Today is their wedding anniversary. Together 60 years, married for the last 56.
They’re spending the day driving back to their house in Washington, which they’re trying to sell. I wonder if she remembers getting married? The wedding day, the guests? Are they talking about the old days as they drive?
And someone or something is listening, or maybe this is just the brutal randomness of everything reflected back at me.
Because my dad just sent this text to me and my sister:
Does not remember our wedding…. I am just trying to cope.
This isn’t like my dad. He doesn’t talk about my mom’s situation unless asked, and never talks about trying to cope. I don’t know how he’s coping, none of us do. I’m starting to become more worried about him than my mom, since he’s carrying so much emotional and physical weight.
My sister and I both respond with how sorry we are and how we are here for him however he needs us.
And then:
No problem….we always get through it! walk her down to fish….on the golf course….around our place. she is just happy when home…the drive was all negative…hate this, etc! but I just keep going and know it will be OK…later!
What happens if later doesn’t come?
She is not that bad..just has her moments ….I am upset she does not remember our wedding…that is a bad sign….
But he just said it’s not that bad, and in the same sentence he says this is a bad sign.
The texts just keep coming.
At times, very good….then…not there. Super taking care of house stuff so that is OK..I owe her a lot more and will be there …
Why does he owe her? What does he mean by not there?
It is just in and out..has NO idea about the complexity of life or the economics…..but don’t worry, we are OK
How is that OK?
We will see what tomorrow brings.
But that’s what I’m afraid of.
What tomorrow brings.