I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart;
    I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.

Psalm 9:1

The past few days have seen a little more progress in my initiative to organize my mother’s house. To that end I (almost) finished her great room and also tackled the kitchen.

I took care of the mildew on her drive and walkways (thanks, D.J.), and hired a contractor to deal with some rot around a few of the windows.

There is a lot more to do around the house – both inside and out, but I feel like we have the ball rolling in a positive direction.

The big positive, however, is that mum may be getting a little more on board regarding at home care. Woohoo!! I was concerned, especially after the epic caregiver fail last month, that she’d sabotage our trip to Florida before we even left the driveway!

But this morning I introduced her to somebody new and the visit went really well. Mum started out by immediately admitting she could be a challenge: “I’m contrary, you know,” she said by way of introduction. “That means I can be strong willed”

We sat down and chatted, we set the guidelines, and – most importantly, mum admitted she needs help.

“Sometimes,” she corrected. “I will let you know when I don’t.”

That was huge! Tammy promised to respect mum’s wishes and mum seemed happy to know she would be coming back every morning while we are gone.

So I am thankful, as they say, for small mercies.

Peace – in all things – DEREK