DH: We're going to start tiling the area under the pergola today.
ME: Who is?
DH: Your dad and I
Now, bear in mind that my dad has Parkinson's AND Emphyzema (spelling?) and some days can't walk the length of himself, without sounding as if he's gasping for his last breath...
ME (two octaves above my normal gentile tones): Are you mad?!......it will kill him- and very possibly you too, you haven't done any manual work for yonks!
DH: I've spoken to him and we're both up for giving it a try...we're doing it!
Before I knew it, they were out there counting tiles, hoovering(?) the dust up and making cement. They worked solidly for two and a half days, before the rain started and the job had to stop. By the time the weather had cleared up, DH was heading off again and we agreed to call in our 'Man Friday' to complete the job.
Dad was so disappointed not to see the job finished, and to be able to help again, but 'Man Friday' couldn't fit the job in till mum and dad had gone home! He had really enjoyed himself (don't get me wrong, DH did all the heavy work), and the fresh air and exercise helped him sleep at night (something he has great trouble with). I think most of all though, he felt needed and realised that we-me, after a bit of persuasion, of course- don't all think of him as an invalid who has no purpose anymore. I have vowed to remember that!
Here's the layout
and a couple of close-ups
If you pop over to Sian's Blog, you will find a plethora of stories from bloggers from all over the world....I think it would be worth your while!
Thanks for dropping by!
Take care of you
Alison xx
