This blog was formerly dedicated in 2009 to my Dad who died of Alzheimer's in 2013. It's been three years now...and I find myself missing blogging...so I am re-inventing my blog... because, after all, life is about moving through, and going forward...

Saturday, October 2, 2010

On A Clear Day, He Can't Remember Anything...

Between cloud bursts, lightening and thunder, yesterday Mom ventured out into the elements to see Dad. He was in the lunch room with the "salty sailor". The sailor wouldn't eat, complaining how awful the food was. Dad gobbled everything with gusto, telling his friend how delicious it was. He raved about the food and asked Mom to tell the chef.  Mom told the Administrator after her visit, and he said he would pass it on.
One of the therapists, was telling Mom, she is trying to figure out a way to have the residents do line dancing with their walkers!! Her idea sounds fun, but tricky.

Mom took Dad out on the patio.  The weather had calmed down and displayed a spectacular blue sky. It was a beautiful day. They talked and Dad commented on the little children who come visiting, always come to talk with him because they know how much he enjoys little children. Mom listened to him pontificate and ramble on about many things she couldn't follow, so she nodded and allowed him to say any and everything he wanted to say.

Dad was glad to hear I had arrived home safely because he worries about me driving so far. He was also worried about my second to the oldest brother's business.  Mom told him she was pretty sure things were going well for him. Mom told Dad she hadn't seen my two youngest brothers lately, but knew they were busy. She told him my sister, Holly was leaving today to spend a week with me and Dad seemed happy about it. She told him my husband was going fishing in Mexico and Don responded, "Oh yeah!"

Dad became tired, so Mom took him to his room and let the aide know, so he could help Dad get ready for a nap. Mom told him his birthday was next month. Dad asked her what month next month was, and she told him. He thanked her several times for telling him about his birthday. Doctor-Doctor was off today, so he felt a little melancholy.

He said the doctor came to visit him today and told him he was doing very well. Mom asked if it was his primary care doctor (which I am sure it was, because he visits Dad on Fridays), but Dad told Mom he had a new doctor.  Mom asked Dad if he remembered Dr. B, his former primary care doctor.  He went to him for years before residing at the nursing home. He said he couldn't picture him...

Dad looked very cozy and comfy after he was tucked into bed.  Mom kissed him and said her good byes and went home to take a wee nap herself.  I think not working, is agreeing with her.

The skin care nurse called to let me know Dad's little toe is acting up again.  It seems just as they get it almost healed, it opens up and starts weeping again... I am sure his primary doctor came to check out his foot.

As quickly as the dark clouds clear from the sky, Dad has those days when the clouds still seem to be with him.  It is so sad he cannot even remember when his own birthday is, or even the month or the year.  I am so very grateful he still remembers us...

8 comments:

Mari said...

It seems that even when he has those days, he is thankful for the things around him and still has that fatherly concern for his kids. That's really quite something, compared to many of my residents - especially the men.
I'm also glad to hear they called you. That seems to be going better too~

septembermom said...

I love how your dad worries about you and how he ate with gusto. It's also touching to see how much he worries about you. Your mom is clearly a strong woman dedicated and loving. I wish for you and all your family more and more clear beautiful days full of laughter and joy. I will pray for you all too. Take care.

Theres just life said...

It is hard on the family as well as your Dad. Jack's mom would get so frustrated because she could not remember something. She wouldn't say anything but you could see it in her eyes and attitude. My thoughts are with you and your family always. Hang in there and enjoy your visit with your sister.

Chatty Crone said...

What a wicked disease, I hate what it does to a person. Sorry you all have to go through that. sandie

betty said...

I hope he does always remember you guys, Donna. I'm glad your mom is getting a rest from not working and is able to take care of herself a bit!

betty

Rose said...

sounds like overall the visit with your dad was good. how old will your father be next week? it's sad when you have to see the changes in our loved ones as they age or get sick. enjoy having your sister visit with you. rose

The Words Crafter said...

He seems to have had a pretty good day overall...maybe it's an advantage to not remember your birthday. You can forget how old you are and that way, you don't have to FEEL old.

The past two weeks, I can't remember what day it is!

Keeping you all in my prayers....have a good week.

Pat said...

It's nice that your dad still has an appetite and likes the food that they serve where he lives. That's a big step.