Katie (Dad's former CNA aide) came over last night to take Dad out to dinner, and we surprised her with a birthday cake, balloons, and flowers for her 24th birthday. She seemed so surprised, I really felt like I had gotten one over on her. Then she told be her birthday was last Wednesday. No wonder it was such a surprise! Read Full Story

There was a tragic accident at our local high school in which a 15 year-old boy was killed during a football game. He sustained a brain injury that was described as a one in one hundred and fifty million chance by the neurosurgeon who tried to save his life. My 80 year-old Dad, having heard this news, has decided to retire his football career. Well, that's one less thing I have to worry about! Read Full Story

We were watching a TV commercial for an insurance company today that talked about safe driving. Dad said, I don't even remember the last time I drove a car. 2004. I said. Do you know what year this is? Yes. It's 2008. Is there something wrong with you that you don't know what year it is? He asked. If you get confused again, you can just ask me. I'll tell you. He added. Great! Now he thinks I have dementia! Read Full Story

Dad and Inky went to the Reynolda House (http://www.reynoldahouse.org/discover/reynolda/historic.php), which was the estate of R.J. Reynolds (the tobacco king). My father really likes art, and they have a great collection that changes on a regular basis. The two of them spent three hours touring the house and talking about art, how my Mom had volunteered there, the Reynolds family history and anything else Dad could think of. Then they went over to the tavern which is located on the... Read Full Story

Last night, I asked Dad how his bum hip was feeling. Okay, but not great. He replied. Would you like some Tylenol? I asked. No I really don't like to take any more pills than I have to. How about a gin and tonic? I asked. Sure! He said with no hesitation. I wish gin and tonic could replace the other 19 pills he takes everyday! Read Full Story

David was talking with one of his employees on the phone this morning, and promptly asked him if someone had peed in his corn flakes , reacting to the somber way he answered the phone. What? my Dad asked up the stairs, but David did not hear. David asked me if I wanted any corn flakes I think. Dad said. When he came down I asked him what he as talking about. Dad eats Raisin Bran, not corn flakes (important for his digestive system.) No I was asking Phil if someone peed in his corn... Read Full Story

When Dad was in the hospital a few weeks ago, he got an eye infection which prompted a long visit to the Eye clinic. It was determined that Dad has glaucoma, and the doctor prescribed eye drops for him to take every day for the rest of his life to preserve what little sight he has remaining in his left eye, and keep the right one from getting worse. Dad does not like eye drops. He complained every day for the first week. So I decided to tell him that they gave him the drops to prevent... Read Full Story

Dad was watching the synchronized diving yesterday, and commented that he would love to be able to do something like that. I would love for you to be able to get in and out of bed without moaning in pain because of your bum hip. I thought. I guess we all have our goals! Read Full Story

Dad and I watched the Olympics again last night. He has been so excited watching the divers, gymnasts and swimmers. Amazing! He shouted. Brilliant! Incredible! I guess it must seem more amazing to him because he remembers the athletes and games from the 1960s and 1970s. The athletes have really come a long way! I started to wish that the Olympics were on more often than every four years. Then I remembered TIVO! We can watch the Summer Olympics every summer! Read Full Story

I went to pick up Dad from having dinner with my sister Susan earlier this evening. When I was walking out the door, my little dog Lola snuck behind me and hopped in the car. She was so excited on the way to meet Dad! The petting machine was coming home! On the way home, she was wagging her tail and licking him and rolling all over his lap. I brought your favorite girl. I announced. You are my favorite girl. Dad corrected. Awwwww. Read Full Story