Dateline Dayton — Over Pauline's objections, her brother was released from the hospital last Thursday, three days after his broken hip was repaired.  He was released, even though he had not been out of bed since arriving at the hospital on Sunday evening.

The next afternoon I took Pauline to Walnut Creek to sign the paperwork signed for Joe’s stay in their rehabilitation center.  Joe did not look good. He was barely responsive to  Pauline's questions.  His supper arrived while we were there.  Pauline tried to help him eat — a little.  Small success.  Upon leaving, I predicted he would be back in the hospital before the weekend was over.

On Saturday we took care of last-minute pre-Christmas items. Our family Christmas celebration was going to be Sunday.

Sunday we were on our way to Piqua for church with my brother and sisters along with our daughter, Darlene, and her family, minus Ryan. He remained behind in Michigan because of work. He will join us on Christmas Day. 

After Sunday Mass, we went out for breakfast. Nice that all of us were able to get together. It has been quite awhile.

Time to Eat

Pauline already had fixed the ham, leaving little to do once we returned home.  By 5 o’clock, everyone had arrived.  Our granddaughter had to go to the car. When she came back, she calmly announced a man had fallen. He needed help.  Almost as soon as we went out to find him, the police arrived. The man had dialed 9-1-1.  The officer told us that a fire truck was en route. We should let the medics help him.

It appeared he was okay, although he had a nasty bruise on his leg. He already was using a walker and a scooter. He was trying to put a suitcase in the back of his car when he fell.

Once back inside, we indulged in the delicious food Pauline and others had fixed.  Then it was time for our white elephant gift exchange.  The room grew heated because as some gifts change hands many times.

Our grandson Jarod ended up with the big gift, a box of straw.  After the exchange was over, he learned he also won an antique horse, three feet tall.  Jake, our dog, probably is going to miss that horse. He loved nudging it, anticipating a response.

When our exchange was over, the phone rang. Since the family was there, who could that be? Walnut Creek calling, letting Pauline know that her brother was on his way to the hospital.  Unfortunately, my prediction was correct.  Our son Chris drove Pauline to the hospital and I cleaned up the kitchen while they were gone.

Last Monday upon Pauline's arrival, as is usually the case, once Joe is in the hospital, things are better. He does, however, have pneumonia and a possible urinary tract  infection. Responsive and eating – those were good signs.

In the evening we traveled north again, to Troy, to meet my brother and his wife. We had a date for pizza at Marion’s with our mutual friends from Georgia, Mel and Jan.  Their son and his wife also joined us for an evening of fun and reminiscing. We are planning to visit them next year on our way to Florida, next year.

Merry Christmas.

And do remember the real meaning of the day.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net