Archive for December, 2009

We had a skiff of snow last night – having had a green/brown Christmas, this was kind of expected and our company loved it.

I actually could sweep the drive and did as our neighbors were still sleeping.

Wayne hated shoveling snow unless it was absolutely necessary, and he felt it was never necessary (once he developed AD). Even if we got 6″ he’d protest and say it’s just going to melt anyway! We have awesome neighbors who often shovel before I get out there. It was rare indeed when the 4 of us would work together clearing driveways.

Anyway, last of company off to airport – the house is very empty and quiet – look forward to their calls sayiing they all arrived home safely, by air.

It was a wonderful, although touching Christmas.

After dropping family at the airport tonight, I made my way to the care home, arriving around 7:30pm.

He was already in his PJ’s, lying on the bed, glasses on.

Someone had visited, leaving a bag with lovely chocolates in a “bottle bag”. I know 2 former co-workers intended to see Wayne on the 27th but he doesn’t remember seeing them and doesn’t know who left the goodies.

I took Wayne to the dining area and he was served egg salad sandwiches and juice for a bedtime snack. Yum! I could have enjoyed that.

Back to his room, washed his face and eyeglasses, helped him brush his teeth. Gathered his laundry, tucked him in and lowered the lights.

K was waiting when I emerged from his room, her eyes full of tears. I hugged her and chatted for a bit. Company awaited at home – - -

Barely in the house and got a call from YVR, “We arrived safely an hour late, it’s a gong show here.” Enough said:)

About four days after Wayne was admitted, his RN called me. “Don’t be alarmed but I have to discuss something with you.”

My mind flew thru various scenarios, none of them good. I thought maybe Wayne had been in a tussle with someone or had fallen.

“There is a client who looks much like you, blond wavy hair and is your size.” My knees got wobbly and I sat down in his chair at the kitchen table. “Wayne thinks she is you.” My heart fluttered overtime for a moment and I tried to speak. Words didn’t come out. The nurse continued, “You could walk in when she and Wayne may be walking hand in hand, hugging and even sharing a kiss.”

(“Code blue, code blue!!!”) I couldn’t speak for a moment but finally said it was Ok. Trying to be calm, I jabbered away that I had read about this happening but didn’t expect it to be this soon. I babbled on in shock and we chatted away. She let me “talk” and finally reiterated that it was not uncommon, etc.

My mind agreed but my heart did not. “Oh, that’s Ok, if it comforts him, it’s Ok.”

As days passed and I visited the care home, I realized who “I” was – we danced together the other night. I wanted to whisper in her ear to take good care of him in my absence.

She came toward me, arms outstretched and a million dollar smile on her beautiful face. I hugged her and as I stepped back from our hug, she clasped my right hand as if to dance. I stopped, waiting for her next move and move she did, the most beautiful waltz I’ve had in years! She looked me in the eyes the whole while and sang a language only she understood but it was perfect for a waltz.

Her eyes sparkled and she smiled the whole dance. Finally she stopped and said, “I’m tired now and have to rest.” She took a seat in one of the chairs and drifted off to her own thoughts as I drifted away to Wayne’s room again.

I will never forget her, such a spirit. She wore dark navy silk PJ’s with stars and moons on them and I know she dreams of days gone by – such a lady.

On Dec. 23rd, he questioned why he was going back to the care facility, not a problem but a bit concerned.
We chatted away and got him settled happily.

December 24th, no problem, just accepted his bedtime ritual and all was well.

December 25th, the best day of the 3!!! Bedtime ritual, my Sis accompanied me to the home to give our son a break. She said, “See you tomorrow, Wayne, we’re having everyone for dinner.”

“You are?! I’m really happy and look forward to it!!!”

It was so nice to drive away knowing he was happy and content.