Phobias

Sweetie at the pier '17

Day two, at the beach is about to begin. I got her down to the water, but she wouldn't get wet. For one of her "things" with her dementia is getting her feet wet while she is outside. I've heard of some of the phobias that people have as they follow Dementia. I've notice also, while we walk the pier, she is afraid to get near the sides, to look at the surfers, watch the waves, or just enjoy being at the beach. As of yet, we haven't made it to the end of the pier. At first I was thinking she was tired. Now, I think it is her Dementia that is afraid, and so she is acting accordingly. 

We had a good day, After getting donuts for breakfast, went and saw my daughter and all. The oldest wasn't there, she is at drama camp, took pictures. Then went to visit my dad's grave site. While we were there, I introduced Sweetie to my dad. I think she understood what was happening and we both felt good about it. While we were there, I realized that my dad has been gone for 60 years now. This was only my 4th time I visited his grave and the first with someone else. I was thinking how sad it is that I'm the only one who still comes to visit. 

I think Sweetie is getting settled here, and she is doing fine. I don't push her to do anything too stressful. What is stressful at the beach? After we returned from our outing, we took a walk. It seems to be her thing now, walking. Tried the pier again, no luck in reaching the end, and I thought she'd faint on me, so we headed back to our room where she napped. It was just what she needed to reset herself.

Dinner, we went to the IHOP because I knew that there are items that she can and will eat. I got her some chicken tenders, with mash potatoes and corn. She ate the mash and corn with delight. She didn't like the chicken that much, so I gave her some of the meat I'd ordered, she ate that. I even gave her some of my mash potatoes and corn. I'd not seen her eat like that in a long, long time. I think we'll go back there for dinner tonight. 

To tell the truth, I'll be happy when this day is over and we head back home. We're making many memories for me and those we have been with. I will look back and remember our last time at the beach. The walking, the dad introduction, and family. For me, these are the Easter Eggs parts of being Sweeties caregiver. 

My Driver has a big smile on His face. When I see what He is doing and the blessings that come with this job. Looks like He's got the car ready for some windshield time. Off it is and down the Road to Dementia Town we go. Watching the sun coming up on another day, being thankful that there is going to be another day as we motor down the road Keeping Our Shiny Side Up. You can join us anytime you'd like, the only requirement is that you too Keep Your Shiny Side Up, as you travel down the Road to Dementia Town.
See you there, Love Ya and God Bless.