Day 61: Should we celebrate?

Well...I think it is worth celebrating this anniversary

Day 61:

This time 2 months ago mom had a pretty eventful day. And so did Dad. 

I imagine her thinking was something like this, "ho hum...just another day. Maybe I'll tidy up the house, kiss dad who was going flying that day and well...maybe I'll go for a trail ride. Yeah, that sounds good. (Then, among her thinking to herself, she would probably humn a tune because she is always humming songs).  

Thank goodness for intuition. Mom knew that something just wasn't right and called 91.

Fast forward...

Dad had the longest drive of his life. When mom got to the hospital in Prescott they flew her to Phoenix. Did you know that dad wasn't allowed to fly with her? Can you imagine the confusion, frustration and desperation? He left the hospital thinking that mom had a stroke and that was it. That was the longest 2 1/2 hour drive of his life. In fact, he doesn't even recall anything that happened on his drive...specifically the people he called. It's probably a blessing in disguise that he doesn't remember much because I'm sure his mind was going to the deepest, darkest place we all try not to look at, let alone feel.

And that folks is when the adventure began...

So today, 61 days later to hear that mom and dad were having a "date" and dining in on Italian food, it brings us all incredible comfort to know we are on day 61 versus day 1. 

We're always talking about what the lesson is here, what are we supposed to learn. Sure, mom scientifically has a medical condition. But, there's gotta be more right? So, consider the below as maybe there is a lesson in there for all of us. No need to share rather just a moment of reflection. 

1. If you knew you'd be spending the next 2-3 months in the hospital, who would you hope would visit and who would you know would visit? Are they the same? Have you nurtured the relationships you need to?  

(I do know that both mom and dad are totally amazed at the support from all of you. It was an eye opener to them to understand and feel the love and support from so many of you).

2. Regarding your immediate circle of family and friends. Is there anything you need to say to them should they not be there tomorrow? 

(I ask this question because when for those few hours when dad and I were waiting during mom's first surgery, I kept talking to her in my head telling her so many sincere thoughts yet dumb stuff too! I remember thinking you can't go, you have to wake up, I just got a manicure and you'd love the color! You know, the type of stuff we would normally discuss on the phone and not think twice about. Then of course, my sincerity was more heartfelt and I've since had many "ah ha" moments that I will certainly be acting on.

Okay, go back to the questions...

May your lessons unfold too...