…and once the baseboards are all done and the carpeting is in I’ll make a proper post of the before and afters…
We are happy with the varied light, medium and darker hickory. It has character which we enjoy. The baseboard installing and finishing is taking a back seat to emptying out the rooms that are going to be re-carpeted. Dear is removing the old carpet and padding and dumping it in the back of the pickup for a trip to the Transfer Station.
I talk to my mom and pop everyday. My mom is showing some very typical signs of failing that seasoned Hospice caregivers affirm. She is starting to see people who have gone before her. She had a dream she was sitting around and having a meal with them. She has more periods of disorientation. She still has her humor and cracks us all up with some of her comebacks. One of my sister-in-laws is Mexican/American and after she told my mom that her son Tony was having cravings right along with his pregnant wife my mom raised her hands and said “Aye Dios Mio”! That’s a first for her! Last night my mom coached my brother Steve as he made a birthday meal for my sister Lana at my mom and pop’s apartment. She chose the dishes to make and was pleased with Steve’s expertise in the kitchen. He even made a chocolate mousse for dessert. Lana enjoyed her birthday dinner and then was on board for being the extra care giver last night and through the day today. I’m so thankful for my brothers and sisters and how they are pulling together and taking turns to be with my mom and pop every night. What a blessing for my parents and for them, too!
Someone needs to coach me into making a meal in my own kitchen. That has gone by the wayside. What have you been enjoying from your kitchen these last few days of July?

I’m on vacation just now and enjoying the break from my kitchen. Your floors are looking lovely and I’ll bet it won’t be long before you’ll be inspired to create something delicious.
Glad your mom is happy..that’s wonderful! Cooked roast and trimmings on Sunday…not much since then! We’ve had leftovers since. We’re leaving Sun to go on a 10 day trip, so I have more important things to do! ha! ha!
It’s all looking mighty fine over there! Tonight? We are having Bev’s basil tomato pizza (from book #1), fresh corn-on-the-cob and peaches with ice-cream for dessert. It’s a summer meal that suits me just fine today. Keeping your mom in my thoughts and prayers.
LOVE your varied hickory floors. Really pretty! I’m glad to hear your mom is keeping her sense of humor. I’ve made a few veggie skillets with my garden goodies. I like to saute any veggies along with olive oil, garlic, onion, and then add some tomatoes at the last and a couple slices of Swiss cheese melted on top. MMMmmmm.
I’ve been so busy the past two days that John has had fried cornflakes for supper.
Oh these experiences that your mom is having remind me of my grandmother’s. Hers went on for weeks and we finally decided that we would enjoy them as she seemed to be. The night she slapped my sister for “dropping the sugar” was pretty amusing.
Your mom seems to be in a much better mood. Sometimes I wonder if there isn’t just a slight lifting of the veil between this world and the next.
Your floors are beautiful!
Your floors are beautiful!! It’s so wonderful how you are all responding to your mom … what a blessing. I felt like I was on Holy ground with each of my parents as we “loved” them through this period….such a special bitter/sweet time!
The hardwood floor looks lovely. Hmmm… I have always been a same color wood person – but seeing yours… I think I have to rethink my preference. So touching to see your Mom being surrounded by her loved ones. Will keep on praying for you and yours.
What a wonderful lady your mum sounds, still full of spirit and fun.
I really admire your new floors. I have to remember this type of wood and finish down the road, when we someday return to the States and update things.
As for cooking, it’s been warm here the last few days — at times like this I like to make “composed” salads — setting out on a plate for my husband and I whatever combo I have. Today (it’s a holiday here) for lunch we had: mixed greens, cucumber, feta, cherry tomatoes, avocado, olives, and small white beans. With lemon juice, balsamic and olive oil it was delish.
The other night we had big ole baked potatoes with sour cream, brocolli, sun dried tomatoes and a bit of gruyere cheese grated on top. Yes!
You’ll feel like cooking down the road – right now you have important things on your mind. Your dear Mom remains in my prayers. and you too – and the whole family.
The signs that a pregnancy is coming to term and the signs of life drawing to a close are so subtle yet predictable. If there is no changes to the brain (as many suggest) then how does this seeing those who are gone before happen? It is definitely a comfort.
I admire your choice of bold flooring!
Thanks for the update…your flooring looks dynamic. It makes a statement. I love it.
We will continue to pray for your Mom and Dad as they journey this last leg together.
Love the floors! I’m a sucker for varigated wood. Your mom sounds like she is being well taken care of by the family. I’m glad they are able to be there. Praying for your mom and dad as well.