The day after the big family meeting and we're all feeling good. The paperwork issues have all been worked out and soon the Power of Attorney will be signed; we're just waiting till the Notary comes in around noon. But as we gather at the UPS Store the word travels fast, Dad's not going to sign. "No problem," I say, trying to keep my mother calm, "we'll start with you". The Notary overhears him mumbling his objections and tells us that she won't be able to work with him. Fortunately I've again brought the paragraph-by-paragraph draft which shows my mother's initials, so the Notary's assured and we can proceed with mom.
This past summer my dad observed my mother and I having a spat. She was being difficult and I was pushing back. His advice, "let it pass, it will pass". A message of patience that I could apply to his resistance. So instead of signed paperwork I took him and my brother for a haircut across the street. The barbers didn't believe we're related since he has a full head of hair while my brother and I take after my mother's side of the family; someday we'll be bald as cue balls.
Louise J. Wannier: I registered - but I can't see where to add my comment - here it is Frank,
This is a wonderful contribution! My dad passed away in August, and it was a very tough time watching someone you love dearly suffer so greatly. As an entrepreneur, I see so many opportunities to develop solutions for respectful elder care that may also help younger care. One to tackle for the future!