Hard, Harder…

Hardest is yet to come, I’m sure. How silly of me to think I could do a day-by-day chronicle. Even though his health generally continues to improve, Gary still has many challenges, as do I.

Most of the past week was spent with his visiting brother and sister-in-law. It was a little difficult adjusting schedules, but they were considerate and also provided delicious meals, and it was definitely good for Gary to spend time with family. They talked, reminisced and went through old photos.

During the week I was able to manage the following assistance: acquiring a wheelchair and a rollator (rolling walker); arranging weekly nursing care; getting twice-weekly physical therapy; and close to getting weekly non-medical support so that I can attend my weekly art group.

Our friends are so kind and have offered help in any way we can use it. For the most part I’m managing grocery shopping, errands and daily tasks. The tough part is not being able to call anyone to help with non-emergency but still urgent needs at 2 a.m. Fixing this is a work in progress.

The coming week will be our first real “new normal,” and I’m hopeful it will continue to improve. Gary asked me today if we had any jigsaw puzzles we hadn’t done, and it happens I bought one at a thrift store last year that was still sealed. I got it out and put a board on the table to work on it. We’ll see if we make any progress. I’d rather read, knit or do art, but if it keeps him company I’ll give it a shot.

Dahlias. It’s lovely but looks kind of tough.

I am still working through “How to Want What You Have,” and promise to provide my take on how it’s changing my life in a future post. For now it’s bedtime and a new week awaits.