This year, I’m taking my life back. Sounds selfish, doesn’t it?
In reality, I’m just one piece of the puzzle.
The other pieces? My husband. Our marriage. And my mother.
As primary caregiver to a mother with Alzheimer’s, I’ve given up a lot over the years. Career. Life with my husband. Friends. And I’ve given a lot. Time. Compassion. Love.
Now it’s time for a new beginning. The sensory overload of the holidays, combined with subzero temperatures 
and a marked decline in her abilities make it clear that mom needs more help than I can give.
I’ll move her out west, where I’ve lived for thirty-odd years. It won’t be easy, but we’ll get through it together.
Regaining my life isn’t a resolution, if I live a day at a time. Every day, I try to do a little better.
Every day, a new beginning.
As caregivers ourselves, we know you’re pressed for time. You want to give those you take care of a joyful experience. Relive past holiday traditions with loved ones, if only momentary glimpses. Emotions run high. You’re stressed. Your patience is wearing thin. You know you have to take care of yourself first, but you’ve got conflicting priorities.