tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46883610334117857112024-02-20T19:49:27.407-05:00Living...Laughing...Loving...** Memoirs of a suburban Mother, Daughter/Caregiver, Wife and Girlfriend **Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.comBlogger493125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-84250764446935269772016-07-04T23:50:00.001-04:002016-07-04T23:50:41.310-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</em></span></strong></div>
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This is an unplanned post, but I wanted to let everyone know my mom is still content and safe living in the same skilled nursing community she moved to exactly two years ago!!! This is a recent picture from a visit with my daughter, Kristin (who just turned 16). I think of this blog often and have good intentions of posting again more often. We still see signs of her sense of humor, and just when we sometimes think she may have forgotten who I am, she calls me by my name. Recently, the staff took her out on an adventure to Walmart. Since she used to work there, I know she must have enjoyed being there again!! Kristin and I gave her another manicure for Mother's Day. My brother visits often and is very good about taking my mom outside in the fresh air. I also enjoy taking her outside this time of year as the grounds are very nice at this senior community.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Meanwhile, my daughter has finished her freshman year at Michigan State University, my twins are now 16, my son was just selected as a drum major for our high school's marching band, and his twin sister has decided to rejoin the marching band this summer/fall 2016!!! All three are working this summer as well. Life is full and busy!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I will share a few more recent pictures of my mom and hope to check in again soon!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-862672227185992752015-11-16T15:10:00.003-05:002015-11-16T15:49:30.019-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> As Thanksgiving nears, there continues to be much to be thankful for!!! This past year has been one of peace for my mom. In fact, thanks to the "Timehop" app, I realized it was a year ago <u>today</u> that my mom was hospitalized for a week (you can read more about that <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/12/monday-memories-with-my-mom.html">HERE</a>). The good news is that made me realize we have gone a full year without any further hospitalizations. Also, there have been no significant changes in my mom's health. She seems content and at peace with her current living situation in the memory care unit of her skilled nursing community. The staff often shares stories with me on things my mom has said and done and all of them continue to tell me how they love her sense of humor!!! For this, I am grateful as I think most of you know there were times I was unsure that my mom would make this adjustment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> With my mom safe, content and at peace, it has also allowed me more time to spend with my kids and family these </span><span style="font-family: "arial";">last few months...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> A visit with my mother-in-law two days before my daughter's high school commencement. It was sad for me to realize my mom would be unable to attend, as I know she would have loved to.</span><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May 29, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So.....we brought the commencement to my mom by doing a big family photo shoot with my my mom. She had two grandchildren who both graduated from high school!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> June 28, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A visit with the daughters right before Megan (left) headed to Germany for a month.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">June 25, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I loved this day as it was my mom's one year anniversary of living at Canterbury on the Lake!!! (You can see more about her move <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_83.html">HERE</a>.) We had fun as there was also a "Happy Hour" celebration with singing, snacks and smoothies which my mom loved!!!. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">July 2, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Granddaughter Kristin is a natural at caring for my mom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In fact, she now works in another assisted living community where she is a server</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> in their dining room!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">August 17, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jacob was due for a visit!!! <u>He</u> drove to see Grandma fresh from the Secretary of State office where he had just received his driver's learning permit!!!! Good news -- we made it!!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">September 4, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My mom was also thrilled to receive a card from her cousin Karen from Muskegon!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Card from Cousin Karen</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sometimes conversation is hard to come by -- so we take a selfie!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">October 2, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">...and, I must admit there are times when I very much miss the days when my mom could walk</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and visit "The Don" as she did when she was living at the American House.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A recent hair cut. The "Before" is on the left and the "After the two on the right. A little shorter than we wanted, but it will work!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyeH5u0SJ0VbTA6W1kx94lDcO79QQx-UEoCmaUf3VEoVh9e7lZoKr-CTZ_8cJHw0VPVKtaoasUi1kIamhv-M7hZ_Yr6EImdf1BeD8JDRXPH_MFp81drw_2b53aRyR4Xcu9YK_A5pRNk0P/s1600/IMG_3777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyeH5u0SJ0VbTA6W1kx94lDcO79QQx-UEoCmaUf3VEoVh9e7lZoKr-CTZ_8cJHw0VPVKtaoasUi1kIamhv-M7hZ_Yr6EImdf1BeD8JDRXPH_MFp81drw_2b53aRyR4Xcu9YK_A5pRNk0P/s640/IMG_3777.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This, my friends, is fresh from this morning's visit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was pleased to see their "morning exercises" and they all seemed to enjoy it!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNSqyDndKK_WRo_D-0zghasLL2OR1qwzE5naecyj-Zgh-0GvGBAHxvLzDCgM71qF92ELxemnyBVUeKNBXup-7HOeQ_MypfCeNxei0uVnFt8V7YGTZblYsfIkhrY1ehSQyhuVfI-ub2c4Y/s1600/IMG_3778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNSqyDndKK_WRo_D-0zghasLL2OR1qwzE5naecyj-Zgh-0GvGBAHxvLzDCgM71qF92ELxemnyBVUeKNBXup-7HOeQ_MypfCeNxei0uVnFt8V7YGTZblYsfIkhrY1ehSQyhuVfI-ub2c4Y/s640/IMG_3778.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>TODAY -- November 16, 2015</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Complete with Video............</span></div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/n1VAoNXrzQ0/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n1VAoNXrzQ0?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I will try to be better about sharing as I have received concerned phone calls from many of my mom's friends. We remain thankful for each day and wish all of you</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> a very nice and Happy Thanksgiving!!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI5IJvtsBy4kzWdzYcShUUw16x8U7q8V0UG5phjzCZeU74yKKcqngSRurgoOHDJ5EVqJuN5kj58_bMQIxjBs335TZTsrRBcj9yZPBp7AsvsyaN6xSslF-l0g5XobTMeEkH-488AQyeDyb/s1600/MyLiveSignature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI5IJvtsBy4kzWdzYcShUUw16x8U7q8V0UG5phjzCZeU74yKKcqngSRurgoOHDJ5EVqJuN5kj58_bMQIxjBs335TZTsrRBcj9yZPBp7AsvsyaN6xSslF-l0g5XobTMeEkH-488AQyeDyb/s1600/MyLiveSignature.png" /></a></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-83396608009505968382015-06-28T16:18:00.000-04:002015-06-28T18:50:17.328-04:00(Sorta) Silent Sunday<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It's been awhile and life has been busy, but thought I would share that my mom has been doing fairly well and my daughter graduated from high school!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today we visited my mom and Megan put on her cap and gown so I could get this picture. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> On Wednesday, Megan leaves for Germany for a month and then heads to Michigan State University in the Fall with plans to study Education with a major in German.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Lots more to blog about, but for now my focus is my family (and sometimes me)...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Hope all is well with all of you -- I will check in soon!!!</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI5IJvtsBy4kzWdzYcShUUw16x8U7q8V0UG5phjzCZeU74yKKcqngSRurgoOHDJ5EVqJuN5kj58_bMQIxjBs335TZTsrRBcj9yZPBp7AsvsyaN6xSslF-l0g5XobTMeEkH-488AQyeDyb/s1600/MyLiveSignature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Adding this photo as an afterthought... Don't really like photos of "me", but grateful that we were able to get this.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeI_WMvnBkyRpIcjdxfpuyiETor-9LDUBSaCwdxVBjj-52ivVrasM89cDbYm-Us9650rdR8cUVrM95gD94z4oVApDSFpqeToyJSec6vkuy-i2Yf5N26mexx6ZKYDktuX4omRJd-y3X65I6/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252820%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeI_WMvnBkyRpIcjdxfpuyiETor-9LDUBSaCwdxVBjj-52ivVrasM89cDbYm-Us9650rdR8cUVrM95gD94z4oVApDSFpqeToyJSec6vkuy-i2Yf5N26mexx6ZKYDktuX4omRJd-y3X65I6/s640/FullSizeRender+%252820%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-46639805138439764162015-04-20T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-20T07:30:00.766-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">**From the Week of March 9th**</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I had a busy week as my husband went to Charleston, SC on a golf vacation and my kids had an extra busy week with Cinderella musical, golf tryouts, soccer tryouts, music festival, state competition practices, etc... I finally got over to see my mom.... Our big "meltdown" has been in progress in Michigan this past week, and we really have made significant progress. However, memories of year's past tell me it's never over for sure until May.... I parked near a sign that cautioned about ice, a piece of sidewalk that seemed to retain water and probably went from freezing to a puddle back and forth depending on the day... This sign was a nice welcome!?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvK-YQmIr1LFqHsXVPyzNNiT8KERDvl70ZGIJigTeLx94SV26SSGA0y_wfeRTWuAPn31d9GTsTGgAd9gam49_1FSJY56pwL0GonFUyLsJh1IBklxaioirTpd754tjHDQg7PxxOXC9x20k2/s1600/IMG_0514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvK-YQmIr1LFqHsXVPyzNNiT8KERDvl70ZGIJigTeLx94SV26SSGA0y_wfeRTWuAPn31d9GTsTGgAd9gam49_1FSJY56pwL0GonFUyLsJh1IBklxaioirTpd754tjHDQg7PxxOXC9x20k2/s1600/IMG_0514.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once inside, I went in my mom's room to check on things. I saw this cute little bunny sitting on her nightstand. Another little collection of stuffed animals has started, much like she accumulated to her assisted living apartments, but not as many.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Speaking of stuffed animals, I think someone was recently asking about Muffin... My mom does not seem as attached to Muffin lately. I have not heard her ask for her in a long time, and when I went to look I found one Muffin in her closet and the other here...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQlndeGv_UtSNy65m222RNGzv5EA-i179NVBN40Z-pt-kllixALAqkRUdXR4CEdL3Rgji7uIEaGxn8nq8IxaSzjdHlKFVf3XrJfCtb8pSfO7TwqAFY9HRZOYA7-qT2bC3OQa5gOJvLvAdn/s1600/FullSizeRender+(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQlndeGv_UtSNy65m222RNGzv5EA-i179NVBN40Z-pt-kllixALAqkRUdXR4CEdL3Rgji7uIEaGxn8nq8IxaSzjdHlKFVf3XrJfCtb8pSfO7TwqAFY9HRZOYA7-qT2bC3OQa5gOJvLvAdn/s1600/FullSizeRender+(7).jpg" height="400" width="233" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">i<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">n the commons area. (Remember, we had two "Muffin" dogs so that if one was lost or in the wash, we would still have one.) I would like to think that my mom is feeling more secure in her skilled nursing environment in recent months, and, perhaps, she does not "need" Muffin as much. However, it is possible that she has kind of forgotten about Muffin. I may see what the staff says about that. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also went and looked by the blankets to see if there was another "fidget quilt". There was, so I brought it over to my mom and while she was watching the movie, we talked about each item on the quilt. There was a part of her that wanted to remove that little puppy from the quilt, so if any of you are ever thinking about making a fidget quilt, use strong thread and sew everything down well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It seems that my mom's love of television is back in full swing. Many times, especially recently, I see many of the residents sitting near the nurses station by the bird cage, or the sun. However, my mom was alone down by the television near her bedroom watching Father of the Bride 2. She was awake...and watching. She seemed pretty good and even stayed awake for the majority of my visit which was over an hour. She was having what those familiar with Alzheimer's would call a "good day". Her sense of humor was intact and when I commented about how funny Steve Martin was, she wholeheartedly agreed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we were sitting, a man in a wheelchair (who can move himself around with his feet) kept stopping by and seemed to be doing "laps" around the floor. His speed wasn't bad either, so every once in awhile he would stop and say something to us and then he would move on. My mom was trying to understand him, but we could not and once he left my mom looked at me and shook her head to let me know she thought he was crazy!!?? It may not have been appropriate, but it made me laugh for a second because I knew that was a true reaction from my mom.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I told my mom about the music competition my kids bands were participating in over the weekend and how both Megan and Jacob had solos during their performances. She seemed impressed and asked how they did. I said they did really well and that seemed to make her happy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Then, as the movie was coming to an end, we were watching the scenes where the daughter and the mom both have their babies. I could tell my mom loved seeing the close ups of the little babies and because one was a boy and one was a girl (like my twins, Jacob and Kristin) I said, look it is like the day Jacob and Kristin were born and we were all at the hospital. Do you remember that? She nodded and kept watching. I could tell she remembered it, and I know it was one of her proudest days. A minute later she repeated "there's Jacob and Kristin". After some of the sleep, more quiet visits we've had lately, I felt good about this visit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> So, although I did not come armed with a photo album as I intended, we did have a nice visit and was thankful my mom was having a "good day". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Later, when my brother and niece visited, this is what she did when he said "smile"!!??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> She will do anything for a laugh, and she knows the grandkids sometimes think the more "inappropriate" the better....</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-67716525508959794222015-03-12T11:42:00.000-04:002015-03-12T11:42:06.654-04:00Throwback Thursday - National Honor Society<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> With my oldest daughter, Megan's, high school graduation fast approaching, there have been so many memories made along the way. In a perfect world, I would blog them all (and I may still try!). However, one of the many particularly proud moments was when we learned that Megan was being inducted into the National Honor Society. Don't worry, I do not plan on turning this blog into a gloating fest, but I do want to document these memories (and I am her mom!). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Megan has always been a self-motivated student when it comes to learning. She did not need constant reminding or motivation...or threats!! Ha! She set goals for herself, usually did not even share them with us, and strives for them on her own. Make no mistake, her loving doting parents have supported her every step of the way, but we did not have to push her. She pushed herself. In fact, sometimes I think she may have pushed herself too hard, if you believe in such a thing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As many of you know, schools these days definitely put their students on the fast track and expect much more than they did when I was in high school. With this comes a lot of pressure. Many days it is hard to watch your kids juggle so many things. However, going the extra mile and volunteering in various areas of community service is one of the things I most admire. Everything from helping run a Bingo game with senior citizens to raking countless bags of leaves for the elderly in the Fall. These kids just keep going - even when they have to wake up for school by 6 am!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As some of you may know, each chapter of the NHS has their own requirements. However, the minimal requirements are regulated by the National NHS.</span></div>
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Per the <a href="http://www.nhs.us/about-us/constitution-and-governance/nhs-national-constitution.aspx?article=IX">NHS National Constitution</a>, all chapters' eligibility requirements must include, at minimum:<br />
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<li>attending school in grades 10 through 12</li>
<li>maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 85 percent, B, 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or equivalent standard of excellence </li>
<li>demonstrating volunteer or service hours</li>
<li>preserving an excellent record of behavior in and out of school</li>
<li>participating in leadership roles in school and/or community activities </li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> So, it is indeed, an "honor" to be part of the National Honor Society and to see people recognized for their hard work. </span> T<span style="font-family: Arial;">he parents and families were invited to the induction ceremony last spring, and it is inspiring to see what this group of young people has accomplished. Their "futures so bright, they gotta wear shades"!!!!</span> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Induction Ceremony</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A Picture With the Outgoing NHS President and a Friend</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some Friends</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why do they always do this?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This Means We Are Done Taking Pictures...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrd0Ys0ACvC0zovaVbDlpuWGUsyTIaKIEGPk72ZkURuKEqYGf9ljajq7xnpuyK_d2a0oa83hbizmoFMcowlCgBEU3xJ_icDyjr4dfge2REh6N656Cr99C5Je4vdPBSmDWObjQ9SDqyREyj/s1600/103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrd0Ys0ACvC0zovaVbDlpuWGUsyTIaKIEGPk72ZkURuKEqYGf9ljajq7xnpuyK_d2a0oa83hbizmoFMcowlCgBEU3xJ_icDyjr4dfge2REh6N656Cr99C5Je4vdPBSmDWObjQ9SDqyREyj/s1600/103.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love Her!!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> <span style="font-family: Arial;">Congratulations Megan!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Another proud parent moment you have given us in your 16 (plus) years!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-1864344948327297412015-03-09T12:14:00.000-04:002015-03-09T12:26:51.437-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em> </em></strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> When I arrived for a visit, I saw that my mom had this little "touch quilt" or "fidget quilt", I have heard them called, on her lap. This was a small one, but it had a satin piece, a piece of lace, a rough patch, rick rack and a pocket sewn on. I commented to one of the staff about them, and she showed me they had a few of them. I am not sure if they are new or just something I've not seen before. Either way, I was glad to see these as my mom's best friend, Jane, is a big quilter and my mom used to spend lots of time helping her make her quilts. They would spend weeks in the summer in Northern Michigan buying fabric, piecing, ironing, sewing, and whatever else is involved in quilting. I know it is a lot of work!! They also had a tradition of attending a "quilt auction" every summer which I have also attended. So, I have to think that this small touch quilt may have triggered some fond memories for my mom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Especially when I looked close and saw the little details on the yellow fabric. I commented to my mom that it was a lot like when she and Jane used to work on quilts. My mom agreed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I like the idea of these fidget quilts. I know for awhile we had kind of a "busy box" in my mom's old apartment. Just a tin filled with odds and ends for her to rifle through and "fidget" with. However, in this shared nursing environment, keeping track of the contents would be difficult. That is why the idea of these various items and textures sewn on the quilt is appealing. I found several examples of cute fidget quilts on the internet. I believe there are some groups out there making these for Alzheimer's and dementia patients. I like the idea of using some scraps of fabric and sewing notions and putting them together for something like this. Helps beat the boredom and stimulates the senses and possibly some memories among other things. Perhaps when I am retired, I can pay it forward and make some of these. Seems like I may be able to handle it. The only sewing machine I have is my mom's which is very old and very basic. It is also still at my mom's condo. It's also the only sewing machine I (used to) know how to work!!? Hmmmm... Clean the house, or start sewing!?</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit <a href="http://www.smokeybarn.com/">www.smokeybarn.com</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em> </em></strong>I think I really need to consider adjusting my schedule. As I've mentioned before, it seems my best time to visit my mom always falls in the "after lunch" hours a/k/a "sleepy time". I'm not sure when might be a better time to visit as the evenings I'm usually tied up with my kids. I could try something around 10:00 am and see what happens, but there is almost always an activity scheduled at that time. If I arrive too early it is shower, getting dressed and breakfast time, activity, lunch, nap, activity, nap, dinner... I don't know. Maybe my best bet is just being able to go outside and getting some fresh air, which hopefully will come sooner than later. They also seem to keep the heat close to 80 degrees, so who wouldn't fall asleep -- makes me want to fall asleep, too!!!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although the activity calendar is full, and I was told that earlier my mom had been watching Sound of Music in honor of the movie's 50th anniversary...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I had a hard time getting much more than this out of the crowd... I will hope for a more meaningful visit next time. I will say I would rather find the residents sleeping in chairs than in bed all day. They do have a routine there, and perhaps my mom is "too busy" for me!!?? Maybe the morning Sound of Music party got a little crazy and wiped everyone out. I think I better think of some kind of entertainment to bring along next time I visit, perhaps some photos. Either way, I know she appreciates my visits, and I remind myself that she is warm, safe and loved.</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-30366622954577821512015-03-05T09:16:00.000-05:002015-03-05T09:16:52.201-05:00Throwback Thursday - Date Night<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <strong><em>Detroit Detour, December 2013</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> So, brace yourself as this is not the kind of thing you have seen on this blog very often!! We went on a <em><u>date</u></em> called the <em>DETROIT DETOUR</em>! Back in December, I came upon a Groupon (yes, that's sometimes how married people make plans) for something called the "Detroit Detour". This was the description that drew me in...</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">Wine fans and beer hounds gather for an exciting afternoon, sampling some of downtown Detroit’s most dynamic dining establishments. Featuring 20 of Detroit’s hottest restaurants and lounges – including the Biergarten at Winter Magic at Campus Martius – offers patrons the opportunity to indulge in a variety of craft beers and carefully-selected wines, both paired with signature appetizers. Detroit Detour will offer continuous bus transportation between locations, a map to all of the food and beverage destinations offered and an unparalleled opportunity to discover the very best of Motown's burgeoning nightlife.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">20 Premier bars and restaurants and a couple questionable joints. over 40 exquisite beer, wine and appetizer samples with continuous transportation to and from all locations:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">BOOKIES</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">FIREBIRD TAVERN</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">OLD SHILLELAGH </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">BIG CITY SANTORINI</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">PAPPY'S</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">THE JEFFERSON HOUSE</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">RUB PUB</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">CAMPUS MARTIUS BIERGARTEN </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">DETROIT BEER COMPANY</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">TOWN PUMP</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">24 GRILLE</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">SKYBAR LOUNGE</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">CHELI'S</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">ANCHOR BAR</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">GRAND TRUNK PUB </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">HARBOR HOUSE </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">CORNERSTONE BARREL HOUSE</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px;">WAH-HOO</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Sounds, good, right? Plus, I believe the Groupon was like half off the normal price. I want to say we paid like $40-$50 for both of us. I actually think it was $40, and I love a good deal. I booked it on a whim a couple days before the event and surprised my husband.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Sometimes we drank beer from nice glasses...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPHzDB9VrM9D-kVtaBJR8ssUHB-XCMPAVbozar667wXTn543b8GXhAvwwCBPi7_HsYvPfUL4KRVVl83edw4PPA14Q1PlkavfWyahO20CksouVuOLwVOQEBHKWJT19uJoBZUygjuBRgLUd/s1600/IMG_5121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPHzDB9VrM9D-kVtaBJR8ssUHB-XCMPAVbozar667wXTn543b8GXhAvwwCBPi7_HsYvPfUL4KRVVl83edw4PPA14Q1PlkavfWyahO20CksouVuOLwVOQEBHKWJT19uJoBZUygjuBRgLUd/s1600/IMG_5121.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">and some places provided nice plastic cups...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWwispyZBNlgQhXcJPW_PeES_erUch2w4F9mksE3I_GdM__onZ7W52gRfqwfel2OQzpqH37kHzoalSSrNuAzAHHhzM7umsRu3RJEV0klWRx06_ShDCGzG3CHanuvmnmKb1T4UO33jr0S0/s1600/IMG_5120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWwispyZBNlgQhXcJPW_PeES_erUch2w4F9mksE3I_GdM__onZ7W52gRfqwfel2OQzpqH37kHzoalSSrNuAzAHHhzM7umsRu3RJEV0klWRx06_ShDCGzG3CHanuvmnmKb1T4UO33jr0S0/s1600/IMG_5120.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early on we even took time out for a "selfie" on this rare occasion.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie1D8XXhp-pkNwFali9ExQiDykhYjlekLja0z4Q-is-FHfurTFxRlFdJtB3zoJT8MZK5WhxB6OR3USlVcsCke09rnaANQ4cv6YLZuipPCmdXvsxREXE4yWrBU1c5RVoFDqQg9lGgEwFwmD/s1600/IMG_5180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie1D8XXhp-pkNwFali9ExQiDykhYjlekLja0z4Q-is-FHfurTFxRlFdJtB3zoJT8MZK5WhxB6OR3USlVcsCke09rnaANQ4cv6YLZuipPCmdXvsxREXE4yWrBU1c5RVoFDqQg9lGgEwFwmD/s1600/IMG_5180.JPG" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Overall, I'd say it was a big hit, and it was fun dashing in and out of the cold to the various drinking establishments and hopping on the shuttle buses that took us around town. We made it to about seven or eight of the places. There was no way to make it to all of them in the time allotted. A couple of establishments I had been to, but most I had not. We purposely tried to go to the ones we had not been to before. They also served small appetizers along the way using a ticket and wristband system. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">People seemed to be having a good time along the way, and it was fun to chat with some of the other participants. Mainly -- it was fun just to be out and about in the wintertime (and away from the kids) for a day!!! No babysitter required!</span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmoAFfAVpVBiyH6QmvgESxk6IF3yT7M2buFwnp0_gMLLBJJJk2uSeUBsW2M7gUCplk4ZTPCzchFl0P1F4v2JA1opz1aGDNa7tL6w1PzQN9WmsXIPcjdqjg1PGntmxDvmKjCGZEDCFyiuN/s1600/IMG_5122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmoAFfAVpVBiyH6QmvgESxk6IF3yT7M2buFwnp0_gMLLBJJJk2uSeUBsW2M7gUCplk4ZTPCzchFl0P1F4v2JA1opz1aGDNa7tL6w1PzQN9WmsXIPcjdqjg1PGntmxDvmKjCGZEDCFyiuN/s1600/IMG_5122.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> One of the establishments we went to was across the street from this lovely graffiti shot below. It was literally like this "secret" door hole in the wall type place and then you went down some stairs and were suddenly in this dance club kind of atmosphere. Oh, to be young again!?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHX8GNTc1-KOtU0BrPYuXfoB9u_U1fx2jMRd-5KsLEGGSYbzlygm-HWZObWy18AlO5WcgRkV6qWsmn_ZOKcpVdhvb3w08ehLVOIedCoDOD-FdyPSHb4sD-SDigQRV-hLHrc0DhK-VI2i65/s1600/085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHX8GNTc1-KOtU0BrPYuXfoB9u_U1fx2jMRd-5KsLEGGSYbzlygm-HWZObWy18AlO5WcgRkV6qWsmn_ZOKcpVdhvb3w08ehLVOIedCoDOD-FdyPSHb4sD-SDigQRV-hLHrc0DhK-VI2i65/s1600/085.JPG" height="286" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The majority of the event was in the afternoon and the day was cold, but sunny. I snapped this picture below as we were passing by. If you know anything about Detroit, you know that our Coney Island restaurants are pretty well known. The picture is of the two most popular coney restaurants in Detroit, right next door to each other. Most people prefer either "American" or "Lafayette". Personally, I'm a Lafayette girl, but I would be fine at either one. Around here, we take coney restaurants for granted -- they're everywhere. However, I remember my father-in-law, from Ohio, used to love going to the coney restaurants when he came to visit because they didn't have them.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjmsnmbPcOfWOZBB_iAQiLbwzCTq9ZDsTocsysVsSjlzvnLu3tTg2xLgUTuzjRo7iTIwYzTBZb2a0vIcB4wn-g5zlsJOsCXYUP5OwUwMtb0IHiLZnDh3eYKm6MInHmOjCr0xwC0h2hDS/s1600/IMG_5129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7AjmsnmbPcOfWOZBB_iAQiLbwzCTq9ZDsTocsysVsSjlzvnLu3tTg2xLgUTuzjRo7iTIwYzTBZb2a0vIcB4wn-g5zlsJOsCXYUP5OwUwMtb0IHiLZnDh3eYKm6MInHmOjCr0xwC0h2hDS/s1600/IMG_5129.JPG" height="604" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As a side note, I realized the timing of this whole "date" was meant to be. The week I planned it II had just recently found an envelope in my mom's things while cleaning up her condo. The envelope was marked "babysitting" and had over $100 in it. I knew right away that it was the money we had given to my mom when she had watched our kids on various occasions. We knew my mom could use the money and most times insisted on paying her for her time. I decided the best thing to do would be to use that money on some kind of special date night for us. The next day was when that "Groupon" came up...and there you have it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As the afternoon went on, we were getting colder and colder as we occasionally walked to the different locations instead of waiting for the shuttle buses. We were trying to squeeze in a couple more stops before the event was over. After talking to some people, we soon realized that the "Sky Bar" was one of the best stops so we hustled to get there as our last stop.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> We were soooo glad we made it! They offered some nice drinks, nice atmosphere and a great view of the City. It was a great place to end our "Detroit Detour".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Here you can see Comerica Park (home of the Detroit Tigers) in the background...in December!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a shot of the City where you can see the Detroit River and then Canada on the other side.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdM5UlfEBoun_aUlkSwzeou3eY65RXnGaW_g9Udw5CWu8EMsp4XOZctYVMMvEPw4QukDr-d4JHi4q8CES94n0SYWQQEwLs-vNALOArwJVqU_Na85XxaONqyw24taeRUNsxTp1JxtvJLBE7/s1600/IMG_5147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdM5UlfEBoun_aUlkSwzeou3eY65RXnGaW_g9Udw5CWu8EMsp4XOZctYVMMvEPw4QukDr-d4JHi4q8CES94n0SYWQQEwLs-vNALOArwJVqU_Na85XxaONqyw24taeRUNsxTp1JxtvJLBE7/s1600/IMG_5147.JPG" height="550" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here you can see Ford Field (home of the Detroit Lions) in the background...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As it was ending, people were starting to clear out and we got this great seat with a view and relaxed for awhile.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Detroit gets a bad reputation, but there are many fabulous things about it. I hope by the time my kids have kids, it will be back to being the best it can be!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After a long day of running around "bar hopping" as though we were two "youngsters", we took a cab and settled in for a nice quiet dinner at Wolfgang Puck's located in the nearby MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We weren't terribly hungry, so we just shared one of Wolfgang's yummy pizzas...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a little more vino... </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXREynBW-YxIiUCIzJwr8gdj2Bml08zY8R4K8tf6jOMP38oaJJCcUoRR_YqvCzXsVV5vOW1w2tG9hP8kR5wgKMu5_qWK42YBvIAtoszh7E6zJzScXa_OdOkdttAuY71urLg2M-jcCjgDr/s1600/IMG_5128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXREynBW-YxIiUCIzJwr8gdj2Bml08zY8R4K8tf6jOMP38oaJJCcUoRR_YqvCzXsVV5vOW1w2tG9hP8kR5wgKMu5_qWK42YBvIAtoszh7E6zJzScXa_OdOkdttAuY71urLg2M-jcCjgDr/s1600/IMG_5128.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and a yummy dessert!!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9vWhnyVHCUJb5N4-vKs3wozdRB5SLs7hxP7vljxfKQasexsDYbtMXvdkWo_Mx0dSjjCk8HlvzCl6-GckrZD5U83aGzM1JQh_pGa19GFae8utzbKDHLICJhX9OMNamLYxiEFKXFBZ__yj/s1600/IMG_5175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9vWhnyVHCUJb5N4-vKs3wozdRB5SLs7hxP7vljxfKQasexsDYbtMXvdkWo_Mx0dSjjCk8HlvzCl6-GckrZD5U83aGzM1JQh_pGa19GFae8utzbKDHLICJhX9OMNamLYxiEFKXFBZ__yj/s1600/IMG_5175.JPG" height="602" width="640" /></a> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At dinner, I told my hubby, "Mr. Living" (ha!) about the babysitting money I had found my mom had tucked away in her drawer. By the end of the night, I realized it did that money covered our entire fabulous date with just a couple dollars to spare, and I thought to myself "Thanks, Mom" -- we had a good time!!!!</span><br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-26726739969906630252015-03-02T07:30:00.000-05:002015-03-02T07:30:02.535-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</strong></span></em><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em> </em></strong>This week I was glad to see my mom seeming a little more like herself. In fairness, I really think you have to take into consideration the long winter, the people and struggles she sees and experiences on a daily basis, and the fact that she has not been outside in months. A definite recipe for some SAD (seasonal affective disorder). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I knew I wanted to get my mom's hair trimmed, so I made a last minute appointment at the salon in the building. It seems to primarily cater to the "assisted living" part of the community, but I'm not sure what my other options really are and for now, it's okay. You can probably barely tell her hair is trimmed, but I can. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Coincidentally, my brother sent me a text about ten minutes before I was going to head over to my mom's to tell me that he was also headed there. He had the day off, but it was rare for him to go in the morning and even less common for both of us to be there at the same time (typically we try to spread the love by staggering our visits). We had a chance to chat a bit while my mom was getting her hair styled and then we went down to the "Pub" area and he shared some of his recent Florida vacation photos with my mom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I have noticed this before, but my mom seems to enjoy listening to me and my brother talk. She rarely has much to add, but once in awhile she does. It's hard because I feel like we are ignoring her, but really it's just difficult for her to engage in the conversation, and she does seem to enjoy hearing about the things that she is able to understand. (I just realized how my brother looks so tan next to my mom!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Recently, one of my mom's cousins contacted me to see how my mom was doing. I do my best to keep her friends posted, but it is mainly through this blog. I realized early on that I would not be able to keep in touch with everyone on her behalf the way she used to. This cousin lives in northern Michigan and told me about some of the good memories she has shared with my mom through the years. In the past, my mom has always been the bridge between me and her cousins, so without her being able to keep in touch with and make those more distant connections it can be difficult. Her cousin, Karen, also fell victim to the "returned mail" problem that seems to be intermittently occurring at the senior living community. I did try to contact the post office about it, and was told the right person would call me back. Never did. One of life's little frustrations!! So, I hand delivered three cards to my mom from Karen that she sent to me. My mom definitely remembered her cousin Karen and her husband and enjoyed the cards and the messages made her smile!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After the hair appointment, my brother had to leave, but I had planned to stay with my mom and read through the cards for awhile. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Not long after, it was time for her lunch. It has been awhile since I have sat with her at lunchtime as I know I am a distraction. To say she can be easily distracted is an understatement. She is very interested in watching everyone else and not as interested in eating as I would like. Most days, the staff prompts her and many of the others, but when I am there I do the prompting. They asked her if she wanted chicken or macaroni and cheese. She said macaroni and cheese. Her plate had the mac and cheese, peas and a dinner roll which they buttered for her. I thought she would dive right into the mac and cheese, but instead she went straight for the peas (which I didn't even know she liked). The process was painstakingly slow and to say it was a miracle that the peas didn't fall off her fork would be an understatement. I prompted her numerous times throughout her meal. Although it was excruciatingly slow, I am grateful she does still eat and is able to feed herself. Many of the residents barely eat at all despite the CNAs best efforts and "tricks" to get them to. Oh, and a nice piece of spice cake was placed on the table out of my mom's reach. Once I was convinced she had eaten all she was going to eat I gave her the cake. Hmmmm, she was able to eat the cake at a much quicker pace!!! Thank goodness for sweets and my mom's love of them!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As another side note, you may recall that I've been on quite the "Still Alice" movie bandwagon. You can read more about that <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2015/02/monday-memories-with-my-mom_16.html">here.</a> As an update, I am absolutely thrilled to tell you the movie is now showing at the majority of my local theatres (check your local listings!). It must have gotten picked up after the Academy Awards and perhaps thanks to Julianne Moore's Best Actress win!!!! I immediately declared a Saturday morning matinee field trip to the theatre, this time with my husband and kids. I just really wanted them to see it even though they have perhaps more real life experience with it than perhaps many people. Jacob kept asking, "is it going to be sad"? All I can say is it's realistic, despite only having the time to show a fraction of what living with Alzheimer's Disease is like. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am relieved the movie has finally made it to the local theatres, and am glad I had the opportunity to see it with my family!! </span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-29723113597777220052015-02-26T07:30:00.000-05:002015-03-01T15:51:23.835-05:00Throwback Thursday - Vacation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Winter Break, February 2014</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em> </em></strong>I'm trying something new... I realized last week with the kids being on "Winter Break" and the temperatures here in Michigan being well below freeeeeezzzzing that it was this time last year we planned a last minute "road trip" down to Florida to get away from what seemed like an even more terrible winter!! Perhaps even more shocking was that I realized I had never even preserved that memory on this old blog!!! That, and many others!!! So, I'm going to try to do some catching up with some "Throwback Thursday" posts!!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Last year we had record snowfalls here in Michigan... So, we literally planned a trip in less than two weeks and headed south to get-a-way!!! (Don't hate me, remember this year we were here with the -25F, and it's not that fun! For now, let's just look at these pictures and pretend...)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> We didn't want to drive too far south, so we aimed for the Orlando area. However, the immediate Orlando area was quite booked as most people make plans way in advance if going to Orlando or Disney. So, we settled on a nice house we found in Davenport, Florida which was just close enough to plenty of things, including all of the attractions in the Orlando area. I believe we stayed in this <a href="http://www.providenceflorida.com/">golf community called Providence</a> and it was very nice. We were lucky to find it last minute and at a decent price. Experience has shown us that with our family of five, particularly grown teenagers, it is much better to rent a condo or house with a pool. If you shop around, you can often get a better price per night than many hotels and we feel we save some money by eating breakfast and a few meals at home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> We left very early in the morning and spent our first night in Georgia and then drove through the next morning. We had just missed, by 24 hours, a huge rare winter storm that went all the way down to Georgia. We saw the aftermath of trees down and stranded cars on our way down I-75 South. We were lucky that, for the most part, our trip was smooth sailing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Finally crossing into the Florida state line and stopping at the first Florida rest area is always exciting... That's right - we're tourists!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I can never resist a shot of the palm trees -- even if they are at a rest area. After leaving the huge amounts of snow, I don't know if they've ever looked as good as they did on this trip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Once we reached our house we were pretty happy with it!! Although it was not the nicest house we ever stayed at, it was still very nice and especially considering our last minute planning. Last year, this is how I spent President's Day...poolside!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> We are "Disney people" and although this was not designed to be that kind of trip, we could not resist taking advantage of some of the Disney experiences. One night, we made a dinner reservation at the Polynesian Resort followed by some relaxing and fireworks outside. It was very nice and the extra tropical atmosphere was more than welcome!!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> While the girls and I hung out by the pool several days, the boys took advantage of the golf course that was within the community where we stayed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love my little golfer guy....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I don't know if I would have been as relaxed by the pool if I knew this guy was watching their golf game -- yikes!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After a couple more days, we had to get our Disney side on... We would only be spending one day at a Disney park and decided that Epcot was our park of choice! I feel it has a good mix of rides, shopping, cultures, restaurants and shows and although we like all of the parks, everyone was happy with Epcot!! Entering the Disney gates never gets old!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I hate to admit this, but one of our favorite stops is always "Club Cool" with its free samples of Coca Cola flavors from around the world. The kids have loved taste testing, mixing, and quenching their thirst from the hot Florida sunshine at this place since they were little kids (and we like it, too)!!! Have you done this before? I feel like some people don't know about it and if they did it would be much more crowded.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being out and about and kids at least pretending to get along is a good thing!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It was nice to not have any particularly strict agenda since we have seen most everything before. At one point, we were even able to let the kids do some exploring on their own!! That part <em>was </em>new and exciting! We did most of the big attractions, Spaceship Earth, Soarin', Test Track, Ellen's Energy Adventure, The Seas, Also the Maelstrom in Norway -- which I understand is closed now in order to make way for a much bigger "Frozen" attraction that has taken the world by "storm" for the past year or more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Of course, we also realized we had to a meet and greet with at least one of the Disney character -- so we chose our main mouse, Mickey. A rare family picture (complete with my lovely hair sticking out because I just took it down for the pic...nice!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> We had dinner reservations in "Germany" -- a family favorite of ours!! We love the show and the music and the dancing and we really enjoyed the whole experience. (By the way, I love saying "meet you in Germany", or "see you in Italy at 8 pm"... Disney brings out the kid in us all!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Afterwards, we had a bit of time to kill before the fireworks and World Showcase show. Some of us chose to browse around the gift shops and try on some things...</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Another evening was spent at Cape Canaveral where we witnessed our first ever live rocket launch which you can <a href="https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events/2014/february/launch-delta-4-gps2f-5.aspx">read about here.</a> We viewed from a local park where several others also gathered to witness the launch. There were several delays in the liftoff time which we monitored by their website on our phones. It was a bit frustrating and there was a moment where we thought they were going to have to postpone the launch, but then we finally saw it and it was well worth the wait. Very cool!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The kids love some of the different restaurants down "South", such as CiCi's Pizza and Sweet Tomatoes. Megan, the ice cream lover, also insisted on having this picture as a keepsake... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We returned to a driveway full of snow and thick ice along with several more weeks of the longest Winter ever!!! So thankful we were able to get a break with a last minute vacation to The Sunshine State which never seems to disappoint this family!!!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-35777678460685100432015-02-23T11:00:00.000-05:002015-02-23T13:38:50.918-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</em></strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As a quick follow up and update to </span><a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">last week's post</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, I am happy to say that the Oscar for Best Actress went to Julianne Moore for the movie "Still Alice". I am happy that I can actually name a few things that have recently raised public awareness to Alzheimer's Disease. One is the movie "Still Alice" and all of the buzz it brought on the talk show circuit when Julianne Moore, Kristen Stewart and others did a press junket, two is the Oscar win, anther is Glen Campbell's recent Grammy win of the song he wrote before his Alzheimer's got worse which is "I'm Not Going to Miss You". That song was nominated for an Oscar last night and performed by Tim McGraw since Glen Campbell is at a stage in the illness where he can no longer perform. By the way, major tear jerker of a song, at least for me!! I hope these videos from YouTube work. One is performed by Glen Campbell and the other Tim McGraw. I like them both...Glen Campbell because he wrote it and is singing this while struggling with the disease, Tim McGraw because...he's incredibly HOT!!!!</span><br />
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<em>Video Credit Talent Voice via YouTube</em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> One more recent thing was that Leeza Gibbons recently won Celebrity Apprentice where she earned a total of $390,000 for her charity <a href="http://www.leezascareconnection.org/">Leeza's Care Connection</a> which she started in honor of her mother. Hopefully, once Still Alice is released on DVD in the Spring there will be yet more awareness and discussion. You have to understand that Alzheimer's is a very isolating disease that many don't want to talk about and for the most part the person struggling with the disease is literally unable to advocate for themselves. So, I am pleased that some people who are able to bring public awareness are doing so.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Moving on, those of you who follow me on Instagram may be aware that my kids were on Winter Break from school last week. I took the three of them out to lunch at Panera one day and then we all headed over to visit with my mom. She was seated near the nurse's station which is just off the elevator. As there is no real place for five of us to visit without being in the way, the kids took Grandma down to the seating area near her room. Grandma was pretty quiet, but seemed glad to see the kids. Generally, I don't think it's the best idea for the whole family to visit at once as I think it's a bit overwhelming for her. My mom was again pretty subdued. I have not seen as much of her sense of humor in the last few visits as I would like. Sadly, much like our Christmas visit, she was unable to recall any of my kids names, although when pressed she did think Kristin was Megan. Close, but it does break my heart and you can see that the kids are not shocked, but a bit disappointed. I am not completely convinced my mom still might have a day when she knows, but for the most part it saddens me to realize that even when prompted she was not able to come up with "Kristin Mary". Kristin has her grandma's middle name and up until a couple of years ago my mom would tell <em>anyone</em> who would listen that her granddaughter was "Kristin Mary". In fact, all of my kids have a part of my mom's name in their name. So far, </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">she always knows who I am.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Not long after we arrived, the kids went to look for the resident cats. They found out they are no longer there. As of now, I am not sure what that means, whether they were moved to another floor or moved out of the building!? Funny enough, in their search for the cats they came back to report there was a dog!! Soon after, that cute Golden Retriever was heading our way and came to visit us and Grandma. We learned his name was "Gunner" and he was very friendly. I gave him lots of loving and so did the kids. We have a Goldendoodle dog named Lucky, so we love dogs!! My mom apparently has met Gunner several times before. I asked her if she wanted to pet him and she said "when he settles down". Ha! Good luck with that! With me and my three kids around we weren't exactly good for settling him down. He wasn't jumping or anything, just happy to see us!! My mom was also not thrilled when Gunner's wet nose rubbed against her hand!! Clearly, grandma was not as interested in Gunner as we were. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I got my mom "Muffin" from her room, and she was happy with that. I noticed Gunner's owner was talking to the family of the new resident across from my mom's room. I couldn't help but overhear them say that she had moved from the second floor to the third. That is what my mom did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> We also talked to the activities director, Linda, and she told us they were going to be doing some trivia for President's Day. She and several others also thanked me for the Valentine's gifts I left for them the week before. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> In the picture below, Grandma was trying to get Jacob to let her give him a kiss on the cheek!!! I think because there were too many people around, Jacob played hard to get and was teasing his Grandma! He knows that once Grandma "gets him" she might not let go!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also managed a quick picture with the girls before we left. I was glad to see an activity would soon be starting, and I noticed that the floor seems pretty active again with residents. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As a side note, I follow the Alzheimer's Association on Facebook and this past week they asked that people post a picture of their loved one to be posted in their "gallery" in honor of the Oscars and the movie "Still Alice" and using the hashtags "MyBrain" "Still_____", etc. Well, since I had just seen the movie and posted about it last week, I figured it was meant to be so I took part in that one. The picture below is a glimpse of the gallery of pictures that has formed with hundreds or thousands of pictures. I do love that part of social media that connects people like that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This week I will pay another visit to my mom and hope for warmer temperatures and days ahead where we can </span><a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/10/monday-memories-with-my-mom-am-edition.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">go back outside like we did on this lovely Fall day!!!</span></a></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-84768163408456328292015-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:002015-02-16T08:00:04.436-05:00Monday Memories WIth My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</em></span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em> </em>With regular temps at -15 F here in Michigan, I am hanging out at home on Sunday and taking the time to prepare this post ahead of time -- I refuse to go out in this freezing weather if I don't absolutely have to!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I mentioned in my post last week I would talk about "Still Alice" this week. The Oscars are this Sunday, February 22nd. I read the book "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova while I was vacationing in sunny Arizona <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2011/04/monday-memories-with-my-mom.html">four years ago</a>, and it was a quick read and a good book. I was excited to learn they were making the book into a movie and that Julianne Moore would be playing the part of Alice. Even more exciting, Julianne Moore has been nominated "Best Actress" for her role in the movie. The prospect of this movie bringing awareness to everyone's local theatre was kind of exciting to me as I thought this was a good way for the general public to get a glimpse of the experience. To "know" someone struggling with this disease is not enough... I say live with the person for a week, shadowing them 24/7, alone, and then you will "know".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I noticed Julianne Moore was making the rounds on the talk show circuit for the last couple of months. I Googled and tracked the "release dates" for the movie the last couple of months. There were several release dates, some in December which is when she won the Critic's Choice Award for Best Actress. I noticed January 16th and February 6th were also listed as release dates. I soon learned that the January release dates were small releases in "select cities" such as New York and L.A. Then I learned that "nationwide" release was February 6th. By February 6th, I was more than ready to go see the movie, but could not locate it any of my large and local theatres. Ugh! Finally, with more Googling I found <em>two theatres in the State of Michigan</em> showing the movie. One was about 30 minutes away and was showing the movie for only a week, the other was about two hours away. This theatre is known for showing more "artsy" type movies. To be honest, I was sooooo disappointed to realize that after finally getting this movie made, and even with big names (Alec Baldwin and Kristen Stewart also play supporting roles) it was not more widely released. I went to the first show on a Monday morning. At first I thought there would be about ten people, but I was glad to see the theatre gradually fill almost to capacity. I thought the movie was quite good, and I noticed not one person got up during the movie. I don't know if it was the type of audience, or that we all didn't want to miss anything. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I found it ironic that the struggles and research I had to do just to find this movie -- well it sure was reminiscent of the struggles caregivers and those affected with Alzheimer's Disease go through on a daily basis. What should be or seems like a simple thing can become complicated. It's too bad the movie was not picked up by more theatres, but I expect an April 2015 DVD release date and I hope some of you will put it on your list of movies to see. Okay, now I'll get off my "Still Alice" bandwagon and go back to "Still Mom".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> When I visited, there they were again -- watching a soap opera. My mom and the same "friend" from last week. Quietly sitting. My mom was giving me some "dirty looks" and I quickly noticed she was a bit crabby. I asked her if she was feeling okay and she said she was. She also seemed a bit tired, but managed to stay awake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> While I was there, a young volunteer was going around saying "hello" to the residents and she gave my mom this Valentine card. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I took her to a nearby table and asked if I could do her nails. She questioned me on if I "knew how" and would do "a good job". I assured her I did and would!! I've been trimming her nails every few weeks, as I've noticed this is not a level of care that is "included" in her living there. I believe there is someone from the beauty salon you can pay to come around and give manicures. So far, I'm fine with just occasionally doing it myself, but I may try that service at some point. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> You may recall, Kristin used to paint her Grandma's nails quite a bit when she was in her assisted living community. Then, after awhile, my mom said she didn't want nail polish on them anymore. So, we let it go for a bit. However, I felt a nice neutral pinkish color would be a nice Valentine's Day treat from me! I did have to remind her to let her hands dry before she fussed with her clothes or got "Muffin" back. I was happy with how they turned out!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I noticed a new resident seems to have moved into the room across the hall from my mom. I said hello to the family caregiver who seemed to be there helping to get the resident situated. I know these beds are in demand and don't expect any of them to be empty for more than a couple of days. Some residents moving from other floors as my mom did, or just moving in for the first time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My mom remained quiet and her friend came over and tried to say something to me, but the words don't really come out or make sense so I just smile and say "you look nice today". My mom was also saying some things that I couldn't make too much sense of. At one point, she took my hand and squeezed it really hard and said something about something....and that I "hurt her feelings". Sadly, I have no idea what she was talking about so I just said I was sorry and that I didn't mean to hurt her feelings. She still seemed a bit mad. It bothered me, but I was able to brush it off. There was a time when something like that would have really bothered me. Now, it mainly just bothers me because I realize she is having a bad day and want to make sure she isn't in any kind of pain or having any issues. If she's the same on the next visit, I will be talking to the staff about it. For now, I will assume she was having a bad day, tired, and so I eventually left her to rest with Muffin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Speaking of the staff, I brought some gifts over to "spread some love" from me and my mom for Valentine's Day. I also left a few things for the girls on the second shift whom I don't see as often. Just a little something to let them know how much I appreciate what they do!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My brother is down in sunny Key West, Florida with his son on vacation, so I will try to visit my mom a bit more this week if I can! I have to admit, after being sick for three weeks as I was, I'm a little shy about "over" visiting my mom's health care community during this flu season. I use the hand sanitizer they provide like crazy!!! I'm sure we will all feel better when we see some signs of Spring -- hopefully before we know it!!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-42413135356281936752015-02-11T21:01:00.002-05:002015-02-11T21:01:40.323-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em> </em></strong>I had every intention of posting on Monday, but what can I say? Time got away from me, and you don't mind if it's actually Wednesday, do you??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Last Friday I made another visit to see my mom. It seemed fairly quiet on her floor and I soon noticed my mom was watching TV with another resident. I kind of snuck behind her and went into her room first so I could check on a few things and hang "my heart" on her door. I don't know why, but I feel the need to always have her seasonally decorated. You may recall at her assisted living community she had a "shelf" outside her door for me to decorate. Now, I pretty much just have the door and when she moved in her roommate had nothing on it even though there is a hook on the door. So, I have taken it upon myself to do so. I am actually looking for just one pretty wreath that is not seasonal that I could leave there. So far, I haven't found what I'm looking for. The things I have seen usually look very "spring" or "fall" or holiday.<br />
This is the look I got when my mom saw me coming out of her bedroom...</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why are you coming out of my room? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are you doing?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">You're my daughter, right?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She did not realize I had snuck in behind her and was surprised to see me coming out of her room!! I thought it was nice to see just my mom and her friend sitting and watching TV. I think her friend's name is either Bonnie or they call her "Bunny", but I could be wrong. I'm so terrible with names! I can't ask my mom for the names, and I seem to only learn them when I hear the staff using their names. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I thought it was cute that they were watching "The Middle" (one of my favorite shows)!! I pulled up a chair next to my mom and caught up on a couple of old episodes that I had never seen. It was nice to see my mom seem to understand a lot of the humor in the show and she was quite interested. Many time during the show I would say "that is my life" and she would chuckle. At one point, when I tried to take her picture she moved her head so she could still see the show!! I guess my camera was blocking her, but it made me laugh to see she was that engrossed in the show. I do wish my mom had a "go to" "bestie" type friend in her nursing community. Someone that she was excited to see or whose name she knows. From what I can tell, that is not the case. Perhaps this day was the beginning of a new friendship!? I will be on the lookout for that. It is so hard for them to connect with one another when both are experiencing memory issues. It does not help that my mom is no longer walking so even if she wanted to start a conversation with someone, she is not mobile enough to make it happen unless they are already right there with her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Best Friends -- At Least for Today!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It was right around this point in my visit that I remembered that one of the residents, "Patricia", did not seem to be doing well when I was there a few days earlier. I mentioned this <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2015/02/monday-memories-with-my-mom.html">in my last post.</a> Her room is directly across the hall from my mom's. I hesitantly looked over and saw her name was removed from the plaque by the door. I peeked in and she was not there. My heart sank. I am quite sure she has passed away, but I did not have the heart to ask the staff. They seemed to be having a nice little Friday chat session (which I don't often see them do)...and in my heart I knew the answer and there was no point risking getting the staff upset. The rest of my visit, I couldn't stop thinking about it. She was the sweet old lady who was so nice to my <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/12/monday-memories-with-my-mom.html">when she got back from her week in the hospital in November.</a> Although she looked much older than my mom, she still did very well in trivia!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I don't know if it's my imagination, but the halls are seeming emptier to me. I don't have the heart to walk around and see how many names might be missing from the doorways... As it is, there are only about 20 residents on my mom's memory care floor. So, if 20 becomes 15 or 10, you notice. I am also seeing some new faces. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I know, it is winter, they are elderly, many are sick, the flu season is awful...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> But the halls seem quieter, and the winter always seems longer. I am again reminded how fragile life is. I feel I am always walking the fine line between making sure I'm living mine (as my mom would want) and helping my mom make the best of her life. Perhaps I am just feeling it more today than usual. Today I checked in on a fellow blogger who somehow stumbled upon my blog a few months ago. The title of her post was <a href="http://simplybalisha.blogspot.com/2015/02/my-last-post.html">"My Last Post"</a>. This week I also saw the movie "Still Alice" after reading the book years ago. It is the movie where Julianne Moore plays Alice, a woman diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease (more on that next week). I learned another blogger friend is saying her goodbyes to her sweet mom who has Alzheimer's Disease. Add to this my awareness that another friend is coming upon the first anniversary of her mother's death. Tonight these things are weighing heavy on my heart, and although I know this is not a happy thing to be blogging about, it is a very real thing. I can't help but feel for each of them. I write this if for no other reason than to remind myself and, perhaps, some of you that each day truly is a gift!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I will continue to treasure each visit with my mom and, as always, all of my goodbyes will end with a kiss and an "I love you" -- and I even get a "love you, too" back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Happy Valentine's Day -- </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">Counting our Blessings,</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-78045749568141005952015-02-02T07:00:00.000-05:002015-02-02T11:06:21.340-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The day after my last post, I headed over to visit and check on my mom. Originally, she was napping in her chair in the commons area. Unfortunately, I always tend to arrive around the same time...after lunch. This means they have already had showers, breakfast, lunch, and at least one activity. So, it's not terribly surprising that it is "nap time". A couple of staff members told me my mom was actually asking where I was... That was kind of exciting, as I have not known her to do that very often. One of them told her I was probably "at home" and my mom asked what I was doing. The staff member said, "Oh, she is probably cooking dinner or something" to which my mom replied, "Oh no, she is not!!" Shoe wasn't buying it and since it was about 1 pm I can say there would be a small chance I would be cooking dinner! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> While she was napping, I took the opportunity to straighten things in her bedroom. She is almost never in there when I visit, but I still like to oversee her "things" and mail and try to make sure everything is in order. I took down the Christmas cards and displayed some of the other cards as I know she always likes to see her "cards". The staff is amazed how many she gets and have commented several times about her "popularity". It's sweet, but really to me it has more to do with how little mail some of the other residents may get. Alzheimer's and memory issues have a way of making friends and family in your life gradually disappear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> It's always nice when the staff has the time to chat and fill me in on how my mom is doing. Not long after I pulled a chair up near my mom, Linda arrived and an activity was about to start. It was trivia time once again, so I decided to stay. It had been awhile since I hung out with everyone for trivia and I wanted to see how my mom's skills were. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> We joined in a bit late, and I noticed the lady in pink and the lady in navy blue on the far end were getting most of the answers. I am again reminded to never judge a book by it's cover -- as I bet may people would doubt how sharp these ladies actually are!! Questions about celebrities, inventors, historical figures, etc. I also was reminded how much my mom just loves watching Linda as she is very animated in her descriptions, hints, and impersonations when the residents need help in getting to the answers. I believe I said this before, but my mom will say the answer to me but not out loud. I am convinced (because I know my mom so well) it is partially because she does not want to interrupt Linda. To her, Linda is a one-woman show with all her singing, comedy and impersonations. </span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hanging on her every word...</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> My mom did okay, but those other two ladies brains were all warmed up and they were on their game. Of course, my competitiveness always comes out and I want to shout out the answers!! For whatever reason, one of the only people they could not come up with was "Cinderella". All the clues were given, but nobody came up with it. I wanted to shout out "didn't any of you watch The Bachelor last night"?? Ya know, when Jade got to have a one-on-one date and be Cinderella!!?? Ha! Don't worry, I didn't really do it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> During my visit, I couldn't help but notice one of the residents, Pat, was in bed in her room. At one point when they checked on her and I noticed there was some concern and they were monitoring her vitals. Her room is across the hall from my mom's. You can tell she is a much older lady, but she is also still very sharp and usually out and about. I couldn't help but be concerned, and I heard them talk about continuing to monitor her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I had to pick up Jacob at school, so I headed out while my mom was being entertained and snapped a couple of pictures as I left. I noticed one of the head nurses was also at the nurse's station on my way out, so I took the opportunity to ask them if they were monitoring my mom's blood levels for a particular medication she takes. They said it was in their records so I did not need to remind them. That was good to know as the first time I asked about it they were not aware of it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Then, the nurse asked me about one of her medications. I told her she was on it because she has lupus. Apparently, they did not have a record of her having this condition except from my forms that I filled out. Hard to believe she has lived there six months now, and we are still sorting things out. I was told repeatedly that they did not want my mom's medical records when she moved in. I still do not understand that. Now, I am at least having her diagnostic records sent over. I remember my mom's neurologist, at my request, sent her records to this nursing community before we were even admitted. I was told to do that by several social workers as a means of trying to get our foot in the door and speed things along once we were admitted. After that, they told me not to send any more records, blah blah blah. So, I didn't want to irritate them when I was trying to get her admitted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Well, now here we are and there are pieces of my mom's health records that they obviously do not have. That said, I cannot complain much as the day to day care seems to be very good and my mom has not been harmed by the omission.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Now that the staff put my mom in a bit more comfortable wheelchair, her first one is folded up. My brother is going to store it in my mom's condo basement. I also took the opportunity ask the staff about her walker. It's been in her bedroom all this time, but I was quite certain she never used it. As I suspected, the staff said she no longer uses it so we will be storing that as well. I am still not used to the wheelchair and it makes me sad to put the walker away. However, I looked back and my mom's repeated falls started happening about a year ago and we certainly don't want to go through all of that again.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They have lift thing they use to transfer most of the residents which looks like this. I had actually never seen one in use until my mom moved to this nursing community. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Those blue seat pads fold up and then the person grabs that blue bar until they are standing and then they either stay standing or rest on the blue seat as they are wheeled to bed or whatever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> So many changes, but my mom seems as happy and healthy as can be!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-50018675187141379152015-01-26T07:30:00.000-05:002015-01-26T07:30:00.457-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em> </em></strong>Well, I'm going to try to play catch up in this one post...so here we go. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> First, I kind of have to mention that I was sick for a few weeks. Yes, weeks! It was not fun at all! The quick version is I started feeling sick New Year's Eve (and it wasn't from "celebrating" too much). The first week was terrible. I was "coughing up a lung". It was also a holiday and a holiday weekend...<strong><u>and</u></strong> we had new health insurance effective the first of the year, but my husband did not have the ID cards yet so even if I wanted to go to urgent care wasn't sure how that would work... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Week two I felt better, but it was not really going away. Went to the doctor. They thought I had pneumonia and gave me the antibiotics, etc. pending the radiologist's reading of the x-ray. Turns out, no pneumonia. Kind of a bummer because by then I kinda just wanted the antibiotics. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Didn't leave the house for a good ten days. Only started feeling completely better last week. Worse yet, I can't even count it as "the flu" as the doctor said it was just a bad virus. I had not seen my mom since Christmas Day and certainly was not going to go over there sick as I was. In fact, I went to the doctor the day before my mom's birthday in hopes of getting the "all clear" that I was ok, or getting antibiotics. Well, I didn't get the "all clear" or the antibiotics.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Not only did I have cabin fever, but I realized I couldn't even see my mom on her birthday. The thought of her not even knowing for one minute that it <em>was</em> her birthday left me feeling a bit sad. Also, my brother was working that day with plans to visit the next day. I know...some would say it's ok because she doesn't realize it (but I do!!).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> In the end, my husband kindly offered to visit my mom on my behalf. Unfortunately, it was a Friday and he and the kids were not able to get there until about 8 pm. My mom was just getting settled into bed. I told them to bring a birthday balloon and a smoothie -- which they did. I was thankful for technology -- Jacob "Face Timed" me with his phone from my mom's room and I was able to see her and wish her a Happy Birthday. I felt better!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> They even took a couple pictures for me. It was cute to see her with the cupcake balloon all comfortable in bed. To be honest, it also was not the "birthday picture" I was hoping for. Here is my mom on her birthday two years ago -- we went to Olive Garden <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2013/01/monday-memories-with-my-mom_14.html">which you can read about here.</a> The "comparison" pictures of the last few Christmases or birthdays bring mixed emotions as the changes are evident.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> When I finally got over to see my mom it had been a good 2 1/2 weeks since I had been there. She had just finished up a lunch she must have loved because her plate was clean! I was told it was some kind of seafood fettuccine -- so no doubt she probably loved it!! She had a new friend -- this little bulldog who seems to have different names. I believe she called him "cutie pie" when I was there. It appears my mom is getting comfortable without having "Muffin" with her 24/7. I am taking this as a good sign that she also feels perhaps more "secure" with where and how she is living, but not quite sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I helped her go through a few cards I found in her room that she had received for her birthday -- her 71st Birthday!!! After all we have been through, I do not take her birthdays for granted. That is probably why it bothered me to miss this one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> A few days later, I finally got out for lunch with a girlfriend. We were not far from my mom's senior community, so I decided to take a chance and do a quick check on her. It's funny, because although I try not to worry...but I still sometimes do. Next time I'm worried, I am going to try to remember that this is how I found her on my most recent visit... Having more fun than many of us!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I was especially surprised by the little "shot" cup in her hand. Mexican hat, music, little white cup.... I quickly then realized not everyone had a "shot" -- only my mom who had managed to get a quick "shot" of the flavored coffee cream that was on the table in the dining room. If it's on the table, she's probably going to take it!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I believe it was "National Hat Day" and they were having a good time and even had cake!!! I watched my mom eat every...single...bite...of a huge piece of cake that I thought for sure was going to end up on her shirt about ten times, yet somehow never did!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I had the chance to talk to the activities director and found out she had been very sick recently as well. She also told me that when she talked to the residents on my mom's birthday she always tells them the date and on that day my mom said, "that's my birthday". So, she did know afterall... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Sadly, I also learned of a couple of residents who have recently passed away. Never easy to hear news like that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> So, as I was talking to my mom and scanning the room looking at the other residents... My eyes fell upon this guy -- and I did a double take... Does anyone know why I did a double take????</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not..."the Don"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Well, I think this guy has a striking resemblance to "the Don"...my mom's old friend from her assisted living community <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2013/07/monday-memories-with-my-mom_22.html">(take a look for yourself here).</a> I zoomed in and took a picture to make sure I wasn't seeing things. I realized it was not actually him, but for a quick moment wasn't so sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> In other more business type news, I have had two "care conferences" in the last two months. One in the middle of December and one in the middle of this month. This is where the nutritionist, social worker, activities director, and nursing staff give an update on my mom. It is a short 15 minute meeting that I now have learned is automatically schedule "quarterly". Although I am happy with the overall care my mom has received, there are still many loopholes in "the system" and I just have to continue to do my best to oversee things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The nurses and staff also told me that recently my mom had been leaning down from her wheelchair trying to pick things up off the floor. They wanted to put her in a little bit bigger wheelchair for comfort and to tilt the seat back a notch to hopefully deter her from getting hurt. I agreed to it and I actually take her getting into "mischief" as a sign she is doing pretty good. You may recall, that wheelchair she had was really only meant as a "transport" type wheelchair as a temporary aid to keep my mom from falling. Now that she relies on it all the time, a more comfortable chair seems like a good idea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Thankfully, my mom seems to have been in a good place these last several weeks. I continue to hear from staff how they love my mom's sense of humor and they usually have some funny stories to share.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> You may recall that when I was in the process of trying to move my mom into this nursing community I ran into a <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_5.html">family friend who is the RN</a> for the assisted living part of the community. I recently got a text that she was taking some time to visit with my mom and she sent this picture. It warms my heart to see this and I truly appreciate all she has done to help my mom. She has known my mom for a long time and has shared in some good times with our family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My brother and my niece also visited this past weekend and sent me the picture below. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for me, I will be making another visit very soon -- and using lots of the hand sanitizer they provide in her community. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have your health -- you have everything!!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-88655807793950145572014-12-29T22:58:00.001-05:002014-12-29T22:58:56.235-05:00Monday Memories WIth My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I can't let the year go by without me and my mom wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas!! I know my mom would appreciate the support you have given me these last few years!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Merry Christmas from Mary's Christmas!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span>Truth be told, Christmas was nice and Christmas was difficult... I made some changes in an effort to take some of the pressure off of myself. For one, I didn't send out cards for the first time -- probably ever. The sad part is, I actually love sending cards!!! However, I don't love trying to get three teenagers together for a picture, editing the pic, downloading, putting together and picking up the cards. Also, although I love writing out cards and envelopes, it is time consuming ,and I can't bring myself to do computer address labels...trying to stay old school with some things!! I also did not send out cards on my mom's behalf. I've sent a picture card the last 4-5 years for her because my mom (and I) are "card people" or "Hallmark girls" from back in the day. Gradually, I have stopped sending her friends cards and now have finally decided to not send Christmas cards. Maybe I should be "relieved", but instead it just makes me sad -- with a dash of guilt mixed in!! Ugh! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> These days, I don't get my mom much in the way of Christmas presents. That I do not feel guilty about as I know the best gift I can give is the time and efforts I give to keep her safe and healthy. In that area, I am comfortable saying I do my best and give a lot. However, I did see this canvas recently while shopping, and I just had to get it for my mom's room. If there is <em>one</em> short but sweet message I could leave with her on a daily basis -- even when I am not there -- it would be for her to know that she is loved. Really, it's all any of us wants and the simplest message I could convey...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You are loved....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It also warms my heart to see a few touches of Christmas from school aged children -- cards and things. There was also this sweet little Christmas pine cone on her nightstand. Not sure if she made it or if it was given to her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> In the weeks leading up to Christmas, I received a few calls from friends of my moms. Mostly former co-workers whom I never met. It has come to my attention that many of the cards addressed to my mom's new nursing community get returned to the sender. Apparently, there is some large glitch with the senior community address and the post office that causes the cards to be returned without ever reaching the community. It seems to be hit or miss as she does receive some mail. Of course, this causes concern for the people sending the cards and then they call me to see if my mom is ok. How frustrating! I am going to add that to my list of things to do -- speak with the post office. (I will give them a break and wait until the holidays are over -- wink, wink!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I'm sure I've mentioned this in previous years, but Christmas Eve has always been the "big day" for my mom's side of the family since I was a baby. We used to celebrate at my grandparents house, then eventually my mom (a/k/a me) and uncles took it over on a rotating basis. This was my sixth or seventh time hosting... To say it is odd hosting a party for your mom's side of the family when your mom is nearby and yet can't safely be there is an understatement. It hurts. My mom loved our Christmas Eves and for many years loved to play "Santa", complete with Santa hat. My brother and I would roll our eyes, and I believe one time we even tried to hide her hat. There was no stopping her!! She served as a liaison and organized a fairly complicated color coded system of gift giving so that we would all be included. In my younger days, Santa came to the streets of Detroit and showed up at my grandparents with a bundle of gifts for all of us kids. We would stare out the window waiting and waiting... Lots of memories and good times. My brother and I probably remember it most as we are the oldest of the grandkids.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> So, if I'm being honest, this Christmas Eve was particularly bittersweet... Trying to do my part to keep the family and our traditions together. A role my mom used to be a big part of that sometimes seem to have fallen on me. There are people missing from this picture including my grandparents and, most importantly, my mom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Yet, despite the circumstances of who goes where and when and why, I can assure you my mom would choose to be there no matter what. She would have embraced our "Ugly Sweater" theme this year and would have definitely been a contender for the "Grand Prize". So it is with her spirit and mine that we do our best to carry on the tradition and hopefully spread some joy along the way!!! There is no stopping the fun and lots of laughs!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Then, on Christmas Day my brother made a visit to my mom's complete with an icee drink and our family's traditional German springerle cookies -- made by my brother!!!! Talk about Christmas miracles!!! My brother got my grandma's recipe and rolling pin from me and made a big batch of the cookies -- and they were very good!! I am impressed!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> A bit later on Christmas Day my husband, kids and I all headed over to visit with my mom. We brought one small gift and took her to the café area of the building for a change of scenery. We found a nice quiet table by the window, talked with grandma and gave her the gift. On this day, she was not able to come up with any of our names, except mine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It was a challenge to get my mom to open her gift. I think she was a bit overwhelmed with all of us visiting at the same time. However, after lots of coaxing and help, my mom finally was able to open her</span> gift .</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> In the end, I think she was glad she prevailed. A box of Sanders (made in Detroit) caramel chocolates awaited. She enjoyed all three of the chocolates she had during our visit. A reminder that it's the little things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I continue to learn and be reminded that Christmas is about His love. We show our love for Him by selflessly and peacefully continuing to spread His joy!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">May Peace and Joy Be With You,</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joy Can Be Spread in Many Ways...Big and Small</span></td></tr>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-4066699950965444692014-12-09T00:47:00.000-05:002014-12-09T00:47:05.565-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease </span></em></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Well, after feeling a bit uneasy on my last post, I went for a visit with my mom a few days ago. Soon after I arrived, I realized my timing was good!! The elevator ride up to my mom's floor had a posting of the activities calendar, and I noticed a sign declaring it National Cookie Day!! </span><br />
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Looks Like I Came on the Right Day!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I was greeted by my mom and one of the CNAs, Colleen. The staff was busy keeping the residents out of the way of some heating and cooling workers who were doing some updates throughout the building. Colleen told me "the old Mary is back" and that she is her old "sassy" self (my mom gave her a look when she said that) and eating and feeding herself. That was good to hear. I was glad to see my mom was awake! We talked a bit, watched some TV, and looked at the Christmas decorations. When I asked my mom if she still likes living there, she said yes but I was surprised that she seemed to indicate that it was hard for her to make friends there. At least, that is what I gathered from our conversation. I can definitely see where it would be hard to make a connection with someone on a memory care floor such as the one where my mom lives. Now that my mom has lived there for five months, I will try to see what I can do to help her make some connections. I will also talk to the staff for some insight. The good thing is, there are always people around. At her assisted living community, she spent a lot of time alone in her apartment, especially the last several months.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also asked my mom what she wants for Christmas. She said "no more wars". Then, I asked her if she could think of anything she wanted for herself. She said a "pinkie ring" and pointed to her finger. I feel bad because I've noticed that my mom no longer has any of her jewelry on. We were down to the silicone bracelets and a watch, but I've noticed the staff stopped putting them on. I am sure with her daily showers, it is difficult to keep up with the jewelry off and on so I'm willing to let it go. I do think she misses "fussing" with the jewelry more than anything. If you're used to wearing jewelry and then suddenly don't, you feel like something is missing. There have been so many changes these last few years. Things have become so simplified. So few personal belongings with her. Too many changes to list. Big things and little things...so many things have changed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> A bit later, it was time to go the second floor for Happy Hour and the National Cookie Day Celebration. I don't think I have been to a Happy Hour <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_5.html">since the day my mom moved in on July 3rd.</a> I love that they have a Happy Hour every Thursday. Only five residents from my mom's floor were escorted down to the second floor for Happy Hour. I am glad my mom is in the group that still seems to enjoy the social activities. I talked to Tim, a resident who I learned is there for rehab. I believe he had a recent pacemaker and defibrillator surgery. He is a talker and very interesting. He gives me some insights into the residents and seems mentally aware. For the record, my mom called Tim a "cookie monster". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> There was Christmas entertainment, a singer/musician and cookies!! I don't think my mom has ever met a cookie she didn't like. The hard part is for her to pick one. (She wants them all!) I had to leave soon after the fun began. It is always nice to leave knowing my mom is being looked after and entertained.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patiently Waiting for the Entertainment</span></td></tr>
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Behind the scenes, I had telephoned my mom's on-site social worker who confirmed with me that my mom did see a dentist and podiatrist in November (after I had inquired about it at our "care meeting"). Apparently, a dentist visit will be made once/year and podiatrist once/three months. This is what I was told is covered by insurance. It used to be more than that, but I don't know if things change because my mom is now in skilled nursing. I will add that to my list of things to look into.<br />
I also have a list of items to discuss with my mom's doctor. Over these last few months, I have learned that I no longer have an Area Agency on Aging care manager. They used to check in with me on my mom's behalf at least once/month to see how my mom was doing and report any needs or changes. Everyone is helpful, but they definitely don't spell things out for you when you first move in. It appears that many of my old responsibilities are now handled by the nursing community staff. However, I still need to remain vigilant and proactive in overseeing things. I am still learning my way around the staff and how things work, who handles what, and who is best for my mom, etc... That last hospital visit was kind of a reminder that I have to be careful not to get too complacent.<br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-2466305050257724102014-12-01T22:24:00.001-05:002014-12-01T22:24:21.407-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<em><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></strong></em><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Before I go on, I have to thank all of you for your nice comments and emails. It feels good to be validated by the few of you who have been in my situation or those of you who are just nice compassionate people -- you know who you are!!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> The good news is, my mom returned to her nursing community after six days in the hospital. I am relieved she is back in the caring hands of those who have come to know her, but I remain a bit tentative as I was hoping to see more of an improvement in her drowsiness and appetite. The week in the hospital was another roller coaster ride filled with all kinds of emotions and contradictions from medical staff where at the end of it all I couldn't help but wonder things like what would happen if I wasn't there to advocate on my mom's behalf, if we really needed to be there in the first place or even if we should still be there!?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I also learned that nurses are my friends. They were so helpful!! I was friendly with all of them, and they all enjoyed my mom's demeanor, sense of humor, and described her as "pleasantly confused" and sweet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> One thing I didn't mention in my last post was the underlying stress of this whole hospital stay. You may or may not know that if my mom was hospitalized more than a certain amount of days (10-14 or so), she would be at risk of losing her "bed" at her nursing community. As I understand it, this is the case in most all nursing community contracts. I signed the contract when my mom moved in, but never had the time or courage to look up the specific number of days while my mom was in the hospital. Can you imagine if I had to start over again!? I really don't know the details of how this works, but I do know I probably would have ended up in the hospital myself if that had happened. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> This post picks up where I left off <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/11/monday-memories-with-my-mom_18.html">in my last post.</a> If you'd like to finish our week at the hospital with me, please continue reading -- my apologies for the scattered writing, but it was a scattered week!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Tuesday, November 18th</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I arrived at the hospital about 11:30 am this time. My mom had a new roommate (whom I never even peeked at as the curtain was drawn. When I arrived, I found my mom as pictured below. She had a heart monitor held up to her ear and was laughing at the TV. At first I thought she was thinking it was the phone, but soon realized she thought the sound from the TV was coming from this heart monitor. In her defense, the sound does come from the nearby speaker on her bed... After sitting with her awhile, I also realized she was pretty alert and also a bit fidgety. Fussing with her blankets, and the wires for the heart monitor and her gown... It appeared that feeling better might mean feeling better enough to be a bit more difficult. She enjoyed the celebrity gossip on the Wendy Williams show that happened to be on. Eventually I talked to the nurse who was the same as the day before. There were not too many changes, although she did indicate my mom took an IV out and they were waiting for an ultrasound tech to helps put in a pic line since my mom's veins are so difficult to find (always have been and so </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">are mine). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cardiac Monitor...Speaker....L-A-M-E!!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Around 1:30 pm a girl came in with a food tray and said "Mary"!? I said yes, but are you sure that is for my mom...she is on a water only diet and I pointed to my mom's care board. She gave me my mom's birth date, but I still questioned it as I had just talked to the nurse a short time before. The girl left to check and never returned. I then started second guessing myself and thought, what if it was soft foods and I just refused my mom's first meal in three days!? So, I rang the nurses station, but our nurse was still tied up. When another person from the kitchen staff came in for my mom's roommate I asked her about it. She indicated she had brought my mom breakfast earlier that morning!!!!??? C'mon people -- don't even tell me this! I'm being told a water only diet and that we are trying to clear her entire system of any blockages and then they brought food!? Awhile later another nurse told me she was not supposed to get the tray! I put a call in to the doctor to express my obvious concern!? (The nice doctor from day one seemed to have disappeared and I never did get a return call.) I have no way of knowing whether my mom actually ate the breakfast or not. The nurse told me she gave her juice, but mentioned nothing about breakfast... THIS is why you don't want to leave your loved ones alone at the hospital, especially in my mom's case.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> That afternoon, we got a surprise visit from my aunt and uncle (one of my mom's brothers and his wife) who arrived with some beautiful yellow flowers for my mom. Around the same time, an occupational therapist also came in and got my mom sitting on the edge of her bed and moved her around a bit. I was relieved my mom had some company, as I had to leave to meet my kids shortly thereafter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Wednesday, November 19th</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Things started off okay. She was again very alert, awake and a bit antsy. Never really dozed off all day. At one point I heard my mom say "How Lame...l-a-m-e." I didn't know what she was talking about, but I looked up at the TV she was watching. This poor woman on TV was making a craft project. It was a turkey made somehow with an empty toilet paper roll. I laughed so hard. That's what my mom thought was l-a-m-e!! (I think she was right.) It wasn't long before things took a bit of a bad turn. I was told they were doing a "surgery consult" on my mom as they were not satisfied with her progress. I started freaking out a bit as I was there by myself still and couldn't imagine making that kind of decision alone. Also, couldn't imagine anyone being there with me before I would end up seeing a doctor to discuss it. Not long after that, a GI resident came in and explained a procedure they were wanting to do on my mom. I played "Google Doctor" and learned that the "elderly" do not do well with this procedure. Initially I very tentatively agreed to it, but reserved more questions for later. Meanwhile, a tray of food showed up with lasagna, garlic bread, broccoli, salad, ice cream, and drinks. By now I am so confused and distraught... I confirmed that she was supposed to now have real food. I fed her as it was just easier for me to help with the tray and the bed and her IVs... She ate well, and I was happy about that. She ate almost everything. A couple hours later, the nurse and I were happy to see my mom make some progress. A couple of hours after that the surgeon came in to discuss and perform the dreaded procedure. I told him that the nurse and I had just learned of my mom making some progress and, long story short, he spoke with the nurse and was pleased enough with her progress that he said would fore go the procedure. He also mentioned the procedure was very painful and he would only put her at risk if necessary. (Gee, the lady who came in and talked to me about it was more like, "she will be fine", "it is not painful"...blah blah blah.) I was relieved, but still knew that if she didn't keep progressing in the right direction I could be seeing that surgeon again. After seven hours at the hospital, and realizing the doctors were gone for the day I thanked the nurse and went home exhausted. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Thursday, November 20th</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> A new nurse, Kristi, was in my mom's room when I arrived. She was trying to get an IV back into my mom. It was not working. I have to say by this day, Thursday, I was somewhat dreading going in to visit as I knew there would be a new nurse and I would have to update her on everything and give my perspective of what my mom's needs were to make sure she understood what was going on. Advocating for my mom was becoming exhausting...trying to keep everyone happy. The night before I had written down all of my notes from what had transpired during the week. My new panic was that they would try to discharge her too soon without any answers. I decided I would contact my mom's doctor at her nursing community in the morning to try to get answers. That morning, I spoke with his nurse who has been very helpful the few times I have talked to her. She understood my concerns and said she would contact the doctor from their practice who was "rounding" that day at the hospital. When I walked in, a doctor who was tending to my mom's roommate said, "are you Cindy, Franchesca wanted me to talk to you". Well, that worked out well. Walking in and having the doctor and nurse right there, that was a first. He told me they were pleased with how my mom was doing and that sometimes it is less about the CT scan and more about how my mom is feeling and that she is not in pain. He checked her and said she did not have pain and her medications were starting to help. I told him I would feel better if they repeated an x-ray to show whether her GI system had improved since she was originally taken to the ER. Soon thereafter, they took her for that x-ray. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> These last few days, I also saw firsthand how difficult it was to transfer my mom from her bed to a wheelchair. It took two people and she showed very little strength -- it was difficult to watch. I actually think the nursing community is more adept at assisting her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Meanwhile, my brother was back in town and came to the hospital that afternoon. I did my best to give him the quick version of all that had gone on during the week as I had not heard from him since the day she was admitted. He saw my mom briefly and we talked for awhile. He left a bit later once my mom was being tended to by staff and we weren't able to visit with her for an hour or so. I learned from the nurse that they were giving my mom a new liquid medication through a cup and straw. I made an effort to help get as much of that medication into my mom as I could while I was there. Several people came in throughout the day to try to get blood or reestablish an IV on my mom. Mostly without luck. By this point her arms were pretty beat up. The nurse and I spoke several times and by dinner time I headed out as my mom was getting sleepy. I believe this was also the evening we got our first bad snow storm and the roads were slippery coming home...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> On my way out, the nurse mentioned my mom was being transferred to another floor. I took this to mean she was making progress after five days in the "step down" unit, but I was also concerned because there would be less staffing on the new floor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em>Friday, November 21st</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I was running late getting to the hospital as I had to deliver something to my kids school at the last minute. My brother was going to meet me at the hospital at noon. Remember, visiting hours don't start until 11am. (I thought about getting permission to visit earlier since I am my mom's patient advocate, but it never really became necessary.) On my way to the hospital, the same doctor from my mom's nursing home practice called me. He said they were pleased with the progress my mom had made overnight and that she was eating and not in any pain . He said they were planning on discharging her. I asked a few questions and was also comfortable that the best place for my mom was right back in her nursing community. I continued my drive to the hospital and found my mom in a new room, new floor. There were no more IVs or meds at her bedside. She was pretty tired and was mostly sleeping. My brother arrived soon after. When my mom's lunch came, my brother tried to help and feed her. She did ok, but was not as into it as she had been with me the last couple days. She just seemed tired. Considering the hospital setting, the two full days where she was very wide awake with me, and everything else, I was glad she was tired as most people would be I imagine! My brother and I talked and got caught up. Eventually, I was able to feed my mom a bit more for lunch, and then she was sleepy again. I talked with a few staff members, including my mom's new nurse who said she was due to be transported back to her nursing community around 4pm. We left around 2 pm and I finalized some plans with the nurse on my way out. I got the phone number so I could check exactly when she was discharged.</span><br />
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In the midst of all that, my mom's nursing community called and needed me to sign some "readmittance" type papers. That is the other reason I left the hospital. They also told me that since my mom was in the hospital more than three days, she qualified for rehabilitation. (Yes, the same type of rehabilitation I was hoping (and praying) she would qualify for when she was having all of her falls. Rehabilitation is the best "door" to get into a nursing community, but that never happened for us.) Anyways, they said I could have her put on the first floor for five days a week of therapy. Or, I could have her sent back to her same room on the third floor and they would send someone to do therapy with her three days a week. I went with sending her back to her third floor home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As a side note, my mom's new roommate at the hospital that last day had a daughter visiting with her. I didn't not know much about her situation as I wasn't there for long, but while we were there a doctor came in and gave "the talk". This was very much like "the talk" I was given about four years ago. "You cannot be at home anymore." "We can help you find a nursing facility." (This lady also required dialysis.) "Unfortunately, it is Friday and it will be difficult to find someone to process the necessary paperwork, blah blah blah." "That is, if we can even find a bed in the location you desire." I literally got tears in my eyes for them. Been there, done that. When I left, I felt compelled to say to them, "I wish you the best", to which they wished me a "blessed Thanksgiving". Sigh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> That evening, Kristin and I stopped by the nursing community to check on my mom. It was a nice surprise that the Christmas lights were turned on...for my mom's homecoming!!??</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All is Calm...All is Bright</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> They had my mom sitting right near the nurse's station and they all said how glad they were to have her back. I chatted with the nurses for a bit while Kristin took Grandma in the sitting area. I do feel like this is her new home. It was very cute, one of the other residents (whose name escapes me) asked my mom if she was in the hospital, and if she was ok, and said she is glad she is back. It was so sweet. She seemed very concerned. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kristin Gave a Free Massage...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and my mom's </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">concerned friend!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dropped Off Thanksgiving Treats for the Staff on My Mom's Floor</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As things stand, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am so relieved and grateful that my mom's new nursing community got my mom extra help when she needed it. They have given my mom such a better quality of life and higher standard of care than I ever could. I also am sorry to say I have a nagging feeling that I might be missing something with my mom and her care. I am walking that fine line of knowing that my mom is declining, but wondering if there is something being overlooked that would get her a bit healthier. Unfortunately, this feeling is not new to me, and I will do my best to work it out by talking with her doctor and nurses. They are relatively new to caring for her after years of working with her previous primary care physician and neurologist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, thanks for your support and for following along,</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-42367522091878008712014-11-18T02:35:00.000-05:002014-11-18T02:35:12.284-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring For a Mom With Alzheimer's</span></em></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It's been two weeks since I gave an update on my mom. On one recent visit I found my mom sitting with this blanket on her lap. She was dozing a bit by the TV and we chatted for awhile. Often if I wake her up from napping she kind of rambles on a bit. It's as though she's kind of talking in her sleep which, in fairness, she pretty much is. I kind of startle her awake and this time she told me an elaborate story of how we were working on the quilt in her lap. She explained how we cut the squares and then we took a break, and then she pointed out different things we did on the quilt. I couldn't help but think she had been thinking back to some happy memories of her and her BFF, Jane, and how they spent many days working on Jane's quilts at her cottage up north. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Speaking of Jane, she was nice enough to visit again in mid October. She and her husband spend quite a bit of time with my mom on their visits. Jane calls me and let's me know how their visit went and she speaks highly of my mom's new nursing community and the staff. My mom is still able to make many connections with her longtime friend as they have made many memories through the years. Jane even secretly brought her "Muffin" dog (yes there's another one) to my mom so that we would have a backup when we wash "the original" Muffin. The whole Muffin thing started with my mom and Jane goofing around and being facetious. Long story. I wish I had pictures to share of their visit, but maybe she can send some to me if she's reading this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Last Thursday my kids had the day off school so we stopped by just before dinner time. It was the first time I found my mom in her chair when I arrived. She was reclined and sleeping. Again, we had to awaken her because...we brought her favorite slushie cherry coke drink. My son got a kick out of watching Grandma trying to take a sip while lying down. Once I got a staff member to help me sit her up, things went better. I was glad to meet some staff from the second shift whom I had never seen before. I'm going to make more of an effort to visit at different times once in awhile. I think its so important for staff to see and meet us and know that family is involved. To be honest, I rarely see visitors on my mom's floor. Maybe more come on the evenings and weekends when I am less likely to be there. I hope so, but I'm not so sure. It is heartbreaking and amazing to me how easily people give up on their loved ones and family members because it makes <em>them</em> feel uncomfortable. A little empathy would sure go a long way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Linda, the activities lady saw us there. She said, "oh, it's my favorite family". I spoke with her briefly and she actually told me she is dating the umpire guy who was there to talk about baseball that day my mom shared her signal for "you're out". You can <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/10/monday-memories-with-my-mom.html?showComment=1412616806014#c600983185289806825">read about that here</a>. I was so happy to hear that they are dating!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My mom drank about half of her slurpee and then we left so she could rest before dinner.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Now, at 2:30 am yesterday (Sunday) morning my cell phone rang with the words "Canterbury on the Lake" displayed. I knew this couldn't be good news. The nurse on staff said my mom was having significant bleeding and that the doctor recommended she be sent to the ER. She asked me which hospital. This is always so confusing to me as they all seem to have their pros and cons and when you don't know what is happening, it's hard to choose. They recommended a nearby hospital based partially on the fact that they have an Alzheimer's care floor. I hesitated, but agreed as I tried to snap myself back to reality. She has been there before, but it was just for stiches on one of her falls in the earlier days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I woke my husband as I was not comfortable going alone, particularly in the middle of the night. We arrived by 3:30 am, but they didn't let us see her until they got her settled in. We ended up waiting about 45 minutes and then we found her relatively comfortable and sleeping. They put her in a nice private quiet corner and said we had just missed the mad rush at the ER a bit earlier. The nurse was awesome and soon a doctor filled us in. He was suspecting an intestinal infection, such as diverticulitis. They were waiting for a CT scan which would show more. She had a slight fever and was on an IV. The doctor said she would definitely be admitted. They encouraged us to go home and sleep and gave us a bunch of names and phone numbers and the nurse promised to update us when her just before her shift was over. She did call me at 6:30 am and indicated the CT scan found a GI obstruction and that meds and antibiotics were being ordered. They were moving her to the "step down" unit. I tried to sleep but was never able to get back to some "real" sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Of course, it was Sunday -- the weekend. My experience is that generally speaking a whole lot of nothing much happens at hospitals on weekends. I will say, the staff was attentive and nice. My husband and I returned to the hospital around 1pm after we took care of some things around the house. Before we left, I had also finally reached my brother who I found out is up north deer hunting. If only I had a nickel for every time he was up north when my mom and I could use some support...but I digress.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> She seemed in good hands and stable, but yet there were not many answers forthcoming nor did it appear there would be many answers until Monday (today) when the GI and other doctors would be making their rotations</span>. <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We left around dinner time so my husband could watch the Lions game. Of course, the more time that passed without me really feeling sure about what was going on the more uneasy I got. When you let your mind wander (and start playing Google doctor) it can make matters worse. That said, I also strongly believe you can learn A LOT on the internet and all in all surfing for answers has worked to my advantage -- knowledge is power! </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I also started thinking about how they have her on a "water only" diet and I just feel so bad for my mom the more time that passes. Yes, I do know we can live without eating for quite awhile, but I think most of us (including my mom) would prefer not to!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> So, this morning I headed back to the hospital. It didn't even occur to me to check on visiting hours. (Remember, I am used to Emergency Rooms and not often being actually "admitted", so it didn't even occur to me to check.) I was surprised that visiting hours were 11am - 8pm. I arrived before 10am and ended up having to wait for visiting hours. In the meantime, I found out she wasn't in her room anyways, she was having a test. So, I chilled until 11am and when I went up to her floor she was still out for testing. Sooo much waiting. Times like these I am thankful for my phone and social media. I have killed so much time surfing on my phone while waiting and waiting. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> In the meantime, I spoke with my mom's nurse and told her I was hoping to talk to the doctor, but the GI doctor she said had already come and gone (of course). This "game" of trying to gain information at hospitals is never fun. However, I will say the staff was very accommodating and personable, and I am very aware that saving people comes before talking to me. The main goal right now is for the doctors to clear her digestive tract so that they can thoroughly evaluate the cause of the bleeding and determine if there is any infection. Meanwhile, she was also found to have another UTI and an infection in her mouth (thrush). (My mom also has lupus which compromises her immune system -- something we rarely talk about anymore as her dementia mostly over shadows her other health issues.) She is on antibiotics and receiving various treatments in an effort to clean out her system. In all likelihood, this would all go faster if she was able to walk. Sadly, that is no longer much of an option. In fact, earlier in the day the nurses had tried to get my mom standing with their support and she was too weak to even do that. As I've said before, the wheelchair and not walking are sooo hard for me to get used to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> My mom is groggy, but seems relatively comfortable. She is stable, and I feel comfortable with the attention she is getting in the Step Down unit. (My understanding is the Step Down is a "step down" from ICU and at this hospital they share the same floor.) A nice doctor came in specifically to talk to me. He gave me a good overall update, was very personable and understanding of how difficult it is to be in my position. He basically told me she would be there at least 4-5 days and that it was normal for things to take awhile to happen in this case. I am still kind of processing everything myself as this is one of the first times my mom has been in the hospital for something not related to a fall in years. It was definitely a bit of a shocker to hear from the nursing community in the middle of the night as I know she receives such good care there. I am now learning that there is yet another complication that can occur in people with dementia and this is likely one of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> That nice doctor even called me this evening when he completed his rounds. One thing he mentioned is that they now have reason to believe my mom has had this issue for months...like six months!!! I am shocked, but I am trying to focus on how much better she will have to feel once they treat her!! My poor mom has likely been in pain for some time and yet not able to communicate it to us. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> While I was there, she kept fidgeting with her oxygen while trying to sleep. She took it off a couple of times and I just let it go the last time. When I was leaving, she spent about ten minutes trying to get the oxygen on Muffin. She hasn't complained once and has not even said she is hungry. She drinks water when I give it to her and seems content despite being in pain and out of her comfort zone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I don't think there is any question at this point -- my mom has some Energizer bunny in her (ya know, she keeps going and going...). I am proud of how her sense of humor shines through in even the most difficult of circumstances. She has an inner strength, she is brave, and she is a real trooper!!!!!</span><br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-50231846136294483042014-11-03T07:30:00.000-05:002014-11-03T07:30:00.735-05:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em> </em></strong>Last Tuesday I stopped by to visit my mom. I did not go at lunch time, but when I arrived they were in the midst of making their own personal (biscuit dough) pizzas. I sat with my mom and joined in while they each waited for their pizza to be baked. Since there is no oven on their floor, the activities lady had to do each one on an electric grill. I helped a little bit passing out napkins and drinks and just trying to keep everyone entertained while they were waiting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> There is one gentleman currently on my mom's floor, Tim, who is actually an overflow from the rehab floor so his mind is much better than the other residents on the memory care floor. I chatted with him for a bit and he is quite a character My mom shared her pizza with me and it was good, but some of the residents complained and were being picky about things. I think it was one of those things where there was no making them happy, and I felt bad for Linda going through a lot of work to try to make them happy! I guess the residents cook or make things a few times a week. I found the whole thing reminiscent of my kids preschool days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Once the baking was done, Linda got everyone involved in some trivia. I decided to stick around and visit with my mom. I have sat in on several of their trivia sessions before. She gives hints on famous couples or different topics and waits for the residents to piece the answers together. They actually do pretty well. Sometimes it's hard for me to keep my mouth shut when I know the answers, but some are hard and I don't have a clue! Some of the answers are people like Abbott and Costello or Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, etc... My mom does pretty well as I've said before, but I realized on this visit that I think her favorite part is watching Linda "imitate" and do voice impersonations of the people she is describing. My mom says, "she's so cute" or "she's so funny". I even think, just knowing my mom, that sometimes she actually knows some of the answers but holds back on shouting them out because she likes watching Linda do her impersonations so much!! You can just see the "wheels" spinning in their heads, sometimes smoke coming out of their ears, and it's fun to see them finally make the connection!! I stayed with them for a couple of hours. There were only about eight residents participating.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Afterwards, I wheeled my mom back down to the sitting area just outside her room. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> She tried to feed "Muffin" her mini Teddy Grahams snack. When I have to leave, sometimes I just tell her I have to go let out my dog, Lucky, because he isn't trained as well as her dog, Muffin. She thinks that's funny and important that I go and let him out. She also understands when I often have to leave to pick up my kids. I am thankful she usually does not give me much of a hard time when I have to go. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I turned on Ellen for her (which she loves) and was on my way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> On the afternoon of Halloween I received a call on my cell from her nursing community. My heart still sinks, but so far the calls have normally been something relatively minor or something they want to make me aware of. Thankfully, it was one of the nurses who said my mom was "fine" and having a "really good day". My mom had already passed out candy to several children who they had come through. Apparently, my mom told the nurses and CNAs that she thought it was "way cool" and they got a kick out of that. They had a busy day of activities planned, and the nurse talked to me for quite awhile about her own mother and how she is gradually declining in ways similar to my mom. She acknowledged how different it is when it is your own family member rather than being a nurse with a patient. She was temporarily working on my mom's floor for a couple of days, but normally works on the second floor. They noticed bruising on the bottom of my mom's legs and they think she must be bumping them on the foot rests of her wheelchair. They wanted to let me know they are going to try to come up with something so she would not be able to bump them as much!!!! These kind of calls I would take anytime!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Later that same Halloween night I was able to sneak out to dinner with my husband as all of my kids were at parties and the few trick or treaters we had were long gone. During dinner, my phone rang and it was my mom's nursing community again. This time I was definitely apprehensive because I had already spoken with the nurse earlier. It was the same nurse and she regretted having to tell me that my mom had fallen out of her wheelchair while it was parked near her bed. She was left there just before they were going to put her to bed, and we think she must have decided to try put herself to bed. In fact, my best guess is that because she <em>was</em> having such a good day, she must have been sitting there thinking, "what am I waiting for, I should go to bed"... and then fell. There was no visible injury, they checked her vitals, not sure if she hit her head, but no evidence of it. While on the phone, the nurse decided we should put in her "care plan" not to bring her to her room until she is ready to be put into bed in an effort to prevent this from happening again. Also, the staff will likely be in touch with me now that she has had a couple slips and falls out of her wheelchair to try to come up with a solution. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I am grateful they seem to be doing their best taking care of my mom, and also seem to want my opinion on her course of care. I certainly wish I could ended the day with the good news of that first phone call, but the reality caught up to us that night when she fell. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Meanwhile, the seasons here in Michigan are definitely changing. As I walked back to my car and saw these beautiful Fall trees, I realized how very cold my walk is going to be on my visits in the months ahead. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope we can hold on to Fall at least a little longer!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-30204044652443242642014-10-27T21:34:00.001-04:002014-10-27T21:34:52.610-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom - PM Edition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<em><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></strong></em></div>
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<em></em> <span style="font-family: Arial;"> As you know, I've come to really like the activities director, Linda, at my mom's new nursing community. It takes a really special person to work with and engage seniors with severe memory issues like my mom. She is so kind and patient and sincerely cares for the residents. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> On one of my visits with my kids over the summer, I asked my kids if maybe they would consider playing their instruments for the residents on my mom's floor. I imagine the activities directors are always looking for something new and different to entertain the residents. They agreed they would do it, so I asked Linda if she would be interested in having them. She was excited at the prospect and we came up with a recent Sunday as one of the few days all of my kids were available. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> The afternoon of Sunday, October 19th we all headed over to hear the kids perform. My kids were not thrilled that I wanted them to wear their marching band uniforms, but in the end they did as I know the residents were impressed and appreciated it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> It was a beautiful Fall day....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The "musicians" arrived a few minutes early to set up...</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We tried to make it look like we had rehearsed this, but the truth is </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">we only ran through things </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a few minutes before we left...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Considering there are only about 20 residents on the floor, we had a pretty good turnout!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They played their fight song and several other songs from their halftime show of our high school football season. It warmed my heart to see my kids doing their best to entertain the residents... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It warmed my heart even more when my kids went around to each resident and chatted with them and let them check out the flute...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">or the trumpet...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">or clarinet...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and patiently answer the residents questions....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and, of course, pose for a picture with their Grandma!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_IKT822RWdQSiX0YZ3g5HNB5SXFqtw0nn3UF6ZZ6LEeRiRb61P6dFVrTcUoVZqRMxz1mE-ZaYes0SavrjmbvUGTskZPVJpvVz7bwqgV0O7yGddSjVp_WzDW6sdrO0V0p049GDimchsLm/s1600/246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_IKT822RWdQSiX0YZ3g5HNB5SXFqtw0nn3UF6ZZ6LEeRiRb61P6dFVrTcUoVZqRMxz1mE-ZaYes0SavrjmbvUGTskZPVJpvVz7bwqgV0O7yGddSjVp_WzDW6sdrO0V0p049GDimchsLm/s1600/246.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and then one last encore performance of the Star Spangled Banner...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">which moved one resident named Dallas to his feet!!!!! (I think he was in the military!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I was glad my mom had the opportunity to see her grand kids perform as she has not been able to make it to their concerts in recent years. I think my kids also realized what a great thing they did -- giving some of their time to spread some joy!!! My mom had a bit of a hard time keeping her eyes open during some of the music, but she did enjoy it and the attention from the other residents and staff about her grandchildren. The activities director invited them back to play Christmas music in December. I hope we can do it, but I know things will be incredibly busy for all of us. We will definitely try to make it work!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> In other news, my brother was able to deliver my mom's lift chair to the seating area on my mom's floor. You may recall her first room was too small for her beloved chair, but I recently got the staff's approval to move it into the common seating area near the tv. I bought a new cover for it, and I am hoping she will enjoy it as much as she used to!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I'm going to visit tomorrow to see how my mom is doing and see if she still loves her chair... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> As always, thanks for stopping by!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-46527590873599332702014-10-27T07:30:00.000-04:002014-10-27T07:30:00.658-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom - AM Edition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Things continue to go fairly well with my mom. On a recent perfectly beautiful Fall day, I was able to visit on a weekend since my husband and our kids took our exchange student to Cedar Point. It was a good day for me to catch up on lots of things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I finally found my way to a different part of the "grounds" at the community where my mom is living. It was soooo nice!! I regret that we had not had the opportunity sooner. I also am slowly becoming more familiar with the staff and procedures and things. There are alarms that go off and codes to learn when using the elevators and exits, especially on the memory care floor. I've also learned I only need to "sign her out" if I'm leaving the grounds of the community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made this little collage of the pretty little pond we sat by...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO52De5sK_xeEqmvC6W6V721z_OGXGbK7lrvj2eoiY2UwxwhSolIls_jqmqAu7Qq02RWlIDfuTGDEM1MeutdgcXiipQa7XmR4mmiQqYjTkB12RyRRy5-84LnBRQROLEJU4uzjKkUV3zalv/s1600/105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO52De5sK_xeEqmvC6W6V721z_OGXGbK7lrvj2eoiY2UwxwhSolIls_jqmqAu7Qq02RWlIDfuTGDEM1MeutdgcXiipQa7XmR4mmiQqYjTkB12RyRRy5-84LnBRQROLEJU4uzjKkUV3zalv/s1600/105.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did you spot the real live green frog sunning himself in the middle picture!? So cute! I pointed it out to my mom. I think she saw it -- she said she did! Just sitting there in the peace and quiet may have been better for me than my mom, but I'm sure the fresh air did her good, too. Unfortunately, as is often the case, she was falling asleep quite often. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyeWr19mR_wwPZ-quLK58DO9S98dCorLKMXNs07OhDkm8yEXFQobcuLdMwkeidXc-dX3X921Jb7EBbiNcJyG_KXNtFHu_rYVEaVUksph8r3msrF3Vs3RRrBdKW11Qc7Z8Hno522KHx8-V/s1600/106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyeWr19mR_wwPZ-quLK58DO9S98dCorLKMXNs07OhDkm8yEXFQobcuLdMwkeidXc-dX3X921Jb7EBbiNcJyG_KXNtFHu_rYVEaVUksph8r3msrF3Vs3RRrBdKW11Qc7Z8Hno522KHx8-V/s1600/106.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I did my best to show her around and took a few pictures. Eventually, though,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I felt like I was trying to force her to stay awake so I took her back inside so she could rest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My brother also continues to bring his dog to visit with my mom. He sent me</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> this recent picture of my mom and "Steve" the dog back by the lake at her nursing community.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWvn9QH6MpNP3IO9gOY-noKTLREp3QoL3AjxuZbBab1XhErMf7E_u6S5eM8Ncaq-tpSfDL5QogoBMvCtn-n4H6KVjE6PijQiZW4ry506HJguHVIvSe-r4d4YRMkpC447O6DTe58cSVYhQ/s1600/064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWvn9QH6MpNP3IO9gOY-noKTLREp3QoL3AjxuZbBab1XhErMf7E_u6S5eM8Ncaq-tpSfDL5QogoBMvCtn-n4H6KVjE6PijQiZW4ry506HJguHVIvSe-r4d4YRMkpC447O6DTe58cSVYhQ/s1600/064.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I think I've mentioned before, I seem to end up visiting my mom at lunch time which</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">is not always the best as my mom tries to feed me, and I'm a distraction to her eating. Also, she has been very sleepy lately. The CNA in the background is Stephanie. She's my favorite along with Linda, the activities lady. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apparently Stephanie brought her daughter, Unity, recently to color with </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">some of the residents. I found this picture hanging in my mom's room. So sweet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From what I understand, my mom colored a bit, but was also having a sleepy day.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUUejPatcOHDNoIYiPbrC0J82JHuyim-1K78_rrt9XihKpdLmSzs0Jf_O3VJgNpSOJ-ePBb-2XRQVhOE6tk4kkdF16oRXQ5dVXgJvz63_HDM6qCFDAZ3FU7n2hv8XojkoS8HZoTjzdQYK/s1600/220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUUejPatcOHDNoIYiPbrC0J82JHuyim-1K78_rrt9XihKpdLmSzs0Jf_O3VJgNpSOJ-ePBb-2XRQVhOE6tk4kkdF16oRXQ5dVXgJvz63_HDM6qCFDAZ3FU7n2hv8XojkoS8HZoTjzdQYK/s1600/220.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> On October 16th the community staff scheduled a "care conference" with me. I had heard that they would do this and I think they are supposed to do so once she has been there three months, which she has (almost four now). I decided to knock another item off my list, so I arrived shortly before our 10 am hair appointment. Stephanie was just taking my mom for a shower after breakfast. I told her I had scheduled a last minute hair appointment for my mom in the building. She was, again, long overdue for a cut!! Stephanie had her dressed and showered in less than 15 minutes which is quite amazing if you ask me!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> The salon was very busy with residents and asked if we could wait a bit so we went down the hall to the Café. This is all located on the "Main Street" area of the community which is located between the assisted living and skilled nursing. There was a Detroit Free Press newspaper there so I gave it to my mom. She used to get that paper EVERY morning and go through the whole thing. On this day, she did read a few headlines. I think she would do better with reading glasses, but sadly those days seem to be gone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I grabbed a coffee and soon they were able to take my mom for her cut. It is much easier to take her somewhere where the staff is comfortable dealing with people in wheelchairs and walkers. I went back to the Café and relaxed and waited. I ended up having a lovely made to order omelette which was good and inexpensive (wow, a real breakfast on a weekday -- I should do more of that!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> When I went to check on my mom, she was not quite done. I noticed there was a man who volunteers and takes the residents back to their rooms or picks them up for their appointments. Because of the delay at the salon, my care conference appointment time was getting closer. Ultimately, I had to ask if they could bring my mom back to her room so I could make my conference time. This made me a little nervous, but I didn't have much choice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> There were four people at the care conference. A social worker, activities director, nurse and I'm not sure the other girl's title. These meetings are scheduled for only 15 minutes so I knew there wasn't going to be too much time. I let them talk as much as I could but at one point when the nurse said "we have noticed a decline in your mom since she's been here" I got teary eyed!!! Darn it! I don't know if there will ever be a day when I am "used to" this... I honestly think I could handle things better if I wasn't always by myself!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> They told me some physical areas of decline and indicated there have been several days recently where they needed to hand feed her. On the positive side, they said she engages in all of the activities and she is in the "Top 3" of their trivia games. The girls also seem to enjoy my mom and her sense of humor which is mostly still intact.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also learned that as much as they do for my mom, there are still areas where I need to be vigilant. Some blood work that needs to be done periodically to monitor my mom's medications, dental checks, podiatrist appointments... It appears those things have not been done even though when I said I wanted those done when I was asked about it when she moved in. This is a bit disappointing only because I question if her appetite and eating changes could be due to some dental issue. I also questioned my mom's more sleepy state recently and asked if she is sleeping at night. The only thing they were sure of is that she stays in bed....but not sure if she is actually sleeping. So, they were going to do a "sleep study" on her to see. The first night she only slept about half of the time, the second night she slept through the night. I will be following up on that soon. As you will recall, I went through this day time sleepiness with my mom before. Although it is not at all unusual for someone with my mom's health to be sleepy, it obviously is going to be much worse if she has her days and nights a bit reversed much like a baby would. There are many similarities between my mom's aging and the behaviors of a baby or young child.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although Engaged in Many Activities Throughout the Day</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">This is the Reality of How Much of the Resident's Time is Spent</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">(at least they are not left to sleep in their rooms all day)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After the meeting, I went to see my mom and how her hair turned out. She looked good -- although I am still getting used to the gray. I have gone back and forth about keeping up the coloring of her hair, but have decided and been advised to let her go au naturale. Unfortunately, I did not take a picture of her hair since she was eating lunch when I saw her. I said my goodbyes to my mom, and I went back to the salon to pay. I was surprised to learn the salon is not allowed to accept tips! I think we will be using their services more and more, particularly since it appears I do not always have to be there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I left that day with mixed feelings. I felt good about getting a lot of things discussed and taken care of, but also the realization that all of my efforts and some sugar coating cannot change the direction of my mom's health. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still trying to be at peace with that,</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Waiting on "Main Street" for My Mom</span><br />
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-39102199629452733752014-10-06T07:30:00.000-04:002014-10-06T07:30:00.451-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I know I keep saying it, but things sure are busy around my house lately!! Our German exchange student has been with us two and a half weeks so far and on Friday the group will be heading back to Germany. Having four teenagers has kept me busy, but I am grateful to be able to focus some of my time on them. Having my mom settled into her new home has allowed me the freedom to do this, although it is still bittersweet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I am hoping this is my last "catch up" post, so it is a bit "picture heavy" as I wanted to include all of the visiting I have done since my mom was moved onto her "memory care" floor as I <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_22.html">wrote about here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> The quality of visits is much better now that there is actually more room to sit and visit with my mom. She is rarely in her room as the staff seems to make certain that the residents are engaged and in the common areas of the floor where they can participate in activities, watch TV, sit with the cats, watch the birds or fish aquarium, or socialize with each other. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> On one visit I found my mom sitting here and watching TV in the commons area. She also seems to like the table of "community" blankets that are there for the residents to use at will. I often find some of them in her room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On another recent visit I was surprised to find the residents gathered to learn and talk about baseball. The area was decorated in a Detroit Tigers theme and there was actually an umpire standing there with the activity director and discussing various things about baseball... They passed around equipment, discussed different baseball terms and then the umpire demonstrated some of the signals that go along with those calls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is this next part of the story that I should probably leave out -- but I will not because then I wouldn't be "keeping it real" as I try to do. I should also mention that all three of my kids happened to be with me on this visit. We quietly stood back and listened as we did not want to distract the residents from their activity -- and then it happened. The umpire demonstrated his signal for "YOU'RE OUT" by raising his thumb and motioning back. He then asked if anyone knew another hand signal for "YOU'RE OUT"!!?? It was then that my dear mother raised her middle finger and waved it in the air.............. Thankfully, it appeared only me, my kids, and the umpire noticed what she was doing. The truth is, me and the kids were doubled over laughing and trying not to laugh at the same time. That is my mom's sense of humor. I was not one bit surprised and yet I was still mortified!! Another moment me and the kids will probably never forget!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On another evening, I was near my mom's place and I decided to make a nighttime stop to see what goes on at night. I was wondering if my mom would be in bed and thinking she would be, but I just wanted to peek in and see if and when she sleeps. I know it was after 8 pm when I got there, and I was surprised to find a group of the residents all gathered around the TV watching the Tigers game... They did have their pajamas on, but there they were having their own little PJ party gathered around the TV. It was pretty cute!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I sat with my mom for awhile and we talked about the Tigers and she seemed glad I was there. At one point, the staff also brought her a bedtime snack -- these cute little mini Teddy Grahams. She was a happy camper, and I felt pretty good about what goes on there at night. My mom has always been a "night owl" and she still is.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On another visit I think we tried to watch Days of Our Lives together,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">but there was a lot of this going on.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They always post the activities in the residents rooms, and I keep a photo of the calendar on my cell phone for reference. They do a great job from all that I have seen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Occasionally, my brother Mike sends me photos like this. He took my mom out by the lake in the back of the senior community. That way, my mom gets to visit with her "granddog" Steve. I will have to do the same sometime soon with her other granddog "Lucky". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I started hanging up the cards my mom has received, as I know how much she </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">has liked her cards over the years and I still hope seeing them makes her </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Kristin's busy schedule allows a visit, she still has a way with her Grandma and I know Grandma appreciates seeing her smiley face!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All my kids also love the cats -- this one is "Sugar"!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More often than not when I arrive I find my mom sitting in an activity such as the one below. I almost feel like I am interfering in her fun, and I definitely don't want to distract the others from their activities. Linda, the activity director, always welcomes me and asks me to join in. I usually do grab a chair and sit with my mom. By joining in, I have learned that many of the residents are still very good with trivia, and nursery rhymes, and song lyrics, and naming state capitals, and completing old sayings!!! On several visits, I have been pleasantly surprised at my mom shouting out correct answers as Linda soooo kindly, lovingly, patiently and enthusiastically leads the residents and helps them make those connections that are oh so important in keeping their minds going...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On another visit, I brought a family newsletter from my mom's cousin. At this point, I think she mostly enjoys the photos, but she does try to read a bit of it, too. She lives vicariously through their adventures and world travels!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, I arrived to find the residents again gathered around this nice man who sang and played the accordion for the residents. He would start playing some music and then wait to see if any of the residents recognized the tune. Very often someone does, and then they join in and sing along. Other times, he gave clues and more often than not several of the residents would know the songs as they tend to be from the "good ol' days". While I was there, he told me my mom liked this song...and he played a song using my mom's name "Mary" in it just for her. I have learned to join in and help "prompt" my mom when I arrive during these activities, after all it's the least I can do. If I can help my mom or one resident make a connection then all is well!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What a relief to see that my mom engaging in the activities, and I know Linda, the activities director, has personally assured me that she makes sure my mom participates in everything she can. I no longer have images of my mom sitting alone in her apartment with nothing to do and nobody to talk to. This is all I can hope for and gives me some peace of mind.</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-56197333271828622342014-09-22T07:30:00.000-04:002014-09-22T12:55:46.457-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong><em> </em></strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to say, this is the post I've been most anxious to get to... I would like to call it <em>"The Day Things Got a Whole Lot Better"!!!!!!</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> The morning of Thursday, July 24th I was awakened by an early morning phone call. It was a social worker from my mom's new home. Of course, my heart stopped for a second as she quickly introduced herself and continued to say that they were noticing that my mom was not engaging socially and that they would like my permission to move her to the third floor which is their memory care floor. There, they have more specialized care and activities which they believe would give my mom a better quality of life. (Insert choir of angels singing - Hallelujah!!!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> This was what I had been hoping for!!! When I toured this nursing community, they told me their third floor had 20 beds and was their "serenity" "memory care" floor. On one of my tours, I did ask to see the third floor. I remembered it was very calm, quiet, and I just instinctively knew that was where my mom should be. However, I don't think you can "request" to be there -- it is based on evaluation and availability. The truth is, I hoped that if I stayed quiet and let them see my mom's needs that she would eventually be moved out of that dinky little room. I also don't think it was a coincidence that I received this call three weeks to the day that my mom moved in. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> After I got the lump out of my throat, I said, "Yes, that would be wonderful - I think that is where she belongs." Although mostly happy, I'd be lying if I didn't say that it <em>still</em> hurts my heart when a health care professional validates what I already know, which is that my mom needs a higher level of care and that she is unable to engage socially on her own.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> They said, "great, then we will probably move her this morning or this afternoon". They said I did not need to be there. That was also good news, as I wasn't sure I could be there right away. However, my mom's BFF, Jane, had also planned to visit that same day. I let her know about the last minute move and she and her husband kept their plan to visit thinking their being there might also help my mom make this transition. I was so relieved!!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> As you know, it was difficult but a big relief for me to move my mom into this skilled nursing community. This news of a move to memory care was when I really started feeling better about everything! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Although I don't have pictures of my mom's visit with her BFF, I did hear it went very well. They stayed with my mom for several hours and joined in on the activities and watched my mom's physical therapy. They were impressed by the attentiveness that the staff gave and how residents were not just left sitting in their rooms, but were being engaged in activities.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I was anxious to get over to visit and was able to do so later that evening. Apparently, I had just missed my mom's friends, but I can tell you this was my best visit thus far!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> Her room was much larger and in a nice corner location with a window overlooking the main entrance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The picture below is taken standing in my mom's doorway. A fish tank to the left and a tv/sitting area to the right just outside her door.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This (below) is my mom's roommate's area. Her roommate's name is Joy. She is extremely quiet and I don't think she sees well or speaks very much. She looks like a nice lady, and I hope that one of these days I will learn more about her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is my mom's side of the room. A nice bright window, a chair for us to visit and a much bigger space. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Her tv area is similar to the other, although this room came with it's own flat </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">screen television (bonus!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the view looking down the hall from my mom's doorway. The television is right next to the plant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One funny side note that I had totally forgotten about... There are two cats that live on this floor. The first day I was there they jumped on my mom's bed. I had to laugh to myself because I am allergic to cats and have no idea whether my mom is as we have never owned cats. The cat below is "exactly" like one of the cats my husband owned when I met him. I loved that cat! My allergies seem to only come into play if I pet them excessively or if they sleep on my blankets or bedding. Thankfully, they have had no affect on me or my mom, but I couldn't help but wonder what would happen if a resident was allergic. I can tell you it would have to be pretty serious before I would prevent my mom from living on this floor!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my next visits she had "wings" on her wheelchair -- I think they had some kind of wheelchair beautification day!? Doesn't she even seem happier!?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here a physical therapist is getting ready to work with her. She used her walker and walked me to the elevator. She did pretty good, but still needs the wheelchair.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got my husband to make a visit with me. I'm kind of glad he was with me because when I walked in my mom's room she was holding this "baby" and I swear from a distance and the way she was holding "her" it looked real. Immediately I was kind of concerned because she was sitting near her roommate's bed and I thought it was probably her roommate's doll. I thought perhaps my mom had gone through her things. However, when a staff member came by and I asked about it she said that it was a community baby doll and that she was the one who had put my mom near her roommates bed because my mom wanted to put the baby to bed there. (I guess "Muffin" might have some competition now with this baby!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am slowly adding some photos and trying to make this room look more like my mom's own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is the beginning of my plan for the wall --but I haven't had a chance to </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">finish my wall décor yet!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We watched the Tiger game as my mom tried to keep the pacifier in the baby's mouth... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love the light coming through my mom's window as the last room was often dark because there was only one shared window as her roommate was usually sleeping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Never hurts to have a few angels around either. Things are looking up!!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-43433187764482387802014-09-15T22:06:00.001-04:002014-09-15T22:06:06.015-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</em></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Phew!! Reliving all of that has been a lot (probably for you, too!) -- that's why I took a little time away to regroup a bit. <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_5.html">Moving my mom July 3rd</a> and then leaving for the holiday weekend was a lot!! Over the weekend, of course I was worried if my mom was sleeping or asking lots of questions about where she was. Obviously, I was grateful that we were somehow able to move her in without upsetting her, but I still couldn't help but wonder if our good luck would continue. I was relieved to know that regardless of how she was, there would be plenty of staff around to help her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> As soon as the weekend was over, Kristin and I went over to see how Grandma was doing. This is how we found her...sitting in her room in the wheelchair watching some tv. I was relieved and remember thinking that she looked fairly well rested. My only fear in anticipation of this "first visit" was whether she would ask me to "go home" or something like that. </span> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She Makes It Look Like No Big Deal...</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kristin went across the hall and watched the birds with Grandma while I did some snooping and met some of the staff. They needed me to inventory all of my mom's possessions and make sure all of her clothing was labeled with her full name. Although I had hastily done some of this before the last minute move, I still had more to do. Even though there wasn't much, it was a bit tedious and I wished I had some iron on clothing labels. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grandma, Kristin and the Birds</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> While in my mom's room, I noticed this note with my mom's things. Obviously, my mom had asked where she was and one of the nurse's had taken the time to write her name and the name of my mom's new home. This made my heart sink for a moment, but I was glad someone had taken the time to try to help my mom understand. The change in her surroundings is significant enough that it would be more alarming if she did not ever question it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My sister-in-law and her mom also stopped by with Matt, my mom's grandson. I know how important it is for my mom to see familiar faces while going through this transition, so I was very grateful they took the time to visit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Always Nice to Know She Had Some Company!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I still was a bit bothered by how very small my mom's room was, but I was encouraged that there seemed to be more attention from the staff and that everyone knew who "Muffin" was already!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also kept thinking about my mom's chair and how she would do without it. My mom's roommate was sleeping in her bed in the middle of the day. I still had not actually seen her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Before we left, we wanted to make sure my mom would be occupied and when we checked the calendar we learned they were going to be giving hand massages. We asked my mom if she wanted to go and she seemed uncertain as to what it was and whether or not she did. Kristin and I assured her she would like it. She said, "I would!?" and before long she was being pampered with lotion and a nice hand massage. She liked it -- so we left while she was being treated like a queen!!! What a relief!!!</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688361033411785711.post-795525500490976472014-09-08T21:17:00.001-04:002014-09-08T22:06:48.090-04:00Monday Memories With My Mom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Adventures of Caring for a Mom With Alzheimer's Disease</span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As I continue to play catch up on the blog, you will be glad to know </span><a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/09/monday-memories-with-my-mom_5.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">my last post</span></a> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">finally got my mom moved into the skilled nursing community. (In case you have not noticed, I am making an effort to call it a "skilled nursing community" as "nursing home" has so many negative connotations...makes me feel better ;). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> So, after moving only a few of my mom's essential personal items to her new place, there was one more slightly large order of business -- moving the rest of my mom's belongings out of the apartment she lived in for three years. I had given 30 days notice, but the sooner I turned the keys in the sooner they might be able to find another tenant. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> With my brother having three weeks off work, and me stopping by a couple times when I could, we somehow managed to clear everything out within a week after we had moved my mom. My brother took most of the furniture back to my mom's condo and donated some. I packed up the smaller stuff and tossed as much as I could. Downsizing felt good when it came to some things, but was painful when it came to others. Like my decision that it was time to say goodbye to these...</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Those of you who have been following along will know that my mom's <a href="http://storiesbycindy.blogspot.com/2014/01/monday-memories-with-my-momreturns.html">pink crocs</a> were her favorite. You may also remember that after one of her more recent trips to the ER, we decided to hide them as we were certain they were no longer giving her the support she needed to safely walk around. They were well loved, worn and worth every penny. We donated the couch and got rid of the older style tv as it would not fit in her new room.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We donated some knick knacks and odds and ends.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtmSr1di_3I3-CaonZca4md1ImCrzmGFDi25Uo6cKtRpJP2c1cMpt0rGsTMWQzj2dP_m58WlXu9KnrCUt2A2crDQk2j555ppuBrDxv2AuOCoUTmgFzcuUNnncNJCnzg2ieiqM5zRhmazoK/s1600/058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I took some things home to sort through and keep or give to the appropriate person. Remember when I made the artificial flower arrangement for my mom's balcony for Mother's Day since my mom was not able to take care of real flowers on her own!? Also, the bolster pillow I got her to help with my mom's severe slouching problem!? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully my husband came along with me on my last trip, with his truck. T</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">hings went pretty quickly with him making frequent trips to the truck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The emptier it got, the heavier my heart was... Mixed emotions. The relief of having her in a safer place, how much she loved living there, what a relief it would be to have her closer to my house, all the time visiting her with the kids, rushing over there when she fell, spending the nights, the staff, "The Don"... All the trips back and forth for three years... I remembered almost every item that came in and out of her place since I was usually the one bringing them in or taking them away. Each trinket and stuffed animal. Thinking, oh she loved that thing or oh she never even used that thing. The things I had to take away because they posed a danger and the things that I had to get because they became necessities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The earlier days when she was able to walk through her apartment without a walker and the days she had to have the walker. They days she forgot her walker, and, of course, the days she fell in the hallway, or by the bathroom, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">or in the kitchen... </span></div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgQRw8IeFKiPSBNIKbN9ofylNH9Q_gVHC3N0q07XTR0xxbotmoq_k0R2CitIIAQ_UIBWn_C7pGQDWvc25wp51mbGgpgqQcFDCAaV8wU0z6MYxTvwHVQNVlSpA1wdC7VMhBeiPk2s2bY6f/s1600/096.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here I was one last time in that hot apartment where I had the a/c turned down low to save energy. I was on a mission with my sorting and tossing and donating and packing. The last two or more months I had the time to contemplate what I wanted to do with most everything when moving time came. Emotionally, it was yet another exhausting part of this long journey I have been on with my mom. It was getting late and it became clear that after double and triple checking everywhere, including looking for the two rings that got "lost" along the way, it was time to say goodbye for me and for my mom. Tears filled my eyes as I hung that little flag at my mom's door. My husband let me have my cry and then we left! Deep breath -- reminding myself she was in a safer place...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apartment 147...was not ours anymore. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had to drop off the keys during normal business hours, so the next day I did...and I never looked back.</span></div>
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Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315526715116098746noreply@blogger.com3