I  (Karmen) just came back from 4 days in Fargo.  Mike is doing amazingly well considering he’s sporting a new shoulder and all.  He’s not uncomfortable, the incision looks great, and PT isn’t hurting too bad yet.  I gave him grief about wearing tights and a cape.  It’s a recovery of super-heroic proportions.  Or REALLY good drugs.  I think he’s got a high threshold for pain.  I was thrilled to see him healing so quickly and, other than not being able to drive, getting back to his normal self.

Mom commented that she’s surprised that so many people have been over to visit.  She’s really appreciated seeing everybody and getting caught up with many long lost friends.  As time goes on, she has less energy to take company so it’s nice that she’s gotten so many opportunities to be in touch.

Mom is melting away.  Her arms and legs are so thin.  She’s even got knobby little knees now.   It’s so aggravating because she is hungry and wants to eat but she can’t.  Either she throws up or gets the runs.  Most of her meds get puked up.  She tends to feel OK in the mornings and the day progresses downhill from there.  The good days are coming fewer and farther between now.  She manages to spend some time sitting on the porch watching the neighborhood, but a lot of time is spent in bed either sleeping or resting.  Or building her Sudoku skills.

I am glad Michael is able to be home with her during the days while he’s recuperating.  My friend Kathy continues to check in on them and bring meals over once in a while since Mike can’t drive for another month or two.  She has been Mom’s angel for the past few months and promises me that she is getting more from it than they are. 

I think she’s my angel too. 

 -Karmen