First Day - 12/31/09

OK, here goes. I have no preconceived idea of what I'm doing or really why I'm doing it. I think part of it is the idea that this might be Alzheimers prevention.

I turned 60 in November and honestly wonder what a 60 year old woman should feel like? Other than starting slower in the morning, I don't feel like I've lived 60 years.

My mother died last Christmas (2008) and suffered from Alzheimers for at least 12 years. It was so difficult to see her go from the woman I remember growing up, busy, vibrant, always doing something for someone, cooking, decorating cakes for everyones birthday and lots of wedding cakes, too, planning family events, and heading up many committees, to not being able to remember who her husband and children were. I won't deny that I worry that the same fate will be mine when I forget why I walked into a room, or what I was saying.

So maybe this blog will help put thoughts in order, and keep my mind active.

I don't remember my mom reading a lot, other than the daily newspaper. I, on the other hand, am an avid reader. A day doesn't go by without me reading something. I can complete a novel in a day and remember what I read. I also enjoy rereading many of the books I have bought.

My wonderful husband, Scott, says that I'm crazy anyway, so I guess I'll go for broke with this blog. LOL

I have been blessed with the two most amazing children, now grown-up. Ryan is divorced and has the most beautiful son. I'm a lucky grandmother. Ryan is also successful in his work and seems very happy in his relationship with his girlfriend. Jennifer is married and loving her theater/dance based job, which she trained and worked so hard for. Jenn & her husband Rick have been searching for a house. My wish for them in 2010 is to find a house and then start the family they've been hoping for.

My 91 year old dad continues to amaze me. He has beaten prostate cancer, survived a broken back, had a hip replacement, then a broken femur. He recently mangled up his knee falling in his kitchen, but nothing gets him down. He is the most determined Irishman, next to his father, that I know. Dad's mind is so sharp. He can remember details like nobody's business. I think that someone should tape record all of his stories to pass on to future generations. I love the story that when he was boxing, in his younger days, that his manager took him to Cincinnati and he had to box under a pseudonym, Butch O'Hara, so as not to affect his status when he went back to box in Toledo. I think that I have been blessed with the most wonderful father in the world!

My sister,Pam, bless her heart and soul, lives with Dad and has been there throughout much of my mom's illness. Sometimes I feel so guilty for living in FL and so far away from Ohio. I just have to accept this and try to visit as often as I can. But not very often in the winter. I can't handle that cold, snow, and ice anymore. Pam, you're an angel for being there all the time.

My brother, Woody, has to be the world's sweetest brother. Even though I don't get to see him very often, he has the most wonderful heart and spirit. He would do anything for anyone and never asks for anything in return.

I pray for my siblings to have an incredible 2010 filled with love, happiness, peace, and prosperity.

I will bring this to an end for today. Happy New Year to all who see this!

Debbie