Stepping In

OK, so this is Anne, stepping in for Jane for a few weeks, trying to carry the baton while she is recharging her battery on an incredible river trip from Amsterdam to Budapest – here´s to ya, Janie!! All is well here – my minor duties at Jane´s house are a cinch so far. Pete´s the best and the critters are cooperating nicely. It strikes me how I feel so much a part of a network here – just contributing a tiny bit to the greater network that keeps my sister, and Pete, and my mom going. Janie, you have built an amazing structure in the midst of full catastrophe living. I love your friends. I love the fact that you are on this trip, laughing and drinking with Jane H. And I love having Albert Lea to come home to. My first few days here I was feeling lost in the face of a mother who is lost. But I am growing accustomed, learning the ropes, finding my stride. It’s just that Mom was always the one who defied expectations, always way above average, so much better than Dad, Dona Mira (my husband’s mother of the same age), Marion . . . She still is, but it’s hard to witness her vital force dwindling. I feel blessed that I am able to be here and grateful that Mom is comfortable, tranquil, and well cared for.   I was especially touched the other night when I got home (from Jane's house) after Mom was already asleep and she had turned my bed covers down for me. A motherly gesture. She still has it in her.