Little did we know.

Just 5 years ago. 

Just noticed the date of the picture. Just 5 years ago and what a difference. Her dementia was at the beginning. She was still Sweetie. Still able to function and be by herself. I wasn't accepted back into the family at this time, and it was our grandson's graduation from JROTC. She was radiant as she prepared to be with him on this, his special day. So, she went for us. I was there in spirit. 

Living with Dementia isn't like the movies, or trying to use the advice of those who are on YouTube or Facebook. Life is dynamic, never static. I glean what I can from those resources, but it is the self learned nuggets that make the difference. This is our life and it is as normal as it will be, for this is, as Sweetie would say, are new normal, and it is new everyday. We were both independent and could manage our lives separate and together. Little did we know what was ahead waiting for us. 

Saturday

It was an up and down day for the both of us. More so for me and taking care of her. Sweetie has been constipated for the past couple of days, and in my efforts to relieve her constipation, has lead us down a path that isn't a fun on to be on. 

Have you ever noticed that not so good times seem to have a habit of piling on each other? For me, it has been the Nanny Cams that I've set up to watch Sweetie when we are not together. Mainly in the morning when I 'm up and doing my morning prayer and meditation time. For whatever reason, they are switching off and then I have to reset them again and again. Finally on the phone with help, and after using a different program, the conclusion is, I'm getting new cameras. 

Then, Sweetie was acting difficult all day long. I'd given her some Milk of Magnesium to help with her constipation. Things were good most of the day. Did most of the things that we do on Saturdays, It wasn't until the evening, when she started walking, sit, get up, walk again, back to bed, and over and over the pattern went. Time to do something. 

She had soiled herself, and it was clean up time. Changed her, and she seemed find for a short time. Then the behavior began again. This time it was the Milk of Magnesium at work. 

A struggle to get her out of her pullups, into the shower for a quick rinse down, and clean pullups. After about an half hour, she slowly unwound and was able to relax, and eventually went back to bed. 

I'm expecting to find a very dirty Sweetie this morning when I get her up. So, with a smile, and a gentle guiding hand, we will start the day in the shower. When I told the doctor about her constipation, he recommended something other than M of M. So, I'll put up with what I have until it is time to replace it. 

Driver is showing me that while we are on this road, there are going to be twist and turns everyday. Not one day will be like the day before and the days ahead. So, He turns on the radio, to find songs that will calm the soul, raise the heart, for it is all in a days ride. As we travel down the Road to Dementia Town, and as always, Keeping our Shiny Side Up. C'ya, Luv ya, and God Bless.