So Happy to see me.

In the mountains. 

Found a picture that I don't think I've used before. I had volunteered to cook at a breakfast in the Jemez. It seems like a lifetime ago. Sweetie was showing signs of her dementia, but it wasn't bad. We had a good time, and did some small hikes while we were there. 

Yesterday was my support group meeting. We had 3 new men joining us. I heard the same stories that I've heard and told myself. The confusion, the loneliness, the concern of passing away and leaving the spouse alone. Tells of sundowners, and the slow decline of their mental abilities. More than likely only one of the men will continue to come and be helped by the group. 

When I got home, Sweetie was so happy to see me, we hugged and she wouldn't let go of me. I checked in with our caregiver and except for her opening the garage door to try and get out, everything was fine. I asked about checking her pullups while I was gone, she wouldn't let her near them. That was fine. 

After she left, I did my check up, and she was a mess. It was shower time, and this was the second shower of the day. I've begun to enjoy these showers, and by talking to her, telling her it is OK for me to touch her "there" softens her concern. I think it must be a built in emotional connection for a woman and her private areas and touching. By looking her in the eyes, a soft voice, telling her it is OK, she can relax and I can get the job done. 

Sweetie must of had a real emotional day yesterday, because around 5, she wanted to head to bed. I could tell she didn't want to stay up and bed sounded good. Down she went, and when I went up to join her, she was sound asleep and still is. 

I'm happy that I can get a good night sleep, and to be able to share that with my Driver in the morning. He knows that is something that I need to get through the day. And to get through the day starts with a drive on the highway to Dementia Town. Sometimes it is a short trip, then there are days when it never seems to stop. He knows the way, Him behind the wheel, me in the passenger's seat, sitting back and watching the sunshine bounce off the Shiny Side of the car. You can do this too, just smile, watch out for the pot holes, as we both head on down the Road to Dementia Town, Keeping our Shiny Sides up. Love Ya and God Bless.