Monday, June 6, 2016

The Highest Praise

My mom has Alzheimer's. At 85, every day is a gift and every day is one where life shakes another puzzle piece out of her memory.


We play a game where I lay out photos of all the important people in her life, children, in-laws, grandkids, caretakers, and we sort them into piles. Who lives in Santa Barbara? Who likes to paint?  Who speaks French? Who speaks Spanish? Who's in college? Who is a teacher? Find the photo of your grandchildren. Find the photo of your three children. 

It's odd what sticks and what doesn't, but we go over it, day after day.

Today, she saw my photo and said, "This is Marilyn. She takes such good care of me." I was sitting right there, but it was like overhearing someone talking about me behind my back. It is and will always be the best compliment that I have ever had in my life.

My brother and sister also lift heaven and earth to take care of our mom. Our kid take her dinner over every night and eats with her and makes sure she gets her meds. He is a hero. 

I haven't had much time to toymaking or art. But for now this is my world, 

"Take your time."
"Watch your step."
"No worries"
"I'm glad that you're here."
"Today is a free day."

 
"Take your time."
"Watch your step."
"No worries"
"I'm glad that you're here."
"Today is a free day."

"Take your time."
"Watch your step."
"No worries"
"I'm glad that you're here."
"Today is a free day."

"Take your time."