I like to take my mother to new places: restaurants, museums (although she’s not a fan), mani/pedi bars, and the Arboretum. It’s too hot these days for those outdoor walking outings, so yesterday we headed to Ft. Worth (about 30 miles west) to see Tara (our youngest daughter and her youngest granddaughter) and all go to lunch.
Driving from Dallas to Ft. Worth was a regular thing for my mom, as she was a traveling saleswoman in her day. Now, she remarks that there are too many people, too many cars, too much construction, and so many new places. She did recognize some places along the route (Six Flags over Texas in Arlington, opened in August 1961) and was in awe at the growth of her native city. We headed to the Medical District in Ft Worth, and a restaurant I found that has many Gluten-Free options, (Mash’d https://mashd.com).
Each of us ordered a colorful drink and hearty meal of our choice, all varied and specific. Being together was a treat and a milestone: we don’t do this too often. Getting to see my mom w/ her adult granddaughter is/was a delight. I have immense love and fabulous memories of my grandmothers, so I’m thrilled to make this happen. We sat and chatted a while before the proverbial clock struck time to go.
These days with my mom are challenging, enjoyable, and important. I try to find new places of interest, then realize she doesn’t remember them anyway, so returning to familiar or previously enjoyed places is acceptable for her.
I’ll keep exploring and reminding her of the city we both love and the FUN places we can experience.
Aloha🌺,
Denise
