- Pronunciation:
- \ˈres-pət also ri-ˈspīt, British usually ˈres-ˌpīt\
- Function:
- noun
- Etymology:
- Middle English respit, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin respectus, from Latin, act of looking back — more at respect
- Date:
- 13th century
1 : a period of temporary delay
2 : an interval of rest or relief
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hospice is arranging for my dad to spend four days in a nursing home over the weekend as a "respite break" for his caregivers. though i feel terribly guilty about it, i admit that i am excited to have a chance to do a few things, and on a weekend to boot. i already have more things planned than i could possibly do: call friends, see friends, sleep in, garden, work on graphics projects, go to a movie, go out to eat, go to the gym, clean the house, take the dogs for a walk, etc.
if it seems cruel to you to put a 53-year-old man in a nursing home, even for four days, I agree with you. but considering he rarely sleeps and never at night, and when he is awake is usually unmanageable, i think becky and i could use a few days to refresh. it's starting well already, paul greeted me when i walked in at midnight last night with these:
2 : an interval of rest or relief
______
hospice is arranging for my dad to spend four days in a nursing home over the weekend as a "respite break" for his caregivers. though i feel terribly guilty about it, i admit that i am excited to have a chance to do a few things, and on a weekend to boot. i already have more things planned than i could possibly do: call friends, see friends, sleep in, garden, work on graphics projects, go to a movie, go out to eat, go to the gym, clean the house, take the dogs for a walk, etc.
if it seems cruel to you to put a 53-year-old man in a nursing home, even for four days, I agree with you. but considering he rarely sleeps and never at night, and when he is awake is usually unmanageable, i think becky and i could use a few days to refresh. it's starting well already, paul greeted me when i walked in at midnight last night with these:
6 comments:
It's not cruel-- it's necessary, and the fact that you all have kept him home at all is a testament to your dedication. Everyone needs a break!
Paul's a keeper. ;-)
TU basketball plays tonight... LOL! Seriously though-- let me cook for us or something!
not cruel.
paul's flowers made me tear up a little.
aw, cute.
and again, because I honestly think you need to hear this from as many people as possible--it is not cruel. and you should not feel guilty. not even a little. from what you've blogged, it is good for everyone involved, and when your dad returns home you will find yourself rejuvenated and refreshed, and ready to devote more time again, methinks.
ps: the wordnerd in me LOVES that you used a dictionary definition at the beginning. :)
<3 the flowers. And don't you dare feel guilty. We're thinking of you!
It's not cruel-in any way, shape, or form. Proud of you for getting some "me" time b/c it makes the time with him better when you get to do some stuff for you, too, from time to time... :)
Paul's flowers made ME tear up and I'm not even pregnant. Lord. At least I hope not.. ;) Kidding..
Anyway, know you're in my thoughts and I ALWAYS have a spare minute, spare dinner time, spare movie time, available for you. I know you're likely busy busy.. but if you wanted to see a movie or even do lunch Sunday, just let me know. I'll text and follow up if I dont hear from you, lovely!
you are in fact probably one of the greatest children alive. as much as i love my parents i question whether i would have the fortitude or compassion to take care of them as you have done. you are truly a good person. as if any of us ever doubted that. ;)
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