Update on Daddy...

It has been 9 months since my father's heart attack and stroke on December 27, 2007. I am proud to admit my father is doing remarkably well. Seeing him in June for my wedding was difficult in many ways. He was much improved from my recent memories in January... but still very much a changed man. He would sit for hours by himself just staring off. Not napping, reading, watching TV, just staring. It was unsettling because my dad has ALWAYS been a social butterfly. We did things together to get him to interact more like asking for help with yard work (he has always enjoyed to get dirty outside), cooking his favorites, and going on walks. I tried to engage him, but for whatever reason I couldn't really connect as I always could in the past. When my friend Robert arrived, daddy lit up like a Christmas tree. He was Chatty Cathy yet again.

Maybe dad was just upset that he was losing his little girl, or maybe my lack of compassion in his weakened state had made it's mark.

Dad hasn't worked since his accident and will never work again. He struggled with depression as a result. Regrettably, I often reacted to his pity parties with disgust instead of understanding. I should have been more caring to a man that has always taken care of me.

Now my parents have relocated to Kentucky and they are acting as if both of them are retired instead of disabled. It's wonderful. They talk of the catfish pond, the family of turkeys that visit, and all the deer that roam the back field. They have chairs set up on the porch for easy viewing. They just love it.

Dad started perking up when he finally had income. His disability was awarded in August and since then his happiness has increased dramatically. I love hearing him bustle around when I talk to mom... just like old times. I know it's not all great and rosy, but at least a part of my daddy is back.

I am very happy to hear it, and next week we will be stopping in after Robert's wedding for a day to see the new place and visit. I can't wait to see them.