It's four years ago today that dad died. What helped me prepare my immedaite family and I for his passing, was researching how to have a 'good' death.
elderly care
The long goodbye
The past six days have been some of the most poignant and purposeful of my life. As regular readers will be aware, since returning to England from New Zealand in March 2013, I've spent a lot of time negotiating processes to support my dad, as he became less able to care for himself. One of … Continue reading The long goodbye
Six weeks grace – seeing a bit of boating business!
Things are beginning to calm down a little here in Worcestershire, so much so I even managed to squeeze four days and nights back with Barry from Friday to Tuesday for a taste of 'normality'. We ventured into town one evening for a Thai meal at a restaurant mum, dad and I often frequented on … Continue reading Six weeks grace – seeing a bit of boating business!
Unblocking the hospital bed at last
Finally four weeks after dad was admitted to hospital following a nasty fall at home, he'll be moving from the hospital bed he hasn't 'needed' for at least the past two weeks (he was actually 'officially' MFFD (medically fit for discharge) three weeks ago on Monday), to what looks like a lovely Nursing Home a … Continue reading Unblocking the hospital bed at last
Grasping an opportunity for a little ‘normality’
I sat at the bow of Areandare on Sunday afternoon, relishing life on the water, knowing I was soon to leave it again. We often take for granted what we have until it's gone I find. Last weekend with Barry, was a reminder to me of appreciating 'normal' life. Not that I didn't when it … Continue reading Grasping an opportunity for a little ‘normality’
Heading back to Barry and our boat – albeit briefly …
I've always loved having three sisters and am aware how fortunate we are to be close and supportive of one another. At the moment I cherish it even more, as it means I'm getting a couple of nights 'off' to be able to drive up to wherever Barry may be (he was near Tettenhall yesterday), … Continue reading Heading back to Barry and our boat – albeit briefly …
Keeping afloat and sane on land
It's not easy to explain, but I've known this was coming for a long time, and been preparing for it. Spending most of my time living back with my parents that is. While it's strange, and I miss being on the boat and with Barry, there are a few positives. I feel incredibly blessed to … Continue reading Keeping afloat and sane on land