Malc, my husband moved from the acute hospital to a communtiy one for mental health in Christmas week 3 years ago. He just about knew it was Christmas then but, to be honest, I can't recall much about that time myself as it had been a very distressing few months in the acute hospital.
The following Christmas he was in the nursing home and wasn't aware of Christmas. Couldn't understand enough to unwrap a present or open a card.
Last year, he slept most of the time and showed no interest in presents at all.
Now conversation has virtually gone and any communication is non-existent.
To him, Christmas doesn't exist and I will be glad when it is all over.
He used to love Christmas.
However, I have 2 daughters and 5 grandchildren, so for them,
I will be bright and breezy and full of Christmas spirit when I am with them.
I will not make their memories of Christmases spent with me full of misery.
I will find joy in their company and find positive things about Christmas to focus on.
I like the pretty snowy lights.
I like.........I will find something else!
You're right Saffie, we must be positive.
I like CHRISTMAS TREES
I like bringing greenery indoors, Holly, mistletoe and ivy, all from our garden...yes, mistletoe grows on our apple tree!
I like beautiful Christmas carols
I like big tins of a mixed brightly wrapped Quality sweets.
I like the flocks of wagtails that crowd onto a tree in our town centre, at their bedtime
I like the sound of church bells on a frosty morning.
I like the tree on a common near us which gets decorated with cards from all the local dogs
I like candles on the window sill...
Yes, there'll be more...and I won't be a misery.