Salt Lake City, Utah

If you are wondering why I haven't blogged lately it's not because I've been camping (sounds life fun) but I've been taking care of my beloved grandmother Helen in SLC. I have been here for a week now and head back home tomorrow. She had carpal tunnel surgery on her good hand and has not been able to use her hands much (hardly at all). I knew it would be difficult for her and I imagined myself in her shoes and knew she would need some help. I would do anything for her. I have never seen her so helpless or in pain and it was hard. I felt like her own personal nurse. If any of you have met my little jewish grandmother you know how funny and vocal she is. She likes to give orders. I must take after her.

She injured her right hand when she was 4 or 5 years old and it has been deformed ever since. It's been a challenging week for her. She is going to be 89 in June and she is a independant, determined, and doesn't let anyone get in her way. She has been widowed for almost 40 years. I amazed at how much she has experienced in her life. I have learned a lot from her and treasure every moment I spend with her. I do not want to leave her and wish she would come home with me to Roseburg but her life is here.

A few words from Grandma Helen - She is sorry to see me leave because she said I am wonderful, "Happy Mother's Day" to Karen & Sabrina Schlesinger, she hates to be waited on because she feels like a baby. Also, hugs and kisses to the babies and she can't believe how much they've grown. To my dad, she won't forget her conversation with her son Craig yesterday and that it's nice to be loved. Lastly, she said Leah's a good cook and try her sometime.

Well, I am off to spend my last day with grandma. We are going to Kinko's today to copy some pictures I found of her when she was younger. It is one of my favorite things to do when I visit. She has some beautiful pictures. I pray I am as spunky and lively in my old age like her. See you when I get home and blog at you later.