JENNY’S HOUSE – A CAREGIVER’S ESCAPE
Jenny was Jenny before J-Lo knew there was a block!
Jenny lives in my Mom’s Building. It is a complex providing Independent Living for Seniors. I have received special dispensation in order to remain here to care for my Mother; otherwise, I would not be allowed to live in the building. I am by far the youngest person who “lives” in the complex. I put that in quotes because I refuse to admit that I actually live here. I am merely here caring for my Mother in order that she may remain in her home. I do not consider this my place of residence. I live in Los Angeles–at least in my heart and mind!
Anyway, I often need a break–a place to go where I am close enough in case my Mom needs me but far enough away that she is not in the next room or down the hall. That place for me is “Jenny’s House.”
Jenny has a Son my age and so technically she could be my Mom. However, she in no manner acts that way. Yes, she does give me “Motherly” advice and is able to see my Mom’s point of view in most every situation. But she does not discount my point of view or make light of my thoughts and feelings.
In her Family, her older Brother was her Mom’s main Caregiver; however, from the stories she tells, all of the Siblings were actively involved in the day-to-day care. She understands the frustrations, and the undeniable need to get away! Her door is always open. And at least twice a week, it is the door that I run to in order to escape.
Jenny’s house provides refuge–a safe haven where I can vent, relax, cry or scream if I want. Jenny loves music and plays her favorite tunes at high volume–like a teenager. Therefore, Jenny’s house is also a place where you can “dance it out!” And sometimes, that’s just what you need to do.
Jenny is retired and does not frown upon Day Drinking. If you arrive during the hours most Bars refer to as “Happy Hour,” Jenny acts, accordingly, providing an entertaining or relaxing environment as the need arises. She is very flexible and adapts the knowledge that she shares taking into consideration my mood at the moment. If she senses that I am not receptive to advice, she does not offer any and turns the conversation to current events or gossip about the other residents. I truly am not interested in the other residents, but their cares and woes are a diversion from mine. And it wouldn’t be “Happy Hour” without a cocktail or a glass of wine.
Jenny is more than an understanding neighbor; although, I don’t know that she realizes the fact that there are days when I’m not sure I would make it through without having her house as an escape. I am not exaggerating. I cannot imagine this Caregiver’s life without an escape!
Jenny could be described as hip or cool. Those adjectives may be a tad old school, but they best describe Jenny. She is the type of Mom that all your friends wish was their Mom. In fairness, my Mother was that Mom too. Although, as her Caregiver, it is difficult for me to view my Mother in that manner but I do know that it is true.
And my Mother likes Jenny. I think she would rather me spend time at Jenny’s house than anywhere else. She rarely calls to request that I come home from Jenny’s house.
In full disclosure, my Mother also enjoys Jenny’s snacks. Jenny bakes. I am a great cook, but I do not bake. The only baked goods in this household are store-bought deserts (which rarely make the grocery list) or those Jenny has made and sent home to my Mom.
Sometimes I feel like a little kid running away from home but instead of putting a snack in my red wagon, I grab my cell phone, my keys and run all the way to Jenny’s House. But much like that little kid, I always return home a little sooner than expected.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dly6p4Fu5TE
“Jenny From the Block” – Jennifer Lopez
Note – The Woman in the top pic is not Jenny. It is a Screenshot of the Cool Lady in the Sunglass Hut Commercial “Don’t Stop the Feeling,” who reminds me very much of Jenny.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfI_TvVwYJg
I am glad you described the picture I wondered if that was Jenny.
This was a good read. Jenny seems cool.