Tips For Caregiver's

People with Alzheimer's disease frequently become more disoriented after dark or when waking. Leaving a night-light on in the bedroom may be helpful.

~WebMd

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Respite, Vegas, and the World Tea Expo

I should be packing, instead I am creating a quick blog post. This weekend, I am attending the World Tea Expo in Las Vegas. Yeah, I'm sure I sound like a nerd, I really can't help it. I love tea and simply couldn't pass up the Expo.  It's amazing the things you can develop an interest in when your time outside of the house is limited. If you are interested in more details you can follow my adventures on Tea Escapade.
 
Needless to say, a trip out of town means a respite stay for Muddear. In some respects, respite stays are so much easier than before although I still have that twinge of guilt every time I leave Muddear. Thank goodness Brookwood Retirement Community makes the transition easy. They know us now so scheduling, drop off and pick up are a breeze.

Muddear was so funny. When I arrived home from work, I reminded her that we would be leaving soon. After packing and loading Muddear into the car, we start to talk... 

"Now where are you going?"
"Las Vegas."
"Sho'nuff?"
"Yep! I am really looking forward to the trip. I have never been to Vega before."

Upon arrival at Brookwood, I wait for Muddear to finish eating dinner - we stopped at Wendy's on the way. I kissed her on the head and told her I was leaving. 

"Well, why are you leaving me here?"
"Remember, Mike and I are going out of town."
"I know, but I thought I was going too."
"Not this time, but don't worry - we won't be gone long."
"I'll be praying for you... take my prayers with you."
"I will and I'll be praying for you too."

That's the first time Muddear ever questioned whether she was traveling with us or not. I wasn't sure if she was serious or joking. Who really knows?

7 comments:

Janice and Jessica said...

My husband is at a facility and when our daughter and I go to see him there is the sweetest little lady that greets everyone at the front door by asking "Have you prayed today?" and she does the same when we leave "Don't forget to pray today".I always think of your muddear when I see her.

Glad you got your respite. Hope you had a wonderful time.

Janice

Shadowspun said...

How was the Expo? It sounds like fun. Try tis tea when you get a chance: peppermint, spearmint and lemon balm leaves in whatever mix you feel best. It's delicious.

I hope Muddear's doing well.

Bill Craig said...

My ex and soon to be "re" wife *LOL* is my caregiver at the present time, and I find myself not wanting her to leave when she has to.

I fear I am becoming too "needy" and I hate that about myself.

God bless you and your muddear!

Bill

njm said...

Janice,

Yes, I had a great time. The respite was much needed. What a great story about the facility where your husband resides. Thanks for sharing!

njm said...

Shadowspun,

The Expo was awesome! I conducted several interviews, attended workshops, and met many of the people I chat with online. Check out http://TeaEscapade.wordpress.com. I have posted a few entries about the event. More to come...

The herbal tea you listed - I would love to try! Do you grow your own herbs or purchase?

njm said...

Bill,

Thanks for stopping by. What a blessing that you have someone in your life who is there to assist you in your time of need. Many people don't have that. I wish I could send you words of encouragement about your "fear of becoming too needy". Sometimes life brings us unexpected twists. So instead I send you a hug. May the love of God overwhelm you and bring you the peace that only God can bring.

fluoxetine said...
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