12.1.2008

During our morning phone call this morning mom and I discussed how we both appreciated the opportunity of visiting with Aunt Carol last evening. Aunt Carol has the ability to say it like it is, make one feel better about things, and provides enough laughter to keep you smiling until the next call.

Our mother comes from a family of four daughters, each one of them are strong, talented, hard working, knowledgeable, amazing cooks, incredible grandmothers, service oriented, and delightfully fun. Mom's oldest sister, Joan, passed away from cancer and is deeply missed, Carol resides in Idaho Falls and mom's youngest sister Connie lives in Salt Lake. Aunt Connie faithfully calls mom each night to check on she and dad; these phone calls are so important to each one of us. As fragile as our father's condition is we also have a mother who is fragile as well; although she remains strong and does not come off as being in a fragile state we know her needs are great. Aunt Connie and Aunt Carol provide mom an outlet that no one else can, they understand their sister in ways that we will never be able to.

Dad was determined to go to one of the Christmas parties he looks forward to each year, he was all dressed, boots on, and waiting for mom when she arrived from work. I visited with mom when they returned home and she indicated that dad was exhausted but had a good time visiting.