Yesterday will be big in my caregiving memory. I.B. had asked for a book. She likes intrigue, mysteries...I thought of the Kurt Wallinger books, but wonder if she'd be able to follow them without the ability to sequence. Going through the bookshelf, I pulled Laura Munson's memoir. It's well-written, and each chapter can be enjoyed as its own piece of writing for anyone who appreciates the written word. I.B. and I speak often about relationships, and I brought it over to see if she might read it.
After breakfast, I started breaking down the turkey her daughter had brought over, getting stock ready, and chopping veggies for a soup. I.B. went into the living room, and was very quiet...I peeked around the corner and found her propped up with great posture, reading the book. Hours passed...hours...the house was quiet, peaceful, and we each enjoyed it temendously. When she came into the kitchen for lunch, the book came with her. When she found sentences that were especially powerful (Laura is a powerful writer), she read them out loud to me. This continued until it was time for me to go. I left her at the table, book in hand.
I wonder...when she picks the book up again, will she start at the beginning again, or will she take up where she left off? Her brain seems to be getting stronger...is it just my imagination? I made a sign for her living room that says, "What does it take to get to 90?" Under that is a list: good food, good exercise, good sleep, good lovin'. I think it is working.
No comments:
Post a Comment