Julie helped Mom twice a week beginning in March of 2018, and beginning March of this year, three times a week. She bathed Mom twice a week and did light housekeeping once a week. During these times I would take a half hour walk and upon returning would find the two of them sitting on the sofa, as close as possible, engrossed in conversation like life-long friends, actually more like family. She would always let Karen, Mom's nurse know if a new concern arose Julie came four times the last week Mom was at home. The final time she scheduled to prepare Mom for transfer to Rose Arbor. Mom couldn't get ready herself and was beyond my help. Julie did so with love and grace in such a dignified manner - what was witnessed and experienced in those moments I will never forget.

A Sunset

He had misunderstood, or did not hear

Mother was not to be left there

But scheduled to be interred at the time

He proceeded to the funeral line

And followed the official's car

His the second, and last car

In creeping funeral procession

His feelings in possession

And upon arrival at the appointed site

Father's open grave gave no fright

Nor the green urn entering brown earth

Lovers reunited after the dearth

And as sand covered the two of them

He remembered Lake Michigan

Lions Beach, mother impatiently waiting

Father done swimming

At day's end

September 5th

Fort Custer National Cemetery

-Mark Hochmuth