Author: Terri Shearer
Here we are, another holiday, the day of our country's independence. Funny how when you care for a parent or loved one at home, there is no such thing as independence. But this year, I have the fortune of having my Mom feeling a little better and I'm able to get out for the day. But before I go have my fun, I go to the grocery store and the Chinese restaurant to purchase food - for my Mom who is 86, her sister who is 88 and her brother-in-law who is 93. They all live in their homes still - my Mom because I live with her. The others only by the grace of God - because they should be in a nursing home. And isn't it interesting how especially on holidays most of the family disappears to their own good times without a second thought for an older person sitting there all by themselves. Today I had a nice conversation with my Mom. She said she had 58 great years with my Dad and now she doesn't mind sitting home doing nothing, but I tell her I mind - just because she is home alone doesn't mean that she should be alone. She realizes her other daughter and grandchildren really don't want to deal with her, unless it is on their own time and schedule and also feel a telephone call will do the trick. Well, I got news for you.....the telephone call doesn't cut it! Now I leave with my daughter and we go to see my friend's race horse - and he takes second place. We have dinner with friends and then go downtown for the fireworks. A good time was had by all - but my Mom calls me after the fireworks ended (she watched on television) and asked when I'd be home. Now there are probably about 150,000 plus people here in St. Louis for this event and I am parked about 20 feet from the flooded Mississippi River - let's just say I have to tell my Mom that I will be home 'no time soon'! She reverts back to being a child and I just smile - at least I still have a Mom to come home to. Have a great, safe, fun, and happy weekend.
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