Mom and Dad have gotten used to my frequent calls, and "worry about me" when I don't call. I enjoy chatting with them about every other day or so now. Things have slowed down with the medical issues so there aren't as many urgent things to talk about. I called over the weekend while they had some neighbors over, so I begged off and called this morning.
Sounded like they had a nice weekend with trips to get ice cream and to Hastings on the list of activities. They also have begun to look for puzzles at second hand stores. The puzzles are exercises for Dad. He likes the ones with about 50-60 pieces. Takes him about 30 mins or so, but wears him out. They both say that he's getting better in small but noticeable increments. His written language skills and his right side vision are the most prevalent lingering effects of the stroke. Still, he's on the computer most every day and reading as he can. He calls his own reading "Struggle Reading" because of how he has to stop at words and figure out what they are. Still no problems with language (he knows all the words he's ever known) but just can't read them yet. He finds reading magazines (like watercolor ones) to be a bit easier for him to handle because he can see the words in context of an image. He can then use logic to help him figure out the message. e.g , if this is so - then this must be that. (did that make sense?) Anyway, Mom said that she's reading to him also (but I forgot to ask what they're reading) and he enjoys this as it works his mind also.
Tomorrow they see the nutritionist at 8:45 and then they have their usual routine of OT/ST on Tuesdays/Thursdays starting at 1pm. While at the doctors they plan to ask more about the imaging test that's scheduled for next week, and about the feasibility of them traveling. They also want to ask about the results from last weeks Hematology tests. Would like to get out to Kansas and see the beautiful fall colors and the beautiful fall people. (okay, I added that last part) =)
Dad says that he feels like he's "in an airplane on autopilot" since others are taking care of some his previous chores for a while. He'd like to do some more things since he's restricted on the other activities (driving, flying, etc) that he was used to. For example, he's anxious to get out to a movie. He wants to be active but he also gets tired still and takes short 30 minute naps 2-3 times a day. I think that this is a good sign especially when it comes after some mental activity. The brain healing itself. Nutrition and rest are key ingredients.
We talked a long time about his art, and they are working to clear a space in the office to set up an easel so he can paint. I told him how much we would all love this, especially his grandchildren. I know Kris is always asking about any work that Dad has done lately. He asked about Kris' art and I shared his website with him. (www.sirknitram.com)
And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labor, is the gift of God.
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