My Dad

Now I'm at my Dad's. Drove up here from Newton.
My Dad is doing great. He's settled in here at Aberdeen and even though he's lonely and doesn't feel a real connection to the people here yet (other than all the women who are crazy about him), he's making the best of it. He goes to swim aerobics three times a week and played golf with his old friends the last two weeks. He walks to the grocery store even though it is hard for him to find his way back to the same door.
Alzheimer's is interesting. It forces one to be really present in the now. Dad doesn't have much memory for 5 minutes ago, earlier today, or yesterday or last week. But he remembers random, insignificant facts, like that none of the kids or me used to like salad. I am so proud of how Dad copes with his memory loss--you can tell he used to be a manager because he constantly problem solves. He doesn't get impatient with himself when he can't remember. His personality has mellowed. He doesn't get snappy or stressed. He's kept his sense of humor and fun and is up for doing about anything. He just handles all these changes that have been thrust upon him. He is very loving and affectionate and appreciative. I enjoy spending time with him.