We're only four days into the new year and I think I've spent more time cleaning and organizing in these four days (well, really three) than I did all of last year. As you know, I'm staying with my grandmother while she recuperates from back surgery, and since I leave on Wednesday, she needs to be able to function on her own. That means lots of organizing.
It's really amazing how many things you can't do when you can't carry things. She needs a walker for the time being, which means she either needs to plan ahead and figure out where things need to be when there's another person to help, or carry it in the pink & purple bicycle basket I bought her.
(Is it bad that I get endless joy from the little girl basket? I didn't buy the bell and the streamers like I wanted to...)
She and my family keep thanking me for everything I've done, but I'm just happy to help. My family has gone above and beyond to help me over the past several (several? ugh) years, and to be able to give back gives makes me feel more fulfilled than I have in awhile. I just hope my grandmother still feels that way when she discovers just how many things I actually threw away.
In the meantime, let me know if you have a kitchen or bedroom that needs organized. For the low low price of a round-trip airline ticket and and an endless supply of red wine, I'm all yours.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
16 comments:
Melanie, your grandmother will notice things are gone and it may make her feel uncertain for a while, but odds are that she'll realize pretty quick what a blessing it is to have everything cleared out properly. Your grandmother is probably about Miss M's age and having the cupboards and fridge full of things, even long unused or never used, often helps people who grew up in the Depression feel more secure.
As a long-term caregiver of an elderly lady, I applaud your efforts. You are not only a wonderful grandchild, but a great person too. I'm glad to know you.
I still have the mental image of pepper jelly that's 21 years old...
And along with the first comment, your grandma will see all the wonderful things you've done. The way you've placed things just within reach, thought of the minutest details. She'll appreciate all that for weeks to come.
I wish you'd said that this summer, LOL! Oh wait, I didn't have the money. Damn. Not like I could go back in time, anyway!
You leave Wednesday, huh? Awww. Will Owen posts start up again on Saturday? I miss him.
What you are doing for your grandmother is awesome. She and your family are right to be thankful. There aren't too many grandchildren out there willing to even sit with their grandparents for five minutes let alone spend weeks preparing them for independence. Thanks for being there for her. (yes, I am thanking you too!!)
*hugs*
I have a basement that is a disaster. When ya comin? ;)
It is so awesome everything that you have done for her.
Wish I could fly you out here - not that I have stuff that needs to be cleaned (we have so few items here) but just to have you here to hang out. Maybe one day!
Is that all it takes?? I'm in!
No, but good for you for helping out!
Yes! Come clean my daughter's rooms. The only danger is that you might get lost in a giant, ever-expanding pile of stuffed animals.
Virigina, a lot of people have mentioned that about the depression-era. I'm not sure if that's where this comes from, but it does seem common.
Aunt Sue, you and me both! I can't believe people asked if I opened it!
Janna, she seems very appreciative. I just hope we don't start crying tomorrow night.
Natasha, you should have mentioned it! (well, not really... :P ) I don't think I'll do Owen posts unless something actually happens. I don't want to post about him just to post.
JLC, you're right. The therapists have all said similar things and I was sad to say goodbye to them today. They're all so nice!
AB, it's a little snowy where you are. How does April work for you?
Nadine, that would be awesome! We'll have to get AB there too. :)
As my 25th anniversary is tomorrow and as I have no idea what to get my wife, how about if I send you a ticket, you come and clean the house, organize the house, and build us a schedule of when you can return, and I'll take credit for it.
And, I do see lots of wine in your future. You will whine about the mess. You will whine about my son bringing over all thos buds to destroy the house in the name of world dominance and World of Warcraft. And last, you will whine when you realize that it is a one way ticket.
Does the dungeon, err, basement sound okay for your slave, err housing quarters?
That sounds heavenly. I'm getting in line with plane tickets, and going to the liquor store immediately. Is Pinot Noir still on the outs?
Aw that's a nice post. Um yes, I have a whole house you can organize. I'm seriously horrible at organizing! Glad you're enjoying yourself :o)
Please come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE COME ORGANIZE MY CLOSETS! I NEED YOU!
Ladies, just tell me when... ;)
Post a Comment