We didn't have dinner today. We are putting it off until Saturday when we can bring Mom a plate in the hospital. This year, Thanksgiving is bittersweet. Not having Mom at home could have made it a very sad day. I thought it would. But surprisingly, it might end up being my favorite one so far.
Today, Shelby, Jeka and I spent most of the day with Mom in the hospital. She had her spleen removed Tuesday after spending a week in there hoping it would heal. Recovery is slow and painful for her, but she is looking better every day. I could never have imagined how much I would treasure this time with her. She is always the one who takes care of everyone else. She is a rock and the strongest woman I know. Taking care of her while she is vulnerable and weak is such a privilege. To be able to repay her in some small way is truly amazing. Jeka and I gave Mom a sponge bath today to help protect her modesty. We are a family of extremely modest women and it is painful and humiliating to have to rely on strangers to bathe us or care for us in that way. It was such an honor to be able to do that for her. She also had us brush her hair a lot and pull it back for her. There is something so special about brushing your own Mom's hair. Shelby ran back and forth to the nurses kitchen to bring Noni fresh cranberry juice and ice chips. She helped pull the curtain when necessary and heated up chicken broth for her. She felt so big and useful. When I left to come home she begged to stay with Noni, so I let her. I can't believe at 8 years old she spent an entire day in the hospital with her Noni. She loves that lady! We all do! I am so thankful for this upside down Thanksgiving. I will always remember this sweet time with my Momma with tenderness.
