Christmas is a time for family and reflection

It has been a few months since I last blogged and so thought I should post again before the end of the year.

I do love the build up to Christmas. As I drive to visit Mum I enjoy singing along to the Christmas tunes played on the radio. Each visit I try and explain to her the time of year and count down the weeks until the big day. Decorating the Christmas tree is another favourite for me. Using decorations from my childhood and ones which Mum and I have collected together over the years.

Mum has developed a liking for soft toys. I wanted to make her bedroom festive so bought a few soft toy decorations; a robin, reindeer and snowman which can be found on her windowsill, bookshelf and dressing table. When she walks into the room she likes to say hello to them. Quite child like and very endearing.

Whilst in the past, Mum like most of us, would have overindulged and devoured all chocolates before my next visit, sadly this year, Mum has left her chocolate untouched despite me leaving them open for her to help herself. She has reached a point whereby unless you physically feed her and constantly remind her she will not notice. Good for her waistline I suppose!

This was my Mum’s third Christmas in the care home. It is important to recognise those in the care profession who would probably rather be at home celebrating with their families, instead spending the festive season helping to care for others. Chocolates and Christmas panettone as a gesture of thanks for them to share doesn’t seem enough.

On Christmas morning there is a buzz with so many families visiting. We enjoy the morning and Mum whilst unable to articulate makes all the right appreciative sounds when it comes to her presents! I don’t feel too sad leaving Mum as I genuinely believe she feels happy, relaxed and safe in the care home environment – now probably preferable to the anxiety she feels when outside it. That said I feel sympathy for a visitor failing to hold back the tears as she leaves her loved one who is no longer able to join her and her extended family celebrations at home. As mentioned I allow myself a few minutes reflection on the shame that Mum can’t join us for the whole day and rather put a positive spin on it as the care home is like a family of sorts for her now.

Later on in the day whilst enjoying my Christmas meal I appreciate the beautiful Christmas flower table setting which Margaret has arranged as a gift from her and my Mum. It is a constant reminder of Mum throughout the festivities and a reminder of how grateful I am to Margaret, for her kindness, love and support.