“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans” - John Lennon

I had seven Fun Things left to do.  

I know you caught that.  "Had".  Not "have" in present tense, but "had" in past tense.  Because it's over.

Monday night we received a call from my dad that his father had taken a turn for the worse.  He's been battling prostate cancer that had spread to his bones.  Although in a wheelchair, as late as last Wednesday he was over at a friend's house for dinner, laughing at youtube videos.  Even Friday morning, he had his usual bacon and eggs.  But sometime over the weekend, things changed and by Sunday he was very different.  Monday he was exponentially worse and we were on a plane Tuesday.  Last night he was able to sit up in his chair, but today he can't get out of bed.

I know I am very lucky that I am 40 years old and still have all of my grandparents.  It makes me sad that is about to change.

We arranged for in-home hospice care and the regular lady that helps during the day has offered to stay overnight as long as we need her.  She loves him and doesn't want someone new taking care of him.  Thank God for people like her.

I've been very close with these grandparents since they live in Texas.  I spent many a summer catching horny toads in their backyard and until two years ago they were still coming to Austin to see me.  

While there was a never a question of whether I would come up here or not, it makes me sad that I can't finish my adventure as I had planned.  Seven measly things!  I was so close.

I realize the blogs are behind.  My whole goal for my required time at the Float House was to catch up, but the internet being down while we were there followed by our hasty departure means that didn't happen.  What'd I say before about the best laid plans?!  

The plan now is to help my dad and my grandmother the best we can.

I will catch up on the posts.  I will finish this adventure.  But right now there are bigger things to do.

I know you understand.

Here's to you, Red!! 

Comments

[Jane Flores]

To Red! Bless his heart.

[Julieawebb]

Hi Dorothy,

This is Julie from Johnson's Farm, another volunteer the day you came out. I'm just now checking out your email to see what you'd said about your experience there. I'm so sorry to read about your Grandad's failing health. How fortunate that you have such an obviously close relationship with him. I'm praying for peace for him and you in the coming days.

Julie Webb

[Dorothy G. Caldwell]

Thank you Julie! I really appreciate that. I hope you're well!!