We are having an unusually difficult visit down south. There is no blame to cast for this – it comes down to Fate, in all its scattered whimsy. And believe me, we are not the ones who are suffering. That falls to my poor FIL, who is just Not Feeling Well.
Our first couple of days with him involved a trip to the doctor, then a few abortive rides to either urgent care or the ER. He kept changing his mind, unsure of what to do. When he finally did decide on the ER (on Saturday), they admitted him. He had great hopes that they would be able to “do something” to make him feel better, but alas, he continues to suffer, his agony increased by the lousy food they insist on giving him.
I wish I could make it go away. It’s awful seeing this usually upbeat, happy person knocked so low. I am further distressed for him, because today, his oldest grandson arrives with wife and little children in tow. My FIL should be happily playing patriarch and doting on giggling great-children. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that he gets to do it before the week is out.
In the meantime, I’m putting together a colorful “care basket” to bring him – some fresh fruit, flowers and greenery. They may not let him eat the fruit, but hopefully it will add some cheer to his room. Then I’m off to spend the afternoon with my own daughter and grandson, before coming back to hang out with the other part of my family.
It’s all somewhat stressful, but it is not written that we will always have stress-free vacations, is it?
Marlene Dotterer 
So sorry to hear about your FIL.Sometimes trips create more stress than alleviate.