I just left my parents home.  My Mom is now down to 88 pounds (if not lighter) — just skin and bones.  

There have been a few times over the years that have grabbed the deepest place within me and have somehow stopped time in the spirit.  Years ago (after my Mom had a massive stroke) I took her shopping for a special outfit that she needed to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary.  Just seeing what she had to go through to change her shirt or pull up her pants absolutely made time stand still for a moment.  No child expects to see her parents so weak and helpless.

The past week or two I have been visiting my parents in the morning — before my mother awakens for the day.  Seeing her morning routine is another moment that seems to be engraved in my memory.  She can’t sit up on her own, but totally relies on the kindness of strangers to sit her up and provide what she needs.

I know I am often in survival mode where my parents are concerned.  It is hard for me to remember them strong and happy.  Especially my Mom.  She had a massive stroke September 8, 2001.   Since then her body has become weaker and her muscles have atrophied.  Even though my Mom can really push my buttons (what Mom can’t?), I have been grateful to still have a part of her left.  I know the day will come when I won’t hear her voice again on this side of heaven.

My friend just sent me this fuzzy picture she had taken of my Mom back in 1983.  It stunned me to see her laughing and complete.  She loved being out near the pool and soaking in some sun.  The 80’s were good for my parents.  That was before health issues began to arise.    My Mom was around 4 or 5 years older than I am now in that photo.

When I see older couples out in public, I wish that my parents could enjoy their winter years together.  They do have each other, but they are both suffering so much.

Here is a picture of my Daddy that my friend sent to me as well.   He sits in this same spot now, but he isn’t young and strong.   Now he is trapped in this spot.

I haven’t lost a parent yet.  I am blessed to have been able to call and hear their voices this many years.

For that I am thankful. 

I am thankful for the good moments that have happened over the years.  I am thankful that they provided for me and did the best they knew how to do.

I am thankful for the gift of life.

I am thankful for a merciful heart.

I am thankful for the compassion of neighbors and strangers.

I am thankful for God’s strength to do what He has called me to do.

I am thankful for my husband!  He is such a blessing.  And even though he sees me each day — he just asked me if I had on new glasses.   Ummmm, these are the same glasses I wear EVERY day.   Y’all pray for him.  Ha.

I am so thankful for our little princess!  She is such a joy!

I am thankful that my sister takes some of the load off of me every other week with our parents.  I love you Sissy!   My Sister often does a lot of the dirty work too.  I don’t know what I’d do without her!

I’m linking with Iris at Grace Alone for Thankful Thursday.   Please click on the beautiful button below and join us.