Grateful
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 […]
Early to Bed
I woke up this morning with a bad headache. Could be all that holiday eating finally caught up with me. Could be stress. Could be both. I was grateful that my mom napped twice during the day. I have learned that when I’m tired, I need to lay down when she does. So I did […]
Who Strengthens
I visited a friend today who I hadn’t seen in too long. Her husband recently passed away, so we cried together and prayed together. But we also laughed together. I am so grateful for our deep friendship. Before I left, she gave me a mug with the scripture Phillipians 4:13, “I can do all things […]
Sweet Surprise
It was colder than cold today. The temperature was below zero, even colder with the wind whipping and the snow. Our friend decided not to come over today, which was a wise choice. We stayed in and layered up. I was surprised when Mom saw someone coming to the door. Sure enough, it was one […]
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 […]
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 […]
Uncommon Strength
A friend sent me an encouraging note today. It was more of a prayer and blessing. Part of it read, “Blessed are the caregivers. Surely they will be given uncommon strength through the touch of an angel’s wings.” I loved that image. I certainly could use uncommon strength AND a reminder that we are in […]