Welcome back Readers! First off, my heartfelt thanks to those of you that have written, sharing your concern during my absence. I’ve missed you and am glad to be back once again sharing OMG Worthy food, fashion, décor and travel inspiration.
When my dear uncle took ill, I immediately went to Florida to care for him. Although he never had children, he always treated me and my siblings as his own.
In summary, my uncle’s mild dementia had spiraled into full-blown Alzheimer’s Disease. Once the doctors told me he could no longer live alone, I had to scramble for a plan of action. Caring for a loved one living close by is challenging enough; caring for him 1,000 miles away was out of the question.
I moved my uncle to a lovely memory care facility near me. Taking him away from his home, friends and familiar surroundings was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. Getting him settled and the appropriate medical care took months.
We’ve come a long way on this difficult journey. One thing that I learned along the way should be applied to our everyday living. I read the book Creating Moments of Joy. The gist of it is about giving joy, even if it will soon be forgotten. An Alzheimer’s patient may not remember the moment, but what matters is that they enjoyed it. When I can bring joy to my uncle, the smile on his face is priceless.
How else can we create moments of joy in other people’s lives? Sometimes it is the simplest of things that we can do or say.
As I turn the chapter on this difficult year, I am looking forward to resuming my blog.
Happy holidays and may the new year bring you and your loved ones many moments of joy.
xo
Elaine
You were missed Elaine, and we’re excited to have you back. Your uncle may not fully understand what you’ve done for him but you’re his heroine. You have a huge heart, and you always think about what’s in everyone’s best interest. I know from experience that what you’re doing isn’t easy. Merry Christmas my friend! Love, Brenda
Eileen I had wondered what happened to your blog. So sorry to hear about your uncle, but you have always been such a compassionate caring person, your uncle is lucky to have you. Welcome back and Merry Christmas to you. Please tell you mom I said hello!
This is something that terrifies me. I know two people that are in their mid 60s with advanced Alzheimer’s. Your Uncle is so fortunate to have a loving family. This has to be so difficult for you. I think your advise is actually the best I’ve ever heard. Sometimes people are a bit in denial and become annoyed with the person. It’s best to just live in the moment and unfortunately accept the new norm. I know not so easy to do.
Good luck to you and your family.
I am sorry to hear of your uncle’s disease and the difficult year for all. I don’t know you personally but have followed you on Pinterest and feel that we would be fast friends had we met and lived in the same town.. I hope the next year will be a happier one for you and your family. Welcome back and Merry Christmas. Elaine
Thank you for your kind words Elaine. I am behind in responding to all of the lovely comments I received over this past year but I am finally catching up!
So glad you are back to writing! I for one have missed all your wonderful tips and ideas. You are one of a kind and Uncle is blessed to have you there every step of the way on this difficult journey. God bless you, Sis.
I love you!
Thank you Carolyn! I am glad to be back to my blog. You are on this journey too and yes, it is a difficult one! Love you too!
So glad to see your inspiration back in my mailbox. I’m so very sorry for what you’re going through, it has to be one of the most difficult things in life, Alzheimer’s. Your Uncle truly has an angel looking out for him! God bless you!
Thank you so much Lydia! xoxo
You have been a true blessing to Uncle Al! He is so lucky to have you! I’m happy you’re able to get back into what you love doing and look forward to your upcoming blog posts. Love you!
Thank you Jamie. It feels good to be back blogging! What a difference a year can make! Thank you for all that you do for Uncle Al too! Nothing like family being close by! Love you!
Glad you are back!
Thanks Mary.
Thanks Mary!