FYI, readers and friends

I know it has been a while since I have written and tonight's post, "Tom's Crash Course in Shower 101", follows about three weeks of not much. Part of the reason is that I don't wish to cover the same stuff over and over and prefer to only post when I have something fresh and inspiring. Unfortunately, there is more to it than that.

Life has been extremely busy outside of the caregiving schedule. Kelly is graduating high school in two months and all of the events that go with graduation are going on: shopping for prom dresses and accessories, checking out colleges, trading in my old car to get Kelly a more reliable car to take with her, ceremonies, planning, etc. Additionally, Allison is having trouble focusing at school and once again has to pass a standardized test in order to be promoted to the next grade. Mike works long hours and often is not home until after 7:30 PM. On nights when I have to watch Dad and Mike works late there is additional pressure for me to pick up Allison from our house and have her do her work at Dad's while I am on duty. The problem with that arrangement is Allison's ADHD. Putting her in a new environment when her meds are wearing off is counter productive. Add to that my Dad's need to question her about who she is, how old, what grade and what she want's to be when she grows up is an unavoidable distraction.  This part of the situation is unfair to Allison and needs to stop.

Finally, like it or not, Dad's condition is worsening. Where before he was having a hard time speaking without repeating himself, he is now having a hard time completing whole sentences. I fear there is a storm ahead and the time to bring in professional help is near.

I understood when I began this blog that the only positive result would be to inspire and comfort other caregivers going through the same struggles my family is enduring. I would be a hypocrite if I did not admit to becoming depressed lately. Overwhelmed by the pressures and expectations of every aspect of my life and the feeling of not being able to accomplish anything to my own satisfaction, my melancholy must have become obvious. Mike has noticed the change in my disposition.
"You've gone to a very dark place, baby", he told me. His concern played across his face. It must be true.
"I know", I said, "Something's gotta give".

To be continued....