now until Suzie comes by again this afternoon for a few hours before I get off work at 7 pm. Bettie will spend one more night as well, so I can get to exercise class tomorrow. Then I will be back tomorrow afternoon.

''Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am,i assisted him in the bathroom before,
Breakfast. We went for a short walk to the
Mail box after lunch and did our exercise,
Routine. His activities today are,walking,
He cut out and stenciled some pictures and
Watched some tv.His appetite was good
Eating 100%.He is watching tv at this time.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Today was a nice quiet day for Mr
Dancy,he was up at 7:30 am ,i assisted
Him with a shower,sitz bath, back-rub
And skin care.After breakfast we cut
Out some pictures and worked a puzzle.
It was too cold to take a long walk so
We walked to the mailbox and back.
His appetite was good,95%. Mr Dancy
Is relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi ,I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:pm and returned here at 4:25 pm.Mr
Dancy had a good supper eating 100%.He
Is now relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi , this morning Mr Dancy was up at 7:30
Am,afterwards i assisted him with,sitz..
Bath, Back-rub,shower And skin care
We went for a short walk this morning
And did our exercise routine.i got out the
''hidden object book'' and Mr Dancy
Engaged in the search for the hidden objects.
His appetite was good today,100%. i took
His bp at 6:15 it was 130/80.He is relaxing
By the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 7:30 am i assisted
him in the bathroom before taking him to
Senior services. We left at 9:30 this morning
And arrived here at 4:30 pm.Mr Dancys
Appetite was good today,100%.He is relxing
By the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am,i assisted him in the bathroom before
Breakfast. We did our exercise routine
And afterwards went for a walk. We got
Out the ''hidden object book'' and searched
For hidden objects. Mr Dancy watched some
Tv and nodded on and off,listened to opera
For a time.His appetite was good ,100%.
He is relaxing by the tv at this time. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi ,Mr dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am, i assisted him with a shower, sitz bath
Back-rub,skin care and ear wax removal.
After breakfast we did our exercises and
Later went for a walk. We did some games
''hidden object book'' and Mr Dancy put
Together the US map. He was very much
Alert today and his appetite was good,100%.
He is watching tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up at 4:pm and
Arrived here at 4:30 , I saw the morning
Pills in the pill container and gave him his
Medication with his supper,he ate 95%.
He is now relaxing by the tv. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,
He was up this morning at 7:30 am,
I assisted him with a shower, sitz bath
Back- rub, skin care and ear wax
Removal.His appetite today was 100%.
For activity we read more poetry and
Used the ''hidden object book''. I took
Mr Dancys BP at 4:30 pm it was 120/70.
The trash had not been picked up here
And several houses on this street by
2:pm today i called the city and they
Were here by 3:30 pm.Ilene

' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am, i assisted him with grooming and getting
Ready for senior services, i took him there
At 9:30 am and picked him up at 4:30 pm,
His appetite was good today, 100%. He
had a good day and is now relaxing by the
tv. Ilene

'' Through The Eyes Of Children''

'' As the children watch the scene take place
They looked down and saw the leaves'',
The Children were washing themselves
with Rain drops,
the rain drops rained down to the
River as the children began to play.
The children Returned home to play with their toys,
They wrote down their cares,
joys and worry,
They greeted nature that day
and longed to See the stars that night that sparkled in the sky.
After a time they drifted off to sleep
dreaming Of the world they left behind.'

Creative Writing: By Charles Dancy as told to Ilene Simmons

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am,i assisted him with a shower, sitz bath,
Back-rub and skin care. He has been resting
Well and the rash and itching is much better.
This morning we did our exercise routine,
And afterwards we listened to opera and
Worked on the ''hidden object book'', Mr
Dancy read poetry and put together a poem
That he created.His appetite was good 100%.
He seemed to have a good day,the poem
That he wrote will follow.Ilene

Dad's New Years

On New Years Eve, Dad and I went to the Pops concert at Reynolds Auditorium with the Winston-Salem Symphony and featuring a soprano who sang both opera pop tunes, and some dancers who performed the dream sequence from Oklahoma. It was great!

New Years Dad came to my house. We had take out from the dining hall featuring Moravian chicken pie, shrimp newberg, pasta and vegetables and bread pudding, and of course some collard greens. (I skipped the black eye peas). I ate a small amount of collard greens, but I couldn't get Dad to eat them even though I said eating would give him luck or money! We then went downstairs to watch football games. He fell asleep after a while and I attempted to clean out some junk in the closet (small room off basement).

Dad had a bit of diarrhea but otherwise was okay. Luckily I had a change of clothes for him at my house.

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I arrived at Mr Dancys home at 7:pm,
Mr Dancy was watching tv ,i took him to
The bathroom several times,he had diarhea,
Cathy suggested i give him 'pepto bismol'' i
Did and it seemed to help him.Mr Dancy is
Watching tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 7:30 am,i
Assisted him with a shower, sitz bath,
Back-rub,ear wax removal and skin
Care. After breakfast we did our exercise
Routine and later got out the'' hidden
Object book'' we worked at finding the
objects. Mr Dancy watched some tv
And listened to music for a while.His
Appetite was good today eating 100%.
He is relaxing by the tv at this time.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7;30
am, i assisted him in the bathroom before
Breakfast. We went for a walk after lunch
And later put a puzzle together. His appetite
Was good today,95%.I took his bp at 6:40
it was 140/78. Mr Dancy is relaxing by the
Tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi , Mr Dancy had supper around 5:30,
Eating 100%. He is now watching tv at
This time.Ilene

Xma and Boxing Day

Today is a bit rainy so I will probably stay in with Dad (at my house) and do some yoga and maybe work on my Barbie doll's Angel tree outfit.

Last night when I took Dad to the bathroom before bed about midnight his briefs were wet as usual. But after I changed him and he brushed his teeth he mentioned he had to go to the bathroom again! He was totally soaked again. He used to pee while he was sitting on the toilet, but I forgot to check before he got up. He said he has trouble peeing. So maybe he has a delayed reaction. I will ask Dr. Lichstein about that next month.

I will try to have Dr. Lichstein's nurse give Dad his B12 injection next month so that he doesn't have to have a home nurse come and visit that month. It may be possible to have Dad just go to the Health Center each month for an injection instead, since he seems to enjoy driving and Ilene likes to get out as well. Also Ilene is able to monitor his blood pressure so it may be possible to drop the nurse care. ?!?!

We had fun at Ashley's stepfather's home. I played Sudoku animal game with the kids, but it is a bit difficult for them. But I am sure they will pick up on it soon. Also an animal sequence game as well.

The 60 mile drive back home went well. Dad read me all the signs (it was dark even).

Xmas

This weekend has been Xmas weekend. Bettie stayed with Dad on Saturday and Sunday afternoons so I could do some more shopping and cleaning at home. (But the house was still somewhat messy!)

Christmas Eve Dad came over and we watched some football and watched my new robot vacuum cleaner (courtesey of Dad's Xmas gift!) clean my floor. I actually had vacuumed it beforehand. The cleaner said to empty the cartridge after three cleanings, but I did it after two and it was jam-packed with hair and fuzz! It comes equipped with a infra-ray device to keep it in one room. I ran around after "Bubba" to make sure he had a clear path with as little obstacles as possible!

Today, we woke up and opened some presents. Dad enjoyed opening the box of Peanut Brittle from Barb. He also put on the Carolina Panthers ballcap I won on the Pepsi website. (I find caps from coke and pepsi products for prizes)

More later. We will be going to Jason's inlaws in Charlotte.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, this morning mr Dancy was up at
7:30 am, i assisted him with a shower,
Sitz bath, back-rub,skin care and applied
The ear drops for ear wax removal, After
Breakfast i took him to get a hair cut..
His appetite was good today, 100%.
We went for a short walk later in the
Evening and worked a puzzle.Mr Dancy
Is relaxing by the tv at this time. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at the usual time
7:30 am, i assisted him in the bathroom
Before breakfast. We left for senior
Services at 9:15 and arrived back here
At 4:30. Mr Dancys appetite was good
Today ,100%, he is now preparing to
Go to bed.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancys day started at 7:30 this
Morning, i assisted him in the bathroom
Before breakfast. We left for senior
services around 10:35 and returned here
At 11:45, senior services offers the spa
And shower service Mr Dancy seemed
To enjoy going and participating in the
Service. His appetite today was good
100%.I took his bp this afternoon it
was 130/78. we did some puzzles today
And took a walk. he is relaxing by the
tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up last night several
Times i took him to the bathroom and
Changed him both times he went back
To bed and was ready to get up by 7:30
am. I assisted him with a sitz bath,back-
Rub,shower,and skin care,also ear wax
Removal. At 5:15 today i took his bp
it was 120/86. We took a walk before
Lunch and we did our exercise routine.
For more activity i got out the '' hidden
Picture book'', Mr Dancy is getting better
At locating the hidden objects.his appetite
Was good today eating 100%.He is relaxing
By the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening ''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:pm, we arrived here at 4:30 pm. Mr Dancy
Ate supper around 5:30 eating 95%, he is
Relaxing by the tv at this time.Ilene

Dad's Weekend

Dad spent most of the weekend with Bettie. I was there Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings with him.

Saturday afternoon when I got back we had fish and pork dinners with zucchini and tomatoes and rice. Also sweet potato pie. We watched the movie "The Notebook" about the woman who has Alzheimers and doesn't recognize herself in the story that her husband is reading to her.

Sunday afternoon I brought Dad to my house for leftover steak, pasta and roasted vegetables. Followed by a cupcake and ice cream. Dad mentioned that I was really working hard at cleaning the kitchen! The cupcakes were for Collin's birthday. He wasn't able to make it, but hopefully next weekend he will be here to have some cupcakes!

Last night Dad got up before me and came in my room and started talking, but I was unable to stir and just told him to watch the TV for a while. Dad went around and turned on all the lights, double bolted the front door, etc. He also had slept in both of his beds! [He hasn't done that before.] When I awoke at 9 am he was sitting in the black chair because he had put the lazy boy chair all the way up and didn't seem to be able to get it down again.

He was complaining about spending money on used cars that didn't work. Also he didn't want to floss his teeth, it wasn't worth wasting his time on. He was also frustrated because he had painted a picture that didn't turn out well. It was still nice that he was talkative.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Today was shower day for Mr Dancy,
He was up at 7:30 am. I assisted him
With a sitz bath, back-rub,skin care and
A shower,at 9:30 karen byrd from
Geriatric outreach came by for a visit
Mr Dancy was still eating breakfast she
Stayed about 30 minutes.We took a
short walk and did some exercises this
morning. Mr Dancy worked on the picture
He is painting.His appetite was good,100%.
I took his bp at 5:pm it was 124/80. He
is relaxing by the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at the
Usual time 7:30 am,I assisted him in
The bathroom before having breakfast.
I took his bp at 9:10 this morning it
Was 142/80.We left for senior services
Around 9:30 and arrived here at 4:30.
His appetite was good today eating 100%.
He is in the bathroom at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,He
Was up this morning at 6:30 i assisted
Him in the bathroom before breakfast.
We did our exercises around 9:30 and
went for a walk. His activities included
Walking,conversation, music and
finding hidden objects in the picture
book.His appetite was also good today
100%. I took his bp at 4:30 pm ,it was
120/80.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy slept well last night getting
up once to go to the bathroom. He was up
This morning at 7:30 am i assisted him
With a back-rub,sitz bath,shower and
Skin care. His appetite was good today
He ate 95% of all three meals. i took his
bp at 4:pm it was 140/78.He is relaxing
by the tv watching a movie. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior
Services at 5:pm.We arrived back here
5:45 after picking up his supper.His
Appetite was good eating 100%. I
Took his bp at 7:45, 130/78. He is now
Relaxing by the tv watching a Christmas
Movie.

Dad is itching less

Bettie stayed with Dad late Friday night through Saturday afternoon. She reports that he is itching less. When he woke up she put a lot of cream on his chest and back followed by Zeasorb, a special powder for itching.

He walked around a lot [he sits in the chair most of the time with me}. When I arrived he didn't notice, as he was engrossed in the movie "X-Men". Afterwards we watched another movie Deck the Halls with Danny Devito and Matt Broderick. It was dumb but enjoyable.

I applied some more cream today to Dad's back. I put some cream and put it in his hand and said to apply to his chest. Dad acted like he wanted me to apply it to his privates, but I said he could do that himself. Five minutes later he still had the cream in his hand. I finally just spread it on his chest. I don't mind applying to the butt region, but some areas are just not easy for me!

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:am,
I assisted him in the bathroom and prepared
Breakfast afterwards. We left this morning
At 9:am to take mr Dancy to the foot doctor,
After receiving his foot treatment we arrived
back here at 10:25.We went for a short walk
This afternoon. Mr Dancys appetite was good
today,100%. I took his BP at 5:10 this evening,
It was 130/82. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening"

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at the usual time 7:30
Am,before breakfast i assisted him in the
Bathroom. We left for senior services at
9:30 am and arrived back here at 4:30.
Mr Dancy had some loose stools this
Afternoon so i gave him his shower early,
Along with his back-rub,skin care and sitz..
Bath.His appetite was good today eating
100%. I took his bp around 7:30 pm and
It was better 124/80.He is now relaxing
By the tv watching a xmas program.

Nurse's Report

I had a call from Rene Russell, the Bayada nurse this morning. She had seen Dad on Tuesday, but had not had time to call. Dad had very elevated blood pressure (146/92). She thought perhaps this might be from the benedryl and claritin he was taking for the rash. She left a message for Cathy, and says she believes Cathy has made an appointment with Dr. Lichstein. She was not overly concerned about the situation, just wanting to get it back to normal. She will see Dad again in early January.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 7:30 this morning,
Before breakfast i assisted him in the
Bathroom. After breakfast we went for
A walk and did our exercise routine.
We looked at greeting cards and listened
To music this afternoon.His appetite
Was good eating 100% today. Mr Dancy
is in the bathroom at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am, I assisted him in the bathroom with
Skin care,shower,sitz bath, and a back..
Rub. We went for a short walk before
The nurse arrived. We also did our
Exercise routine. Activities for the day
Are,walking,conversation and puzzles.
Mr Dancy ate well today,100%.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:45,There was some issues associated
With traffic this afternoon.I picked his supper
Up on the way in. His appetite was good
He ate 100% of supper. Mr Dancy is relaxing
By the tv at this time.Ilene

Christmas Month Begins

It was a busy weekend. Bettie stayed with Dad while I went to exercise class on Saturday and worked on my Barbie Angel Tree Ornament. At Dad's house I put up the last ornament on the tree, as well as the candy cane door ornament, and theXmas music boxes.

Saturday evening I had cod and chicken with Dad. (I have to watch myself, sometimes I try to "clean up" his plate!). Plus I ate the cake dessert PLUS ice cream and candy later!

Sunday Dad watched the football games. Luckily the Panthers won for a change but the Saints got beaten by a last minute touchdown pass. Yuck! Dad also signed the Xmas cards to my siblings, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dad seems to be itching less. I will see him again on Wednesday to bring him more Claritin, etc.

Also on Friday he has an appointment with Dr. Wingate, podiatrist. I will go with him and Ilene and then go on to work.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy has been sleeping very well
at night,he was up this morning at 7:30
Am.I assisted him with a shower, sitz bath
Back-rub,skin care and used the ear drops
To clean out ear wax. Early in the morning
After breakfast we went for a walk and
Did our exercise routine, after lunch i got
Out the map for Mr Dancy and he also painted
A xmas tree.Mr Dancy had a good day and
his appetite was good eating 100% today.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice day,he was up
This morning at 7:30 am,i assisted him in
The bathroom before breakfast. We did our
Exercise routine this morning and later
Went for a walk.we worked on puzzles
And the map most of this week. His
Appetite was good,eating at 100%. Mr
Dancy is watching tv at this time.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am, i assisted him in the bathroom afterwards
He ate a good breakfast and we left for senior
Services . I picked him up at 4:15 and arrived
At his home 4:45.He ate supper around 5:30.
He is now relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am,after a shower.sitz bath , back-rub
And skin care it was time for breakfast.
I gave him his pm benadryl and morning
Claritin 2 times in the am,i also used the
Lux'iq'' on his scalp to help with the itching,
He isnt itching or breaking out as much
As before.His appetite is good,eating 100%
Today and yesterday.He is relaxing by
the tv,watching a xmas program.Ilene

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, i arrived at Mr Dancys home at 3:45.
I picked his supper up and he ate dinner
At 5;30,eating 95%.He is watching tv at
This time.Ilene

Turkey Weekend

Friday I helped put up the tree. Dad said his itching was so bad that he wanted to die! I gave him some benadryl again.

Bettie stayed over on Friday evening because she was working late that night and it was convenient for both of us (so I could get to exercise class on time on Saturday).

On Sunday afternoon I made some clam corn chowder. It was a fairly easy recipe and tasted much better than Campbell's. I sprinkled it with bacon and served it with a salad.

This afternoon I got Dad an appontment with Dr. Southard the dermatologist. He said to give him Claritin 2x in the am and Benadryl 1x in the pm. He kept insisting I get a large quantity at Sam's. But I said that I wanted to go to CVS instead. Oh well!

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day was a very warm day--about 60 degrees. Suzie and Jacob came over and helped me bring the dinner back from the dining hall. There was enough from three boxes to feed us all, so had some leftovers!

I accidentally brought over pumpkin pies instead of sweet potato pies, but the pumpkin tasted quite good. I also had some Sara Lee pumpkin cheesecake as well that I had purchased at the store.

Later we went over to my house and had a simple supper of tomato soup and chow mein noodles. I had planned to make some clam chowder but forgot to buy the bacon and potato. So I will make it later this weekend.

I also set up the Xmas tree yesterday. I will do the decorating in stages so it will be easy. Hopefully Suzie and Jacob will stop by sometime to help, or perhaps Ilene and Dad can put up some ornaments next week. [I had also set up the Xmas tree at work. It was okay because there wasn't anybody at the library on Wednesday evening so it kept me occupied.]

Sometime I need to take Dad to get a replacement ID card as I accidentally threw his away. [I put it in a plastic bag and got it mixed up with the plastic bags filled with trash.] It is convenient to get it at the VA across from Homestead Hills.

Dad also has to see the dermatologist next week, as his rash on his chest doesn't want to go away. I have started to give him some Benadryl for it once a day.

''Mr Dancys Day''

Hi.Mr Dancy was up at the usual time,7:30 am.
I assised him in the bathroom before breakfast
And taking him to senior services.I picked him
Up at 3:55 and we arrived back here at 4:30.
He ate his supper,90% today.I gave him another
Shower around 8:30,he complained about the
Itching from the rash and he also had a loose
bm ,he said the shower made him feel better
I also gave him a sitz bath and back-rub and
Skin care,using the medications here for itching.
He went to bed minutes ago and seemed to
have a good day.Ilene

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am,i assisted him with a shower, sitz bath
Back-rub,skin care and cleaned his ears out.
After lunch we put together a xmas puzzle
And searched for the hidden object in the
Hidden picture book.He had a nice quiet
Day and has been sleeping well at night.
His meal intake was at 100% today.He is
Relaxing by the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up at 4:10 ,we
Arrived back at Mr Dancys home at
4:35, he ate supper at 5:30,eating at
100%.He is watching tv at this time.
Ilene

Dad's Weekend

Not much happened this weekend. Ilene stayed over until 11 pm on Friday so I could attend the play "Look Homeward Angel".

Saturday Bettie came over and watched Dad while I went to exercise class. Bettie said that the hidden picture searches are too hard for Dad. She seems to enjoy doing them herself though.

Sunday morning Dad did some yoga with me. He even got down on the floor for a while, but mostly he did the arm stretches in the chair. When he was down on the floor almost he lost his balance a bit, but was okay.

Sunday I made a special orange sauce with pineapple and banana bits that I served over the frozen waffles.

He said he had a fever on Sunday. I felt his forehead but seemed okay. I gave him some aspirin though.

Earlier in the week Suzie came over and watched Dad. She feel asleep waiting for him to go to bed. He then got out of his chair and nudged her to take him to the bathroom.

Today when he awoke this morning, (he spent most of the night in the easy chair), his briefs were dry, which was great.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
Am.I assisted him with a shower,sitz bath
Back-rub and skin care.After breakfast
We went for a short walk and later did
Our exercise routine.We worked some
On the ''hidden pictures book''.Mr Dancys
Eating level today was 95%.He is now
Relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,
We went for a short walk this
Afternoon and later Mr Dancy asked
For the map,i got the map out and he
Put it together. He ate all his meals
At 95% today.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:02.We arrived back at Mr Dancys home
At 4:30.He ate his supper at 95%.He is now
Relaxing by the tv.Ilene

Sunday with Dad

This morning I awoke and found Dad in the easy chair with the afgan over him. He continued to sleep while I drank some coffee. When I took him to the bathroom I noticed the toilet had been used. Not sure if he used during the night or when Bettie was there.

Dad said that He had lost his......[I don't think he could think of the right word, so he looked down at this plate] and then said...bacon! He does that a lot. I know it must have been something important to him though. He also said he cousin lost his... bacon as well! He said it was his cousin on his mother's side, so I assume the cousin must be older than Dad.

I just got back from afternoon spent with Suzie. We went shopping for a few items. Then we went to my house and I looked at a Barbie doll clothes pattern and figured out what to buy at store. Then we went to the park. Suzie read a book and I jogged. Then we fed the ducks there.

When I got back Bettie reported that Dad walked around a lot. He also talked a lot. He worked on his hidden object puzzle and colored in the objects. He seemed to pick out quite a few objects.

Dad is now watching a football game and we will have leftovers and some pizza.

Bettie's Report on November 10

Bettie stayed with Dad while I went to exercise class, took an afternoon nap and went to a pops concert featuring Amy Grant and the Winston-Salem Symphony.

Dad walked around the house a lot she said. (for some reason he never does that with me--just basically sits in the chair).

They worked on some Hidden pictures puzzle. Bettie said they were too hard for both her and Dad. They did find a few and Dad colored the pictures.

Bettie reported that Dad didn't eat much for dinner. She saved the leftovers--about 1/2 serving of tomatoes and okra and some pork.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi,Today was a nice quite day for Mr Dancy
He was up this morning at 7:30am his shower
Was followed by a sitz bath,back -rub and
Skin care also i used the ear drops to clean
Out his ears.I took him for a hair cut around
1:30.His eating today was 95%.He is relaxing
By the tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening"

Hi, Mr Dancy has been resting very well
At night.He was up this morning at 7:30
Am,after a trip to the bathroom mr Dancy
Had breakfast.We left for senior services
At 9:30 and arrived back here at4:30.
He had a good supper eating 95%.He is
Relaxing by the tv at this time.

''Mr Dancys Day'

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am.I assisted him in the bathroom before
Breakfast.He did some coloring today,but
Said he didnt feel well so he napped on
And off.We did our exercise routine and
Went for a short walk .He ate his breakfast
And lunch but only ate 50% of supper,i
Gave him a vitamin drink.Mr Dancy is
Watching tv at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at
7:30 am,i assisted him in the bathroom
With a shower,sitz bath,back-rub and
Skin care.After breakfast the nurse came
By around 10:30 am.The nurse took
Mr Dancys vital signs and administered
His b-12 shot.his bp was 124/72.
Mr Dancy engaged in art work today
Finishing up a fall picture and putting
Together the map.His eating today
Was at 95%.Mr Dancy is relaxing by
The tv at this time.Ilene

Visit by Nurse

I received a call from Rene Russell, the Bayada nurse this morning. She had to come early for the visit due to other commitments. She reports that Dad is doing well, no changes apparent. His temperature is 96.7, heartbeat 60-regular, blood pressure 124/72. She gave him his B12 shot. Rene expects to return for the next visit on December 4th.

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up this afternoon at
4:10,we arrived back here at 4:35.Mr Dancy
Had supper at the usual time 5:30,he ate
100% of his supper,i gave him the laxative
Pill and he had a bm after supper.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys ' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day he
was up this morning at 7:30 am,i
Assisted him in the bathroom with a
Shower,back-rub,sitz bath,ear care
And skin care.His activity today was
Conversation,painted a fall picture and
Watched some tv.His eating today was
100%,he is watching tv at this time.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy rested well last night,he
Was up this morning at 7:30 am,after
A trip to the bathroom Mr Dancy had
A good breakfast and later i took him
To senior services.I picked him up at
3:45 and arrived back here at 4:02.
His eating today was at 100%, he is
Relaxing at this time by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am,i assisted him in the bathroom before
Breakfast.We did the exercise routine and
Afterwards went for a walk. Cathy came
By to have lunch with Mr Dancy,he enjoyed
Seeing cathy and the Halloween lunch.
He napped on and off today,i got the games
Out but Mr Dancy didnt seem interested.
His eating today was at 100%.Mr Dancy
is watching tv at this time.Ilene

Halloween at Dad's House

I had the Halloween Lunch today with Dad and Ilene. The menu included hangman's chicken (the chicken bone was sticking up out of the chicken piece like a tree, with a little string noose attached). Dad had the Ghostly Goulash. There was also Brains (molded corn), sweet potato cakes shaped like pumpkins, light rolls shaped like a cat and a witches hat. Fun!

I removed the seeds from the pumpkin and attempted to make some toasted seeds, which I burned slightly. Ilene will finish up the pumpkin and place the light inside.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice restful night he
Was up this morning at 7:30 am i assisted
Him in the bathroom with a shower,back-
Rub,sitz bath and skin care.After breakfast
We did the exercise routine and went for
A walk.Mr Dancy worked on the sea life
Book almost finishing the coloring.He ate
Really well today 1oo%.He is watching tv
At this time.Ilene

''Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up at 4:05 pm we
Arrived back here at 4:35.Mr Dancy
Ate his supper around 5:30,he didnt
Eat very much,about 50%. i gave him
A vitamin drink and bananas and
Strawberrys as a snack.He is watching
Tv at this time.Ilene

Dad's Weekend

Bettie stayed with Dad most of Saturday. I helped Suzie make her Olive Oyl costume. We picked up some clothes at Goodwill. Suzie covered some old boots with brown cloth and buttons to simulate her "big" boots.

Dad and Bettie watched the Panthers game on Sunday. Unfortunately, the Panthers lost. On Sunday evening we had some pizza and salad after I got back from the symphony.

I noticed that Dad had not had a bowel movement, so asked him if he had to go to the bathroom. He said no, but made a lot of farting sounds, and soon he realized one was too much. I took him to the bathroom and he had some loose stools in his briefs.

The rest of the weekend went okay. We did some yoga today. Dad did a lot of arm stretching and touching of his toes.

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am,i assisted him with a shower,back-rub
sitz bath skin care and i used the ear
Drops to clean out his ears.It rained all
Day so we didnt go out for a walk but we
did the exercise routine.His activities
Included,conversation,worked with the
map anf finished the picture he painted.
His eating today is at 95%.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day''

Hi Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am.I assisted him in the bathroom before
breakfast.I took him to senior services
Around 9:30 am and picked him up at
3:45 i picked him up ealy because of the
Rain,the traffic was terrible.His eating
Today was at 95%.He is relaxing by the
tv at this time . Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 7:30 this morning
I assisted him in the bathroom before
Having breakfast.He is sleeping much better
And his eatng today was at 95%.We did the
Exercise routine around 9:15 and immediately
after, we went for a walk.After lunch i got out
The paint and canvas so that Mr Dancy
Could express his artistry,he did very well
with the art work.He likes painting very
Much and continued painting most of the
Evening.At this time he is relaxing by
The tv.Ilene

''Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30 am
I assisted him inthe bathroom with a shower,
Sitz bath ,back-rub and skin care.After
Breakfast we went down to assisted living
For the flu shot,we were there at 10:am and
Waited until 11:am for the nurses to come.
He did get his flu shot.We worked on a puzzle
Later in the day. His eating today was at 95%.
He had a nice quiet day. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up at 4:05, we returned
Here at Mr Dancys home at 4:35.I picked his
Supper up at 5:15 and he ate supper afterwards
eating at 100%.He is watching tv at this time.
Ilene

Chip Visits Sunday from New Hampshire

On Sunday afternoon Chip drove in from the Raleigh airport. He arrived at dinner time and we had some salad and pizza, followed by cake and apple pie ice cream. Later that evening we watched the Red Sox play offs.

Today Chip and Dad went for a walk while I did some yoga from the TV. Chip then went to the lawyer's office. I was about to take Dad to Senior Services when he called. I then met them downtown so Dad could sign a paper making Chip executor of Mom's estate.

Before Chip had to leave for Raleigh he stopped and visited Jacob at his home.

Later we have to change the title of the car to Dad only (by March 15,2008).

''Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had nice restful night he slept
Without getting up,he was up this morning
At 7:30 am,i assisted him with a shower
sitz bath, back-rub and skin care,i also
used the ear drops once a week to expel
the wax build up. it rained most of the day
we didnt get a chance to go for a walk until late
Evening.He did some more coloring on the
sea life picture finishing up from yesterday.
His eating today was at 100%.at this time
He is watching tv.Ilene

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day,We
Went for a walk this morning and later
Mr Dancy ate lunch, afterwards he worked
Most of the evening on coloring in the
Sea life book. His eating today was at 100%.
He is watching tv at this time.Ilene

Busy Day For Dad

Today was a busy day. I woke up and had a quick breakfast with Dad. Then we went over to my house to make cupcakes for my work luncheon. I then took Dad to Senior Services for the day.

After my luncheon Suzie came over to my house and she helped me make some Irish Cream fudge. I went to work. Then I picked up Dad and had a nice dinner, Shrimp and pasta, bbq chicken, potatoes and carrots and fruit. Suzie came over and I went back to work.

I will pick up Dad's car tomorrow. It had to have freon put in it, and the clutch and brakes needed some work as well. I will try to incorporate a jog in it. (It is a couple of miles down the road from Dad's house).

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancys' day started at 7:30 am.
I assisted him with a shower,back-rub
skin care and sitz bath.We did the exercise
Routine and afterwards went for a walk.
Mr Dancy worked on putting the map
Together and later watched some tv.
He ate his meals at 100% and is now
Relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:10 we arrived back at his home at 4:40.
Mr Dancy had supper around 5:30, he ate
100% of his meal.He is now relaxing by the
tv.Ilene

Dad's Weekend

Dad had a fairly quiet weekend. Dad woke up ahead of me on Saturday morning and was sitting in the chair when I got up about 7:30 am. While I was at exercise class on Saturday, Bettie showed Dad the photos online from the Birthday Party. Dad enjoyed them and didn't want to leave the computer area for a long time.

Sunday I fixed pizza for supper along with a salad. We also had some cake and ice cream.
Dad didn't want to go to bed, so he spent much of the night in the chair. He got up about 5 am and I helped him to the bed.

Today Dad followed along with the yoga DVD, sitting in his chair.

Mr Dancys Day''

Hi, Mr Dancys day started at 7:30 am, I
Asssisted him with a shower, sitz bath, back -rub
Skin care and used the ear drops to clean out
Wax. He did some more coloring in the sea
Life book and had a lot to talk about today.
We went for a walk early this morning.
He had all of his medication and his eating
Was at 100% today.Mr Dancy had a good
Week. Ilene

''Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30 am
I assisted him in the batroom before breakfast.
We did the routine exercise and later went for
A walk.After lunch Mr Dancy engaged in some
Art work,coloring in the sea animal book.His
Eating today was at 100%.He is relaxing in
The tv room at this time.Ilene

'' Mr Dancy' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30
am, I assisted him in the bathroom and
Later prepared breakfast. Around 9:30
am We did our exercise routine and took
A walk afterwards.I got the games out
After lunch,magnetic map and the alphabet
Board,he did participate,he is really good
With the map.His eating today was at 95%.
He is relaxing at this time in his reclyner
And watching tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy had a nice quiet day he napped
A lot .I got out some games and pictures and he fell
Asleep.We went for a short walk later in the
Evening and afterwards Mr Dancy watched some
Sports programs. After supper i assisted him
With a shower, sitz bath,back -rub and skin care.
His eating was at 95% today.Ilene

Dad in Florida

Dad had a great time in Florida. The plane ride went smoothly. Dad was taken at the curb in the wheelchair inside. The luggage was also taken at the curb, so I just had to push him to the security with very little wait. I was able to get first class tickets at the last minute, so it was nice to sit in wide leather seats!

Jennie met us at the airport and drove us to a nice dinner with lots of cousins. Dad sat down next to Jennie and they started arguing! But they did not seem to know what each was talking about! We had a nice lamb dinner. Later we visited Jennie's suite: living room and small bedroom and bath. Also a small kitchenette with mini-fridge.

The next day Chip watched Dad as Jennie, Kenny and I went to visit her old friend Kris' parents who live conveniently near by.

Linda had planned a whole day of activities starting with a brunch, complete with roast beef and banana pancakes, etc. Then the afternoon we had the party with a Mardi Gras theme. We saw a slide show, Jennie and Anice blew out the candles. Dad and Jennie enjoyed chatting again.

Well, we had to leave on Monday. Jennie drove us over to visit Aunt Jennie one more time.

At the airport Dad announced he was Charles Dancy USN retired at the security checkpoint. So I guess he knew what was going on.

Jason picked us up at the airport. We drove back to his home and had some take-out pizza. Ashley got upset because they think the kids next door are throwing rocks at their cats. And Ashley wanted Jason to run over and confront the neighbors, but he was reluctant. Anyway, I decided that was a good time to leave (it was about nightfall as well).

We got home about 8 p.m. and watched TV for a while. Dad went to bed about 11 (we both had fallen asleep in the living room).

He didn't wake up until 9:30 am! Ilene came by about 10 am and later the nurse Renee visited for Dad's monthly B-12 shot.

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 5:am,i heard a noise
In the tv room and found Mr Dancy sitting
On the floor in front of the tv,i asked him why
He was sitting there with the tv remote in
His hand,he said that he couldnt hear the
Tv.I took him into the bathroom, afterwards he
Wanted to sit and watch tv.At 7:30 am i
Took him into the bathroom to get his shower
Sitz bath,back-rub and skin care.He said he
Didnt feel well today,however we managed
To go for a walk and he worked some on
The alphabet board.His eating was at 90%
Today.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day'''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:am
I assisted im in the bathroom and later
He had breakfast.We headed out to senior
Services around 9:20 and returned back
To Mr Dancys house at 4:35.He ate his
Meals today at 90%.He is now relaxing
by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancys' day started at 7:30 am,i assisted
Him in the bathroom before having breakfast.
After breakfast we did the exercise routine
And went for a walk afterwards.Mr Dancy
Commented that he liked the nice weather.
He seems to like the aphabet board and gets
Them in the slots very fast.We went outside
And sat and enjoyed the nice weather.Mr
Dancys eating was around 8o% today.He
Is now relaxing by the tv. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up at 7:30 am, i assisted him
With a shower,sitz bath, back- rub,and skin care.
He slept well until around 5:am and he got up
To use the bathroom,afterwards he didnt want
To go back to bed,so i gave him something to
drink and he watched tv in the reclyner before
going back to sleep.This morning we did our
exercise routine and went out for a walk before
Lunch.I got some games out however he didnt
seem interested,he was napping most of the
Day.His eating today was around 98%.Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, I picked Mr Dancy up from senior services
At 4:pm.We arrived back at his home at 4:30.
He had a good supper,eating 100%.Mr Dancy
Is now relaxing by the tv.Ilene

Dad had an active weekend

Dad had an active weekend (After an active week-Ilene asked if his medication had been changed). We spend Saturday afternoon at my house. Dad watched some golf. Then we went back to his house for a chicken enchilada and snapper meal. We watched an Iwo Jima movie about the men who raised the flag.

Sunday Bettie watched Dad. I told him I would be back at 9 p.m.-he was wide awake (Sometimes he is asleep when I get back at that time) . Bettie said he was very active walking around, getting cheese out of the refrigerator, etc. Dad started talking a lot, asking all kinds of questions--He kept asking how much the electric bill was. He actually got up and turned off the lamp in the living room, as well as the light over the dining room table.

On Monday Dad had gotten up in the middle of the night and left the toilet seat up. He was sitting at the end of the bed watching TV. (Usually he stays in bed until I get him up). He seemed more alert than he has been recently. Plus he was getting around a lot without his cane.

When we got to the podiatrist he told the assistant that his wife had died. He seemed to think it was just a few days ago though. We talked about the upcoming trip to Florida. I hope he enjoys seeing Jennie and Anice and my cousins.

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30 am,
He slept well last night getting up once to go
To the bathroom.I assisted him this morning
With a shower,sitz bath ,skin care ,ear wash
And back-rub. After lunch we made a fall
Wreath made with leaves and pine cones.later
In the day we drove to the pumpkin patch and
Bought some pumpkins and took some pictures.
Today he ate well,100%.He had all of his
medications and is relaxing by the tv.Ilene

'' Mr Dancy's Morning and Evening''

Hi, Mr Dancy was up this morning at 7:30 am
I assisted him in the bathroom before getting
Ready for breakfast. We left for senior services
At 9:2o.I picked him up at exactly 4:pm.This
Afternoon he ate a good supper,eating 100%.
At this time he is relaxing by the tv. Ilene

'' Mr Dancys Day'' 09/25/07 09/26/07

Hi, wasn't able to blog last night,the system was
Down,i had to reset my password.Mr Dancy
Did not sleep well on tuesday night.On wednesday
he had a good day,Cathy came by for a visit,i
Believe her visit cheered him up. Last night
Mr Dancy slept well and had a full day.He is
Eating good and taking his medication.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Day''

Hi, Mr Dancy did not sleep very well last night,
He was up at 3:am and up again at 4:30 am.
This morning at 7:30 he was up and ready for
A shower, sitz bath ,back-rub and skin care,
Breakfast was served around 8:45 afterwards
We went for a walk.Cathy visited around
2:15,Mr Dancy wanted me to talk to Cathy.
His activities included working with the
ABC board and a word search.He has been
Hyper since monday afternoon.Mr Dancy has
Been eating well and seems in good health.
Ilene

'' Mr Dancys' Evening''

Hi, I picked Mr dancy up at 4:pm we arrived at
Mr Dancys' home at 4:30. He ate his supper
At 5:30, eating 100% and is now relaxing by
The tv. Ilene

Panthers Win this Weekend

On Saturday we had a nice fish meal from the dining hall.

It was exciting to watch the Panthers beat Atlanta on Sunday evening. Dad followed the game fairly well. We had Pizza and salad with ice cream for dessert.

This morning Dad woke up. He said he wanted to "mustard" his money, not sure what that means.

Dad put together some simple puzzles last week. His favorite one was "Santa Claus" according to Ilene.