...................................................Some Things I'm Learning Along the Way

On a ship in New Zealand 1982

A few things I'm learning along the way, as we're moving forward on this Alzheimer's journey. 


I'm learning to have more patience.   I'm an impatient person, but I think I'm getting better.

I'm learning not to rush David.   I've always been in a hurry, even when I'm not in a hurry ..... Right now, I'm working hard on never rushing him.  


I'm learning to give David jobs to do and not care about the results.   If he folds clothes and they're not really folded, that's okay.   


I'm learning not to disagree or argue when he has his 'sightings'.   This has been hard for me, but I'm so much better.


I'm learning to appreciate the small things in life, because they're no longer the  small things.


I'm learning to keep my ears and eyes open, so I  can help David, if he's having difficulty getting dressed  - etc.


I'm learning that some people treat us different.

I'm learning that most people are understanding and compassionate.


I'm learning that David's mood can change in a second.


I'm learning that a beard isn't so bad after all.


I'm learning that we laugh a lot because of our pets.

I'm learning to take one day at a time, and not worry about the future.

I'm learning to make decisions all by myself.

I'm learning not to feel guilty when I don't ask David's opinion about financial matters.

I'm learning to discern what David can do and can't do, and let him do what he can.

I'm learning routine is very important to David (always has been, but more so now)......

I'm learning to stay calm, when I'm not .... (haven't accomplished this yet.)

I'm learning to read about Alzheimer's without getting sick to my stomach with worry.

I'm learning that although Alzheimer's is such a dreadful disease, I'm improving on some areas of my life that needed improving upon.

I'm learning at this stage of the disease, that we're still 'dancing in the rain.'

I'm learning that reading my friend's blogs and reading their comments on mine have added so much joy in my life.

I'm learning (have always known this) what a blessing family and friends are in our lives.

And I say, "thank you God that I am learning along the way."