Saturday, December 10, 2011

(posted by Greg)

I have found that my sleeping pattern has been affected by what is happening in our lives. I go to sleep quickly and sleep well but, if something wakes me up, my mind starts going and I can't get back to sleep. So..I am taking this opportunity to update the blog a bit early this Saturday morning.

Today, is our 28th wedding anniversary. We don't have anything special planned but Monica's brother is going to cook dinner for us. We will probably try to visit both Oma and Opa today. Monica and Marley saw Opa yesterday and report that he was maybe the best that he's been yet. We are still hoping that  he will not have to be in the hospital for Xmas but the Dr. indicated that he may be first placed in a sort of "transitional" place.

Oma is currently in Langley hospital. They have had some success with reducing the amount of fluids in her so that she is more comfortable. Apparently one of her arms is quite swollen and red, so they are looking for other causes for that. She seems to be getting good care. We are hopeful that she will be able to go back to the care facility as well. Both her and Opa are also getting lots of attention and support from  the family of Oma's sister.

Monica and I had a busy week. For many years one of my clients/friends has invited us for dinner at this time of year. Monica , Marley and I were able to join them again on Wednesday night and had a nice evening. On Thursday, my office had its staff party. Monica and Marley came as well and Monica had a chance to see everyone who she had been working with for the past few years.  On Wednesday, our friends Liz and Tony were able to visit Monica too.

We haven't heard yet when the new treatments with  Bev  will start. I expect to hear from the Cancer Agency early in the new week. The Cancer Agency has already made a referral for us to the local home nursing people -we meet them on Monday. At the moment, Monica is doing well and we really don't need any nursing care at home. However, we want to make the connection with them so that we are prepared should the need arise. (This part of the process is like getting a splash of cold water. It really drives home again some of the unpleasant things that we are going to have to cope with.)

The news from last Tuesday was pretty sobering. We have had some serious talks and tender moments as we reflect on all of this. Monica's spirits continue to be pretty good. (In some ways better than mine as my tear ducts are acting up quite a bit.) Twice the other day I happened to catch a glimpse of her in an unguarded moment. On one occassion she was talking to Daniel on Skype and on another occassion Marley was tucking Monica into bed and saying good night. I was really pleased to see how happy Monica looked at those moments. A friend suggested that I should be keeping a camera handy for moments like this and I think I may have to take that advice.