Rough Patch....:-(

Yes, I'm still alive and kicking. It's been a VERY ROUGH couple of weeks for me. First of all, getting my daughter ready for college, the 7 hour drive up there and the emotionally gutwrenching part of leaving her there. On the way home, we got a call that my father's condition had worsened, he had been in the hospital for a week. He had a rare form of dementia called Pick's Disease, and he passed away on September 2nd. I stayed with my mom for a week, making preparations and getting my daughter and son home from college (he's in Atlanta and she's just outside of Pittsburgh). My dad was such a wonderful person, so charismatic, a heart of gold and always the center of everything. I really believe that dementias of all kinds are the worst disease of all. He is at peace now, with God, and I still talk to him every day. I really do miss my daddy. My job is ok, and I'm still trying to get my apartment together since my daughter moved up to school. So much to do, so little time to do it. Wishing that this finds everyone well and in good spirits, Joanie

i send condolensces for your father......

Joanie, So sorry for your loss. I don't think you're ever ready to loose your parents (mine are both gone). Knowing what his life was like these last month's (years?) it helps soothe the heartache just a little that he is finally at peace. Hugs, Va

I lost my mom in June after her being in the nursing home for 3 years. It was tough and we are still grieving. Day by day it seems to get a little easier. This week I went to the store and was thinking about what I needed to pick up and take to the home for her. (It seemed like we were always buying splenda, we thought she ate it like candy.) The fond memories will shine through. I pray that you will have peace soon and remember the good times you had with him.

Joanie so sorry to hear about your dad, I lost mine when I was 18 & it still seems like yesterday. I am 52 now so it was a long time ago. Thank God I still have my Mom & she is pretty healthy. But when they get in their 80's you still worry, because you just don't know what is around the corner. She is in San Diego & I am in Arizona so it's a 6 hour ride if anything ever happens to her. It doesn't seem that far until you have an emergency to take care of. Prayers headed your way for you & your family in this time of need. LOL Marilyn, the Bearlady

I've been worried about you. I send you healing thoughts about your Dad and I am so happy you still talk to him...he's listening, Joanie. Like you, I am grieving the loss of my baby girl who is now away at college - never anticipated this would be so hard. It's not so much that she's gone, it's more that she's grown up. We will get together soon, we have so mu*****ommon. The next time you are heading my way en route to Boston, please let me know. I will move mountains to meet you. Take care, sweetie. Maureen

Joanie, I'm so sorry about your father. What a tough road you've had lately. You're in my prayers and I wish I could give you a big hug. Love ya, Connie

I'm sorry to hear about your fathers passing. i lost mine when i was 42. no matter how old you are it is hard to let a parent go. your in my prayers. pam

Joanie, So sorry about your loss. I pray that time makes these last days more distant and the earlier good memories fresher for you. I know it all hurts. Hugs, Joy

Hi Joanie; I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. Even when a loved one has a long-term disease and you know it's coming, it's still a shock when it happens. I agree that dementia is horrible, but as you said, he's now at peace. My best wishes and deepest sympathy for you and your family. Take care and stay well. It's always good to hear from you, but I hope that your next visit finds you happier. Mike