series: Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Acrylic abstract expression painting “Hot Flash!” by Gerald Lloyd Wood. Thought for the day, “A positive attitude, integrity, good character and enthusiasm will take you far.”

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Two Peas in a Pod: Story #16

I was smitten at Allen’s Drive-in on State Line Road near Leawood, Kansas.
Acrylic abstract expression painting titled, “Breaking Wave,” by Gerald Lloyd Wood. This painting is courtesy of Susan Bershad, M.D., from her private collection.

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Dementia’s Good Side: Story #15

The good side of dementia was to learn there is always more to give than ever thought.
Abstract expression Oil Pastel painting by Gerald Lloyd Wood titled, “Light My Fire.” It seemed a good fit for this story from the private art collection of William and Janet Richards.

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Speaking of Love: Story #14

The meaning of love may best be explained by what each of us does and feels.

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

The Passage of Time: Story #13

Since fate is unpredictable, it behooves us to live each day fearlessly, with genuine enthusiasm, without a single wasted opportunity.

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Time to Say Goodbye: Story #12

A song titled "Time to Say Goodbye" now has special meaning for me.
Acrylic abstract painting on canvas by Gerald Lloyd Wood titled, “Joyful Manifestations.” Moments of clarity oscillate in a confused state of mind for many suffering dementia. They are cause for celebration and joy!

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Million Dollar Smile: Story #11

I visited my wife yesterday where she lives in an Alzheimer’s Dementia Care Community. There is little normalcy about my visits anymore since she hasn’t been able to relate...
Abstract Expression Oil Pastel painting, “Tropical Depression.” This dreaded word reminds caregivers to take care of themselves. Nothing good comes from isolation. Prevent depression or worse by initiating respite care for yourself. Airline attendants say, “Put your oxygen mask on first, then your children.” So take care of self!

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Down the Road a Bit: Story #10

She’s down the road a bit. That precious woman who has been in my life for over fifty-three years is no longer with me. I struggled with the realization that her Alzheimer’s disease had progressed...
Abstract Expression Oil Pastel painting, “Monet Reflections,” reflects upon our caregiving experience. The word, “French Impressionism,” came from a written review of a Monet painting, “Impression Sunrise,” 1872.

Love, Resilience, and Renewal

Magic Moments: Story #9

There have been many magic moments and happy times with a loving spouse for over fifty-four years. Unions like ours take more than love to hold them together. Indeed, sticking together is a miracle of sorts considering the challenges couples face. With no loss of love, our magic is beginning to slip away...