Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Reflecting in 2008

It is the time of year that we all will reflect on life's hurdles that we have all had to jump. Time to reflect on the good and bad that happened this year. The happy along with the sad.
I have sit and hoped that I have done something good this year to encourage others in my life to look on the positive side of every situation that we have been handed. I hope that I have made a difference in others' lives. I hope that I have made someone smile with a kind word.
Most of my time was spent with my parents' dealing with illnesses with both of them. Momma with her Alzheimer's and Parkersons' along with a host of other illness and Daddy with the flu that would not go away. I have seen profound saddness with this disease that I thougth that I would never have to see. I have seen a brilliant mind not remember her childrens names. I have seen this disease rob so many others of their loved ones. Many people have ask me if it has been a long year? Yes, but I have to also say that it has been an enlightening and learning year also for me. Alzheimer's is a nasty disease that not only our loved ones have to deal with on a daily basis but we as care givers have to learn to deal with. There are emotions that we will not allow our loved ones to see...crying, anger, frustration. I will not let Momma see me get upset and yes I have shed what it feels like to be a million years since Momma has been diagnosed with this disease. I know that many of my online friends have shed tears over this disease and the loss of a loved one because of this disease.
It has been a sad year for most of us. I have children crying over a the loss of a parent and I have seen parents crying over the loss of a child. But I must say that it has been a good year also. We have been blessed to have grandchildren born this year and we are blessed with the news of grandchild that will be born in the Feb. and May of 2009. And I am so blessed that I have both of my parents with me.
I will say that this year has been a roller coaster for me and my parents. This is okay as long as the ride doesn't get too crazy, but it if it does, then I will hold on for dear life. No one nevers knows what is going to go on with AD. I am thankful for having my parents with me and that I have a loving, understanding and loving hubby that stands beside me through the good and as well as the bad.
I am so grateful for my online friends, Nancy, Lori, Chris, Terry, Stef, Dave, Joanne, and Betsy for all the advise that you have given and continue to give on this AD journey. Rick...thanks for all the humor and making me laugh through the tears with some humorous post. Dave, "aka Grandpa Face" thanks for all the advise and kindness, you will never be forgotten. Stef..my little buddy I miss your post and I hope that you are staying warm and that you are doing well. I miss you and love you!!!
Thanks again to all my online buddies. Where would I be without you all? Lost!!
I pray that 2009 will be a better year for all us. You all are in my thougths and prayers. Happy New Years!!! Peace, love and happiness!!!!

6 comments:

¸.•*´)ღ¸.•*´Chris said...

With every post you have made on here, Gale, you have lifted my spirits up. You never seem to let things get you down and are always looking on the bright side of life.

I wish you a very happy new year. May this be the best year yet for you with your new job and new grandbabies on the way. Take care, sweetie.

Lori1955 said...

I agree with Chris about how positive your posts are.

It seems that every year is filled with highs and lows. Sometimes the best we can ask for is that the highs out number the lows but that's a lot to ask for when you are dealing with this disease.

You have spent this past year honoring your parents. Inspite of the heartache, that makes it a good year. Who you are and what you are doing matters! What more could we ask for.

Blessings to you this new year sweetie.

nancy said...

thank you for your kind words, you have lifted all of us as well.

i wish you only the best in 2009!

SKYGIRL said...

"Happy New Year To You Too!" Lori has a good eye! I have your Mom's memory-quilt-square! They are finally going to ba made into a quilt, and go on tour of the U.S. If you'd like to be sewn in, please E-Mail me a short 'bio' about your Mom @ bigskygirl2001@gmail.com, or just on my Blog! YEA!

SKYGIRL said...

Gale; I still need your Mom's name, and then we are good-to-go! ;-)

dave said...

And Gale, where would we be without you.

dave (aka grandpa face)