We went down to Sioux Falls yesterday to go see my mom. She is in a nursing home there. She will be 92 the day after Thanksgiving. It gets tough seeing a parent like this. She needs help with everything. But, even though she needs help, she does not forget that she is still a mom. My birthday was Friday, and she called me Friday and Saturday last week already to wish me a Happy Birthday. Then she called me on my birthday too. When I told her we were coming down to see her yesterday she was so excited. When we got there, she was sleeping in her wheelchair in her room, but she was holding a container of chocolate chips cookies to share. My sister Mary had made these and had them there my twin brother Don because he usually sees her on Mondays. So, of course, we had to have some of them and sent a text to my brother telling him that is was also my birthday and we were going to help share his cookies! That led to some back-and-forth texts! We did manage to leave some for him. No matter what, my mom is still my mom and always wants to do something for us. This is a good reminder for everyone out there–if you have kids, you are always a parent. You will always want to see your kids. You always want what’s best for your kids, even if the situation is not the greatest for yourself. That is what forever love will do!
As the kid, you also always want what’s best for your parents too. It is hard seeing her this way in the nursing home. She was always so independent and did things for everyone else. Now she can’t. But she is still a mom, and will always be a mom…my mom…and she wants what’s best for her kids…and grandkids!
Megan came along with us. She is thrilled anytime someone comes to see her. We all feel that way. Nobody wants to feel forgotten. We all have a purpose in life, and that purpose is still there until we no longer are present. Call them. Write them. See them. She is still my mom, and always will be. We all want the best for her too.
As a parent, you also know how much your kids mean to you, even if they are always trying to play jokes on you, right Megan? Megan was taking a picture of my mom and I, and of course, when she has my phone, she does other things with it too. She managed to take more selfie pictures of herself than of us. I don’t get mad, I get even! Here is one of her self mugs she took!
Ha! Ha! Great picture Megan! This even made my mom laugh. “Kids will be kids!” And “Parents will be parents…always!” So, for all you kids out there, remember your parents. They will always do anything for you. They will always love you. Just don’t forget about us!
Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day of newest streak: # 606