Hi, Zoey here ~ I've been trying to figure out why the ZH has been a little sad all this week, and sometimes even a little bit teary-eyed. And I think I know what's going on. Just because a New Year begins, it does not always signal a dramatic change in ones life. This year though, it's a little different in the Zoolatry house, because there has been a big change. To share a little history, the ZH left the workaday world in 2001 and soon began to care for her elderly Mom, the Great-Grandma, who came to live with us. Last year in early February, she kind of went to the other end of the calendar of life and began to also care for her new grandbaby, Arjun. Throughout the days, weeks and months that followed, we had the Daily Diaper Challenge (large ones vs small ones) and the Revenge of the Bottles, trying to be sure milk went in the baby bottle and coke went in the sippy cup and we didn't switch them around! Those were interesting times. On Good Friday, last April, our Great-Grandma crossed her rainbow bridge; we still think of her and miss her, each and every day. Life goes on. JuneyBug was becoming bigger and stronger and more active. Only a few weeks had passed when we learned that Poppy Vic was fighting cancer and chemotherapy would soon begin. The ZH would again expand her role of caregiver. Today, Poppy Vic is coming along well, and in another two months those nasty treatments will come to an end. But this week, the ZH saw her caregiving role evolve yet again when little JuneyBug went off to day care. The ZH said she just wasn't strong enough (you can spell that y-o-u-n-g enough) to keep up with a toddler, but that doesn't mean she doesn't miss him ~ a whole lot! It will just be for three days each week, and he'll come here for two days as the ZH said, "no way, can I give him up altogether!". Yes, the times they are a-changin'...
I helped him drive to day care for his first day. He did complain a bit about my back-seat driving but I told him I knew he couldn't read the road signs yet, so I should help. Then I went home and played with all his cool toys. I played with them all by myself!
If only he would stop beeping that horn we'd a made it to school on time.
ReplyDelete((((Hugs)))) to you, Ann! I can only imagine how difficult it would be to see him go to daycare, you've been a parent, not only a grandparent. Maybe you will find the time turns out to be a much-needed breather for you, giving you moments to nurture your Self.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and Light.
Those are some really big changes. In no time at all Grandma's fridge will be covered with all kinds of crayon artwork and she'll get all kinds of magnets made from pasta. And just wait in a couple years when he tries to make plaster paw prints for Grandma.
ReplyDeleteSo many changes ... so many adjustments ... (((((hugs)))))
ReplyDeleteWot a determined expression on dear little Arjun's face as he drives his car! That boy will go far!
So many changes! Good thing JuneyBug had you to get him to day care!!!
ReplyDeleteThe Florida Furkids and Angel Sniffie
Such a difficult year has passed for you and your family, Ann and we are extremely hopeful this New Year will bring you nothing but great news, good times and joyful moments...After you get used to Arjun's new schedule, we hope you can find some time for yourself, to enjoy yourself!...Adorable post=we're sure beautiful Zoey was a huge help navigating the streets with precious Arjun!...Happy weekend, sweet friends...J, Calle, Halle, Sukki
ReplyDeleteWow, Zoe, that was awfully decent of you to help him drive to daycare. I won't mention the fact that you most likely came along to give emotional support to your people on the way back, hmmm?
ReplyDeleteHuman: Ann, it's always hard when they first go off, but treasure the couple of days a week you have with him. They'll be all the more precious now, and in between, you have pampering time! I hope these last few months of Vic's treatment go well, and that you can both have a well deserved break after that. Goodness knows, I'm sure you need it!
They don't stop growing up, do they?? Hugs to the ZH today...
ReplyDeleteAnd Zoey, we like how you got to ride in the car there!!
We can only echo Tia's human's words. Our Mom knows well how demanding those little ones can be and at the same time, how loving and sweet that time together is. But this is a change that will be good for both of you. Enjoy those days with Vic and find some time in there for just Ann.
ReplyDeleteWoos ~ Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara and Mom
Hi, Maggy and Zoey......we saw your request about being hatted and you are on our calendar for February. We will let you know in advance when you will be appearing.
ReplyDeleteYou are such a good co-pilot, Zoey!!!!!!
We have been purraying for your Poppy every day.
Love to all of you.
Make sure you have a few hours "me" time every week - just read, meet a friend, buy something frivolous (for you!) or just do something you enjoy.
ReplyDeleteWe didn't know Zoey was a driving instructor - there's no end to her talents.
Luv to you all
Hannah, Lucy & mum Sue xxx
Big hugs to ZH. Sounds like your plate is full and it must be hard to see the little one go off to school. Our best to Vic. We know he is having a tough time right now. Take care all of you and have a great week end.
ReplyDeleteI know you have had a year of it and have had so many mixed emotions. You will miss Arjun so much but both you and him will be better for it as you wull get more rest time and Arjun can meet and play with other little ones. Take care friends and try not to be too down.. Hugs GJ xx
ReplyDeleteYes, lots of changes, indeed. Hugs to you all...
ReplyDeleteGosh, Ann, you've had a lot on your plate for the past few years. Being a full time caregiver to anyone, elderly or young, is a lot of work, and you've been doing it for several people. AND constantly doing things for people in the CB. I really admire you. I'm amazed at how well you have managed to keep your sanity, your sense of humor, and your chin up. You are an incredible woman.
ReplyDeletejana
Thanks for sharing the cute pic -
ReplyDeleteAND the changes -
I'm sure you'll make the best of it - and so will he!
Ann, I'm sure you are going through strong withdrawal symptoms this week. You have given so much to so many people and never ask for anything in return. I agree with others on this post about how special you are and how much I admire you.
ReplyDeleteSweet Praline and I send special thoughts and prayers to you - Mom Paula
Purrs, hugs and love from us will never change!
ReplyDeletePurrs and hugs from all of us here who love you lots!
ReplyDeleteI think Arjun is now the coolest kid in daycare because he got to drive himself there with Zoey's help!
xoxo Cory and family
What an arrival for the first day! The ZH has done a lot of caregiving these last years and that takes a lot of energy and love. As hard as it is, it's good she recognizes her need to share it now so she can enjoy the time together even more.
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to let them grow up, isn't it? My Grasshopper is nine years young. It goes so fast!
ReplyDelete~ Napoleon
Hang in there! You know how time has a way of handling everything. Hugs to you and Vic.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes to everyone at Zoolatry, and to Vic as well!
ReplyDeleteFrom Daddy Kiril, Elvira Mistress of Pussydom, and I!
Oh my gosh!!! Mom knows exactly HOW YOU FEEL!! HUGSSSSS and Love from us all!! Our GranddaughterBean is 7!!!
ReplyDeleteYour TX furiends,