Transitions of any kind are difficult.

Transitions as a person ages are increasingly difficult.

Today we are moving my 86 year old mom from a house where she lives pretty much on her own to an apartment in the “Big House” at Copeland Oaks.

It was her decision and one that all four children support.  As with her decision to stop driving we are relieved that she is able to still make some of these decisions on her own without us pushing our agendas.

She loved living in the house she was in at Copeland Oaks. She had great neighbors and a network of friends that will continue to be her network of friends even after she moves from the house.  The apartment is a nice two bedroom which will hold almost all of her furniture and belongings.

She has been going through things and getting rid of things she does not need.  Her kitchen will be much smaller and with no dishwasher and a small sink she will not be cooking as much in her new residence. The good thing is that she will begin to take a meal a day in the dining room which will mean she will be able to have a really healthy meal once a day as well as spend some time with people.

I am going to be spending the week with her  to help with the move which thankfully Copeland Oaks takes complete charge of.  I will be there to help get her settled in and unpacked.  Somehow it is easier when it is myself that is moving.  I can make decisions quickly about placement of things and then rearrange things later if I don’t like the way I did it originally.  I know I can do that.

My mom has done remarkably well with the idea of moving but as the time approaches I can sense her levels of concern escalating.  I get it.  It is a huge transition and while she will have a myriad of folks around her that will be willing to help her . She will actually have to steel herself and acknowledge that she needs a bit more help than she would like to admit to.

Transitions.  They are so very difficult at times and as we age they get more difficult.

My mom has always followed my blog and used to be an every day commenter until her dexterity and eyes made it harder to leave comments.  She has always been my supporter and my friend.  We have that special mother daughter bond that seals us together.  So this week if I am not as quick to answer comments you will understand why.  I am spending my time helping with some transitions and hoping I can be a calming influence as well.

All good thoughts and prayers are appreciated.  Transitions are difficult. Sometimes I think it is more difficult for the daughter than for the mother.