I've been forced to take this week off work, well not really forced, but I have to take my annual leave before the end of March or I can loose it. Since my mother died nearly two years ago, I haven't really fancied taking any time off work. I have learned how to fit everything I want to do around work, and use it as a rather convenient way of neglecting things I haven't wanted to do.
Yesterday I went to visit my grandparents. The last time I went to see them was about November last year, and it felt really strange in that they haven't changed a bit. When I saw them in November, they were both sitting on the sofa in front of the fire. My grandmother not quite with it, she seemed to be stuffed full of pills to keep her calm and placid to deal with the dementia. My grandfather, who suffered a stroke a few years ago, was still as bright and cheery as he's always been. Yesterday it felt exactly the same. My grandmother continuously leafed through the paper, my grandfather at one point asked her what she was reading, and she said the paper!
I've never been really good with social occasions. I always was happy for my mother to take control of these family gatherings - suited me, but now it feels awkward and strange. I just think it's strange how families interact with each other. Since my mother passed away it all changed. Only my sister seemed to be going through the same thing as me, although she has her family to take of, and who takes care of her, even though she doesn't see it that way.
