Most of the stories we read in magazines are about the challenges of helping aging parents whose health and financial stability have become sources of worry and anxiety. But the story I'm writing is about the many middle-aged people who continue to be nurtured and guided by their parents. If your parents continue to light your mid-life paths in ways that nurture family bonds, I'd love to chat with you. (I am particularly hoping to find MEN with close relationships with parents, so if you are/know one, let me hear from you!)

bylisagoff,
Welcome to the forums. Why don't you go to the WELCOME section and tell us all about yourself! Thanks for joining and I'm sure you'll get plenty of feedback here.

JJ

I don't know what I'd do without my parent. My mother passed away Dec. 04 and was an inspiration until her last breath. She and Dad have continued to guide me, help me through a difficult divorce. They/now just Dad- continue to encourage (and even slip me some financial support) as I walk out of this mess.

They were very active seniors, dancing at local nursing centers and fairs to promote senior health and fitness. Mom danced her last dance about one week before she succombed to cancer. Dad still dances.

On Monday my sister and I accompanied him to the funeral home where he wanted to plan his funeral and have it all paid for so he wouldn't be a burden to us. All the arrangements are made--we even know what songs he'd like played...

He lives at a nursing center in a condo and is very content. He still drives and is independent.

My mnother is my rock, my hero and the person I try to mold my life after. God bless her...Now my son would say the same thing about me, and he thinks he is the lucky one.

starting over, your dad sounds like one of the grandest in the Greatest Generation. You are blessed.

You mentioned planning his funeral. I think that's one of the best gifts you can give your kids. I recall when Mom died, we had already planned everything in advance with the funeral home. It made those few days so much easier becasue we weren't running around like chickens with our heads cut off. The grief itself was enough.

chatty, what a great son!