Doreen: Direct!

Dictated by Doreen to Judy on February 15

Doreen: On February 12th I had one cataract removed. There is not a lot of difference in vision, but I think it might be helping the dizziness some. The next day I went back for a check-up and they noticed a little piece had broken off, so they did it again. The next eye will be done on Feb. 26.

I appreciate having some say in what my schedule is—what time to go to bed and what time to get up.

Carl’s addition: There seems to be a shortage of aides to respond when she needs something.

Doreen: That is everywhere—just like nurses.

Timbercrest had a Valentine’s Day party on Friday. Carl sang “Because” to me. [Note—that is the song he sang as Doreen came down the aisle in their wedding. Carl said he could sing only one verse this time, because he was getting too choked up.]

There are interesting people we have met at Timbercrest—all kinds. All kinds of interests and backgrounds. One aide has an 18-month-old and a 5-year-old. She isn’t married, but she has been with the father for 7 years.

Carl: the culture is that of a caring community.

Doreen: Daniel (our grandson) can come over to visit. He just dropped in ten days ago.

All the mail is appreciated.

I am anxious to get home and see what else I want to bring—furniture and clothes.

Judy’s note: Both Mom and Dad seem to be doing very well. Mom seemed very positive and very aware of what was happening. She had started a project that was very reminiscent of the past; she was writing different words to a familiar song. It was for Dad’s Valentine. As she put it, she was writing other words to the “very romantic song” Ten Little Indians. We didn’t finish rewriting her words (she had written them, but they were not very legible), but the song started with “1 year, 2 years, 3 and 4; 5 years, 10 years, 60 and more; You’ve been my Valentine and I’ve been yours…”