I must also remind myself that in my adult years I have gathered so much information that when I fail to recollect something, it is being retrieved from a very large database in my head. I sometimes wish I could get an update as my iPad can to fix database glitches. Of course you can readily see that I am very impressed with myself at 75, even though I know many people who are knowledgeable and high functioning at ages 10 or 15 years older than I. But that's about it. I am grateful and thankful not only because I spend so much time in the company of formerly bright, articulate people such as my husband whose minds are closed by Alzheimer's disease or other dementias, but also because I see the need to make good use of this time of my life.
The motto "Live for today" never meant very much to me as I was always preparing for tomorrow. "Life is short, eat desert first" is posted on the wall of Bob's favorite Arizona restaurant. Even five years ago, when I first saw that poster, I thought it was a joke, but not anymore. I am beginning to appreciate the sweetness of waking up every day, knowing who I am and what I have planned.
As always, I am thankful for all the people in my life , those who care for my husband in the Memory Care facility, others who enrich me and toward whom I feel connected, whether they have entered my life for a reason, for a season or for a lifetime, whether in person, through sharing my book or through contact with the 859 Facebook friends who read what I post. My journey with my husband through Alzheimer's disease has indeed transformed me in many ways and I have met so many wonderful, caring people along the way.
Most of all, I appreciate and I am grateful for the closeness I now have with my family ---- my children, grandchildren, my sister in California and her children and grandchildren and several of my cousins. I am thankful for this holiday which encourages all of us to count our blessings and for me to share with you all how very important and how very loved you are.
Happy Thanksgiving
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