The candle flickers

I dread writing this post, but it is imperative that I do so. I need to enlighten you about our situation.

By late March, Lenore will join me as a nonagenarian. Living on heavily mortgaged time, both of us are painfully aware of our rapidly diminishing physical and mental capabilities. We know our future is at hand.

But to ease our angst, it would be a great relief to start disposing of what we no longer need ~ unworn clothing, furniture stored in our attic, crockery, glassware, unused appliances and a garage full of tools. To live with only what is essential and indispensable would greatly simplify our existence. May we ask you, therefore, to help us to do now what eventually you will need to do when we depart?

Death is not what we fear. Impairment and serious disability are the ominous specters that haunt us. So to insure that we place no excessive burdens on our family our lawyer, Joseph Latwin, Purchase, NY, is drawing up a living trust. It will facilitate managing our assets by our beneficiaries, when and if we can no longer do so.

We want to continue residing in our present home for as long as possible. The prospect of moving to an assisted living facility is unappealing. But, quien sabe? In the meantime, please keep Lenore and me on your AIM buddy lists. For live alones and senescents AIM can be a very effective and reassuring monitoring device. Lenore’s screen name is "lengab1917" and mine is "domgab1914."

And now for a much needed swig of Jack Daniels!

Comments:mailto:domgab1914@comcast.net

Dom ~ You sound more than somber. I hope you and Nan are feeling o.k. I think it’s these crazy winter blues that may be getting you guys down. Spring is right around the corner and you'll soon be out on the golf course kicking your pals’ butts in no time! Meanwhile, keep the Jack handy. Love ya both ~ Bruce

Dad, I hope that you and Mom are OK. Your latest entry in the Horn is not up to your usual positive standard. Like Bruce says, spring is close at hand, and I'm sure that the flowers and the clean fresh air will brighten your spirits. I love you both and I need your help to save our republic ~ Tom

Dom ~ I look almost every day hoping to find another brilliant discourse on something or other. Today's was very upsetting and I agree with your family that perhaps the long winter darkness has got you down. I'm sure that you are familiar with SAD. There is also another option to consider. "Independent living" allows for more flexibility and a better quality of life. Some friends of mine have recently moved into a facility where they even have golf privileges. I ordered a box of "Honeybells" about 6 weeks ago to be shipped to you. Have you received them? I"m writing this on a new computer that I bought last week. The old one always gave me trouble, but I now have an Apple and it is fast, and user friendly. May your next blog be more positive and uplifting ~ Stan Zeller

Dear Papa, This latest post was very upsetting to read. You have a wide circle of family who love you very much. Please cheer up! I love both of you dearly. Love, ~ Megan

Dad ~ Is there an alien writing on your blog, because it sure doesn't sound like my father? You know the ground hog didn't see his shadow, so spring is coming early this year. I told Mom on Sunday, that we're planning on coming up one weekend in March. We'll bring a couple loaves of your favorite bread from Liscios. But Dad, seriously, please know that you and Mom are more than welcome to come and live with us if the need arises. Love you both very very much ~ Loretta

Hi Dom ~ I have been so busy that I haven't been perusing your blogs until this AM (3/16/07) when I read the above. Its contents saddened me. I hope the many comments from family and friends served to lift the incubus from your spirit, a downer which we all experience from time to time. I am looking forward to your golf tournament later this year ~ Tony