On August 24th, Ukraine celebrated its 34th Independence Day! My parents and many people around the world were sending messages of support to each other. And I will share a few sketches and updates about my parents as a part of my celebration of the country whose bravery and determination remind me every day that democracy is something we make with our own everyday actions. By not being indifferent and doing what we can when we can - even a little bit at a time.
Last time I wrote an update on my parents was in February of this year, and I was lamenting the fact that my Dad is not happy when I draw him, so there were more portraits of Mom. Since then, Dad had significantly more medical appointments than Mom and, this time I have way more portraits of him than of Mom - hopefully by the time I make the next update, I will find a balance :)
Mom got new glasses, which are not perfect but an improvement. She enjoys her pots of flowers and takes pictures of all kinds of insects that come to visit. She cooks many new things (from Dad's recipes, so the results vary) and plays word games with her new friend. They also read aloud to each other and watch lots of movies together. She is excitedly reading "Everything Is Tuberculosis" by John Green in English at the moment.
Dad plays chess every day and uses google translate to communicate with his chess buddies. He is inventing many new recipes for Mom to try. And watching the movies as well. And he is hoping to get some assistance with his mobility soon, but for now, he takes short trips between benches near the house.
They keep in touch with the family and friends in Ukraine and around the world, and try to support people with their care and strong belief that the world will get better - perhaps not as fast as we wish, but believing in this is part of making it better.
To read the whole story: https://blog.apple-pine.com/2022/08/war-in-ukraine-guide-through-posts-on.html
Thanks for the update on your parents...it's good to see them looking happy and well, despite all of life's challenges.
ReplyDeleteYes! I second that!! I am so glad for this news and the sketches.
ReplyDelete