(no subject)

[msmemory_archive]

We drove down to Connecticut yesterday and had Christmas with my mother. Took her to her favorite restaurant and exchanged presents.

She's feeling her age (81). It's distressing to see: she's mopey a lot of the time, and gives in to her own frailties when deciding what to do and where to go. She drove to the mall several days ago and, when she couldn't park close, turned around and went home. She mail-ordered all her presents, because carrying "heavy things" like the omelet pan for Justin across the mall would have been too much of a strain. I keep suggesting she ask her doctor to recommend her for a handicapped-parking permit, but she's having none of that.

I had figured she was a stubborn cuss and would live to be 90 (Nana made it to 92), but it's looking more and more like she's ready to fade away in the next year or two, not ten. It's hard for me to take. I figured she'd live a long time, or die suddenly from a quick illness or accident, not mope and sulk and fade and wither.

Comments

[tpau]

*hugs* seeing people mope tahtway is never fun :( maybe you will have more luck talking sence into her abotu the handicaped permit...

[jducoeur]

Hmm. While you're right that she's giving in on the physical side too easily, at least she's keeping mentally alert. I was actually encouraged by the visit -- the fact that she's keeping up with her reading and such is a good sign...

I came across this post randomly

[newwaytowrite.livejournal.com]

my Mom turns 80 in Feb. next year. When did your Mom decide to check out of the active part of physical life? My Mom is a going concern...deep water running, swimming,etc. Was your Mom a go-getter and this mopey thing a new side you have never seen before? I know that my Mom use to say that making it to 70 would be plenty. Obviously she did a rethink on that many years ago...but all her friends are dead or dying. I just wonder what is in store for my Mom. Hope this is just a phase. Something will perk her interest and she will be inspired. I know my Mom's worst nightmare would be to be hanging on in a hospital bed in pain for endless days and weeks.

Have a great Christmas. Take care.