Back in the 'Grove...

...and now to get back in the groove of work!

It feels so good to be home. My one week trip was extended to two. My siblings and I decided it would be a good idea for my parents to have some extra help for one more week. I am still a little nervous about them being alone but they have a nurse coming everyday to change the dressing on my mother's leg, and my sister is going to visit them mid-week to cook dinner and see how things are going.

The view from the balcony of my parents apartment

Living among the senior population for two weeks was quite an experience. It was interesting to get to know the cast of characters that live in their building. I have two aunts and an uncle that also live there, thus giving me ample opportunity to hear all the gossip. They refer to other residents with nicknames like "The Reader", "The Black Man", "The Egyptian" and, "The Chinamen". They evidently don't care about being politically correct! There also was Marie who thinks she is boss of her floor, and the group that hangs out in the lobby for half of the day, waiting for the mail. If you choose to have lunch in the dining room, beware that it's very territorial. Sitting in someone else's seat could get you the evil eye. I told my brother that the next TV reality show should be "The Real Seniors of Dover".

It wasn't always easy to be there. My parents can be difficult and extremely particular. There were times when I had to step out on the balcony and take a deep breath. Despite the stress, I am happy to have spent this extended amount of time with them. The highlight of the day was pouring my Dad and me a glass of wine each evening. He was never a drinker aside from a whiskey and ginger ale on holidays, or an occasional beer in the summer, so it surprised me when he said he would like to have a glass of wine each night. I am sure he needed it as much or more than I did.

The BEST part of being in New Hampshire was seeing Danielle. She came up one weekend and we celebrated her birthday. My sister came with her grand daughter and we had a great time together. Birthdays are much more fun when you have little ones around!

Now it's time to shift gears and get back to work. Jeff is teaching pottery at a private school in Greensboro this week, so I will have the studio to myself and there are lots of pots that need glazing.

I am slowly getting caught up with my blogging buddies. I haven't had much time to comment, but do know that I will get around to reading your posts.