Yesterday we traveled to Stockton, CA, an hour from home, to visit my Uncle Harry and Aunt Mimi.
Mimi has fallen and broken her hip and is in an aftercare facility in the senior complex where they live. Uncle Harry comes to visit her daily from their apartment a few minutes away. We knew we'd find him there with her. She was just finishing her lunch. I invited her to draw with me, as I did at our last visit when she stayed focused for an hour of "coloring" with me. This time I got her to draw one tiny circle, but that was it. She dropped the marker and closed her eyes and did not pick it up again.
She does not look well at all. I feel they are really at the very, very end of life now. Intellectually, I know this makes sense. In my heart I am sad and a bit depressed today.
I used this sketch for my Sketchbook Skool assignment today as well: To draw our day in our art journal on a painted background, and write on the page about what I drew. I used a page I'd pre-painted in watercolor and drew using a new COPIC multiliner black 0.03 pen. I do like it's fine line. I used the Prismacolor black C (calligraphy) pen for the writing in my art journal. It's a Mixed Media Travelbook called Cachet by Daler-Rowney, 7" X 10", and comes with it's own paint brush. 120 lb. paper.
yes, that is sad
ReplyDeletenice of you to try to engage her.... it is nice to close ones eyes when they want to close
It is great that you still have older relatives to spend time with. The only relatives I have left of that era are two aunts, neither of which live anywhere close to me. Older people have such great memories and lessons to impart. Uncle Harry is lucky to have you to share his memories and stories with. I am sorry that Aunt Mimi wasn't as responsive as the last time, but maybe she is in a place of contentment. Nice job on the sketch of Uncle Henry and I like the pre-painted page for this. Glad the sketch is being used for multiple uses.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry your Aunt is this ill Lynn. It must be difficult on your Uncle to see her like it too. Good that you were there, for them both. Love your drawing.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this touching portrait and story, Lynn. I am sorry about the sad situation, but how wonderful that you have each other.
ReplyDeleteI can relate as my aunt and uncle are the same ages and my aunt just fell and broke her hip and has dementia. It's sad to know they will be gone soon and we can no longer hear their stories. Good sketch of this meaningful time in your life with them.
ReplyDeleteWhat a moviegoing portrayal of your Uncle. It brought me right back to many visits with my father and mother. Your words and sketch are gems.
ReplyDeleteOh so sad but that is a wonderful line drawing, especially with the added color.
ReplyDeleteI am sad to hear about your uncle and aunt. Your drawing is wonderful with the text.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for your warm reactions to my post about Uncle Harry and Aunt Mimi. It's very much appreciated! I was a bit down in the dumps today so my husband did two thoughtful things to help raise my spirits. First he sent me shopping for art supplies, and then he took me out of town to a movie. The film was humorous, which lifted me out of my depressed state! He really is a gem, this husband of mine! ;-)
ReplyDeleteLovely tender story and sketch. The colours of your pre-painted page are just right for Uncle Harry. Sadly, I am now the second oldest memory of our 'wider' family.
ReplyDeleteIt's always sad when we lose our loved ones. Thank you for sharing your story about your uncle and aunt. What is this thing with dementia? There are so many people getting it and one wonders why. Again, beautiful story and wonderful portrait of your uncle. Sorry I haven't been around. I will probably join the next session. The outside gardens have captured my time as of late. Have a wonderful day and sorry about the sadness you have been feeling.
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