Navigating the Shadows: A Tale of Love, Memories, and Alzheimer's

Happy hump day everyone!
It's already a Wednesday, oh man! days really pass so fast specially when You are busy with so much stuff.
For those who don't know, the term

"Hump Day" is a playful term that folks use to refer to Wednesday because it's the middle of the workweek, and once you're past it, it's a smooth ride towards the weekend. It's like conquering the midweek mountain! (Source: https://www.quora.com)

I wanted to know what are the holiday observances for January 31st and woah! there are a lot all over the world.. these are just some of the holidays I came across from you know my very, very smart, reliable, beloved "Uncle", who else but Uncle Google! You love him too?! Oh man! Okay, I am not selfish so I'll share my Uncle with you too!!😍😆😜

January 31, 2024 -
Today's holidays are:
Appreciate Your Social Security Check Day, Backwards Day, Brandy Alexander Day, Eat Brussels Sprouts Day, Hell is Freezing Over Day; Hug an Economist Day; Inspire your heart Art Day; Scotch Tape Day; Global Family Day, International Choreographers Day (source:www.chekiday.com)

Woa! These sounds kinda fun specially the Hell is Freezing Day!! Haha. I don't know which country celebrates this holiday but my guess is the One's with snow, right?!
Also the Scotch Tape Day!? Hmmm, rather an unusual holiday but yah I guess we need to give our respects to scotch tapes or else we can't tape a lot of parcels all over the world! Specially us Filipinos we love sending Balikbayan boxes to our loved One's wherever we may be in the globe!♥️ Cheers to you scotch tape! 🥂🥂👋
Which one of these you celebrate now in your country?

Anyways, I just want to start my post with something funny because my post will really leave you in tears, or probably mixed emotions. Well for me though while I am typing the words my cheery mood changed to melancholy.

I am grateful that I always snap purple sunsets which always reminds me of her because purple is her favorite color.

I love chasing sunsets wherever I may be.

For me sunset's is the universe's
Way of saying, cheer up for tomorrow brings another awesome day!
So, Be of good cheer.

In the heart of a quiet compound, our family had built a haven where love and laughter echoed. Two houses stood side by side, one belonging to my husband, our son, and me, and the other, a home that held the vivacious spirit of my once-active and healthy mother-in-law.

We were two peas in a pod, sharing good, happy memories. Little did we know that life's unpredictable journey would soon lead us down a challenging path.

The Days of Vibrancy

Not too long ago, my mother-in-law embodied vitality. She was the heartbeat of our home, her energy infectious and her joy palpable.

Our days were filled with shared adventures, whether it was tending to the garden together or enjoying warm family meals, going for early morning walks. She is always with us during our ups and downs. She is our pillar, and the compound thrived in the warmth of her spirit.

A Fateful October Night
Last October, an unforeseen incident cast a shadow over our lives. A fall from her bed, a blow to her forehead – a moment that, in retrospect, seemed to be the trigger for the cruel onset of Alzheimer's disease. At 74 years old, she transitioned from a beacon of strength to a soul enveloped in confusion.

** The Unraveling Journey**
As Alzheimer's tightened its grip, memories slipped away like grains of sand through an open hand. Our vibrant conversations turned into fragmented exchanges, and the warmth in her eyes dimmed. Sleepless nights descended upon our compound as she, in her state of perpetual restlessness, roamed the house, visiting the bathroom with unfathomable frequency.

Two Peas in a Changed Pod
The compound, once alive with shared joy, transformed into a landscape of both beauty and sorrow. My husband and I, now caretakers of not just our nuclear family but of a fading memory, witnessed the toll of Alzheimer's not only on her but on our own hearts.

Grasping for Normalcy
Despite the challenges, we strive to provide comfort in this sea of uncertainty. We cherish the moments when flickers of recognition light up her eyes, even if only briefly. The garden that used to be our shared sanctuary has become a place of solace, a backdrop for whispered conversations and shared silences.

Conclusion: Love Transcends Memory
In the face of Alzheimer's, we navigate each day with resilience, love, and an unyielding commitment to honor the woman who once was the vibrant heartbeat of our family. Our journey is one of adapting, of holding on to the fragments of who she used to be while embracing the reality of who she has become.

In the quiet moments, amidst the sleepless nights, the essence of our familial bond remains unbroken.....

For Love in its purest form, transcends the limitations of memory.

I value my mother-in-law and I am truly grateful for her because she reared up a very good son, who turned into a wonderful man who values, honors, respects and loves me like how he treasures and treats his mom.

Remember, Look for the good in everything and always have a gratitude attitude.

You are loved,
@aideleijoie♥️

All photos are original and were taken by the author. Using Oppo Reno8.