My beloved neighbor, Joy....90 years of age....still sane, rational and competent was informed today that she is moving to Austin tomorrow to live in an assisted living community. She doesn't want to go....and is wealthy enough to live on her neighboring estate with a full staff for the rest of her life. Her family is getting greedy and not taking her wishes into consideration. I took her out for hamburgers this evening and we talked. She knows she is able to make her own decisions, but doesn't want to fight with her children. I spent hours today putting tape on furniture and pictures that she wants in her new apartment so the movers will know what to pack. Don't get me wrong...her boyfriend lives in the same building and she is lonely at night. This is the best thing for her.....she will make many new friends and I won't have to worry about cooking extra just so I know she is eating.
Still springing it on her with a one day notice is dreadful. I shall harbor a resentment against her children (both senior citizens) for ages.
Joy has been trying to give me a Lalique crystal jaguar for ages. I have always refused. It goes on EBAY for about $5000 and is actually worth $10,000. Today she put me on the spot. After dinner she threatened to break it if I didn't take it. So...yes...finally...I took it. I am honored that she would want me to have such a gift. I know she loves me like a child, but to have her be so adamant about a gift really proves it. I called Gary and some friends after placing such a magnificent piece on my living room coffee table. They all made sense. If I think Joy is competent then I should not question her choice in gifting her loved ones. I intend to keep the piece and even if her family wants it back they can't have it! Joy has loved me like a son for twenty years. If she wants to give me a memorable gift then it makes perfect sense.
Tomorrow Joy gives up her dog for good. Diego (a sweet baby) moves to our house. It breaks my heart that she can't take her dog. However, Paley (our schnauzer) is his best friend and he stays here when Joy goes out of town. At least he will be able to see his old yard and be with people that love him.
I have decided....I definitely don't want to live to the age that other people begin to make your decisions.
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