family gifts

 I went to visit my great-aunt yesterday. Aunt Sylvia - or "Sibo" - as we've always

affectionately called her - is now in her early 90's and has severe dementia.

Her son, my second cousin whom I've always been very close to and totally

adore, took care of his mom with no outside help up until about six weeks ago,

when he just couldn't do it anymore. Sibo is now in an assisted living facility

unlike any place I've ever seen before. Instead of your traditional nursing home

setting, this is a group of four ranch houses in a quiet neighborhood, where a

qualified husband and wife team lives in each one and takes care of the 

residents. Of course, there are medical staff that come by just about every day,

but for the elderly to be in a "real" home and have 24/7 care is so awesome.

My cousin is so happy and at peace with the care that is mother is receiving.

The last time I visited with Aunt Sibo was in August, so only two months ago.

I couldn't believe how much she's gone downhill since then. It was so sad

to see her totally incapacitated now. She slept most of the time and barely 

opened her eyes when we were there. She can't walk anymore and what little

speech she has is all garbled. Her petite frame is now just a bag of bones.

Other relatives from downstate whom I don't see very often, were there to

visit too, and at the end of our visit when the hospice chaplain prayed with

all of us, there were many tears. We were able to go out to lunch afterwards

and sat and talked for a couple of hours. Lots of hugs and gratefulness

for each other ended our visit. There is a lot of strife with other family members

over certain issues right now, and it's truly a shame. Life is just too short.

Anyway...my dear cousin was kind enough to give me some things that

belonged to my Aunt Sibo. He knows my tastes and what I like.

He was going through the china cabinet in his house and found these

beautiful napkins and dishtowels. Perfect colors for my kitchen!

 How gorgeous is this Fenton milk glass cake plate? Be still, my heart.

I could see this cake plate used for so many things, but for right now, it's

on the living room buffet. I think Aunt Sibo would be happy to know that

her things are with me and will be used with love and appreciated.

Do you have any family heirlooms from beloved relatives?