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Spring Brings A Fresh Perspective

Adams’ Acres Awakens to Spring

Spring is my favorite season, a reminder of God’s everlasting care for His creation (that includes you and me!)

“In the beginning, God created the heaven and earth. ” Genesis 1:1 Click here for more verses about God’s creation.

It’s a happy time. Birds appear from nowhere to build nests; butterflies search for the tiniest flowers. Animals attack new blades of tender grass as we would a plate of chocolates.

And yet, too often our present pain can overshadow the splendor of spring.

I recall a spring day when I unloaded my heavy heart. “Little Robin, I’m almost mad at you for being so happy! Can’t you see my heart is breaking as you strut proudly singing? Some would say you’re here to cheer me up. Well, sorry little birdie, it’s not working!”

Feeling overwhelmed as a woman, mother, caregiver, or friend, is inevitable.

As Mother lay in a hospital, I wondered if each day would be her last. Her window opened to beautiful, flower-laden lawns filled with cheerful little robins. My feelings stormed inside; I wanted to chase the birds away, to cry, to scream, to do something to let the world know my heart was breaking.

Yet it was that very image that gave me hope.

From childhood to now, my fondest memories of Mother included nature. Thoughts of our rejoicing in God’s creation refreshed my weary soul. As I pondered the joys we had on our many spring excursions, I felt a sense of peace. Mother relished every moment outside in the spring. “Smell the air” she would say. “Look at the colors! Susie, never lose sight of what God has given us!”

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

Bringing spring to those who cannot get outside.

Recently, it seemed I had walked into a spring garden instead of a care facility. Every room was filled with colorful flower cutouts. Bright ribbons adorned pictures and bows accented the lamps. I was told they celebrate each month with all the vigor they can muster. “Not one of us, after all, is promised a tomorrow! We simply must do all we can do today to celebrate the goodness of God.” Wow! That profound comment was food for thought!

I recall holidays when we were caring for Mother. We hurriedly put out an appropriate card and flower of some sort as holidays came and went and seasons changed. I may have even decorated a cupcake or two. But, to celebrate each day like this? No, not at all.

Who needs a touch of God’s goodness this spring?

We have much to celebrate, not the least of which is A Risen Savior! How better to spread the Good News of New Life than to splash color around in the room occupied by the home-bound? Give them and your family something new to gaze upon. Add life and interest to your home.

Celebrate family! Celebrate life! Make every day a holiday; celebrate the gift of life!

I pray for you, dear friend, that you find rest when you are weary. I pray you find resources to meet your needs and those in your care. I pray you find the courage and hope for the days ahead.

Most of all, I pray that you know the Savior that rose from the grave that day and offered His free gift of Eternal Life and Hope to all who would receive it. Blessings and hugs to each of you.

Thanks for your comments; and your prayers.

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease will dispute the saying: “It’s just old age, don’t be concerned about it. We’ll all be there someday.”

When Granny forgot the simplest of things, It was common to believe that her memory loss was due to getting older. I did not want to get that old!

For my 5 critical tips on communicating with dementia and Alzheimers, click here.

Dementia and Alzheimers Disease are not confined to the aged. Both Alzheimers and dementia can strike people as young as 30s; they are not simply diseases of the elderly. It is difficult to care for someone at any age when they begin to lose their ability to think, talk, or connect with others in a rational way.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. It destroys brain cells thus causing varying states of memory loss. Through clinical trials and advanced research, progress has been made on slowing down this process; however, there is no known cure at this time.

Often overlooked is vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects. Symptoms due to vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, or other medical conditions need to be considered. It is very important to be observant, keep notes, and inform the medical staff of any changes in memory or behavior.

Most caregivers are family members, especially in the early stages. Nearly 15 percent of those are long-distance caregivers, living an hour or more away from their loved ones. If you find yourself in this situation, know you are not alone. There are helps out there for you and others who have walked the path before you.

One helpful tool is a daily journal. Obviously, you won’t be able to journal everything; you can note major behavioral changes. For instance: did your loved one simply forget an appointment this week, or is this happening more frequently? As you consistently write down changes, you may see a pattern develop which could prove helpful in treatment.

Trustworthy information is vital. Find direct answers to many of your questions at the Alzheimers Association website with up-to-date information and good referral sites. Click here for more.

We are learning more about dementia, Alzheimers and other illnesses. New scientific discoveries in medicines and care are encouraging. I am thankful for those in the trenches, discovering new medicines and techniques to help the many suffering from these diseases.

I’m most thankful for those of you who spend your valuable time caring for those who cannot care for themselves. I pray often for you and for those in your care.

Hugs,

Did you realize that coloring books are not just another craze? Coloring has been a helpful tool in communicating with others. Do you know someone who would benefit from my Patches Coloring and Activity Book?

Easily Improve Muscle Strength by Spring

You really can easily Improve Muscle Strength by Spring.

Do you feel winter blahs? Spring is on its way! Here are three simple ways to easily improve muscle strength and mobility. Now is the time!

Can’t or won’t go to the gym or Y? That’s okay …

My excuses for not working out most likely sound like yours..

Excuse #1 – Time

I seriously don’t feel I can take time to go to a gym or even plop in a video for thirty minutes of muscle toning.

Excuse #2 – I am tired.

I wake up in the morning and jump right into the day’s work schedule. By nightfall, I am ready to hit the bed; muscle toning is the farthest thing from my mind. (Oh, but tomorrow … Been there?)

Can you relate?

The following three simple steps have helped me improve mobility and gain muscle strength. A personal heads up here: you will most likely scan through this article and decide there is no way those little tips are going to make a significant difference in your health and well-being. I will tell you emphatically, “you will see a change and you will feel it.”

Step #1 Seize the moments available to you now.

When you are warming something in the microwave, for instance, are you leaning against the cabinet or slipping into a nearby chair while waiting? Consider using that time for a few stretches or arm lifts. Keep weights or a couple of cans of food handy so you can grab them and do a one or two minute workout. At the very least, do a few squats and bends. For more ideas, click here.

Step #2 Develop an awareness of your body.

Have you formed a habit of slumping when you sit? Do you waddle from side to side when you walk, again from habit? Are you continually stepping over items that need picked up because you can’t or won’t stoop over to get them?

Take time to stop and observe your habits. Stand tall when you walk, you will actually feel more rested as your posture improves. Make it a habit to bend as much as you can to pick up items. Sit straight in a chair and breathe deeply. Even if this lasts only a few minutes, you will begin to build strength.

Step #3 Do not always take the easy, shorter way.

When shopping, do you seek parking close to the door? Of course, you rationalize you need to save time. Let’s be honest, how much time does it take to walk a few extra parking spaces, or even half the parking lot? In the beginning you may be able to walk only one or two extra spaces. Then a few more; perhaps eventually across the parking lot. Wow!

The more time “saved” by denying a little extra walk, or a few stretches, the more rest is needed as we become weaker. Whether living by yourself, caring for family, or a caregiver with full-time responsibilities, you know how important it is to keep your arms and legs strong so you can remain independent as much as possible.

What small changes can you make in your life today that will affect your future health and well-being? Of these three simple steps, I challenge you to choose one, just one, and focus on that for a week. As that change becomes routine, add another. Soon you’ll be moving mountains as you easily improve muscle strength each day.

Hugs,

Did you check out my new Kids’ Page? Free downloadable coloring page from Patches’ book!