Saturday, January 9, 2010

Having Another Person In the House...

We've learned that three adults take up space! We're developed certain habits that don't fit with an elderly, injured person in residence. I've been relaxing on the sofa but Dad has taken that spot and throughout the day we play musical chairs. Part of this may be that he's trying to get comfortable and part may be that he's used to sitting in one place at his house or my sister's.

Our supplies have served us well. We've utilized the raised toilet seat, urinal, bath bench, spare sweatpants, T-shirts, socks, flannel shirts, extra large bath towels, medical supplies, two bed quilts, two lap quilts and a pillow. In the kitchen I rearranged a cupboard so Dad could reach his favorite coffee cup and cereal bowl.

And, with one more person here we've notice how quickly the food is used. Not complaining, mind you, because most is restocked from our pantry. But if we had 1-4 more people here full time - WOW!

Overall, this experience has revealed our need to organize things differently. Easier access is the key to a smooth running household but we tend to pack things in boxes and stuff them out of sight. Fortunately, there was no emergency but searching for things raised my blood pressure!

4 comments:

HossBoss said...

No one who hasn't been in your shoes can truly understand. I have been ...on two different occasions ...and remember well everything you describe. I had either my dad or my grandmother (his mother) and sometimes both with me from 1989 to 1997. It was hard at times for all of us. But it was also wonderful. Those are the memories I cherish now that both of them are gone from this world. God bless you for what you're doing for your dad.

Anonymous said...

Yah, even tho your dad complains..he loves you and very much appreciates what you are doing for him. Sometimes it's just hard for guys to say it. It's hard enough to give up some independence , let alone acknowledge it by thanking you. Sometimes it helps to look at it from his point of view and am sure you do. And also realize you aren't doing this for the kudos. But, kudos to you.

Anonymous said...

I to have had the joy of haveing a family member live with us for an extended time. My mother-in-law lived with us for 8 years. Yes the eldery can be a pain in the ass, but I would not have had my wife without her. Plus the stories she told of her growing up, and raising my wife and the rest of the brood made us more thankfull for what we have.

I'm sure things will work out after a few adjustments.

God Bless.

Phil said...

Adaptd and thrive honey.

You have had quite the bit of life thrown at ya lately and you are doing yourself proud.