Wednesday, December 10

We're doing fine here; it's still a steep learning curve for me, but I'm getting the hang of it. Letting a natural routine emerge is the key, I think. That way, things get done naturally. Irv and I got the Christmas tree in from the deck last weekend (Tommy and I had a live tree with a root ball last Christmas, which we bought at the country store south of town, and which spent the better part of this year on the corner of the deck). I already have the lights on it, and Tommy and I enjoy it every evening twinkling out there on the porch. It will be the centerpiece on Christmas eve, when we will have a very casual open house, with the usual suspects coming by as well as a few new friends we've made this year at the thrift shop, library and Ren rehab. And, needless to say, if you are reading this blog, you are invited! Please let me know if you'll be in town and can come (Frank?).
Minor change of December plan: It turned out that, although Tommy's lower gumline healed well, the experience took several days of steam out of Tommy's system. He slept a lot and even now has more trouble than usual getting his right foot to pivot on command, which is a necessary skill during "transfers" from bed to wheelchair, etc. (One of the key problems Tommy has been working on since the stroke is getting commands from his brain to his right leg and arm.) In fact, the whole teeth-pulling project was like, well, pulling teeth. So, Tommy has decided that he wants to wait until after the holidays before doing anything about getting his new set of teeth. He says that he actually likes his ancient and worn upper plate and, not only that, he says that he actually likes using his lower gums to chew (as long as the food is softened, but by now I'm an old hand at that).

NOTE: The best time to call Tommy is now probably between 7 and 8 in the evening. Another good time is between 11 and noon. From around 3 to 5, Tommy usually takes a nap. Of course, any time you want to call, please do (302-539-8079), since you can always leave a message and we'll call back later. We're nearly always home but, if not, leave a message and we'll call back soon.