We sent Jeannie her way to MTC two weeks ago on 6/8. It's so difficult to let her go.. and seeing her leave by herself for I know I won't be able to see her in 18 months --- that's really hard! We both cried as I dropped her off at the Philly airport. But at the same time, there is a sense of peace that I cannot describe as I know she will be in good hands -- in Lord's hand. I will now trade her experience for anything! The Lord knows her will, her strength and weakness. He doesn't call on those who are capable, but only on those who are willing. She will be a great missionary and I have no doubt about it. She will come home and be a great leader in the church! That's all I need to know.
Things are going pretty well today. I took the kids to visit Norma and accidentally met a lady named Ruby and her family. Ruby is 89 years old, and a resident there at the nursing home. She also suffered Alzheimer disease like Norma. Ruby's daughter, Vikki was there visiting her from Maryland with her husband and son. It's kind of sad as Ruby introduced Vikki to me as her mother, and her grandson as her own son. Of course, Vikki and I didn't correct her since we know how Alzheimer patients are. Ruby is really sweet in nature, very much like Norma. She kept asking me and the kids to give her a kiss; and of course we did (like over 10 times in a 15 mins visit) even though this is the first time we ever met! I really don't mind kissing her as long as she is feeling loved. I am just surprised that Evan and Jady kissed her back too! :D
I truly believe the Lord had our life time table all planned out before we came. Vikki asked what my name was before our leaving and interesting enough -- Ruby's other daughter as well as her own middle name is Pauline! We were stunned since Pauline is a rare name. And Ruby told me that she thinks of me like her own daughter...that melts my heart. I really don't care whether she knows what she is saying (Alzheimer patients tend to lost themselves in the middle of a conversation), because she already earned a special place in my heart! I promised her that I will visit her again next week and Evan told me that he wouldn't mind going either -- what a blessing!
Norma... Norma's thought process has declined quite a bit.... she used to be able to hold a thought, but it seemed to be jumping around often lately. However, she was as sweet as usual and she told me that we should hang out when she is not as busy! :D She is absolutely adorable!
Something I learn here is that our personality and character won't change much as we grow older or even one day completely lost ourselves. If we be kind, loving and gentle in life, we'll be the same person till we died.
