Moments to Enjoy - a Visit With Mum

I read a book - studied really - entitled "the 36 Hour Day".  While the book is helpful in understanding how to deal with and care for a person with Alzheimer's and related Dementias, it can in know way relate what it is to really experience dealing with that care. More importantly it is difficult for anyone to put into words how one reacts to the varied situations that arise. Ggaod Bless Jack and Lana for what they have done and what they are doing.  I thank them so much for bringing Mum (that is what she likes to be called, though I still call her Mom) to visit with us and see her Colorado grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mom is so "in the moment" of things - but the moments need to be constantly repeated.  At times there is clearly lucidity for extended periods of time... minutes even!  She and Carolyn - who I know is patient, but is even more patient than I thought, are putting together a puzzle.  The puzzle has 24 large pieces - and putting each piece in seems to take four or five minutes.  But it is getting put together.  The did one yesterday morning too...The results of that one shown below.  Pooh and his friends.  It is good to hear them laugh as they explore the different possibilities for each piece of the puzzle then give thumbs up for each successful try and a high five on completion.

It is interesting to see that there is a cycle to life and love of life and the joy that is found by "working so hard for it" as mom says.  You don't want to take the puzzle apart but you want to enjoy it for several days.  And then it is time to rest and relax.

Singing and exercising makes one laugh and be happy as well.  All of these things help keep the mind sharp - well as sharp as it can be anyway.  I do believe that mom being with Lana and Jack has really helped mom be healthier.  That means that mom will be with us in better mental and physical shape than she would be living alone.  There is no way that we can appreciate the sacrifices enough - but we can try!  Social interaction is a key component of that physical and mental well being!

Well, we are preparing for the Valentine creation party.  So much of the family will be over later to help out with that.  I - in the meantime - am enjoying writing and having a great Bloody Mary!

Moments are precious - friends and family are precious - never forget that.... give hugs and smiles freely- the life you have been given is yours to live to its fullest - so do that! Live all your moments and your life to the fullest!