learning a lesson or two

I work for my grandpa which is a wonderful blessing.
I learn so many things from him
and I'm grateful for the relationship I've been able to build with him over the years.
I've also been blessed with being able to interact with my grandma on a regular basis.

The past two weeks have been a challenge.
My grandma was taken to the ER about two weeks ago with signs of a possible stroke.
It was in the middle of the night.
On my way to work that Wednesday morning I was talking with my mom and she let me know what happened.
Things seemed to stabilize...
However the last week, week and a half have been more challenging.
Grandpa found out he had pneumonia which has kept him from going to Texas with the runners in our family to participate in the Rocky Raccoon Ultra Marathon (50 miles)
We are looking at it as a blessing in disguise right now...
My grandma's health has deteriorated dramatically in the past week... past few days.

My sweet mother has been so good taking care of each of her children
and always says I hope that one day you will be able to take care of me when I get old.
I respond - Mom I will be more than willing to help you and change your diaper. But dad is on his own ;)
Little did I think that I would be helping her take care of her mother, my grandma.

My grandma has had countless health problems through the years
and I've never had endless patience with her habits...
But over the last few days I'm amazed at how my patience for her and this situation has increased.

Yesterday she lost the ability to stand on her own, move herself freely, and lost the ability to communicate easily.
I was sitting with her yesterday and realized she had an accident
With the help of Mom, we were able to change her, clean her and change the bedding.
It was a new experience for me
Taking care of my grandma on such an intimate level.
soothing her, helping her take sips of water
It was a long, taxing day.

I'm incredible grateful I am able to help out at this difficult time.
I can support my mom and my grandpa.

My grandma was smiling this morning.
She sat with me at the kitchen table for awhile.
Mumbling some jibber.
She is sleeping now.
She was restless all night.

My grandma has a beautiful smile.

I look forward to tomorrow {Sunday}
I'm tired.
Mono and my thyroid are kicking my butt
a day to decompress...