Now it is June and I want to update you all about my latest visit with Dad on Father's Day, June 17th. I drove down to San Rafael on a beautiful afternoon, which had significantly cooled down from the day before when the temperature hit the century mark. Shelley wasn't feeling well so I made the trip alone.
As I walked into Dad's room he greeted me with an instant smile of recognition, which was then confirmed when he addressed me as "mijo!" And he started to cry. I noted that Dad is looking well although he needed a shave. I started my conversation by telling him about the family I'd seen in Texas and about the trip. He asked where I'd spoken with everyone and I said, "In San Antonio," and he looked a bit confused. I reiterated that I'd just gotten back from San Antonio. Then I called Joyce so she could talk to him for a while. They had a nice conversation and Dad didn't cry as much this time.
I told him his birthday was coming up soon and he said, "Oh really?" I asked if he remembered his birth date and he couldn't remember. So I reminded him, June 19th. I said, "Guess how old you are going to be." He said he didn't have any idea. I told him, 84. He said, "I'm getting old!"
Lately Dad seems to be doing quite well health wise but it is very evident his memory is fading with each passing month and year. He can still joke around and laugh but he can also get angry if he doesn't like someone (like his roommate).
Here are a couple of photos I took of Dad during my visit:
Yes, Dad is smiling in both photos!
