Grandma Afton has arrived!

It's official!  Grandma Afton has moved out of her home and into our home.  We made sure she had many of her own things around her to make her as comfortable as possible... her own bed and bedding, her lamp and bedside table, her own incredible lift chair with its side table and lamp, her cassette players, photos of her and Grandpa Joe, etc. -- and, of course, BB - her beloved cat!  We also made sure the Blind Commission was notified of her change of address so she can continue to receive her books on tape.  And we are especially grateful that 3 of the 6 caregivers that she had at her home agreed to continue on at our home.

Michele loaded up Mom in her car to bring her over this afternoon, and as they were backing out of the driveway, Mom murmured, "Good-bye, house!"  That comment always brings a tear to my eye when I think about it -- after all, that was home for her since 1965 - nearly 50 years!  WOW - lots of memories there.  I transported BB in my car in a pet crate, and she traveled pretty well.  Sprinkling catnip inside the crate on top of her blanket helped!  You know ... feline valium!  Ahem.

We are settling into a good routine, and Mom seems to be pretty happy - she's had her good days and not-so-good days, as to be expected.  I asked if she missed her old house, and she said no.  I suppose it's because she doesn't worry any more about the furnace or the air conditioner, or other things that may break down from time to time.

The master bedroom suite is so perfect for her.  Not only is her queen sized bed in there, but another queen sized bed is in there as well, for her overnight helpers, with lots of room to spare.

We also have a drop-leaf table and chair, a TV on a stand, and a comfy chair-and-a-half for TV watching (if the caregivers opt to do so).  

And Mom is just steps away from the bathroom.  We installed a couple of grab bars, which makes her feel very safe and confident to take care of business.  The walk-in shower is working well, too.  Just a matter of getting used to it, and talking Mom into showering a couple of times a week.  Still spunky and stubborn!

It took BB about a week to get used to a different space.  But she finally came around and was up on Mom's lap, as usual. 

 

All in all, the move has been positive, and we feel so blessed to have her in our home now.  Be sure to give her a phone call, or come to visit from time to time!  She still loves company - always the party girl!