It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks since my mom came home. I must admit I expected most of what has transpired, but I feel horrible for home caregivers who don't know what to expect. I have been kicked, slapped, pinched, punched, spit at and called quite a few not so nice names (and sometimes that's all in one day). The last several years at the nursing home taught me a lot so I definitely knew what I was in for. I am sure I would feel the same way if I could not do much for myself and someone was pulling and tugging at me. It's the moments of love that get me through the day - a smile/a kiss or the words to a song that we sing together. She appears to like the way I'm preparing her food and she's eating really well and also staying hydrated - thank goodness.
I am blessed to have assistance a couple of hours per day. Hospice has been wonderful and it's the same aide that we had in the nursing home. The Visiting Angels provide me a few continual hours of me time on the weekends. I also have a friend, who's a trained caregiver, come at night to help at bedtime - she also helps when I need a few hours during the day. I will say it forces me to be prepared to run errands quickly. I even spent a few minutes last night/this morning checking the ads and cutting coupons to be ready to get to a couple of stores quickly. One of my neighbors calls me every few days if he does not see me outside with Lady.
Don't get me wrong, I did have "me" time this past week. I had a massage and energy work and I also attended meditation class. I work hard every day to maintain a semblance of balance in my mind and with my emotions. I know everything happens for a reason and I threw out many expectations to go with the flow. I have been using essential oils daily via the diffuser - another way to balance.
I have not finished a book in a couple of weeks. I have started reading again in the mornings for a few minutes to get things moving. I have started crossword puzzles again as well - a few minutes every day to keep my brain active.
I was negligent last week in not thanking my BFF for all her help when she was here. She was a Godsend when it came to everything. She also drove my car back to VA for the state inspection (expired 31 March). She sent me a picture the other day of the new sticker. She will return in May for a visit.
A huge shout out to my youngest nephew Brian as his birthday is this week - a big 17! Happy Birthday young man!
Have you watched any of the "reboots" of TV shows. What did you think? I laughed out loud at Roseanne. Although I loved Will and Grace the first time around, this time it feels like they are trying too hard. I did watch the Trading Spaces Reunion and new show...just as amazing as ever.
I am going to leave it here for today. I hope you have a wonderful week and spring appears soon. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
"A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything.” — Irish proverb
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” — Dalai Lama
“Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only robs today of its joy.” — Leo Buscaglia, author, professor, motivational speaker