You will all have noticed I guess, that I have been more often absent than present in the last little while. Those of you that follow my personal blog will know that I have a trillion (I know, prone to exaggeration!..) things that I try to do and the top of that list is to be there for my Mum who has Alzheimer's disease. Her condition has taken an inevitable downward spiral in the last few weeks and I find myself driving the 200km round trip several times a week to be with her and support my Dad in his desire/need to keep her home with him for as long as is humanly possible. I'm not the young thing that I like to think I am anymore and the constant driving up and down, as well as the emotional toll of watching her slip away one brain cell at a time is all consuming. This has caused me to reevaluate things in my life and put aside some hopes and plans for me. I'm not an only child but I'm the eldest and the only daughter, so I'm it basically.
I've decided with a huge amount of regret that I can't commit to another round of the Bee, I'll finish up Viv's blocks and call it a day. I'm ok with not doing my month, truthfully, I just can't find the energy right now. I'm handing over my Civil War Bride blog to someone else too, I will keep A House in the Country and my photography blog, they're my go to life savers so I hope you'll come visit me there..
If one of you wants to take over and organise the next round let me know and I'll sort it.
I just want to say thank you to all of the wonderful, warm and caring women I've met through this bee blog. I've had two years of friendship, fun and laughter. I've travelled continents and oceans, been to places I never thought I would, I've been inside your homes and your hearts and I know, with total certainty, that you'll all be thinking of me and I hope, always be a friend....
Lizzie
xxx
Wow, Lizzie...bless you, I know it's a tough road. My mom has the "big A" as well and is in a nursing home in the southern United States (my folks split up many years ago). It is very tough, even with siblings sharing the burden, and it is oh so hard to see her when I can and deal with re-introducing myself to her every time. We will all miss you, but I TOTALLY understand wanting to spend time with her and support your Dad. Strength and good luck to you and your family as you continue this journey.
ReplyDeleteIn stitches,
Teresa :o)
Take care of yourself too Lizzie.
ReplyDeleteDear Lizzie, my prayers are with you. I know how difficult it is to take care of a parent. We will miss you but I am sure we all agree that family is first always!
ReplyDeleteWish I could help in some way.
hugs from Louisiana
beebee
Thinking of you Lizzie and definitely a friend you are to me! I hope that you and your family will go through the situation you are in with as much peace and strength as possible.
ReplyDeleteI cannot take on the leading role for the next round but if someone is up for it, I would love to be one of the members.
A hug from Fort Collins to you lizzie and good luck!
Melina
Thinking of you Lizzie and what your family are going through. Family are the important thing.Remember to look after yourself as well.
ReplyDeleteThanks for organising the bee and bringing us all together.
Glad you are continuing your blog so will see you there.
Take care
Marlene
xxooxx to you, Lizzie. I know exactly what you are dealing with, and am sending you support as a friend. The most important thing you must remember is to take care of yourself; a glass of wine (or whine), an hour reading a book, a nap-you cannot take care of others if you don't take care of yourself. I know this as a fact. There are times you will feel as if your life as you knew it no longer exists. The important thing is that though she may not remember your name, your mom will remember your touch, the sweetness of your voice and your love. Please make sure your dad gets help-hospice, etc. so that the family has reserves to draw on.
ReplyDeleteI'll say a "mechebarach" (Jewish prayer for healing) for your mom.
Oh Lizzie, (((hugs to you)))
ReplyDeleteYou take whatever time you need, do what you need to do, when you need us, we are here, I know I'm not going anywhere.
Take care my friend,