Monday, January 5, 2026

Monday, January 5, 2026

Tonight's picture was taken in January of 2004. Mattie was a year and a half old and we were having a teachable moment. Mattie was like my shadow. If I was in one room, so we he, if I migrated to another room, he was right behind me. In this photo, Mattie wanted something that was on the counter. In the process of him trying to reach for the item, I was telling him that the stove was right next to the counter. The stove and oven were not on, but nonetheless, I wanted to teach Mattie that in the kitchen, you have to be aware of your surroundings, because some things are TOO hot to touch. The beauty of Mattie was once you explained something, it stuck! I never had to re-explain this danger again, he just naturally understood! 

Quote of the day: I only miss you when I’m breathing. ~ Jason Derulo

My dad may have Alzheimer's but there are some things that remain consistent. The one constant is his love for me and my mom! My dad may have forgotten his work history, where he lived, his friends and family, but he hasn't forgotten us. I believe this is the case because he lives with us, we are constantly present. Each morning, after I get myself ready, make breakfast, and clean up the first floor, I then go back upstairs and wake my dad up so we can start his morning shower and routine. Like clockwork, my dad will say something such as....... I like your sweater, or what a beautiful blouse, or you are a beautiful lady, or I love your necklace, where did you get it!? The kindness and comments are typical for my dad, that is just who he is, and fortunately in my dad's case, dementia hasn't changed his calm and loving personality. I say this because I am very aware that it could! For this I am grateful!

It was a three ring circus this morning, because I had to wake up extra early as the fellow helping me replace the burnt out humidifier system in the house was scheduled to come over between 8 and 8:30am. In order to be able to manage any repair visit, I always like to have my dad up, showered, and dressed beforehand, so that I am not distracted and running around the house. When my dad is in the shower or bathroom, he needs constant supervision, and therefore, it is worth the effort to get up early so I can manage my dad's safety and needs. 

Mid-day, my dad's memory care center sent me this photo! This is my dad with Juliet, the miniature horse that visited all the center's participants today. My understanding is that my dad really related to Juliet! This was interesting to me because my dad isn't really an animal person. He is certainly used to being around cats and dogs, as we had animals all my life, but my dad doesn't bond with animals like me. So the fact that my dad connected with Juliet today made me smile! In fact, tonight, I printed out this photo and will have it on display as a reminder of the cutie who visited the center today! I am in LOVE with horses, they are amazingly loving creatures, very sensitive to their riders, and there is nothing quite like riding a horse. It is pure freedom and the special feeling and connection of reading each other's cues in order to trot and canter are indescribable.