I take time on a daily basis to write in a journal, but I also take a separate moment to write in this blog. Allowing myself that space, that time, really helps me better understand the journey and gives me the strength to continue. Often my thoughts are random, sometimes related to what is happening in our lives and other times things I might have come across in a meeting or webinar. At any rate, here are a few of my ramblings, I hope you find them of value. And yes, I know they are written in third person because I find I pay more attention if it feels like they were written as instructions for me and not introspection by me.

• Make time to have conversations about anything but PD to help keep your world from shrinking too far.
• Support your partner’s independence whenever you can to help them maintain their dignity and to help you maintain your workload even if it does take twice as long for them to do things than for you to do it yourself.
• Listening is often the most valuable tool you can bring to the challenges you will face as a CarePartner.
• Expect interruptions in your day and you won’t be upset when they occur.
• Talk with your partner about potential futures so that you are both prepared for what might come.

And the one that I struggle with the most-

• Is it really tough or are you just making it that way? Look for ways to make the journey easier not more difficult and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.