Family
Stay With Me
I have been listening to a podcast based on a retreat by St. Ignatius. This morning I listened to a meditation based on the beginning of the Passion of Christ. The scripture passage Matthew 26:36-46 was the account of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus asked his apostles to stay awake while he prayed, […]
Many Reminders
As I was driving to an appointment this morning, I saw the moon setting behind the mountain. It was such a beautiful scene that was almost identical to what I saw 2 years ago when my dad entered Hospice Care in the hospital. The first morning I went to see him, I opened the blinds […]
Two Years
Today was the two year anniversary of my father’s death. I had been anticipating this day for several weeks now and wondering what it would be like for my mom. I set up to have my dad prayed for at the parish Mass this afternoon. While mom doesn’t always remember that my dad died, she […]
Shampoo Adventure
My mom has been too unsteady to get into the shower, plus it is uncomfortable for her and she gets freezing cold. Thankfully, the Hospice CNA comes once a week and gets her all washed up. However, when I was sitting with mom this afternoon, I realized how badly she needed her hair washed. I […]
Painting Party
We celebrated my sister’s birthday today with a virtual painting party. Some family came over and other friends and family joined via Zoom. Everyone had a canvas, brushes, and a lots of different colored paints. The instructor on Zoom guided us through how to paint the picture, which was an abstract water and mountain scene […]
Early Encounter
Yesterday I had an opportunity to share my story of going to Lourdes, healing, and personal faith. It reminded me of how much God loves me and cares for me, even when I doubt or struggle, or even turn away. I got choked up telling the story again, remembering the incredible spirituality of the place […]
Cameras Continue
My grandson has always been interested in photography and movie making. When he was a child he would make race tracks about of cardboard and use his Hot Wheels cars to make stop motion videos. After we got together a couple weeks ago, I gave him my old electronic Minolta camera to play with. Then […]
Better With Both
It is hard to see my mom struggling to play the piano, especially since it has been her favorite thing to do since she was 6 years old. She does have good days, but most end in frustration. Today her friend came over. We have missed her for 3 weeks for various reasons. After visiting, […]
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 […]
Still Finding God 