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Whew!! It's good to be home. We had a very nice time in Mi with A's family. My Mother in law's funeral was lovely, as far as funerals go. There was over 300 people. I guess when you are 86, volunteer everywhere, hospital, homeless shelter, belong to the Sportsmans Archery Club and was a 2cnd Mom (me included) to many of A's friends as they grew up, it's to be expected.
Hubby is doing much better mentally. He has gained about 10 lbs with 10 more to go. He handled his Mother's death quite well. Watching our son act as pallbearer got to him as he carried Grandma to the hearse. But then I was bawling by that time too. He's not ready to go back to work by any means, he is a contract specialist for a huge company and isn't up for that yet.
The improvement in the last week has been phenominal though. He went from me shadowing his very unstable steps to making an appointment today with a psych/addictions/grief counselor. I was so happy to find a 3 in 1 person..lol I dialed the phone, as that is one of the things he messes up, but he talked and made the appt.
Tomorrow he starts physical therapy to become more stable and regain some muscle tone. Lord, I'm so happy he's pulling out of that mental fog. I was so afraid it was forever. The human body is amazing, what it can go through and what it can recover from. He still says he has no desire to drink, not even the urge. Six weeks of hell did it for him. I pray he hangs on to that thought and works the recovery process.
I can now take care of me better. Before I could only get in a few minutes at a time. I'm still under pressure eve though A is better, he is not allowed to drive. Today I took him to get plates on his car which expired while he was in the hospital, took him to the Dr, took him for a blood test, Walgreens, then stopped at the grocery store because HE wanted to make Beef Stroganoff (was good too). So, my life is still a bit frazzled, but opposed to what it was a month ago, I'll take it!!!
Thanks to all for prayers, phone calls, concern and well wishes. We're on the mend :)
Christy
-- Edited by Christy at 21:53, 2006-03-27
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If we think that miracles are normal, we will expect them. And expecting a miracle is the surest way to get one.
Hi Christy one day at a time, live in the now. I am really glad that you have your spark back. I can tell the difference in your post. ((())) Luv Leo x
I'm so glad your MIL had so many to say farewell and give her a beautiful send-off. It certainly sounds like she lived her life to the full and blessed many with her goodness.
Hubby is making such remarkable progress and coping with his mothers passing on top of it all. Bless his heart. The weight-gain is very encouraging. I'm proud of him for making that call too. I suffer with an illness so I understand how the accomplishment of little things that many may take for granted can indeed be major triumphs. I'm utterly impressed he made beef stroganoff, I can't cook even when i'm well! I hope his physio is beneficial. It sounds like all the structures are in place so it's just a case of letting time, take time.
I'm happy you're still trying to do what you can for yourself when you get a minute. Caring for another can be so demanding and draining. I know because I was the one being cared for. As you've said the human body is amazing in the way it can recover and so is the human spirit. You'll adapt to the changes in time and I'm sure things will become more manageable. You've got a fantastic attitude and you're heart is huge. I'll continue to pray for you all.
I am so glad that things are at a lower key for you. I hope you have time to do your own grief work. I am sure this is a tremendous loss for you as well. I have not had many mother figures in my life so I am not sure how I would respond if I got one.
I am glad that your husband is able to take on some of his own caretaking tasks. I hope you continue to ask for help and assistance from your family and friends you deserve it.
I am smiling ear to ear as I read your post. I can hear the joy and love in your heart as you speak of your family. What a son you have raised. What a husband you have. What an amazing woman you are. I am so proud of you.
It is amazing what the human body can endure. I am so glad that he is doing better both physically and emotionally. I pray and hope he holds on to his sobriety and recovery.
Now take good care of yourself. When things simmer down a bit, treat yourself to something nice, like a day spa or whatever you want. You deserve it.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Live strong, Karilynn & Pipers Kitty
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It's your life. Take no prisoners. You will have it your way.