Time with Mom

Our first week has been eventful but it doesn’t quite feel like we’re retired yet.

We headed to Eastern Washington and Idaho to visit with family. First stop and most important, check in and visit with mom in her new home. She spent her whole life in California and almost 50 years in our family home. But that day came when we had to make a tough decision and move her to assisted living. While she was reluctant, she agreed to move to CDA, Idaho. We all held our breath and thanked Jesus as her first week went well. She is enjoying her beautiful new home, the scenery, meeting new friends, and even the snow. After raising 7 kids, it is time for her to be taken care of and she likes that - we called her the queen mum - she chuckled. We are looking forward to spring and to share the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with her.

AN AMAZING GIFT - In all of the busyness of the move, mom gave us kids an amazing gift. We had to sort through belongings in her home before leaving and turning it all over to the estate sale company. She was engaged in all our conversations telling us stories about pictures and items from the past. We realized how difficult this would have been without her, not knowing who that was in the picture, where a specific item came from and best of all, the stories that went with them.

It is a very hard decision to downsize a parent, but if they will do it with you, it is the greatest gift they can give you.

Take the time and tell the stories!