Thursday, March 19, 2015

Dale Update - 71st Birthday

Sorry it has been so long since the last update.  It has been an eventful few weeks for us.
Dale's condition continues to be relatively stable.  That is no major changes - just a gradual slowing down.  He has somewhat less energy and ability to move around and spends more and more of the time sleeping. He is still coherent and enjoys visiting and television.  We are just taking one day at a time.

This past week has been full of events. Last Saturday (March 7) brought Dale's 71st birthday which we were so grateful to be celebrating. We had a lovely eventing open house with chocolate cake and champagne. Sadly,  the day also brought the news of the death of Jim Lewis, husband of Dale's dear cousin Connie.
On Sunday we attended church and Dale sang with the choir.  Later that evening Frank Springer passed away (at age nearly 103).  He was Jimmy's grandfather and much beloved by all of our family and all who knew him.

Next, on Thursday, came my mother Georgie's 97th birthday.  We had a nice little party. Mark also got the keys and access to his exciting new home in Milwaukie.
See party picture:

The next day (Friday 13th!) brought my 71st birthday and a memorial service for Grandpa Frank.

Now I am taking a moment to reflect and catch up with our update..

Dale is needing 24/7 care.  We have help 25 or more hours a week from Jon Grenfell.  Jon spends time with Dale, helps with his care, showers , laundry and general morale.  In addition Mark, Jim and Gretchen, and Meg and Jeremy as well as friends spend time with Dale so that I can get out do do errands and keep up with some activities.

I am trying to keep up the calendar on the blog:

As aways we love visits and appreciate all of your kindness, thoughts and prayers.

Blessings
Patty