Marilee's 83rd birthday - December 4, 2010

It's been a challenging year with Marilee in our home.  Despite my last post she challenges Ralph in ways no mother should be allowed to an adult child.  I find it hard to constantly swallow and ignore many of her comments that wreak havoc in our lives all because she is miserable and aging.  It's really amazing how different some people are about the this process.  I see some that are so active you don't even know their age and then you have those who allow it to consume them.  It makes you sit back and realize this is not what you want or hope for in the future. 

Friendships are an important key in life that should never replace the true family yet it's good to have friends.  Family gatherings should not be an appointed time that is scheduled as it takes away what family is mean't to be close.  Even though I have many friends my family is the most important aspect of my life and despite the fact our sons are grown and have moved on personally in marriage, relationships they will never know what this is truly like until they have families of their own.  There is no substitution for the real family. 

As 2010 closes gives the reality that time moves on and it moves on quickly.  Living each day fully and not wasting time has always been my mantra.  I also make sure to make time for friends but family is the ultimate.  I'm thankful for the changes that have occurred with Nathan and Krista and how our lives have meshed and become closer.  It's hard to believe another wedding is a mere 6 months away and excited for Nathan at this new chapter in his life.  I also relish Gabe's time in college and pray for his continued success in school.