Everything is falling apart

[@3PeasInAPod2016]

Kristen I am so glad you are bringing this up because elder care in the US is a travesty and many of us don’t realize it until we have an ailing parent. It is not possible to take care of our elderly when we also have the responsibilities of a full time job. I really feel for you as I went through it myself. Despite having other family members to lean on I always felt woefully inadequate when it came to caring for my ailing parents. I hope we can eventually change the system so that families can have the support they need to care for their elderly with dignity.

[@MounjarojourneywithPam]

I agree, it’s so hard to manage care for our parents I remember all the trips to help my mom, and all the things that goes along with that journey My mom was only 63- long term copd - pneumonia complications . She had more than 9 lives and would bounce back when it looked bleak Dad didn’t like getting help and he passed 3 yrs later. You guys are incredible to take care of your family as not many ppl want to or are not able to. It’s very draining- no matter the love for them. It’s still hard 🤗

[@lizcoleman5229]

Oh Kristen, I'm so sorry to hear you! My mother had Alzheimer's and it's such a sad disease. I'm so sorry that you're going through this. Life can be so harsh. I'll keep you guys in my prayers. Also praying for your sister in law and her baby. Stay strong!

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much, we really appreciate all the love and support!

[@purplepowell]

Don’t beat your self up regarding your father. I didn’t see it or want to accept it in my mother as well. Caught my father a bit quicker for we now know what to look for. So sorry for all the challenges. We to are going almost exactly what you are going through and while also maintaining our Airbnb.

[@kristenandmichael]

When you're caught up in so much of your own life and getting older, we forget our parents are getting older too and it is definitely hard not to beat yourself up about it but you're right... and we feel for you guys! Sending all the love & light & positivity we can to you all on this journey as well. We hope balance and light is found for you too

[@li-nickels]

We went through similar issues with my mom. It is so hard. The fact that you care and are doing what you can, means a lot.

[@skitcat1235]

I went through the same with both parents. We had one aunt helping my sister and I. It is so difficult to care for your parents but believe me, it is also the most rewarding for they took care of you all these years and now it it time to care for them. Your miscarriage only means you are able to get pregnant again. All in God’s perfect timing. Be grateful your husband is always there for you. I send u prayers and blessings from Aruba.

[@patassion]

The yard is starting to look wonderful with the plants

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you :)

[@kirstenwallace8711]

My dad has early onset Alzheimers. Started at 60, he is 64 now and unable to work, drive, or really care for himself. Everything is on my mom so I try my best to help out. But working full time, having our own family - it is hard to do it all. I suggest spending as much time as possible, creating as many happy memories as possible. Please do not forget you need to take care of yourself too. Do not beat yourself up about not catching it sooner - the subtle signs are hard to see. Find support, find someone who understands and just share tips or have a place to let out your worries and anxiety. Elder care options are not great and expensive. Someone needs to be there often to make sure they are getting the care they deserve. Move them close to you so you can visit often. Sending strength your way.

[@kristenandmichael]

Started at 60? Omg, that's way too young. We are definitely spending as much time as we can, took him to Disneyland over xmas. Thank you so much for your comment. Sending you some prayers too, sounds like you guys need them just as much as we do. 🤍

[@helenwilliams8471]

I'm so sorry that you're going through so much. I'm glad you have your sister and aunt to help too. Prayers for you, Michael and family! 🙏❤️🙏

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much Helen!

[@debrabratton5668]

You're brave to be sharing your personal life. My heart goes out to you, Michael, and your family. My 2023 was so crazy, my mom declined rapidly last year from Alzheimer's, and is now hospice. So many rapid changes all at once in just about every aspect of my life. Hang on tight to those who love you. Sending prayers to you all!

[@kristenandmichael]

Right!!!!?? What was it about 2023 that just kind of kicked everyone in the face? Praying for you and your family too. Thank you for your kind message.

[@evgeniyanaidenysheva6096]

Dear Kristen and Michael! I've been watching you channel few months and now i feel somehow that I know you both for a while, I'm very sorry for you, guys. I will pray for you and your family!

[@JT-mr3db]

This is tough to hear. I cared for my mother whilst she suffered horribly form Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, very similar to dementia,. It is absolutely heart breaking to see people we love change so rapidly. It was a real struggle to find happiness in anything during that time, just this constant gut wrenching pain, and the pressure from the duty of being strong for them. Sending you kids strength,

[@kristenandmichael]

You're so right, really hard to find happiness in times like these but we definitely do with our friends and with each other. Thank you so much for your kind message. So sorry you had to go through that.

[@KateKrauss]

I'm so sorry you are going through this. Thank you for being candid because it helps other people.

[@Lalalid]

I am so very sorry to hear of your family’s illnesses. I will pray for you all. 🙏🏽

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much

[@emilymckay1937]

I will be thinking of you guys ❤️ my family went through a similar situation when I was in highschool with my grandma and I was powerless. Now my dad has early dementia symptoms at 63… You guys are doing amazing and I love keeping up with you even though I’m finished with the Airbnb!

[@kristenandmichael]

Oh man, 63? That is young. Sending prayers your way. That is terrific about the airbnb, is your listing live yet?

[@daphnehill8444]

You are both such wholehearted people. Sending prayers for continued strength while you care for family. 🤍

[@kristenandmichael]

You are so kind, thank you for your encouragement.

[@huntgoodstuff]

I'm sorry for this tough time in your lives. I've been through many myself and I'm glad you have each other to share the burden and keep moving forward. It's a day by day thing that ultimately comes down to genuine concern and action for the one's you love most. Keep family first through the struggle and your blessings soon enough will be innumerable. Best wishes from Miami.

[@carlporter5298]

My prayers are with both of you and your families.

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much

[@TaavP]

You deserve the best. Things will get on track eventually, keep strong 🌄

[@kristenandmichael]

We are hopeful! Thank you for all the support, always.

[@isabellacorrea512_]

My tata has just gone into hospice and it's been so hard but knowing he'll be comfortable is so relieving. I hope you and your sister can get some sort of assistance for your family. It's a gray area of life I feel like a lot of families struggle with and you don't know what it's like until you're in the middle of it. I know you will all fine solace soon..

[@BusDriverBob]

Hey Kristen, Crying on cam.. don't sweat it. Its life, its real, its raw, we've all been there. I lost my dad about 18 years ago. It was painful but you know what.. we go on partly because we have to. Its not our time but will be one day. The best thing you can do for others is be there while balancing everything else. They might not say it, or might not be able to, but they are thankful for your support no matter where it might lead. Peace and best wishes to you both.

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much for your message. So sorry about your father. You're right, we know he is thankful for the support but unable to express it in the state he currently is in and would be so grateful for everything. Thanks for watching and being here.

[@hallstep]

Oh Kristen... my heart breaks. Sending you every ounce of love.

[@trinitywave]

I was sad to see the title for this one. I am sending both Kristen and Michael healing light, may your hearts be healed, may your minds be healed with Divine light, may your spirits be blessed with healing. So much love and light to you both. And i hope things get better for you both.

[@sarahmarner7607]

i'm so sorry sweetie! You guys hang in there!! You'll get through all these very difficult challenges and come out shining on the other side! I know you will!! Thank you for sharing such vulnerable moments in your life! We love your channel. keep sharing and just know we are all praying for you guys and sending all the good vibes!! Please keep us updated on your mom, dad, auntie, and michael's sister and nephew. was he born yet? xoxo

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you so much for your kind words. Yes our nephew was born and despite the Dr. telling my sister that it would be worst case scenario, he is happy, thriving and the surgery is being delayed for a few months so he can grow big and strong. So that was a huge win for our family!

[@retireearlyandoften]

Wow... Raw... Bless you!

[@petdrask]

You can do it. I am telling you as someone who was in a similar kind of a situation with ailing family and business building : it all settles in. Find your routine and it's all going to work out!!!

[@kristenandmichael]

Trying to find the balance while things are so unexpected and chaotic makes it easy to feel that balance is out of reach but we know it will even out eventually. Thank you! This gives us hope.

[@aleelizabeth27]

Praying for you guys. Be easy on one another. Give each other grace. Times of trial will only make you stronger ❤️🙏🏽

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you, we will accept all and any prayers we can get

[@reeseferguson2678]

I can’t believe everything you are going through. Sending you all the extra strength we can! Also might be able to turn the mirror curse into a blessing! I thought it would be cool as an outdoor selfie spot with cool desert cactus in the background! If my BnB was in Joshua tree instead of the rainiest place in the PNW I would do that! Sending you both love ❤ the place is looking great and we’ll still be here when you get back if KZbin needs to take a backseat!

[@Palantir_Daily]

I am praying for you guys. ❤

[@kristenandmichael]

❤

[@susankelly5516]

Kristen and Michael I am so sorry that you guys are all going through this, your dad is going through this that your aunt is going through this that your mom is going through this and I just want you to know that I am praying for you and your family❤ God bless you guys♥️🙏♥️

[@kathleenl3279]

My heart goes out to you and your family I feel strongly that you & your sister explore the options that are most likely available for your parent's care I live in NY & i was able to get nursing care through Medicare for my mother who had Alzheimer's disease California might have a lot of programs to help them that you are unaware of Best of Luck

[@kristenandmichael]

We are definitely going to look into what programs are available, there has to be something out there. Thank you so much for your message. 🤍

[@bigonia]

There are few words that express the support I’d like to give. This will have to do; hugs.

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you

[@brookehermosillo9731]

Hi, the house looks amazing! Can you share the wood that you used for the open shelves in the kitchen? is it pine? Thanks!

[@kristenandmichael]

It's just pine from Home Depot. We had to heat the wood ourselves because the wood is not Kiln fired. You can watch the full process here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2epYqGbpqZ2mNE

[@patassion]

Oh so sorry for this!

[@tlabonte1]

So sorry for you guys. Just devastating stuff. Caretaking is such a hard job.

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you, we will get through this! Thanks for being here

[@garykettle5823]

Hugs

[@TheMattLeighton]

Just out of curiosity - have you considered changing out the bottom lock on the front door so guests don’t accidentally lock it? Could be a quick fix to solve an annoying problem. Cool video!

[@kristenandmichael]

Yes, we have thought about that but we have only had one guest lock it and our instructions are extremely thorough so it really hasn't been an issue. If it were constant we would definitely do it ASAP but when we change out the door knobs in the house, we'll do the front door as well, and that's on our list for this year!

[@TheMattLeighton]

@@kristenandmichaelsounds good! Keep up the great work!

[@PAINT_S_CAPES]

Anxiously waiting in Canada - 3 hours ahead of you

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you for being here!

[@lucille_3]

My family, we move them in and use the money they have (pensions/sale of their home) to pay for full time care. Nursing homes are expensive and they won’t be close to you. It’s hard but having them close is worth it.

[@kristenandmichael]

Thank you, any ounce of advice we can get on the matter helps so much. I'll speak to my family about this.

[@Secret_Sun33]

Please tell me where i can get that sweet plaid jacket Michael is wearing🙏 Looks 🔥

[@kristenandmichael]

Here you go! bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?pid=7648630010001&vid=1&tid=bfpl000030&kwid=1&ap=7&gad=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_AT8uVKjLtvV3YvZ2dVCzw4y9ij&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbkSEHeG_csk0dhMVwcImu7RYa5wh7Wn7j4xdYPJ4M8p8MaY48lZ9fUaAs3CEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds#pdp-page-content

[@kristenandmichael]

And thank you ☺

[@Secret_Sun33]

@@kristenandmichael Awsome! 🙏

[@leemeli7585]

Oh gosh this made me cry. Do we know what causes such quick Alzheimer’s, and why siblings near the same time? My father and sister both had Parkinson’s.

[@kristenandmichael]

Not sure why it came on so fast but we believe it may be NPH - it is usually misdiagnosed in Alzeihmer's cases - praying we get some more definitive answers soon.

[@leemeli7585]

Interesting info@@kristenandmichael Thanks

[@Susan.I]

I’m so sorry to hear that your sister’s baby to be born needs heart surgery right after birth! Praying the baby come through birth and surgery healthy!🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@carlys5258]

❤

[@kristenandmichael]

[@edwardmedina8623]

Feeling the jacket in this episode name and brand ….by the way hope every thing is ok with the family

[@kristenandmichael]

haha thank you, its from Banana Republic: bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?pid=7648630010001&vid=1&tid=bfpl000030&kwid=1&ap=7&gad=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_AT8uVKjLtvV3YvZ2dVCzw4y9ij&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbkSEHeG_csk0dhMVwcImu7RYa5wh7Wn7j4xdYPJ4M8p8MaY48lZ9fUaAs3CEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds#pdp-page-content

[@Junior8p1]

❤❤❤

[@3PeasInAPod2016]

Oh for fluff sakes I have to board a plane! I’ll have to rummage for Bluetooth ear buds!!!

[@tyw6225]

I gotta find out why Daniel left that review

[@kristenandmichael]

It was a really shock to us, one solo guy booked the whole house over Christmas. We'll be talking about it in a future episode!

[@megcreates2.0]

😢 oh Kristen why don’t y’all get help for your parents? I’m so sorry for you both! It’s overwhelming BUT don’t forget to take care of yourself and your hubby. I know it’s easier to say than to do. But take it from me who’s been in family trauma, I wish I hadn’t felt guilty about taking care of myself and now I know I should have 😢

[@kristenandmichael]

It is so easy to put ourselves and our partners on the back burner during times like this and we are doing our best to make each other and ourselves a priority - it is tough!! Thank you for the kind words!

[@megcreates2.0]

@@kristenandmichael I will continue to pray for you both💕 Remember 15min of doing your favorite thing even once a week helps so much

[@Secret_Sun33]

Wait waaa?

[@ThePowersinYourHands]

🫂

[@veyblu7]

There are some new Alzheimer's drugs approved last year and more coming this year. A little bit of hope.

[@toddp9164]

Click to the bait 😂

[@kristenandmichael]

My/our quote of 2023, "why is everything falling apart with my family?" So since there's no other way of putting it... it is what it is. - K