Latest posts
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Vernon Sings
Perhaps I just needed to get a few frustrations off my chest in last night’s post in order to see more clearly again. Because today, I was able to recognize improvements in Vernon. Justine has been able to accompany me on visits more frequently, and I can see that their relationship is strengthening. He…
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Limbo and Rainbow
“There are times to stay put, and what you want will come to you, and there are times to go out into the world and find such a thing for yourself.” ― Lemony Snicket That’s the thing. When does one know when to stop pushing for change and just relax and BE where you are?…
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Intentional Acts of Kindness
People have been incredibly generous and supportive of our family. We wouldn’t have been able to finish our year without donations. It has been an incredibly humbling and sweet experience to be in the position of so much receiving. But even as I’m receiving, I am thinking: “These people are teaching me how to act when someone…
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Hugs and Kisses
Justine Harper is such a sweet little nurse. Bit bossy, but she comes by it naturally. It chipped at my heart to hear Vernon say she is mostly mine and a little bit his. And Justine agreed with him, with the deep brand of wisdom only shared by 4 year olds and their elders. I suppose because I’m…
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Maki, World-Traveller
Another corner of our busy season is turned. Maki took off for Christmas in New Zealand last night. Every time he flies, it strikes me what a savvy kid he really is. He’s so relaxed about traveling, having lived between countries from the time he was a baby. His mom and dad are savvy at this kind…
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Table and Chairs
Because our anniversary falls so close to my birthday, we decided a few years ago that the only way we would remember to celebrate it annually is to buy something we both like for the home. We’ve never gone big, but at least there is a little story behind those few pieces we picked up.…
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Love and Light — A Thank You From England
Letter from Vernon’s Mum, Dad & Sister Vanessa Having seen the beautiful photographs, and comments, regarding the recent Craft Market that Allison entered on her blog, I feel I must send a message relaying the gratitude of Vernon’s family in England to all you wonderful folk who supported this event. To say a mere “Thank…
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The Paperchase
First, I want to thank everyone who has lifted up prayers and hopes for my meeting with Social Security today. Even though my driving and paper-chasing started at 7 am and I didn’t get home till about 6 (when the REAL work began. Hello, JUSTINE!) I felt so grounded and peaceful, like a little boat flowing…
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Hope and a Haircut
It has been a couple of months since Maila, Vernon’s hairdresser came for a visit. He was in dire need of a trim. I don’t think Vernon spends much time looking in the mirror in this nursing home, but I know he sill loves the process of having his hair cut. He seemed very tired…
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Chocolate, Meat, and Potatoes
“Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.” ~Ernestine Ulmer When Chris, his grandfather, the kids and I wheeled Vernon out to the courtyard for this morning’s visit, we were told: “Make sure he comes back for lunch at noon.” We looked at each other curiously, but also as if to say: “Okaaaaay. We all know he can’t…