Ideas Anyone?


I loved it that Al was chatty today, but I hate what is happening inside. We are becoming quite constricted on what Al can eat anymore. Solid foods are out. puree and mashed is in. Red sauces are out, causing him heartburn because he barely eats. Creamy foods, puddings and ice-cream and milk make his mucus worse, thus he chokes and coughs.

All I seem to be able to feed him is mashed potatoes. Tonight he ate about five bites of macaroni and cheese. He was able to eat it, but it was a bit of a struggle for him. He is so thirsty the past three days. He just can’t seem to get enough fluids.

I was explained to that at this time of his life thirst is a big issue. I am not sure why. If any of you know let me know please.

His arms are contracted so that they always look like he is praying. I keep putting them to the side of his body but they just creep back to the center of his trunk.

He didn’t do bad today. I didn’t hear much complaining. Mainly heartburn and his heels hurting. His heels are constantly on pillows but he is complaining of foot pain. I also was told that at this stage of a person’s life, with his oxygen level being now 74, that he will feel a tingle in his feet from lack of circulation.

What else will happen before he is out of pain? I don’t know, but I am hoping that some of you thinkers out there can help me with a more appealing menu for him. I will be going to the grocery store tomorrow or Sunday.

Thanks ahead of time. I know some of you will give me some great ideas.mashed-potatoes-520

Christmas, 2013


I didn’t really think that Al would be here today. For Christmas and yesterday he was very quiet, refusing to eat. All signs pointed to he was leaving for heaven.  I was actually counting down the hours mentally. I was emotionally crying.

What held me together was my children. Without realizing, them being here Christmas Day and the day after saved my sanity. He is here today, and has been very chatty. He is confused. I showed him his favorite photos of family members and he didn’t recognize any of them.

He has held his cars today and has not taken a nap all day.

We got some more Christmas Cards and I wanted to thank them for helping Al’s Christmas.

Lezlie S. from Indiana,thank-you for the adorable hand-made card. I love it!

Teresa F. from N.C. thank-you from the two of us.

Julie G. from Australia, thank-you very much. The card is adorable.

Lise and Louis A. from Ontario. Thank-you for the two cards and the nice letter.

Tobi B. from California, bless you for the awesome card.

From Fischer, MN, I want to thank-you for sending Al a card. Unfortunately, there was no card inside. I don’t know what happened to it, but thank-you for thinking of Al.

Here are some photos of grandchildren and my children and family.

DSC00173DSC00174DSC00175DSC00178DSC00183DSC00184DSC00185DSC00186DSC00187DSC00188