I am thankful...

The girls and I left the hospital earlier than usual tonight.  I try to stay until Mom is settling down for the night.  But, I think the long week was taking its toll on me.  I was just simply out of patience.

We had dinner and came home.  I encouraged the girls to go out and just relax for the evening.  They decided to go bowling and just have a little fun.  As they were leaving, Kylie looked at me and said, "I'm sorry, Mom.  I should have asked you if you wanted to come with us."  It's was strange to realize that going with my girls was a choice that I could make.  We have left someone behind for so long that it never occurred to any of us that my joining them was an option.  It has been a very long time since we've had the luxury of doing things with just us.

Now, as I sit here in the quiet of the house, I find myself with one ear towards Mom's bedroom, listening for movement, preparing myself for the turmoil that Alzheimer's brings to our home.  When it remains quiet, I remember, she's not here.  She's a few miles away, safely tucked into a bed with people better equipped to care for her. 

For this small period of time, my mother is safe, my children are happy, and there is peace in this house. 

And I am thankful.