Finding Joy

@gratia I remember some advice for new mothers: "Sleep when the baby sleeps. Do laundry when the baby does laundry." When my husband naps, that's my time to take care of things, but if I am feeling exhaustion, I'll take a nap too.

Gratia, someone posted here about finding things to do together that you both enjoy. Last night, my husband and I watched the first three episodes of Only Murders in the Building. We'd watched it way back when, but the comedy made us laugh our loud, and that was refreshing. By the time we get to the current season, we'll be ready to start with Season 1 again.

@wtr2026 Thank you! I’m trying to learn to nap because it’s really the only way to get rest. ❤️

I find joy in my backyard. Years ago my husband wanted to have a Mexican courtyard theme in our backyard. So we installed a big 10 ft wide two tiered circular fountain. It has given me so much joy over the years as I sit in my kitchen and watch all the different and colorful birds come to drink and bathe in the top tier. It reminds me that life goes on despite all my troubles and that I have a choice to focus on the beautiful things around me or dwell on my troubles. May God bless and strengthen all of you and your loved ones.

@gratia I'm not sure with this disease there is an exit, but there are pauses along the way, that help rejuvenate us. Perhaps, you can call in some help for your mom. That person or people that came in, when you just went on your recent trip. Relying on others, if insurance will cover it and working on another homecare plan, even though you're the primary caregiver, may be just what you need at this point, especially when she's says those hurtful things that just sting and make caregiving so much more difficult. Journal, take those beautiful pictures, build a scrapbook of every beautiful nature shot you can take, and every morning, wake up, and ask God for his help in navigating your day.
Best, Karla

Thank you Karla🤗❤️ My sister and I are looking to find a backup caregiver. I think the hardest part is the unknowable future of the disease. Also the ups and downs are a wild ride🎢! I’m trying to live in gratitude and drinking more coffee. ☕️

@gratia Yes, the future is a worrying , but we really are supposed to try to just live a day at a time. Like you, though, I can’t keep from worrying. Your pictures are beautiful. Wishing you the best.

@wtr2026 I love hearing that you are enjoying shared activities with your husband during this difficult time. I agree it’s so important for everyone involved. Our mom is declining but I was able to get her to work on a puzzle with me yesterday and it was a nice way to feel connected. Sending you supportive thoughts and hugs 🤗 ❤️

Hello, I have monthly acupuncture, a massage and a sound bath to practice some self care. Once someone asked me if I was a caregiver, who took care of me? I was stunned. I had no response because I had never thought about that. After that exchange, I began looking into relaxation for joy. If you have never tried a sound bath, I highly recommend it. I was new to it this year, but was glad I tried it. The relaxation is amazing and one is left rejuvenated and ready to reconnect. The massage and acupuncture are also relaxing if you can make time for it. Joy is found in caring for oneself during this journey. ❤️

Here is a link to an AARP article
https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/sound-bath-benefits/