It's been a tough couple weeks here but mom is finally settled into an assisted living facility.  On Friday afternoon Jim and John took her up, we brought her a couple things that night and some more yesterday, now she needs some basics--toothpaste, deodarant, etc.  She actually is starting to like the place after fighting us that she didn't need any help.  They cook, do the laundry, clean....she can sit and read, visit if she wants, watch TV.  Friday night she was in the big lounge with a kitten on her lap listening to the music program going on.  What a change.  Now for cleaning and sorting through her home...she hasn't filed anything in over 3 years, there are lots to go through and shred or file.  John is staying in the house so we need to move things around, like his bedroom to the first floor and out of the basement.  Once Jody comes up next year we will divy up things like Christmas decorations and jewelry that she won't need or use again.  What a load off of us now that she is in a safe environment. 

Soldiers are on my mind lately.  One of my "sons" is home, others still over there and some just going again.  My prayers are with them all and with their families. 

I got a message from classmates.com the other day.  A former soldier, who was the best man at my first wedding contacted me through there.  John was such a great friend when we were in Alaska and after.  We lost touch a few years ago and have re-connected.  It's so nice hearing form old friends. 

HUGS to all