I needed to tell you all a wonderful happening for me. One of great sacrifice and selflessness. Last week Monday, on Aug. 18, Lori from ADcaregiver, a former caregiver to her best friend Helen, came to visit with me from California. She stayed with me here in my home. I can't tell you all what a pleasure it was to have her here.

We talked and laughed, and according to her, ate an awful lot. We talked about God, about caregiving, about you all, about our lives, about Mom, about Helen, and anything else that came out of our mouths. Except when we were ready to get to bed at night, generally we were non-stop.

On tuesday another wonderful happening occured. We went to visit Snicks who is also from ADcaregivers, and a former caregiver to her Mom Jeanne. She lives in Princeton, Il, which is about an hour and a half from my home. We sat all morning, had coffee and cakes, and talked more. With three of us, we barely could get the words out before another of us chirped in. We then went to lunch, and to see Snicks' Mom and Dads' home.

On thursday, Snicks came to my house, and her, Lori and I went to a casino. We figured we needed to corrupt her too. But it didn't take us long as she got hooked in minutes. We had a wonderful time, laughing at Snicks especially as she was looking for a handle to pull on the machines, and there was none to be found. (the lower denominations as in 1cents and 2 cent videos only have buttons!)

Then on Saturday, Nancy who was a former caregiver to her father Russ, drove over 2 hours from Wisconsin to join us. Nancy was very active on the other forum, so many of you may not know her. I wish you did, as she had some wonderful advice for me for different things to make Mom a little more comfortable. And gave me some really helpful hints on how to handle Mom with certain things. She is a very warm and compassionate person. Nancy brought us some wonderful delisous homemade raspberry jam that she herself made. Of course we immediately started taste testing it, and it was great.

And then also on Saturday, Snicks came back. We had brunch and dinner, and guess what? They both stayed overnight! To say the least, I was thrilled. We had a wonderful time, wonderful conversation, and of course some good crying sessions! And with the four of us talking, we would many times answer to the wrong question.

Now the last time we got together, AnnR was also with us. But this time she couldn't join us as her daughter was having Ann's second grandchild, and for some reason I just couldn't convince her that that just wasn't that important!
But she was with us in spirit, and we have vowed to do this again.

Sunday morning was the day that I didn't like at all. It was the day everyone was to leave. Snicks back to Princeton, Nancy back to Wisconsin, and my dear Lori back to California. I was needless to say heartbroken. I waved Snicks and Nancy goodbye until I couldn't see their cars, and when we drove Lori to the airport, I watched as she got in the door, and I could no longer see her.

My husband was wonderful throughout all this. I think he may have adopted Lori as his sister, and he is so very fond of Snicks and Nancy. I've not seen him laugh like that in a very long time, so these wonderful woman were good for him. He even stayed overnight at one of my daughters houses on Sat. night, so we could have a girls night to ourselves. What a guy! He is my treasure.

I guess one of the reasons I wanted you all to know this, is that if any caregiver, or former caregiver, ever offers to come and see you, please take them up on their offer. If you think we bond and understand each other on this forum, you should see what happens in person. It truely cannot be put into words.

These wonderful woman have given me a gift that I will never forget. They honored me in a way that has never been done before in my 58 years of life. They went above and beyond for me. They have a special place in my heart, that can never go away. They were my rocks and my inspiration that I can do this. I can finish this journey with hope.

Jackie

Wow, Jackie--thanks for sharing that.
I'm feeling all warm and fuzzy now!

Jackie, it was such a priviledge to come to visit you and Snick and Nancy. Even when our caregiving days are over we still need each other. We have gone through so much together that there is a bond between us that will always be there.

Just a word of warning if anyone out there ever plans to visit Jackie. Wear loose clothes and expect to gain a few pounds. I felt like I was at a buffet every day. What a great cook!!

Awwww, so glad you all had such a wonderful time. Thanks Jackie for taking the time to encourage us all with the details, how fun. Makes me smile.

~Kelly~

Wow! What a time all of you had! I'm so glad you all got together, Jackie, there is nothing better than spending time with people who know what you're going through.

I will vouch for wearing loose clothes when visiting Jackie's house. That girl can cook! And I don't have the self control to say I have had enough. Food was yummy and the company superb.

Beautiful memories were made last week. Memories I will cherish always:)

Aw that's great! I'm glad you all had a good time!

Jackie, can I borrow you to cook for us?

Kat

All of you look wonderful! Thank you for sharing that!

Kat,

You "can" borrow me and I'm cheap! A cup of coffee and a piece of cake (not made in your tupperware of course) and I'm on my way!

jackie

I'm glad you all had a great time. I wish I could get away to join you!

Um, Lori, just one question:

Is that Max Headroom on the TV monitor beside you gals? What a look he's giving! As if he knows what you four are up to!

LOL! You just made me and Hubby laugh LOL!

Ah that magic Tupperware lol, I need to get rid of it. MIL has hid it again lol!

Kat