Living with Bob and "Al"

The beginning of the end chapter 19

Hospice evaluated  "the boys". At first evaluation they thought "they" were in pretty rough shape, Sheri reminded them that he was still under a tremendous amount of drugs. Hospice agreed to reevaluate the next day. When they came back the next day they were surprised to see the "the boys" a little more alert and trying to swallow while being fed. The head hospice nurse said was glad to see him rebound a little. She thought it could be 3-6 months, and explained that everyone is different.
Sheri took a deep breath.

Living with Bob and "Al"

The beginning of the end Chapter 14

Sheri got to the faculty,  she was tired, she was confused, she was angry. The person that opened the door was not someone she had met before. She introduced herself to the staff member and quickly walked to Bob's room, Bob and "Al" were out cold as Sheri would have thought after all the medication the emergency room pumped into "them".  With in minutes the female staff member that let Sheri in, came into the room. Sheri's blood was nearing the boiling point. Out of the comer of eye she could see this the soul of this woman. She looked very sad, and started apologizing for calling Sheri.  She said I have been caring for Bob on overnights the whole time he has lived here, he is my buddy, he follows me around at night, this is just not like him, as she wiped the tears from her eyes.
Though her tears and shaken voice she said, "I just did not want to do the wrong thing". Sheri new in that moment that this woman had know idea that Bob and "Al" had been in the hospital all those hours. This was not this sweet woman's fault, there was clearly a major breakdown in communication. 
The system is broken.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri is trying hard to accept a new normal. She will look for the positive in every breathe God gives her. Life is too short.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Well Sheri could not get either one of the boys to look at the camera, but they both seemed safe and content. Simple pleasures Sheri, simple pleasures.  :)

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri went to see "the boys" this weekend. "Al" was thrilled to see that his cat Meeko came back to life. The staff and Sheri had to do a quick surgery (putting fresh batteries in the cat. ) "Al " said he was happy Meeko was feeling better and he was so happy to hear him purr again :)

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri has not said anything about it, but Sheri's photos will be on display at a local Dunn Brothers on their " artist wall" during the month of November. Sheri is busy printing some her favorite photos on canvas, to be ready for display and sale. Watch for Open House info coming soon.
(Sheri can hardly believe it, but there...she said it out loud :)
God is good!

Living with Bob and "Al"

It is a new day, Sheri is going to make the most of it.

Matthew 6:34New International Version (NIV) 

³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri met Bob's case worker at his new home yesterday for their annual meeting. Bob looked up at  Sheri and "Al" looked back down at the coloring page he was working on with no acknowledgment of any type.  "Well" God whispered to her "It is hard I know... but he safe and content, and you should be safe in MY arms and content in your life."

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri is grateful that her journey with Bob and "Al" gave her the opportunity to develop a love of photography. She is sure she would not have pursued this otherwise.  God is good.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri thinks she needs a break today
She just can't keep the tears away

Seeing the confusion on Bob's face
When "Al's" thoughts disappear without a trace

Seeing "them" look for things misplaced
Hearing "their" words when they are out of place

Seeing his daughters hide their fears
Seeing his daughters hide their tears

Watching her life as if it is not her own
Trapped in a nightmare , but awake... and alone




He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds."
--Psalms 147:3

Living with Bob and "Al"

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can....

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri and Daughter Number 1 went out to see "the boys" yesterday. This ambiguous loss thing turned out to be a little too much for her when Bob started singing Amazing Grace and "Al" had stolen most of words. "Al" may be able to steal the worlds from Bob's lips, but he can not steal them Bob's heart.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri is thinking they may have to hide Bob's flannel shirts. It was almost 90 degrees out so hot, I think "Al's" shirt itself was sweating. :)

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri is hoping to see "the boys" this weekend. She thinks she may have to leave Sir Cooper home, re-cooperating.
Sheri needs to pause, praise and pray.

Living with Bob and "Al"

After the choking incident, the boys are back safe and sound. Sheri and friend went so see the "Boys" on Saturday. Bob enjoyed the puppy/ kitty Sir Cooper. Sheri even got kind of a half hug out of them. Of course it was followed by "Al" tapping Sheri on her shoulders saying "Congratulations, congratulations!" It is okay, Sheri will take it!.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Emergency Room visit Part 5:
The nurse disappeared behind the curtain and Sheri went back to her happy face for "the boys". "Al" began fidgeting and from experience she knew he needed to use the bathroom. She confirmed that with Bob, and told him she would find a bathroom. Sheri peered out the curtain and let nurse know that he needed to use the bathroom. The nurse said "oh okay I will show him where it is." Sheri said "a... I think I will come with you." In seconds they were at a bathroom. The nurse in a very rushed but cheerful tone said " Okay, here you go pull the string if you need anything". Bob in his polite manner said "thank you"... as "Al" began to relief himself in the garbage can.  

Living with Bob and "Al"

Emergency room visit Part 3:

Sheri was upset to see "the boys" in such distress but she took a deep breath and passed through the curtain. Drawing on her years of experience, knowing  "Al" would mimic her mood, she entered the room with a big smile on her face.  "Well hello there!" she chirped. Bob shook himself out of "Al's" blank but grimacing stare and looked up at her. "Al" paused for a very long moment and then a cautious smile crossed Bob's thin lips and "Al" said "well, howdy!" Sheri could tell  "the boys" knew she was at least a familiar face, and at that moment, that was enough.

Living with Bob and "Al"

The sun came up, Sheri woke up, it is a brand new day. Bob and "Al" are safe. Sheri needs to Pause, Praise  and Pray.
God is good.

Living with Bob and "Al"

Sheri is sure her decision to place "the boys" was the right one, and this was definitely the right place. Now Sheri really needs focus on getting her head in the right place. :)

Living with Bob and "Al"

When Sheri was visiting with "the boys", they were walking around the large common area living room when Bob's jaw became tight and his look, one of concern. Sheri asked him if he was okay, and "Al", nodding his head toward the main area of the room, said "I am fine but some one left that "baby" (doll) by himself on the floor over there... not a good idea."
Such a dear sweet man.