Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Chapter Three - The Iron Bed

I guess I have skipped ahead a few years, but I have a memory to convey that is relevant to my current situation.  My grandmother, Jessie,  became ill in her eighties.  I remember my family telling me that she would be moved to a nursing home.  Both of my parents worked, and no one was able to take care of her.  I also remember my mother telling me that Jessie said, "If you leave me here, I will die."  Two days later, I received a call while in college that my grandmother had passed.  Today, I have decided that my mother must be in long term care, and I will be selling her home.

I have spoken with family members about things and furniture they might like to have.  My daughter, Sarah, told me once again, that she would like to have the iron bed that I currently have in my own home.  She said, "After all why will you need four different beds?"  This iron bed is the one I currently sleep in.  I love this bed, and for the life of me, I could not really answer her.  It belonged to my grandmother, Jessie, and it was always kept in her third floor attic.  I remember one summer, when it was quite warm, my sister Marcia and I, and Jessie all slept in that iron bed in the attic.  Since I was the smallest at the time, I had to sleep along the bottom, while the other two had either side.  It was crowded, but we thought it was an adventure.  Her attic had stars painted on the ceiling, and it was a magical moment I will always remember.  My sister, too, remembers that night.  I guess I answered my own question. That old iron bed was The Summers on 49th Street.

10 comments:

  1. What a sweet memory, Nancy; thanks for sharing it. I don't envy you the decisions you will be making in the coming days. Blessings to you and your Mom.

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  2. Making this decision, that a parent needs more care than we can give, is such a difficult one. I can tell you didn't make it lightly, Nancy. Writing down your thoughts and memories will help you to put everything into perspective. I hope that it goes as smoothly as possible for you and your mom. When it gets tough, remember your love for each other. Continued prayers, love and hugs!

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  3. This is a great site! I like the way you set this up as well as its content! Thanks for sharing!...Daniel

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  4. My thoughts are with you Nancy. Recognizing that a loved one needs more care than you can give isn't an easy conclusion to come to. What I can tell you from experience is that decision actually frees you to just be there for your parent. Keep writing down your thoughts and memories -it really does help. Hugs, Robin :)

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  5. oh nancy! i got a chill when i got to the end of your post! what a truly wonderful memory you have about your grandmother jessie!! thank you for sharing it! hugs!

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  6. What a beautiful post, Nancy. These are tough decisions to have to be making, but trust that you are doing the right thing for all concerned. How lovely that you are writing down your memories. I know that writing helps me to process my feelings, and I hope it is helping you as well. I'm so glad that I stumbled upon this post, and want you to know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time of transition.

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  7. thanks for sharing your sweet sweet memory, Nancy. it's such a treat to read them. the decision is never easy and you and your family are in my thoughts. sending you hugs!

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  8. What a beautiful memory - so eloquently told. Thanks for sharing Nancy. Sending hugs to you at this difficult time.

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  9. This was so nice to read. I believe in your decisions ans think about you.

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  10. Beautiful memories, trust your heart it knows the way. Glad I stumbled on your blog. Take care.

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