Con/Mom opted out of church today (I think it was a little heavy on the senses last week), but I kept her seat warm! I was "cup" again this week and all I could think of was hearing Con/Mom's voice last week project through the church when I was up on the alter. :) As always, lots of folks were asking about her.
Tonight we gather as a family to celebrate our Con/Mom! Call it the Griff-Mac-Duke dinner! In the not so distant past Con/Mom opted for a family golf outing for her birthday so she had shirts made with Griff-Mac-Duke on them! lol We'll be missing a few special peeps tonight (Emily, Drew and Alex), but they are with us in spirit. We get Em and Alex home next weekend for Spring Break so that'll be nice!
When I was helping Con/Mom clean out her emails we found a Pinterest recipe that her eyes lit up at so I am making it for her tonight: chicken (organic), with pesto, tomato and mozzarella. Pairing it with a side of fettuccine and lots of veggies! Oh, and her favorite bread from Rocky's! :)
So, our dinner is complete at 7pm. :) Mom was ready to go home, thus, we started early. She was good. Her black eye from tripping over Jack was now just a red bruise. She eats well and gets around steady. Luckily, we got our driveway and front steps repaved last year so they were easy for her to get up.
Our family dinner conversation consisted of processing chickens to driving stick shifts! Con/Mom's first car was a Falcon and she remembered it well! The chicken talk ironically originated with Sue, proud owner of over a dozen chickens that they use for eggs only. They apparently purchase their chickens from a local friend who send them out to get "processed" and Sue continued to explain how they place them in a cone and......
Humor is certainly necessary as we continue with the new Con/Mom. But more so, just being together and breaking bread. A simple action that brings nostalgia and family unity together. Con/Mom even used her left hand to drag her right hand over her body to make the sign of the cross! She did it twice to make sure she did it correctly! God bless her!
Stay tuned for an update on Wednesday.....as always we are eternally grateful for the prayers and support. It is appreciated more than you will ever know. As Dad/Dave said to Sue and I the other day, "your mother is the bravest person he knows!". Sigh.
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Friday, February 26, 2016
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Hump Day
We're almost at our two month mark! Con/Mom has made great strides and we've been told a lot or most of recovery happens in the first 2-3 months. There will still be some progress through the year, but the milestones will be smaller. She's a hard worker so we know there is more to come!
Con/Mom is diligently attending therapy 3x/week and has her homework, too! They say patience is a virtue and it is in circumstances like this that patience is required for survival. Some of you may know Dad/Dave doesn't always have a lot of that, but I have to say his patience has blossomed not unlike a lotus flower. Sure, there have been some stressful moments (ok, a lot), but we have stuck together as a family and with the support of amazing friends we are all further ahead than many.
I had the most wonderful visit with Con/Mom yesterday for three hours! I saw her new machine that Dad hooks up her arm and back to and her body reacts with subtle movements. Truly amazing! Then, as before, Con/Mom said she would like another AromaTouch technique. So, I applied eight different essential oils to her back and then we finished with her feet as she sat in a comfy chair. We're shooting to do this weekly as it brings a nice feeling of peace and balance to her. We ended with a light lunch where Con/Mom indulged in her favorite....cheese!
This morning Dad/Dave sent a text that Con/Mom fell. There was something big and brown in her way named Jack! Apparently she is sporting a black eye now! Not sure the status of the dog....
Last report revealed two sweethearts playing bridge after an afternoon nap. Cards have always been the center of our family and we are blessed she can continue to enjoy the many games. Cribbage anyone? :)
Con/Mom is diligently attending therapy 3x/week and has her homework, too! They say patience is a virtue and it is in circumstances like this that patience is required for survival. Some of you may know Dad/Dave doesn't always have a lot of that, but I have to say his patience has blossomed not unlike a lotus flower. Sure, there have been some stressful moments (ok, a lot), but we have stuck together as a family and with the support of amazing friends we are all further ahead than many.
I had the most wonderful visit with Con/Mom yesterday for three hours! I saw her new machine that Dad hooks up her arm and back to and her body reacts with subtle movements. Truly amazing! Then, as before, Con/Mom said she would like another AromaTouch technique. So, I applied eight different essential oils to her back and then we finished with her feet as she sat in a comfy chair. We're shooting to do this weekly as it brings a nice feeling of peace and balance to her. We ended with a light lunch where Con/Mom indulged in her favorite....cheese!
This morning Dad/Dave sent a text that Con/Mom fell. There was something big and brown in her way named Jack! Apparently she is sporting a black eye now! Not sure the status of the dog....
Last report revealed two sweethearts playing bridge after an afternoon nap. Cards have always been the center of our family and we are blessed she can continue to enjoy the many games. Cribbage anyone? :)
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Spiritual Sunday
We were going to try church the other week, but it was much too cold. I think it was for the best as each day takes us forward and today was still emotional and a little overwhelming for Con/Mom. The weather was in our favor and I picked up Con/Mom and Suzie and Mike brought her home. We had our "core" group there with Auntie Carol, Sue, Mike and myself not to leave out Con/Mom's "church husband", Clarence. :)
Everybody was greeting her and it brought tears to Con/Mom's eyes as well as mine. She was able to stand for most of the service, but took communion seated. Her senses were on overload and she said, at one point, she may have to sit in the back, but she made it in our usual front row! For some reason she felt compelled to talk a lot and I think she forgot how to whisper. I could hear her from the alter (Sue and I were Eucharistic Ministers today) speaking. LOL It made me chuckle through the tears I was holding back. After mass, Clarence (90+ years young) helped her with her scarf. Awe.
At least we can cross that off of the list of things to do, I suppose. She is revving up her social life and Dad/Dave is getting out more, too! Of course, he's the main chauffeur, but he got to one of his coin shows today and is finding solace in cabinet making again. He truly deserves not just a gold star but a Purple Heart for his exemplary care of our beloved Con/Mom! He even picked her out a fancy new cane with flowers on it that she adores. Sigh.
Tomorrow she dives back into her therapy and they will brush up on how to use the new device they have at home that stimulates her arm nerves....
Namaste ~ MJ
Everybody was greeting her and it brought tears to Con/Mom's eyes as well as mine. She was able to stand for most of the service, but took communion seated. Her senses were on overload and she said, at one point, she may have to sit in the back, but she made it in our usual front row! For some reason she felt compelled to talk a lot and I think she forgot how to whisper. I could hear her from the alter (Sue and I were Eucharistic Ministers today) speaking. LOL It made me chuckle through the tears I was holding back. After mass, Clarence (90+ years young) helped her with her scarf. Awe.
At least we can cross that off of the list of things to do, I suppose. She is revving up her social life and Dad/Dave is getting out more, too! Of course, he's the main chauffeur, but he got to one of his coin shows today and is finding solace in cabinet making again. He truly deserves not just a gold star but a Purple Heart for his exemplary care of our beloved Con/Mom! He even picked her out a fancy new cane with flowers on it that she adores. Sigh.
Tomorrow she dives back into her therapy and they will brush up on how to use the new device they have at home that stimulates her arm nerves....
Namaste ~ MJ
Thursday, February 18, 2016
TBT (Throw Back Thursday)
The AromaTouch Technique is an essential oil application to the back and feet. This technique combines the unique benefits of human touch with the power of essential oils to create an overall wellness experience, i.e., homeostasis. Each essential oil in the AromaTouch Technique was selected for its individual aromatic properties, and for their aromatic properties when combined. The overall scent of the AromaTouch Technique is soothing, light, and pleasant to the senses.
The reason I share it is because I was visiting this morning and when I walked in Con/Mom informed me we were doing this to each other today like we did in training. We set up her new massage table in her beautiful garden room and we got her as comfortable as possible, which was still on her side. That darn right arm!
I was able to modify the process a bit and she admitted after that she felt great! Whooohooo! We ran out of time for mine, but we'll save that for a later day. We agreed that I will come back and do one on Dad and when she truly feels up to it she can do one on me. :)
She had a busy day yesterday with therapy, hair appointment AT her salon, lunch with her long-time friend/hairdresser and then a doctor's appointment! The doc appt. was an ultrasound of the neck and throat...results next week.
Dad will get training tomorrow to use the nerve stimulator at home for her arm. Con/Mom is also working on name recognition with photos.
So, we continue on our journey with open minds and hopeful hearts.
Monday, February 15, 2016
Dinner Out! Happy V-Day!
It's not shown here, but she was wearing a scarf and she said she forgot people wore scarves so she wanted to put one on. She's got a hearty appetite and is gaining strength back daily! I was hitting golf balls yesterday and felt a little melancholy since she is my golf partner; I need her back in action and there's nothing more that she wants!
Some wonderful friends of hers stopped by yesterday, too, and delivered a beautiful St. Francis statue for her garden.....it had a special touch - a cape! :) She will be flying again in no time! There's a reason those friends are called the Goddesses! They say recovery is much easier and more productive when the individual has a great support system and she certainly has that!
Saturday, February 13, 2016
Wrapping Up Another Week
First week of outpatient therapy was a success! On Friday they used a new device to stimulate her right arm's nerves and it did just that! Dad shared that Con/Mom's eyes lit up with joy and amazement as did his! They were advised to get the device for home use so they could continue to "wake up" her arm and hand. It (right arm) has wonderful potential!
She was also given a new sleep position to try as she has been struggling with a good night's sleep due to the arm. Con/Mom was very excited to go to bed last night! LOL Awaiting the report if it helped....
They are having guests for dinner tonight and are venturing out with us tomorrow for a family birthday. I was also on schedule to pick her up for church tomorrow, but she thought she would wait a week now due to the cold weather. I agree. She did make it in for ashes on Wednesday and the church staff was so happy to see her!
Keep warm everybody and thanks again for all of the love! Hold those you love close tomorrow and cherish your Valentine(s)! ♥
She was also given a new sleep position to try as she has been struggling with a good night's sleep due to the arm. Con/Mom was very excited to go to bed last night! LOL Awaiting the report if it helped....
They are having guests for dinner tonight and are venturing out with us tomorrow for a family birthday. I was also on schedule to pick her up for church tomorrow, but she thought she would wait a week now due to the cold weather. I agree. She did make it in for ashes on Wednesday and the church staff was so happy to see her!
Keep warm everybody and thanks again for all of the love! Hold those you love close tomorrow and cherish your Valentine(s)! ♥
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Winter Wednesday
Despite the weather this morning we made it to day two of outpatient rehab. Sue had a nice referral to this facility and I'm very happy that it is part of the DMC, a big supporter of the American Heart and Stroke Association! Whoooohoooo! It's National Heart Awareness Month btw. :)
I had the honor and pleasure of escorting Con/Mom to her home away from home. What a cheery place mainly due to the abundance of windows and high ceilings. She likes everyone she's working with so we are truly blessed! The arm is moving along slowly; her left side recognizes it, for the most part, and there is a small level of pain.
Con/Mom still has her alter personality and when the therapist asked her how she was doing she responded candidly, "I'm good. Aren't I supposed to be?". Her "husband" is picking her up and as she intently gazed at my face looking for my name, it escaped her.....
On the drive over I asked her if she knew what day it was. I didn't mean day of the week and she knew that. It is the anniversary of her mother's birthday; she would have been 100 and she remembered. The other event I was looking for was Ash Wednesday. You may spot her at St. James for ashes and a possible mass this weekend.
She is enjoying her outings and she has become very spontaneous! I even received my own surprise visit yesterday when I was on a conference call. LOL She always asks about the kids and she is very observant whether it's her home or not. We'll continue the journey until Con/Mom says "when".
I had the honor and pleasure of escorting Con/Mom to her home away from home. What a cheery place mainly due to the abundance of windows and high ceilings. She likes everyone she's working with so we are truly blessed! The arm is moving along slowly; her left side recognizes it, for the most part, and there is a small level of pain.
Con/Mom still has her alter personality and when the therapist asked her how she was doing she responded candidly, "I'm good. Aren't I supposed to be?". Her "husband" is picking her up and as she intently gazed at my face looking for my name, it escaped her.....
On the drive over I asked her if she knew what day it was. I didn't mean day of the week and she knew that. It is the anniversary of her mother's birthday; she would have been 100 and she remembered. The other event I was looking for was Ash Wednesday. You may spot her at St. James for ashes and a possible mass this weekend.
She is enjoying her outings and she has become very spontaneous! I even received my own surprise visit yesterday when I was on a conference call. LOL She always asks about the kids and she is very observant whether it's her home or not. We'll continue the journey until Con/Mom says "when".
 |
| In memory of Louise Carol Storm Kesleay. Love and miss you, Grandma! |
Monday, February 8, 2016
Serene Super Bowl Sunday
A restful weekend at the Griffore household. Con/Mom rested up for a new week of therapy beginning early this morning outside the home! She was excited after speaking with her yesterday.
Last entry I mentioned her getting out and about. She certainly likes a change of scenery so she made it to Sue's for a quick dinner last week and she also made it her favorite watering hole, Rocky's! Now, keep in mind these outings are brief and fatigue her. She moves methodically and by about 8pm each night her eyes grow heavy.
The changes I saw from Sunday-to-Sunday were in her outlook and demeanor. She was more positive and she seemed to be more comfortable and at ease with "things". I was resting by her last night and holding her right hand; she proceeded to tell me to make it work. :) We actually had to finish watching the PGA Phoenix Open before we could put the Super Bowl on.....golf will always be on her mind. Sigh.
She'll begin the same therapy schedule of speech, OT and PT at a new facility. Speech will pick up on Friday, however. There are a lot of areas to work on. I will say I haven't been sugar coating this blog, but I will say that there is a lot going on behind the scenes that offer daily challenges and keep our family on edge. This road is not smooth and consistent; it is bumpy, takes turns and has many steep hills and pot holes!
We appreciate the prayers, support, meals, cards and kind words! We are humbly grateful for our friends and family lifting up Con/Mom during this arduous time. Talk soon....
Last entry I mentioned her getting out and about. She certainly likes a change of scenery so she made it to Sue's for a quick dinner last week and she also made it her favorite watering hole, Rocky's! Now, keep in mind these outings are brief and fatigue her. She moves methodically and by about 8pm each night her eyes grow heavy.
The changes I saw from Sunday-to-Sunday were in her outlook and demeanor. She was more positive and she seemed to be more comfortable and at ease with "things". I was resting by her last night and holding her right hand; she proceeded to tell me to make it work. :) We actually had to finish watching the PGA Phoenix Open before we could put the Super Bowl on.....golf will always be on her mind. Sigh.
She'll begin the same therapy schedule of speech, OT and PT at a new facility. Speech will pick up on Friday, however. There are a lot of areas to work on. I will say I haven't been sugar coating this blog, but I will say that there is a lot going on behind the scenes that offer daily challenges and keep our family on edge. This road is not smooth and consistent; it is bumpy, takes turns and has many steep hills and pot holes!
We appreciate the prayers, support, meals, cards and kind words! We are humbly grateful for our friends and family lifting up Con/Mom during this arduous time. Talk soon....
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Thrilling Thursday!
Yes, I love alliterations! It's the writer in me. 😉
It truly was a thrilling Thursday! I had the most two lovely hours with Con/Mom that I've had in the last month! The shadow of doom and gloom had lifted and there was a peace in the air. Dad was working on a woodworking project in the garage and we were awaiting her physical therapist, Ahmed Shrief, the gentle giant.
Mom went right to work on her Exerpeutic Active Cycle Mini Exercise Bike and then......drum roll please........ first attempt at the stairs! She went bottom up and then walked down with assistance of Dad's newly installed handrails. I told her it deserved a "whooohooo!". She couldn't get it out but she was happy indeed! Plan is to sleep in her own bed tonight!
Much work is to be done, but we'll bank this accomplishment. She said Dad's name for the first time earlier this week, but her name as well as mine escaped her today along with the number eight.
Home therapy wraps up tomorrow and she begins the outbound journey on Monday! She'll continue with speech, OT and PT. I'll see the facility next Wednesday so stay tuned for that report....and Con/Mom is getting about and about a little with her driver (Dad/Dave) so don't be surprised if she arrives at your doorstep! She loves getting out now and it is helping Dad equally!
Their favorite restaurant is waiting for her to come back so they may drop in at Rocky's next week. Andy and I are going to have a quiet Super Bowl game with them until she gets tired....sweet dreams Mumma. XO❤️⭐️
It truly was a thrilling Thursday! I had the most two lovely hours with Con/Mom that I've had in the last month! The shadow of doom and gloom had lifted and there was a peace in the air. Dad was working on a woodworking project in the garage and we were awaiting her physical therapist, Ahmed Shrief, the gentle giant.
Mom went right to work on her Exerpeutic Active Cycle Mini Exercise Bike and then......drum roll please........ first attempt at the stairs! She went bottom up and then walked down with assistance of Dad's newly installed handrails. I told her it deserved a "whooohooo!". She couldn't get it out but she was happy indeed! Plan is to sleep in her own bed tonight!
Much work is to be done, but we'll bank this accomplishment. She said Dad's name for the first time earlier this week, but her name as well as mine escaped her today along with the number eight.
Home therapy wraps up tomorrow and she begins the outbound journey on Monday! She'll continue with speech, OT and PT. I'll see the facility next Wednesday so stay tuned for that report....and Con/Mom is getting about and about a little with her driver (Dad/Dave) so don't be surprised if she arrives at your doorstep! She loves getting out now and it is helping Dad equally!
Their favorite restaurant is waiting for her to come back so they may drop in at Rocky's next week. Andy and I are going to have a quiet Super Bowl game with them until she gets tired....sweet dreams Mumma. XO❤️⭐️
Monday, February 1, 2016
A New Month!
Sorry for the absence folks! There was nothing major to report over the weekend, but we're excited for the new week and month (National Heart Awareness Month btw)!
Con/Mom is on the move, but there is much work to be done! Her therapy team is in and out and there is talk that we could be wrapping up home therapy! That means she will begin out patient therapy soon! She loves to get out (and so does Dad/Dave)! This will give her more exposure to advanced options, e.g., equipment and specialists.
She is on a new diet of increased protein to gain some weight back so she is getting up extra early to fuel her engine. Her PT therapist wants her to have more energy for therapy so she has joined Dad/Dave in his morning peanut butter toast routine. :)
So, stay tuned for updates and meanwhile, I thought I'd include a blast from the bast...
Con/Mom is on the move, but there is much work to be done! Her therapy team is in and out and there is talk that we could be wrapping up home therapy! That means she will begin out patient therapy soon! She loves to get out (and so does Dad/Dave)! This will give her more exposure to advanced options, e.g., equipment and specialists.
She is on a new diet of increased protein to gain some weight back so she is getting up extra early to fuel her engine. Her PT therapist wants her to have more energy for therapy so she has joined Dad/Dave in his morning peanut butter toast routine. :)
So, stay tuned for updates and meanwhile, I thought I'd include a blast from the bast...
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