Waxing and Waning

Sid and I celebrated Tax Day with two historic events. After 20 years of denial, Dad got his hearing properly evaluated and purchased two state-of the-art hearing aids. This was a mission that I often wondered would ever be successful, and I’m basking in a waxy glow. His change of heart was mostly due to peer pressure - all the other folks at his dinner table wear at least one device. Plus he wants to hear the lectures and movies without sitting in the front row, so he can nap as he pleases without embarrassment. He also wanted a deal – and since I can access a 20% discount through my employer, he felt okay about spending $1200 (which actually is a great price). Makes sense to me.

Tonight we attended a Passover Seder at his facility, which was a cute and somewhat tortuous affair (enough talking, bring the chicken soup!). Apparently Sid’s last Seder was at age 16, so there’s been a 75-year gap since he last spread horseradish on matzos. Much to his surprise, he could still read some of the Hebrew. Much to my surprise, he did not spill Manischewitz wine on his new white shirt.

I’m visiting for a week – shuttling Dad to many medical appointments and trying to have some relaxation time with friends. It’s a good phase; he is doing well in his new environment and thriving in many ways despite occasional crises. Mom still communicates with me when I least expect it. She and I are both a little concerned that my father now refers to Ida, the 98-year wonder woman, as his “date.” I’ve put parts of my life on hold; I regularly support Alaska Airlines and Hertz Rental Car. I’m trying to do the right thing and I’m enjoying being a good daughter. Much like the Passover herbs, it’s bittersweet.