Update #3

[aearwen]

My brother's moods seem more stable, and we've made arrangements and agreements that will allow me to kinda keep a closer tab on him from the 600 mile distance between here and there. I've been with him to see both his GP and his cardiologist, so I have a clearer idea of his physical condition (and difficulties).

The trip hasn't been without it's own drama. In my own defense, I do not wake up and, within 15 minutes, become mentally capable of arguing with an Internet provider whose service is decidedly unreliable. I commented (rhetorically) to Bro as SiL was heading out the door, "Don't we get a chance to wake up in the morning and relax a bit?" Ooooo! She was pissed. So was Bro, FWIW, who admitted that her NOWNOWNOWNOW attitude, regardless of any other plans he has for the day, has been a major irritant for him. As she left for work today, I did apologize for making her angry; and while she said she wasn't, I know better. But if she wants to save face, it's no skin off of my nose.

Hopefully by this time tomorrow morning, I'll have had a nice sleep in my own bed, where I'm not roused every morning at 5:30 by TVs going on and SiL's voice yelling at the animals. I know SHE'LL be happier not having to worry about straightening the living room couch covers (I can't sleep in a bed - my back and shoulders only allow me to sleep in recliners.) Súl and I were thinking of coming over in March to go to the AZ RenFaire, but considering everything, I don't think that's the greatest of ideas.

Not to mention that Bro still hasn't exactly ruled out packing up his Pocket Rocket with as many of the heirloom pieces he can get in it, along with at least one of his kitty kids, and taking off for CA - and no idea how long he'd be staying, if he did come. A lot depends on whether he and SiL can communicate with each other on some of these issues, or whether one or the other of them has finally "had it" and is ready to call it quits.

Either way, I'm on my way home. I have stuff in CA I need to take care of, and I miss my family a LOT.

Talk to you all later.