December 6, 2014 – a rainy Saturday afternoon
It’s that time of year again, time to decorate Dad’s room at Chelsea for the upcoming holidays.
While Dad showered I unpacked the ceramic Christmas Tree that Jane had carefully wrapped and stored in a box with the garland of red ornaments. I hung the garland on the lamps and set the tree up on Dad’s card playing table. Even after straightening up his room a bit, there was time for a quick drawing before Dad rejoined me, fresh and clean.
Each time I visit with Dad, I learn more about how a brain processes information. Before playing cards, I asked Dad to write a poem. Expecting the normal response of being told that one needs to be inspired to write poetry, I suggested he write a poem for Jane that I could put into a Christmas card for her, a special gift from him. He surprised me by immediately picking up his pen and writing quickly in his green book that I had placed on the table in front of him. Much too quickly the task was completed. He put down his pen and closed the book.
“Wow Dad! That was fast! Could you read your poem to me please?”
He opened the green notebook and stared somewhat blankly at the page. After a few false starts he managed to read what he had written…
” Merry Christmas to Jane, My Jewel! AND May we have many more Together! Dave 2014″
Hmmmmm.
“Dad, That’s lovely. But…. it’s not a poem.”
I had suggested he write something I could put in a card for Jane. That’s exactly what he did. I decided to try again. He took a little longer this time, but not too much longer.
Christmas Time 2014
Oh my Jane, –
My message is the same, –
as last year. – :
A VERY Merry Christmas, –
and
a H A P P Y New Year !!
Much, much love, –
Dave
Once again, Dad struggled to read what he had written. His second try was a cross between a greeting card message and a poem. One more try…..
The weather is quite dreary
In fact, a bit chilly
You want from me a poem
But words coming seem silly
Now, the season is everything
But silly, –
It’s Christmas season for all
and that’s NOT will nilly
So light the candles, –
Ring the bells
It’s happy season for all, –
Well, do tell, do tell.
Dad closed the green notebook. I shuffled and dealt the cards. My heart was smiling.
When Dad walked me to the door to wave goodbye, we searched the Chelsea Christmas Tree for his ornament. Each year the staff makes an ornament for each of the residents.
Tis the season to be jolly…. and that’s NOT willy nilly.
Sweet!
And a very Merry Christmas to Dave and all his family. This one cheered me enough to think the season really is upon us. Even though it’s in the 70s in Tucson. Love and hugs, Nan
Very heart warming!