Family
Grateful for Encouragement
Several people reached out to me after yesterday’s blog. Most are or were caring for their parent(s). Connecting with others helps to not feel alone, especially when they understand the difficulties. I find it so interesting that people suffering from dementia display such similar struggles, thoughts, and behaviors – regardless of their specific diagnosis. Caregivers […]
God Morning
As my mom’s dementia progresses, I feel like I have to be prepared for anything. Last night was my turn to “sleep” in her room with her. Thankfully, my sister and I trade off every night. Too early this morning, she started yelling for my dad. She sat straight up and said something happened to […]
Sister Relationship
Today is my sister’s birthday. Yesterday my mom picked out a cute card for her. I went out this morning and got her some flowers, sushi lunch, and Bundt cake. It was the best ways I could think of to celebrate her and appreciate her. She moved in a little over a year ago. It […]
But the Wind
I wanted to make a trip up to the cabin today to make sure all was well before the winter cold sets in. My grandson volunteered to come with me. He brought his new camera with him and told me all about it. It is quite different from any other camera I have had experience […]
Sprechen Deutsch
We had a woman come clean the house today. She was German and asked my mother if she was German too. My mom said she was and the woman said a couple things to her in German. My mom actually grew up speaking English and German. It took her a little while to process, but […]
Rare Form
My mom woke up this morning with energy after a long night’s sleep. She even exercised before breakfast. Instead of using the wheelchair, she used her walker to get around all day long. The new caregiver was here and she commented on what a nice and beautiful girl she was. My sister’s boss stopped by […]
Here and There
Our new nurse/friend/caregiver came for her first shift this afternoon. When she arrived, my mom was napping in her room, so we chatted for a bit in the living room. After a while, mom rang her bell which meant she was awake and ready to get up. I asked our friend to allow me to […]
Begin Again
The other day I heard a reflection about our ability to begin again. Every night we have the opportunity to review our day and hand it all to God in prayer, asking forgiveness for our wrongs. At the wakening of each new day, we are able to start fresh and live the day for what […]
The Works
The other day I bought a new handheld showerhead for my mom’s shower. She has not had much strength in her legs recently and it has been difficult trying to get her into the shower at all. But, she got up this morning with some energy and was moving pretty well. So, I seized the […]
Full Heart
We’ve been lucky to have a caregiver come over twice a week for a couple hours. Now and as time goes on, my mom requires a tremendous amount of attention and energy. I’m often exhausted. But we are committed to keeping her at home. I have tried to get more help in, but unfortunately have […]
Still Finding God 