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Monday, October 02, 2017

Things and People: Susan Sands

This should be a blog about books since I have a new book coming out October 26th! I'm so excited about that and want to give it a good promotional shout for it. Christmas, Alabama is available now for pre-order!
Available October 26th

But there are so many other things happening in my life right now that I must purge them onto this page.

Many of us are in a similar place in life where our children are growing up and leaving the nest, while our parents are becoming more needful of us in physical, emotional, and sometimes financial ways. They become our new dependents as their parents became during their aging cycle. It's a life shift that isn't easy for anyone. But it is a transition that happens.

My husband and I are trying to sell our house and downsize. We've just rid ourselves via a three-day professionally-run, estate sale of most of our furniture and household items and accessories with the idea that our house would show and sell better with empty closets and rooms free of clutter. This week we move my dad into memory care. Next month, my mom moves in with us. My daughter is filling out college applications and visiting colleges and will graduate in the spring. Oh, yes, and I have that new book coming out...

So, our house goes back on the market in a week or two after the last offer fell through.

But we're all okay for now. People matter. Things don't. It was easy to get rid of them. We have each other. We all get along pretty well. We're working together as a team to accomplish all these goals. We work for grace every day. Some days are better than others.

I wish you grace in your life struggles.

Susan Sands

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh no. Sorry to hear about all the things going on and your dad's situation. As we have spoke about this before, it is very difficult for everyone involved. But on a happy note...oct 26 YAY! I have missed that family and can't wait to spend Christmas with them. Thanks so much. Take care !! Debbie Morrison

Susan Sands said...

Yes, it's crazy times around the Sands's household. Thanks for your friendship and support, Debbie!!

Patricia Bennett Barber said...

So sorry to hear about your dad. I am my mom's caregiver and I know it was hard on your mom. Prayers for everyone in the family. And it was great meeting you in Orlando .

dstoutholcomb said...

It's not easy being in the middle of the Sandwich Generation.

Hugs. On the most stressful days, remember: you are a good mother and a good daughter.

denise

girlygirlhoosier52 said...

I hate the process of selling your house. I will say that I found that cookie scented candles [set on coffee cup warming devices] keep my house smelling good without leaving lighted candles unattended. [ok I was at a party where the centerpiece had lit candles & it caught on fire when the party moved to the living room for coffee] It's tough to deal with parents issues. But maybe your mom will keep you from feeling so 'empty nest'...

Susan Sands said...

Thanks, Patricia. Caregivers deserve all the respect and compassion in the world. You are saints. I loved meeting you as well. You are lovely!!

Susan Sands said...

Thanks so much, Denise! It does help to try and remember those things that matter most!

Susan Sands said...

Wow! I'll have to rethink the candles! Yes, the parent issues are tough. My mom seems to be handling this all pretty well, considering. Thanks for the support!