Dear Friends,
I have thought carefully about something to look forward to. The house we had at the "Jersy Shore" for many years had several rooms, an attic, and a garage, but no basement because of the threat of the rising sea level. Super Storm Sandy almost got the house, but the damage was limited to under (raised 1 meter), some roof blew off, and (unfortunately) everything was just about lost in the garage. Worst of all were my expensive telescopes. (Note the house we owned before Sandy washed away.)
Gardening was a challenge, but I managed to have a good vegetable and flower garden for several years. It was on an island surrounded by Great Bay and wetlands, with only one bridge to get on and off. Superstorm Sandy has given me many anecdotes, but here is the thought I hang on to now.
I had a digital recording studio and an art studio. From the moment my wife was diagnosed with early-onset dementia in 2017 , the art and music rooms became idle.
My new hope? I hope that one day, I will have a digital recording studio and an art studio once again. I have much of the material and supplies in storage. This home is too small (easier to manage as a caregiver), so I will need a different home for this dream.
Something else: Maybe my estranged children will get past the negativity about their stepmom's illness and her children and grandchildren likewise. I now realize it is probably easier for them not to see her in her current state and increasing decline. It hasn't been easy for me.
My current helper fulfills the needs of so many absent helpers, and I am not always able to juggle the needs of her and my wife. I know I am not a good prospect for any possible romantic relationship. Maybe after I heal from the inevitable loss of my wife, I will recover sufficiently to be a better prospect for someone's significant other.
Still, I have a realistic glimmer of hope now. Jim