After my father’s passing, my 67-year-old mother moved into a one-bedroom apartment in a brand-new 55+ community. The unit was cozy and comfortable. My sister and her husband lived nearby, but they spent their summer months abroad annually. Ross and I lived about an hour away. My other siblings were scattered about. Initially, my mother was quite content with her new place. She participated in a number of community activities. Although she didn’t drive, there were stores within walking distance, and a community bus served her needs. As the years passed, she was probably about the age I am now, she began to develop health issues and limitations. It was then that she started to feel more isolated and lonely. She would confide in me about her sadness, saying, “I have six children and 13 grandchildren, and hardly ever hear from anyone.” Those emotional expressions of loneliness now deeply resonate with me. Although my circumstances differ from my mother’s, the feelings are so r...
Sunday, August 4, 2024 "How's the new place?" they ask. Some might wonder how I could not love the "new place". After all it's cute, right? Reminiscent of a little New England style cottage. Everyone who visits always comments on how cozy the "new place" feels. "It's low maintenance, gated security, plenty of activities available and clubs to join," they say. I am trying to love the "new place". I've dressed it up with curtains and carpets. I'm in the process of giving the kitchen a face lift with shiny new cabinets. I've hung Ross' prized artwork and displayed his precious thrift store finds. All of the furniture here in the "new place" is the furniture I brought with me from our old place. I've re-arranged the living room a hundred times. I placed the "Big Toe" flower pot, the one that always made us smile, under the front yard tree and had the landscaping redone. Bu...