Looking Back: November 2015

The month of November began as it always does, with Granddad's birthday.

He celebrated 96 with balloons and company,

and complete disbelief that he was that old.

And he enjoyed the company and the celebration,

but the candy really got his attention!

Then there was the traditional Guy Fawkes bonfire,

with spectacular sparks flying high over our heads.

In fact, November is a month of traditional celebrations, isn't it?

We celebrated the Beaujolais Nouveau with a wine party,

a taste of the brash new wine and a glass of good old wine.

It's good to have traditions.

HoosierKitty added a new one to Thanksgiving: cranberry cordial.

It was a lovely addition to the usual feast,

which we enjoyed all the more for the Indy Duo who shared it with us.

There was even more storytelling, with PC at the IU Art Museum.

and snow, actual cold wet snow, made a very brief appearance.

But mostly November was bright and clear,

so busy and so full of parties and events and work

that I made little record of it beyond a few photos.

Oh March, you mixed-up month

Oh yes, March, you came in like a lion,

with more snow than we cared to see.

And by your end there were flowers (even though your weather wasn't lamb-gentle).

You brought birthdays

and birthday celebrations

and welcome company.

You saw Granddad getting better

and the poor lame horse getting worse.

You brought a long anticipated treat

that brought us together

for good times.

And the good times were rolling along...

until our own Jersey boy left the table 

and the good times stopped rolling for a while.

Yup.

March, you are just a mixed-up month.

Granddad in Winter

Granddad was not too sure about Christmas.

It's hard for him to keep track of the months.

He  did have a few clues that it was a holiday.

(You know he loves hats any time.)

He had company,

and he always loves having company.

He amused the folks in his dining hall on New Year's Eve.

The horn was loud enough that even the hearing-challenged heard it.

But the next day, having dinner with his family all around the table, he had to head out for the ER.

He was in the hospital for seven days.

He doesn't remember this at all.

 It was worrying enough to bring far-flung family together to visit him.

He left the hospital to return to the nursing home in palliative care.

Declining, on oxygen, not eating, feeble...

we all sat and worried around his bed.

Yesterday I went to the nursing home as usual.

The nurse could hardly wait to tell me what Granddad had done.

I expected to hear that he'd maybe sat up in his wheelchair.

Well, yes, he did that.

And more.

He'd gone off with a group of nursing home residents to have lunch at the Golden Corral.

What?!

"I filled my belly," says the man who has been refusing food for three weeks.

That Granddad!  

Just like him to go from death's door to a steak dinner.

As his favorite hat says:

"I'm 95.

I'm allowed."

Thanksgiving

Company's here! It's a Holiday!

Let's get fancy.

We'll have nimble young fingers creatively fold napkins.

Each place setting will be a work of art.

We'll toast the holiday that brings the family together.

We'll delight in the surprise appearance of the Indy Duo.

Granddad will enjoy special visits,

and lots of conversation.

The cook and the host will have a fantastic time.

And we will all be ready for a wonderful winter holiday season!

The 95th

It is not everyday that someone turns 95.

Granddad could hardly believe it himself.

He spent the week before his birthday asking:

 "Now, how old will I be on my birthday?"

"How old do you think you are?" I'd ask.

He always answered, "16!"

The event was marked in style - starting with a crown for the King of the Day.

Mimi brought a square balloon to tie on the wheelchair.

Granddad was amused and pleased to have so many Skype calls.

He really felt as if you all were right with him.

He enjoyed hugs,

and birthday cake,

and company,

and presents.

It was a fine Birthday Eve party!

On the actual Birthday Day, there was a candlelit dinner with soft music, more presents, deeply appreciated company -- and a tasty tender STEAK.  

Now the crown is put away for the next birthday,

but Granddad has a new hat to wear all year.

Thanks to everyone who made his 95th a great occasion!

Travelling around town with the Boston Gentleman

"I've been out LOTS in the new car", says The Boston Gentleman.

"Did I tell you that I LOVE riding in the car?

Anywhere!

Even just in the driveway.

But I've gone some interesting places this week.

I went to see the Old Guy in his new digs.

He liked seeing the new car.

He liked seeing me better.

And there were treats!

The Old Guy and I agree that there should always be treats.

Another day I went to get my nails done at the Spa.

I love getting my pedicures!

And I found something I really really really want.

It's BETTER than treats!

Look at that little face.

Come on, let's take one home, please please please?

It would be so much fun!"

"You didn't take me" says the Sidekick Cat.

"I'm right here, ready to go.

It's so unfair."