On Memorial Day

On Memorial Day
 
I have a hard time saying ‘happy’ Memorial Day when I think of all the young men and women who gave their lives in honor of this country.  I do however feel that a gathering of family is a tremendous honor to those same young men and women. The ability to come together, enjoy a good meal, laugh and smile and play with the small children, listen to the stories of the aging family members, and every thing in between is exactly what so many people in this world do not have the freedom to do.
 
Today, I’m at my daughter’s house in South Texas.  We’ve actually been out house hunting- again lol.  After two years, my son in law accepted a new position that will keep them here a few more years. In the meantime, as many of you already know, my mom is slipping away with dementia. One of the joys of old age is watching the newest generation bloom. Enjoying the fascination and curiosity that only a two year old can have for a pine cone on the ground or a button on a blouse.  Since my mother was determined to live long enough to meet her great grandchildren, as a family we are considering moving Mom south to spend more day to day time watching my grandson bloom.
 
This idea of course requires a bigger house with more senior friendly aspects. We saw a lovely house that knocked everyone’s socks off – but not enough green space for the kids. Then there was a great backyard for the kids and adults, but on too busy a street. There were quite a few in between, but the housing market has gone nuts and I can honestly say some homeowners are too in love with their own homes! LOL.  Folks – I’m here to tell you not every house is all that!
 
So – what do you think of the whole idea? Multigenerational homes? Good thing? Bad thing? Did your grandparent ever live with you? Your parent? Got any advice? Thoughts?  Part of our dilemma is my Mom lived alone her whole life and loves her house that she couldn’t afford until she was almost sixty years old. Until then she always lived in an apartment. There’s a little concern if we pull her away, no matter to whose house, she’ll slip away a little faster. On the other hand, will always having people around be better? So many hard choices. The new house is the least of it.
 
On the bright side – I have a new helper when I type.   ​

My grandson loves climbing into my lap (well sort of) and watching me type. If I stop typing to read what I wrote, he takes my fingers and pushes them back on the keyboard.  It is a plus of being close to the kids. And it’s a freedom I have to come and go for which I am very thankful – to every person reading this who has lost a family member to service to our country – Thank you doesn't seem enough, but it is meant with all sincerity and appreciation.
 
Chris K 

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