It's been one of those weeks for me. I'm still digesting feelings and thoughts from dinner with cousins last week. I look at it a couple of different ways. 1. As I chose several years ago not to worry about different parts of the family, I went to be there for my sister more than anything else. So my expectations were not that high. As a matter of fact I was a bit nervous about seeing these cousins again and I'm not sure why. 2. I think I went for sentimental reasons, the cousin that organized this dinner lost her sister to cancer the week before. 3. A sense of obligation as family to represent my parents. I will say it was nice to meet a couple of cousins that I never met before. Part of me does say, family is family just go with the flow. How do you handle family?
Mema had a great week which means in many ways I had a good week. She got to go outside almost every day for a while in the sun which makes her happy. Mema has been rushing through her coffee and cookies to be able to get outside faster. I found out that when they go outside they each bring a tootsie roll lollipop to enjoy. Apparently, mema only likes the cherry ones...lol! Mema explained her disease almost perfectly the other day. She said she was sitting at a table for a concert with some ladies she has seen before. She told me she said to them, "I know I know you, but I can't remember your names anymore. I can remember all the music and the words to the songs, but I can't remember your names." The ladies said that's ok just enjoy the music. I said to mema, that's exactly what they say about your disease that you can remember the music and words because it's a good part of the memories. She said that's good to know. Of course, I wanted to weep, but gave her a hug.
There was a new CNA the other day and I was introduced to her. The nurse said how I help them and that I appreciate what they do. Well, when she was in the dining/lounge area to keep an eye on the folks I watched her playing with her cell phone and not really paying attention. Well, you know me...I walked over to wash my hands and I said to her: " I can be your biggest supporter or your worst enemy. I do not appreciate you sitting in here on your cell phone when I know you are not supposed to be. Nothing ticks me off more than that." She looked at me with huge eyes and immediately put the phone away and apologized. I said to her I understand checking for family emergencies, but I don't expect you to be not paying attention. Again, she apologized. I have a feeling she'll make sure she's not there when I am.
Papa is having fun with Lady. He said to me this morning, "I never thought I would talk to a dog, but I talk to her all the time. She seems to understand." I'm so happy that this rescue worked out so well for him. He told me how she looks for me for a couple of days after I go away and then settles back into his routine. Papa and I cooked dinner yesterday for my sister's family. Papa made eggplant parm and I made baked rigatoni. My nephew said, "Auntie I did not know you could cook. I thought you could only cook ribs and chili." Everyone started laughing. I said I can cook I just don't do it very often. We all laughed again. Papa thought it was delicious. We brought my mom some today and she did not finish, but papa jumped in and finished. Again, he raved about it. I think it's a hit!
I don't know if I mentioned previously, but I watch almost every show that deals with Boston. So lately I have been watching Wahlburgers because it's about family and they are not obnoxious just humorous. The other show I like is Boston EMS. It's interesting to me to watch shows that deal with places I've lived - I keep expecting to see people I might know although I'm not sure why when I have not lived here in over 30 years. Is this weird? Do you have shows you watch for these type of reasons?
I did not read anything inspirational this past week. What are you reading? I do post inspirational sayings on Facebook during the week as often as I can. You can follow my page on Facebook if you are inclined.
I am going to leave it here for tonight. I hope you have a good week. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
“Don't be afraid of your fears. They're not there to scare you. They're there to let you know that something is worth it.” C. JoyBell C.
“In life, finding a voice is speaking and living the truth. Each of you is an original. Each of you has a distinctive voice. When you find it, your story will be told. You will be heard.” John Grisham
"If you cry because the sun has gone out of your life, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars." Rabindranath Tagore
Referrals are always appreciated.