Linsey Lanier
Sally Kilpatrick
Sia Huff
Romily Bernard
Darcy Crowder
Marilyn Baron
Tami Brothers
Sandra Elzie
Carol Burnside
Debbie Kaufman
Maxine Davis
Tammy Schubert
Susan Carlisle
Pam Asberry
Lindy Chaffin StartI Remember… What Alzheimers Made You Forget
I remember sitting on the side of a crisp, calm lake squeezing salmon eggs onto my fishing hook. No matter how many jars you gave us, we usually had them empty by the middle of the first day. After that, if we wanted to fish any more we had to dig for worms. I remember how hard it was for the three of us girls to sit there and wait for a nibble. We were never any good at fishing because we couldn’t stop talking long enough to keep from scaring the fish away.
You would always sit patiently on the other side of the lake; far enough away that our talking didn’t bother you but close enough you could yell instructions when we actually hooked 
one.
I remember you pushing us out of those “holes” we dug ourselves into with our bikes. I loved those extra long banana seats and our training wheels made the perfect crutch to hold us over that uneven ground as our back wheel spun in the dirt. You’d laugh when we got “stuck,” dodging the clouds of dust we kicked up as we tried to rock ourselves out. Eventually you would break down and give us that push we thought we wanted. More often than not, you’d end up shaking your head and walking away when we came back around to do it again and again. You were our hero, always there to lend a hand. I didn’t want to give up those training wheels for that very reason.
I remember the bowls filled with little dynamite looking firecrackers. It’s funny how I can now relate to mom’s grumbling about us grabbing her “good” bowls. I can still see the two of you sitting on the front step unraveling the string we always seemed to tangle together. Unfortunately, I also recall burning my fingers on the punks and lighters we used to light them, but boy was it fun leading up to that.
I remember traveling to another town so we could attend an old John Wayne movie at the outdoor movie theater. We arrived early so we could play at the playground next to the big screen. I remember falling off the swings before the movie started and scraping my elbow. I can still recall it burning like crazy while we sat on a blanket in front of the truck, listening to the scratchy sound coming from the speaker next to us. I also remember falling asleep before the movie was over and being carried to the pick-up, waking with my head resting on your shoulder. I really miss those outdoor movies.
I remember all of us jumping into the car and buying a cassette tape at the gas station, then driving around town listening to the songs. My sisters and I never really cared who the artist was or if they were some old singer we really didn’t like. We just savored the feel of going somewhere. I thought that was the coolest thing back then.
I remember camping at Johnson Lake one fourth of July with you teaching me how to drive the Pontiac. Talk about luck (or lack of it) when I ran over a really big rattlesnake. Right after that, the radiator blew. I remember sitting in the car in the middle of that two tire dirt track not wanting to get out and help fix it. After all, there might be another snake. Later that night, we saw the best show ever when you and Uncle Jack set off tons of fireworks to the delight of the those camping there that weekend.
I remember all five of us taking the 56 Chevy you lovingly restored to Natural Bridge one day and just walking around. You and mom held hands, while the three of us girls waded barefoot in the cold creek water. That was right around the time we all started doing our own thing and those moments got fewer and fewer as time went on.
As I sat down to write out all of these memories, I couldn’t help but think that with your Alzheimers, you won’t remember a lot of them. That broke my heart.
Then the more I typed, the more I remembered and I suddenly realized that it didn’t matter if you remembered them or not. Because we do.
As I copied pictures from my baby book, my son asked questions about different ones. I laughed out loud when I recalled the time I almost ran that 56 Chevy into the six foot deep hole you’d just hand dug for our well house. That was the first time I’d driven a stick shift and it didn’t go so well.
As I sat there telling him the story, I realized that even though you might not always remember them, the stories and memories are being passed along. By Julie. Stephanie. Mom. Me. Not only did you have a tremendous effect on our lives, but you will continue to have an effect on our kids as we share with them the stories that shaped who we are now.
Your legacy will live on with us and in the minds of these young kids who call you Grandpa. YOU may not remember, but we will.
I love you dad!
Tags: Alzheimer's Disease, Tami Brothers
About the author
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Tami Brothers | http://www.tamibrothers.com I’ve always wanted to live a fun, sexy and exciting life. But when my clumsiness left me with an aversion to high heels, my fear of wardrobe malfunctions cut out those plunging necklines, and my skydiving instructor politely suggested I take up golf; I decided the only way to keep from breaking my neck would be to write about such a life.
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July 30th, 2010 at 6:00 am
Gosh, Tami. Starting my morning out with tears here. My wonderful mother-in-law lost all her memories as well. So glad you can see the positive end of this.
July 30th, 2010 at 6:31 am
Tami
I feel your frustration and pain with this horrible condition. My father also had Alzheimers. He was at is 50th Anniversary party, but he didn’t even remember who my mother was. Sad.
My kids will always remember him fixing his own cars, working as a chemist to make rocket fuel for the NASA program and his love of traveling the U.S. He’s gone now, but in our hearts and memories, he lives on.
Thanks for the reminder of bygone days. Oh, BTW, my brave father also taught me to drive. (g)
Sandy
July 30th, 2010 at 8:01 am
Hey Debbie and Sandy! Thanks a ton for taking time out of that busy conference and stopping by. I hope you are learning lots of great stuff. Wish I was there with you.
I know how hard it is, Debbie. We were in denial for a long time, but it’s a lot easier if you just accept it. It’s still tough when you miss them while they are still here.
I didn’t know your dad had Alzheimer’s, Sandy. That exact scenario (except at their 40th) was what finally opened my mother’s eyes and made her realize she had to do something about it.
Dads are great at teaching that driving thing, aren’t they? My mom was terrible, no patience at all. But dad was calmer than I could ever have expected him to be.
Thanks for stopping by!
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 8:36 am
My dear mother in law has Alzheimer’s also. There’s no other feeling that compares to being alone & all grown up than when you see that vacancy in their eyes. So smart, so independent, and now….
Your writing these memories is a true gift to your mother & family– he’ll always be a hero.
P.S. I miss outdoor movies too!
July 30th, 2010 at 8:42 am
Tami – what a beautiful and heart wrenching post. I’m very rarely brought to tears by things I read but this did it. I love how you’re preserving the wonderful memories for your children so they will know what an amazing man he was. My heart goes out to you and your family as you help him through this.
July 30th, 2010 at 9:58 am
Tami,
This is such a beautiful post. I’ve got tears running down my cheeks.
Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease for an individual and everyone close to him/her. It is so hard taking care of loved ones in the advanced stages of the disease with safety being a primary concern. My mother has told me stories about my grandmother taking care of two of her sisters several years ago until they passed on. One of them adopted the very gentle personality while the other one found herself with the angry, sometimes violent, side. These stories were heartbreaking just to hear. I can’t imagine going through this process with a loved one.
I encourage you to write down all of your memories. Make scrap books if this is something you enjoy. Having those memories tucked away will be a comfort to you and members of your family.
My best to you and your family.
July 30th, 2010 at 10:03 am
Tami,
Your post also touched me. I’m familiar with Alzheimer’s too. I cared for my mother-in-law who had it for almost five years. It’s true what they say about the disease being “the long goodbye.” Hold onto those memories for your dad.
Hugs,
Maureen
July 30th, 2010 at 10:21 am
Tami,
Wow. I honestly can’t say much else. Well written, heart wrenching, but a wonderful reminder. Love ya!
Sami
July 30th, 2010 at 10:25 am
Hi Pamela. I’m truly sorry to hear about your MIL. You described the feeling to a T (with the vacancy in their eyes). I appreciate you coming out today and commenting. Oh, and we might be able to make some money on those outdoor movie theaters if we opened a few. I think there has to be a few more nostalgic people than just us…grin…
Thank you, Dianna! Coming from such a great writer, that really makes me feel good. Thank you for taking time out of your very busy schedule and conference time to stop by and read this today. I do appreciate it.
Thank you, Tammy. This story is actually one that I wrote to put into a scrapbook I’m making for my dad. I told myself that I wanted to share these memories I had WITH him and not just something I would say at his funeral. Unfortunately, my dad has taken on that violent nature you mentioned. We have been really encouraging my mom to save her sanity and put him in an Alzheimer’s unit. She’s really resistant to this. She told me a story a few months ago about how nervous she had been to take him to my nephew’s high school graduation in May for various reasons. The good part of the story was when he wrapped his arms around my nephew and told him how proud he was of him. Literally everyone that was there (I couldn’t make it because of my own college graduation and work and being 1,600miles away) broke into tears. It only takes one moment of lucidity to make dealing with all those rough times bearable.
Thank you, Maureen! I never thought of it as “the disease being “the long goodbye” “. That’s exactly what it is and what I’ve been trying to explain to many people when I describe this. I will make sure and mention this to my mom and sisters. I’m sure they will definitely relate to that description.
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 10:26 am
Thank you, Sami!
July 30th, 2010 at 10:45 am
What touching writing. Thank you for sharing it with us, Tami.
I have a terrible memory about things in my life, but a great memory for Jeopardy-like factoids. Sometimes, I like to think that all my memories fully exist someplace else, like on a cosmic closet that I just don’t currently have the key to open. I like to think that’s the case with people with Alzheimers or who’ve suffered brain injury. One of my cousins had multiple brain aneurysms. She survived and recovered, but her personality is different. What happened to the old Mary Beth? I remember her. When I get the chance, I talk to my cousin about her. She seems to like it that people remember so much.
July 30th, 2010 at 11:27 am
Tami,
What a beautiful post. So heart-wrenching. My father is suffering from dementia. Not the same as Alzheimer’s because he remembers things, but he gets so frustrated because he can’t respond to questions, and his brain forgets to tell his legs to walk.
He went from umpiring high school baseball games three years ago to this. I’m glad I was able to watch him and my mom this summer. We had good (and scary) times, but I wanted to be able to care for him the way he cared for us all those years.
Blessings,
Anna
July 30th, 2010 at 11:30 am
I enjoyed reading your heartfelt memories, Tami. How wonderful that you have so many memories of your dad to pass along. Mine died before my 10th birthday, so the memories are few and some of them dim recollections with fuzzy edges that my siblings have to fill in.
Hugs.
July 30th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
You have me in tears, too, Tami. What bittersweet memories. My husband’s grandmother had Alzheimer’s, as does a friend’s mother and another family friend. It’s a horrible disease. I hope they find a cure for it in our lifetime.
My hugs and blessings, too. You are a strong lady.
July 30th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Hey anna! Love seeing you here, girl!
I have a very bad memory, too. This more than anything makes me nervous about inheriting this. I LOVE your idea of the cosmic closet. I’m going to have to adopt that attitude. I also love that you talk to your cousin about “her.” That is really cool.
Hi Anna Doll! I can totally see your dad umpiring. My dad stared off with what we thought was Dementia before he progressed to where he is now. My mom would tell us stories of him driving down the wrong way of a one way street, getting lost during a hospital visit at a place he’d been many times, and going to the store to buy something and the bag boy having to pay for it because he couldn’t find the money that was in his pockets. I was a long way away and only hearing the stories and I could see what they could not because they were too close to the situation. I love how you were able to care for them both. I’m not sure I could have been that close to him changing.
Hey Carol! I’m really sorry about your dad. That had to be really tough. I’m really glad your siblings were able to help out with some of those memories. Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you are enjoying Orlando! I’ve seen pictures of that hotel and I’d love to visit sometime, just to see those views.
Thanks Linsey! I am definitely crossing my fingers on finding that cure. It’s frightening how many people are touched by this. Thank you for stopping by. Make sure and get those manuscripts sent in…grin…
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
What a beautifully written post, Tammy. It is a reminder to enjoy life and not take things for granted. Thank you for sharing your story.
July 30th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
Tami
First story that I have read. I am really impressed that you can be at the point that you can remember all of the good times,and realize how easy it is to forget to tell the ones that you really love, that you do love them, and may you continue to grow is your writing skills.
Just another Dad
July 30th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
Hey Devon! Thanks a ton for coming over here today. I whole-heartedly agree. I try to live every moment I can, but tend to ‘forget’ at times and try to speed through life. This does put life into perspective. Great to see you!
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
Oh. I’m really touched. A big thank you to “my other dad” for coming over and even commenting. I do appreciate it.
Hugs!
July 30th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
Tammy/Tami,
Hey sis! I am so proud of you for your writing this! I was crying like a baby! I had forgotten some of the things that you had mentioned and they brought a smile to my face! It also reminded me of the time dad tried to teach me how to drive. It wasn’t as calm as your memory!! It was in his green Ford pickup, which was a stick shift and I couldn’t get it into gear in the middle of the highway. By the way, there was a semi truck coming at us…you can only imagine!!
But there were a lot of great times too. He tought me how to saddle a horse. It was always very important to make sure the sinch was tight and to remember that the horse always puffs out their belly at first. I learned my lesson the hard way and ended up with the saddle on the underneath of the horse with dad trying not to laugh. He came over and helped me. I remembered from that time on!
I also remember our fishing trips to Johnson’s lake. Dad would get up at the crack of dawn and go to his favorite fishing spot. One day I followed him. It was up over the hill and across the waterfall and just over the boulders. It was a nice spot. We had fun that day. We stayed out past breakfast that day. Mom was worried about me. But I didn’t care because I was with daddy. We cought our quota of fish that day and had a feast for supper. Umm..fried trout..do you remember? I haven’t had such wonderful tasting fish since.
I also remember our three wheeler in Torrington. Dad had mowed down a sort of maze for us to drive through in the “back 40″, as mom would say!! We would ride from dawn until dusk….what great times we had!!
For all of you readers who don’t know who I am or what I do…I am Tami Brother’s little sister. I am a RN at our hospital in Chadron, NE. I have worked with alzheimer’s for a long time and seen all sorts of things. I really relate to everyones comments about it. However, it is very tough to deal with it when it is so close to home.
Our dad was a big, strong, head-strong truck driver who never needed anyone to help him. He was the one who helped everyone else. Now, with alzheimers, he is so small and weak. He needs a lot of help. It truely is the long goodbye.
I love you lots sis! I needed to read this today!
Stephanie
July 30th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
Oh my gosh. I have tears streaming down my face and now they’re back with your sister’s comments.
You really did a good job preserving the wonderful memories you have of your Dad and I love the idea of you passing them on to your children.
My mother in law had Alzheimer’s. It is so heartbreaking to watch someone deteriorate like that. She was a beautiful person and she retained her sweet nature throughout the illness. Her husband cared for her for three years.
This disease is so prevalent, almost everyone I know has had a relative who’s experienced it.
I think it would be particularly bad if it happened to a writer. It would be a great idea for all of us to write down our thoughts and memories and pass them on to our children before we lose them.
Thank you for such an honest, beautiful post.
Marilyn Baron
July 30th, 2010 at 10:07 pm
Hey Steph! I had forgottern most of those things you mentioned. I’m really glad you reminded me of those. I loved that three-wheeler. And the horses scared me spitless, only because the ones we usually owned were always half broke. Man that was scary.
My mouth is wateering thinking of those Rainbow Trout. No one could cook them like mom did.
Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your memories. I’ll definitely print them out and add them to dad’s book.
Love ya, sis!
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 10:12 pm
Hey Marilyn!
I’m really sorry about your mother in law and you are right about howit is becoming so common that most people know someone or of someone who has it.
I can’t even imagine having this happen as a writer. I am really hoping they find some kind of cure or have a breakthrough soon.
Thanks for stopping by this evening.
Tami
July 30th, 2010 at 11:01 pm
Tami,
This was very moving. I’m sorry it took me all day to get here. Dealing with family members in this situation is an unimaginable challenge. My heart goes out to you.
July 31st, 2010 at 9:30 am
Thank you, Walt! I’m just glad you came over. Have a great weekend.
Tami
August 1st, 2010 at 10:21 am
Tami,
What a wonderful post. My grandmother died with the same diease. She loved history. It was hard watching all that knowledge disappear slowly.But she did leave behind the gift of history to me. I’m passing it on to my kids. That way she is never forgotten.
August 2nd, 2010 at 3:40 am
18 years of memories with this very man has taken place in my heart. its hard to believe that the man i once knew and called grandpa is going through Alzheimer’s. its a very hard thing for me to watch develop before my eyes.
this once strong man that had so much to offer is now lost within his own mind. Milford Brothwell was not only my grandpa he was like a father to me. i grew up looking up to him so much due to the fact that i never had a dad in my life.
the man taught me so much about life and this passions i now have. i wouldn’t have grown up to be the young man i am now without his guidance. i have herd so many stories of what he was like back in the days and what he did. along with the also wonderful stories of my mom, grandma, and aunts.
as a kid growing up hearing all these stories, i didn’t really care to take in the essence of all these stories. that is until i grew up and had to watch this disease develop.
i now know without memories the wonderful times slip away. i learned to cherish and hold my memories close to my heart. everyone should have a father figure in their life and i am so proud to say the he was mine.
much like my aunt tammy i share a passion for writing about life. yes i do keep in mind that my writing is untamed, but i give it a damn good shot.
i couldn’t be happier to partake in this piece that will become a published memory for my whole family to share with other throughout the years. i am now proud to share my memories with everyone.
to this very day i have rather enjoyed the memories of my grandfather taking me out hunting a fishing. he taught me everything i know and still use his methods to this day. he put me on a horse and showed me how to ride when i was still in diapers. i remember the times he would always take me to the rodeo’s.
i really got carried away with the young cowboy way that i know developed into my own philosophy. he taught me that. he also taught me great work ethic that i use to this day. he taught me a lot.
i remember working on cars and trucks with him as a young boy. i was so eager to be right under them alongside him. i honestly grew up in the memory of his son mell that died when he was young. no this was not a bad thing growing up in this memory. i say this because i look like him and was always told that i depict how he would be to this day.
i love my grandfather and grandmother. i was told i was like the son they never had. who knew i could carry on mel’s legacy in their eyes.
my family has always been supportive of me. especially grandpa when it came to sports. he always came to my football games as well as basketball. even baseball and soccer. he didn’t know it, but he was my number one cheering section.
the long talks and drives he used to go on with me always made me feel great. like any other grandchild i had my ups and downs. i got into my far share of trouble and me being the oldest grand kid i had to set a good example for the others.
i have tried to do things with him all the time. me and my younger cousin caris took him on a fishing trip the first year this started to set in. it was a great way to bond with the three of us, but the trip was cut short due to him thinking we were kidnapping him. i know its sad to think, but that’s what this disease does to people.
the last memory i have with him is him giving me my first truck with my grandma. after that things took off with his condition. its hard to believe that its been two and a half years ago that he wasn’t like this. a lot has happened over the years that he can’t remember and it breaks my heart.
i have always had a special bond with him. to this day i am the one he turns to talk to and i am the only one that can calm him down when he gets outta hand and confused.
i recently graduated high school and due to my wishes my family did everything in their power to have him see me walk the line with my head held high. that was a very happy day for me. i had the loving support of my family and friends there. after i received my diploma i took pictures with family and friends. i was so happy. the one person that could make me shed a tear was grandpa. as i walked over to join my family my grandpa was really confused due to the massive amount of people around him and the noise level. i approached him while he was angry and he turned to look at me. that’s when out of nowhere he started toward me crying. he gave me a huge hug in tears and told me he loved me and was proud of me. i broke down in tears as well as everyone else around me.
it’s those very moments i live for and care about so deeply. i was so proud that day for several reasons. most of my memories are with this man and my grandma. they say you don’t remember much when in this state, but i say that’s so far from the truth. he remembers more than most give him credit. i am living proof of that.
my moral values resign within my family and friends. without these moments i couldn’t be who i am to this day. i carry on in my heart the memory of this very strong, determined, and stubborn man. i am a lot like him in many ways. his legacy and soul will always be with me in my heart. i know he wont be around for my kids, but he as well as everyone else can rest assure that they will know him just as well as i did.
i know when he takes his final steps into heaven he will continue to look over me and guide me. i will be looking to him for this. i will join him up there one day, dropping my line in the water next to him hoping to get that big one. he once told me he was at piece when he was fishing and hunting. i see why. i love you grandpa i will never forget you like i know you will never forget all of us. its hard to believe that 18 years ago he was standing in the waiting room at the hospital excited to find out he had his first grandson. now a young man i stand taking and making myself known in this world one step at a time knowing that he is with me every step of the way. don’t ever let these close memories of the people you love get away.
August 2nd, 2010 at 7:49 am
Thank you, Susan, for stopping by and sharing your memories of your grandmother. It’s great to have that connection to someone.
August 2nd, 2010 at 7:49 am
Hey Kody,
You really touched my heart with this. I knew you would be the one who would be affected by this more than any of us. I appreciate you stopping by and sharing your memories. He was always so very proud of you and I know he will be proud even when he’s gone.
You can do anything you set your mind to, Kody. He’s not the only one who believes in you!
Love ya kid.
Tami
August 2nd, 2010 at 8:01 am
Tami, what a beautifully written tribute. As someone whose grandmother couldn’t remember her, I empathize and love the new perspective of the memories being a living legacy.
August 2nd, 2010 at 3:00 pm
Tami,
Tears and a warm feeling – Yes, the memories are wonderful. That is such a dreadful hated disease. I see it in my lovely aunt. YOu wrote a very touching and heartfelt blog. I loved it.
August 3rd, 2010 at 2:39 am
wow tammy i love you so much thank you and trust me i know i just gotta figure out my next step. you made me cry with what you said. thank you
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:28 am
Hey Sally! Thanks for stopping by. I totally understand that comment about someone not remembering you. I’ve come to expect that he won’t know who I am when I call, so it really throws me for a loop when he does. It may only be a few minutes or less, but it hits me hard when I hear him say my name.
Tami
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:30 am
Thank you, Maxine!
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:31 am
No problem, Kody. All of it is true and I honestly believe you will find your stride. Thank you for all you do for Grandma AND Grandpa. I know it makes things easier for both of them.
August 3rd, 2010 at 9:02 am
I am so sorry about your Dad, Tami. Watching someone you love struggle is so difficult, but I pray that God will provide you and your family with the peace that only He can provide.
Thank you for inviting me to read this post. It is honest and heartfelt. It will be a beautiful addition to your scrapbook.
Love ya!
August 3rd, 2010 at 9:16 am
Thanks, Jasmine! I appreciate you coming over and reading it. Thanks so much for the prayers. They are greatly appreciated.
Love ya, too!
Tami
August 3rd, 2010 at 1:08 pm
Tami,
the crisp morning air and daddy having his first cup of coffee as he grabbed his fishing pole and headed up the hill bright and early! I watched him from the camp sight as he disappeared over the hill and remember the excitement of knowing that soon daddy would come over the hill with his string full of mouth watering trout for us to cook for dinner feast!!! I to stephanie remember sitting with daddy in his favotite fishing spot just as you described watching and waiting for the fish to take the bite and daddy realing it in with a smile from ear to ear!!!! He taught me how to bait my hook and throw the pole in and wait for the fish to bite and when i caught my first fish he tossed his pole aside to help me bring in the big one with as much exitement as my own!! I Loved and will always cherish those days until we are sitting in heaven together at that very spot daddy!! He always taught us the lessons of life and that we were just as strong as boys could ever be!
Wow sis it took me a while to finaly read this!
Let me start by introducing myself, I am Julie age 36, i am the middle daughter of this wonderful man sister to Tami Brothers, Stephanie Broberg, and Mother of the young man Dakota Hiebert along with his 2 brothers Dustin and Milford (his name sake).
I have so many fond memories to share as daddy’s little girl. I almost forgot all of the rest of them, thank you my two wonderful sisters for reminding me of all of yours as well. I cried as i read them from start to finish! I too remember the many camping and fishing trips wow those were the good ol’ days
I remember walking down the isle in my daddy’s arm as he gave me away he had tears in his eyes which made them begin to fall down my cheeks!! I remember giving birth to his first grandson, Dakota Hiebert, and the look on his face when he found out it was a boy, he was proud! I also remember when my sisters also had sons of their own and how intoxicated with delight he felt knowing he had more grandsons to teach the ways he only could to a boy!! Then theirs the look of pure joy when his only grandaughter came into the world!! Stephanie you gave him that and even though he loves the heck out of his grandsons he was proud of you for giving him that little girl it brought back memories of his 3 preciouse angels!!!
My boys had only their grandfather to teach them how to hunt fish and so many other things and i thank you daddy for being my sons role model they are becoming great young men because of you!!!
Tami and Stephanie your boys are also great young men and for that i commend Eddie and Jeff for that!!
I moved back home to help my mom with my dad not realizing honestly how hard it truely was going to be!
I have watched the man i knew turn into someone i dont recognise i say thats my daddy but its really not anymore! Man curse this dreadfull disease it took my daddy from me and i hate being so selfish but i thank you SO MUCH Tami for giving us this oppertunity to remember him as he once was!!
To everyone who knew Milford Brothwell dont forget him because he will remember all of us when he stands at the gates of heaven!!!
Dakota my son i am so proud of you and what you wrote and am glad that when you told me that if you wrote anything you might not be able to stop, i told you to do it anyway as for you did!!! I have always said there were 4 men in my life and whoever i was with would have to accept that, I Love You Daddy, Dakota, Dustin and Milford!!!
August 3rd, 2010 at 2:40 pm
i love my grandpa to death and woold do anything to keep him from passing away but i cant, and that truly hurts me.
. he smiled at me and said ok i love you dusty and i told him i love you too grandpa, i vill never forget that
. he bought two tags for pronghorn doe’s. the first one that he shot he hit it alomost smack dab in the vital area. i tought to my self wow what a great shot and just then he said wow what a great shot (great minds think alike). he got out of the turck and aksed me are you comming and i said really i can comm watch you feild dress (gut) the deer and he said well sure you can you need to learn some how. so i watched him gut the deer and at first i thought it was gross then i kinda got used to it and thought it was sweet. when he pulled out the heart i thought wow thats the heart of a deer and then he asked me if i wanted to hold it and i said no way will i hold that ugly thing. then he started to chase me with it i was screaming at the top of my lungs and finaly i gave in and held it i figured out that it wasn’t that bad after all. he was laughing and called me a chicken before i decided to hold it.
for fifteen yars i have grown up learning from this man, just like dakota he taught me and my little brother milford hiebert how to hunt and fish.
i remember that once my grandpa took me huntting with him and my old step dad (named not to mentioned) i fell asleep on the way up to lusk wyoming. when i woke up he asked me did you get enough sleep and i told him i didn’t fall asleep i dont know what your talking about grandpa
now comes the second deer.
The second deer he shot directly in the stumic, guts were hanging out and it was just so sweet when my granpa got out of the truck he look in the back seat to find me not there i was already by the deer poking it with a stick. my grandpa yell dustin about 3 times before i decided to sneek up behind him and scare him i sware he jumped like three feet off the ground and turned to find me laughing my but off, he then started laughing along side of me. we were having a gay ol time
this huntig trip was the best time of my life i will never forget my granpa milford brothwell even when he passes. this man means the world to me. i love my fanily alot. i love you grandpa, grandma, mom, milford, dakota, tammy, taylor, eddie, stephanie, jeff, sara, josh and caris.
August 3rd, 2010 at 3:50 pm
The whole 14 years of living my grandpa has taught me a lot he curintly has Alzhimers it is rough for all of us especially me being 14 and having to deal with this. Like my two older bros said he taught us how to hunt and fish i have very little memory of him but the memory i do have of him is somthing special. He also taught my mom and aunts all of the things he taught us he loved to camp fish and hunt and so did my mom and aunts. Now so do me and my brothers i love my grandpa to death. like dustin said i want to keep hime around forever but i cant do that every one dies thats just fate. I remaber when he very first took me and my brothers fishing it was so much fun and when he took us hunting. I will always have these memories of my grandpa Milford Brothwell he means evrything 2 me. When he passes away it will be devestating for all of us. he meant the world to my mom aunts and brothers plus my grandma and more but we all have our different memories of him. They will be in our hearts and minds forever and ever plus he will always be in our prayers.
August 3rd, 2010 at 7:13 pm
Wow! I had forgotten some of these things! It is true about our dad teaching all three of us girls that we could do anything we put our hearts to.
When I graduated nursing school dad told me he was so proud of me. That meant so much to me. All of my life I looked to him the most for approval. It was truly one of the proudest days of my life.
Hear is another memory for you both, Tami and Julie, yard sales. Not only did my parents love to go to them but we had a lot of them too. My dad could take the most beat up, junky looking lawn mower or BBQ’s and make them look and run like new. He would fix them up and resale them at our yard sale!! He was a man of many talents!!
I really enjoyed reading all of the memories posted here. I’m glad that we were able to share our loving memories and thoughts with all of you. Keep us in your prayers as we will keep all of you in ours.
Stephanie
August 3rd, 2010 at 10:27 pm
Tami, what a wonderful, healing post. I’m so sorry you and your family are going through such a horrible time. I think it’s a beautiful idea to keep a scrap book of memories. Maybe we should all start doing this with our families because no one knows the sudden turns life can take. We’ve all been blessed to witness the love between your family. Thank you.
August 4th, 2010 at 10:30 am
Ohhh, man! You guys have me crying again.
Hey Julz! This was fun to read. I remember dad walking you down the aisle. I think he wore the same western cut shirt to both of ours. Every time I see that black western shirt with the bright red rose, I think of those days. I am so glad that the boys were able to experience some of the wonderful things he introduced us to while growing up. I loved reading their stories and remembering some of the times dad took us hunting. Thanks a ton for stopping by!
August 4th, 2010 at 10:36 am
Hey Dustin! I have to admit, you made me laugh out loud with your memory of Grandpa chasing you around with the heart. I remember him making us girls reach in to feel the insides when we shot our deer. I also remember him stressing how important this was. Not only because by knowing how to hunt (and fish) we would always be able to feed ourselves and our families, but because he was teaching us the importance of the power we held in our hands each time we touched a gun. I remember him stressing that before we shot, we damn well better know what was on the other side of that ridge.
Thank you so much for sharing this story. It’s hard to see past the person Grandpa has become to the one he used to be.
Love ya!
August 4th, 2010 at 10:41 am
Hey Milford! Yes, you will always have those memories and I really hope that these current ones don’t overshadow the good ones. I know you don’t have as many memories as the older boys, but with the pictures and stories they tell, the ones you do have will expand into legend form. I can almost promise that.
I am sooo glad you stopped by and shared your thoughts and memories of Grandpa. I know he will appreciate and treasure them as much as we do.
Hugs and loves!
August 4th, 2010 at 10:45 am
Oh man, Steph! How can we forget about those yard sales? I’ve tried having a few of my own and can never understand how he could enjoy them as much as he does.
August 4th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Hey Darcy! I agree this has been very healing. I hope it has been for others in my family as well.
I also agree that it is a GREAT idea to do something similar even without this ugly disease looming over you. Like you said, you never know. Thanks a ton for stopping by!
Tami
August 4th, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Wow my sisters what amazing memories we have. I never thought that there were so many
I Love you guys so much and thank you for sharing the walks down memory lane our children needed this as well as we all did too!! Mom will write hers soon we continue to make her cry so she has difficulty starting to type but be patient she will get to it!
We would not have became the woman we are today if it werent for the strength that our parents instilled in us every day!!!
To all who read this the 3 daughters of Milford and Carol Brothwell have struggled to become successfull woman and we got there with the support of these 2 people!!
Take every moment of every day and hold it near and dear because you never know when you may have to remind someone!!!
Stephanie i also remember those yard sales it makes me giggle when i think of them i also remember the many trips to the coffee shop just to sit and drink pop and mom and dad drinking many cups of coffee they still drink it but its done here at home now!!
Awww the smell of coffee in the morning to get the day started
I love you all and hugs and prayers to everyone who can relate!!
August 5th, 2010 at 3:25 am
To all of my family,
Thank you all for all of the wonderful memories! It has been great to read and dream a little about the past. I miss all of the things we took for granted as kids. I miss the quiet of our house outside of town. The wonderful green grass and trees that dad took such good care of. I miss all of our many animals that we had and learned to appriciate and take care of. I also miss just setting outside on the lawn chairs with mom and dad enjoying the peace and quiet.
Everytime I take a drink of sweet tea it jogs memories of mom and dad. We would go through so many jugs of the stuff each day. My kids and husband loves it also. But as it was at home…the last one to take the last glass has to make it. As you cam imagine, it doesn’t get made as often as it did when we were little.
Yes, Julie, I do remember the coffee shop stops!! Heck, that coffee shop in Douglas, Wyoming was my first job!! Bussing tables!! Wow, far cry from being a nurse!!!
I also remember all the Hank Williams Sr/Jr songs that he listened to while we were out on the truck hauling hay. Oh, and the CB handles we all had!! I loved riding in the truck and then helping our dad stack the hay once we arrived at the farmers place. The three of us girls could throw a haybail just as easy as the boys could. I remember several of the farmer’s saying that!! Wow, all of the life leasons we were taught and we didn’t even realize it.
Dad also love my fried egg sandwich’s!! I know this sounds yucky but you should try it!! He had, and still has some strange food habits!! I guess that’s where I get it, from mom also!!
Well, I will stop by again later on and read and share some more! I can’t wait to hear mom’s comments!!
Steph
August 5th, 2010 at 8:17 am
Tears rolling down my face–my MIL had Alzheimers and my husband lives in constant fear that he will inherit it from her. She developed her first signs of it in her late 50s but because she also was a recluse we didn’t pick up on it till early 60s. Hubby is 57 and I watch him for signs. It’s scary to believe that one day his brilliant mind might be ravaged by this horrific disease. We try not to think about it, but it lurks and snaps at us every once in a while, especially when normal memory blips happen.
I’m so glad you have your memories to pass on and to hold for your dad. May they be the blanket that continues to keep your heart warm during the night hours of this disease.
Hugs!
August 5th, 2010 at 9:58 am
Hey Steph! I remember that truck stop. Bussing tables was one of my first jobs, too. I think all three of us worked there (four if you count mom…grin…).
I also remember “bucking bales.” Although I can honestly say I’m glad we don’t have to do that anymore, it was fun showing up some of the boys.
LOL on the CB handles. Mine was Snecker Poo. Not sure where that came from but I do remember seeing my “name” on the business cards he had printed up. The Hayman and the Ding Dong Lady. Man, I miss those days.
Love ya!
August 5th, 2010 at 10:16 am
Hi Christine! Thank you so much for stopping by. I’m sorry about your MIL. I understand your husband’s fear. Seeing my dad go through this, I can tell you that I have those very same fears. Maybe that’s why I write everything down. I have a Rubbermaid tub filled with my daily journals. I’ve never actually gone back and read them, but if I ever want to – they are there. I also write down the things we do and the presents my son gets for EVERY HOLIDAY. At first it was easy, then it got to be kind of hard when I’d forget. I thought about stopping it several times but then I’d go back and read through some of those first books and I realized that even now I can’t remember some of those first holidays. Having them in writing has helped jog my memory on many things. Where it once began as a memory journal for my son, it has turned into a reminder of his younger days for me.
I wish you guys all the best. We know how scary the thought of this is and we hope and pray neither of you have to experience it.
Hugs!
August 6th, 2010 at 2:43 am
Hank williams sr/jr i remember all so well “Lil’ Sis”!! Awwww yes how can we forget daddy the truck driver and those silly CB handles
mine was tumble bug! LOL
I use to fight you 2 for the #1 seat in daddy’s truck “The Dog House” oh how we loved sitting on the dog house so proud looking out the big window down those roads!!
Just the other day Dakota was bucking bails and i had flashbacks of the very same sisters we use to help daddy so much we were strong better than boys he would say with our little 5 foot nothing mom working just as hard!! Come Rain or shine we loaded and unloaded those hay bails without skipping a beat!!
Love to all and put your fears in gods hands he will guid you!!
August 10th, 2010 at 9:13 am
Wow! I’m sitting at the Dr.’S office with Cody crying, naturally he’s going “Oh my god mom!” Scott’s uncle had Alzheimers and for the most part, everyone focused on the sadness of everything lost. Your story will help families find peace and comfort in the memories they carry in their hearts as well as the ones they share with others.
August 11th, 2010 at 8:53 am
Hey Michelle!
I’m sorry I made you cry but I’m glad you came over here. Thanks for the wonderful words of encouragement!
Tami