A Little of This, A Little of That

     The past few days have been quite an education for our family. My in-laws will be moving to a nursing home today and while they aren't happy to be leaving their home, they realize that it is necessary. My mother-in-law is actually doing well with the exception of being weak and absolutely hating the fact she is in the hospital alone. My father-in-law is willing to do whatever he has to in order to be with her.

     A crisis situation can bring out the best or the worst in families. My sister and I were always close and the past months during my mother's illness and death have only strengthened our relationship. My mother would be pleased, but not surprised. My husband isn't quite as lucky. It is so important to talk about what could happen before it happens. If you are the adult child of aging parents...talk to them now about their wishes. Make certain that you and your siblings all have written medical power of attorney. Find out about your parent's assets, insurance policies and long-term care plans. It is a stressful time for the ailing parent and the last thing they need to be worrying about is their children not getting along. If you are the aging parent, start sharing this information with your children. Don't assume that they will work together or even have your best interest in mind as decisions are made.

     My husband and I have tried very hard to remember that just because his mother is ill and his father is a bit feeble, they are still able to make their own decisions and certainly should be consulted and part of the decision making process. It has been a difficult week for them, some of which could have been avoided. Hopefully, once they are settled in their new home together today, they will be able to relax and enjoy the rest of their time together.

     On to blogging...there isn't much decorating going on in my house right now. The Valentine table was taken down yesterday and my dining table now has a very simple, non-seasonal look.

I am starting to think about spring (aren't we all)

 and here is a hint of things to come.

When we get stressed out around our house...this is what we do.

     We stock up on new travel books and start making plans. Most of the time they work out, sometimes we have to cancel things but the joy is truly in the planning. We started thinking we were going in one direction for a couple of weeks, we have about decided to take a week away in the spring and a week in the summer in the other direction. My daughter and father are both coming home to visit this spring, so we won't be heading to Florida until later in the year.

     Our weekend also included a 4 hour concert with the Kentucky Headhunters, the Georgia Satellites and the Marshall Tucker Band (above). MTB was well worth the wait, the Headhunters were good and in my opinion the Satellites should just retire or go play in small bars somewhere!

     I am joining Susan @ Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday, and Marty @ A Stroll Thru Life for Table Top Tuesday. Please take time to visit two of my favorite bloggers for their weekly memes.