J & I had a nice dinner with my mom. The other couple was very nice and we all got along well. After dinner we went back to the other couple's condo (they are probably both in their 80's) and they were very cordial. We then found a place to sit and talk for a while. It was a very pleasant time.
I was kind of surprised to hear my mom say how depressing Christmas is for her. She knows she will never get to see all her kids together again because some of them refuse (yours truly NOT in that category). It made me wonder why my siblings wouldn't do that for her.
Just as we were leaving she told me many people at the assisted living facility had been abandoned by their families. They were too much of a burden. It sounded all too familiar. I guess family is supportive as long as you're not too much of a burden. The myth of family unity validated again. How sad.
But for J & I and I think my mom, maybe even the other couple, it was a very nice time and I think we all enjoyed each other's company. We will be back again soon and maybe next time we can do something to bring some real joy into their lives.
Julie
