Ooh, a new fridge! Doesn't it make you feel so organized? And did you throw out all the really ancient stuff in the old one? Such a good feeling to start over with fresh condiments in the fridge and no old bread in the freezer.

I'm disappointed that you didn't include a picture of the cabinet monstrosity that surrounded your bed. It sounds very Las Vegas hotel. Hey--are you and Tony swingers or something?

Speaking of clouds, weather, etc -- where exactly are you and how did your house (and the cliffs) weather the storm?

Those dolls are fabulous! I had no idea you were such a fan. God, I loved that show.

I can't imagine what it's like for people whose entire careers were spent on the space shuttle program, or for people like you who work there or live in the area. It does seem really sad.

Oh my GOD, that sounds so painful. I'm super impressed that you finished your workout, went bike riding, etc.

I'm glad that you and your sister-in-law have maintained your relationship, and that you are now able to see your nephews. I need lipstick, too, but I HATE IT so much! Yucky, greasy stuff. Actually, I think you look great in that photo. Your hair looks fantastic.

Ah, the clothing issues. My mother is also super-attached to certain items, some of which are in horrible shape (permanently stained, or so threadbare that you can see through the fabric). Occasionally we spirit an item away, never to be seen again. Also, do you sometimes just not answer the phone when you see that it's your mother? I do. It's a self-protection measure.

Good idea to communicate this to the nursing staff. I hope it helps.

NOOOOOOO! God, that is so horrible. You would have to be INHUMANLY patient and selfless to not feel angry about that crap. Speaking of crap, your brother is a piece of crap.

Yeah, you are not really a complainer. I checked out fat chat and was impressed with 8 pounds lost since January.

Damn, girl. You've lost 8 pounds since January. That's great!

This is a very timely post for me. My mother and I had an "incident" last week that left me feeling tearful and resentful and somewhat martyred. I like the idea of scoring myself on my patience. I will make it into a game! A pathetic little game, but a game nonetheless! Ugh - elderly people in the hospital. It's so sad to see them be all confused and disoriented. Double Ugh - your brother. WHAT AN ASSHOLE.

I've been having a little trouble posting, myself. But that's been going on for at least a year. I remember that Woolworth's on Piney Branch Road! During the school year I miss having time to putter around at home. I always tell myself that I will sneak a day off from work here and there to do exactly that, but in the end I don't.

I loved The Glass Castle. Glad all is well with you. I was worried there had been a Mom Crisis. This full-time work business sucks, doesn't it?

Damn, girl, where are you? Everything okay?

Ha ha! Poor Tony. The gift-giving thing is hard to get right sometimes. Were his feelings terribly hurt?

Christ. I don't think my siblings and I really have any idea about what lies ahead for my mom. This gives me a little sad and scary glimpse. You're a good daughter, Anne. You know that.

Man, if my parents ever find out that we put a dumpster in their driveway and filled it to the brim, we are gonna have a LOT of explaining to do. Then again, my parents are borderline hoarders.

Wow. I can't believe that it took me a week or more to get over here and read this amazing post. You tell this story so well, Anne. It's a story that has always fascinated me--you and your parents bound together with a shared history of grief. And P--growing up as the adored, healthy, golden boy. That quote from your mother about the 4 healthy children? That's just heart-breaking. Wish I could write a long, insightful comment like Pam and Karen do. But as usual, I'm rushing to get ready for work. I'll talk to you later. xoxo

I will have to come back and read all the documents later, as I am running late for work. But, you KNOW what I think about your brother. Also, I wonder if you want to go into a little more of the family history here. I can't help but feel that the entire family dynamic was altered forever by events that happened when you were young. Does that explain P's behavior? (Also, delete this comment if it's too personal)

I know most of this story already, and it never fails to horrify me. It's one of the reasons I am so grateful for the siblings I have--I know how bad it could be. How could you and your brother have turned out so differently? It does make me wonder whether he has some sort of mental illness.

Yeah, I heard you guys got some crazy rain. We had it up here too, but not as bad as you did.

HONEY! I had no idea! And I'm reading your entries backwards at the moment. I'm guessing the blood pressure is why you are doing the walking thing? Good for you. They don't want to put you on blood pressure medication or anything?

Anne, I didn't know you weren't feeling well. Sounds yucky, but I'm glad the doctor reassured you that you won't keel over anytime soon. Oh, and hell yes I understand!