Today is our wedding anniversary

White Crane

Today is our 57th wedding anniversary. Such good memories/ such sad ones too. The saddest was the day back in January when the doctor told me I could no longer take care of him at home. He needed too much care. It felt like my heart was being ripped out. The grief was overwhelming. Thank God for the good memories. Our wedding day. The birth of our children. Camping trips and cook outs. Buying our first home and raising our family. Close times of cuddling on the sofa and watching a movie together. Traveling and exploring new places. The birth of our grandchildren. Worshiping together on Sunday mornings. And so many more. Today I am trying to concentrate on those good memories and when I see him today I will have a smile on my face. Inside I may be sad but I will try not to let it show. When I visited him a few days ago he told me he loved me while looking me right in the eyes. I know he does. And I love him and long for his hugs and kisses. It's a loving day…it's a lonely day.

Brenda

mrahope

Oh, Brenda, I'm so sorry for how tough this has to be for you. It's like some of those memories die when there's no one around who remembers them with you. I applaud your effort to preserve them, may this effort bless you and bring you some peace.

Joe C.

Brenda, Cherish those memories. I know it will be a difficult day but be proud & happy that your love has endured the test of time.

Jeanne C.

Sending you warm wishes and strength. Your love for your husband shines bright.

M1

It does indeed. What an achievement…and what good fortune. Happy anniversary. Lives well lived….

trottingalong

Happy Anniversary. Cherish those memories always. They can help get us through those very hard times.

SDianeL

I too am trying to focus on the positives but I feel the sadness in the pit of my stomach. I visited my DH yesterday. He has been in Memory Care 6 months. They had to medicate him due to his agitation. He woke up to eat but wasn't talking much. Then he said "I Love You" and smiled. I'll take it. His birthday is next week. He may not wake up when we visit. It's heartbreaking.

ImMaggieMae

Happy Anniversary, Brenda. So many memories from all of those years. Your love shines through. You will always have that.

ThisLife

Happy Anniversary. May the precious memories bring you comfort.

Rocky2

Happy anniversary, Brenda. Many moments in the dementia journey are bitter sweet. I am glad that you two had so many years together. Hang on to the joyful memories of worshiping and sharing the many blessings of life together.

Tom

Dio

Happy Anniversary! Sounds like you've shared a wonderful life! It's a blessing. May the sweet memories keep you strong.

brs

I'm very sorry but congratulations on your long marriage, sounds very loving.

wose

Happy Anniversary Brenda!! 57 years is amazing. You surely do have a ton of memories to reminisce about. I’m so sorry for the sadness that mingles in with your precious moments shared. What a wonderful life and example you set. 💐

PKidd

Brenda, I think you are amazing! I love it that he looked right in your eyes and said he loves you. That means so much. I get on here and read people's stories and I picture what they look like and I have a vision in my mind of him saying that to you. It's beautiful! You inspire me to keep my chin up because most of the time I'm so sad I can hardly breathe. Big big hugs to you 🥰

Jgirl57

Your Anniversary is a wonderful time to look back on the life you built together. Hugs to you as you cherish the memories.

White Crane

Thank you all so much for your kind words and well wishes…and your understanding. Yesterday turned out to be a surprisingly lovely day. When I got to the MC facility, the administrator greeted me with a "Happy Anniversary" and a big grin. After I had been with DH a few minutes…Oh, I had brought him a strawberry milk shake so he was happy…the administrator, activities director, and several other staff walked in smiling and carrying a beautiful flower arrangement! They were followed by one of the kitchen staff carrying a very large chocolate cake! They all gathered around us and wished us a Happy Anniversary! That was followed by hugs and picture taking and big pieces of chocolate cake all around! I was in tears by that time. DH was all smiles and hugging everyone. He wasn't quite sure what was going on but he was really enjoying being the center of attention! After we finished our cake, we held hands and he kept asking what we were celebrating. Then he felt sad that he hadn't gotten me a present. I had worn a necklace and earrings that he gave me and showed them to him and told him that he had given them to me. That brought a big smile. We talked and played cards and held hands for a long time. When I finally left, he told me he loved me and kissed me goodbye. Later, the kids called and a granddaughter texted. By evening, I was tired but the sadness was gone and I felt very blessed. Thank you again dear forum friends.

Brenda

ButterflyWings

@White Crane I am so glad for such a wonderful celebration of your long and precious love!

Beachfan

Brenda,

Happy Anniversary, albeit bittersweet. How thoughtful of the MCF remembering and celebrating this day; it must be a special and caring place. I am reminded of a Valentine’s dinner at DH’s MCF, planned and carried out by staff. Tables for two, flowers and candlelight, and the activities director sat with DH and me and fed DH so I could enjoy a meal with him- - she was a gem!
Saturday would have been our 56th anniversary; I still struggle to remember DH when he was young and strong and whole. It’s getting better. ❤️ Enjoy your days with DH.

midge333

Brenda, sounds like an awesome day! Congratulations!