Back from VA

I made it a quick trip. Drove up yesterday morning and spent some time with Dad in the afternoon. I spent the night at the ranch (well, it really is kinda like a ranch now), helped out with the critters in the morning, had another brief visit with Dad, then headed home so I can get the rental back tonight.

Dad's not looking too good. He's still mostly able to carry a reasonably coherent conversation (if you listen closely -- he can't really use his tongue to shape sounds), but he's lost a lot of weight and is very weak. The feeding tube has not been working, so he effectively hasn't eaten in about a month. If they can figure out a way to get nutrients into him, they may be able to deal with the breathing troubles and everything else. If not, it's just a matter of time. Keep him and my mom in your prayers, if you will.