Merv's suitcase was packed and all the paraphanalia which he requires for two weeks respite. An hours drive to Kings Park cafe to ensure firstly we are close to the respite centre and secondly to celebrate Mel's big day. A friend of Mel's met us there for lunch to spend time with her.
As time does, all too soon we were at the care facility and unpacking Merv's suitcase. It always takes both time and energy sorting out the last minute care needs and explanations of his special drinking straws and soft diet.
Merv's not a difficult person to look after, he doesn't have bad behaviours or such like. The saddest part is he can no longer do anything for himself, therefore I'm running here and there all the time including providing all the personal care and toileting. Not so many days go by when I'm not emotionally drained. Sing a song, make a joke (drink some wine or maybe some coffee) keeps me going, Mel being there also helps,
Two weeks is going to go fast. That bit I know, it is never long enough. Mel and I booked a six day coach tour from Perth to Monkey Mia including a day cruise to Dirk Hartog Island.
First we shop, then we pack and run around in circles until I finally get to bed only to be up again at 4am to arrive at the coach at 6:30am!
I hadn't trimmed or painted my toenails or numerous other grooming jobs. Once on holiday you have lots of time in your hotel room so I packed what I needed and enjoyed waiting for the nail polish to dry!
We both loved our trip away. It's part of the West Australian coast we hadn't explored. Monkey Mia is known for the wild dolphins which arrive at the beach every morning. Many years ago everybody was allowed in the water to feed them but not today. The dolphins arrive but only a few people are chosen by the rangers to enter the water to feed them. There were seven dolphins when we arrived. We were thrilled it was a wonderful experience. We also enjoyed the day cruise on a catamaran to Dirk Hartog Island off the coast. Dirk, a Dutch explorer placed a pewter plate on the island in 1616, one of the first to explore the WA coast. We went for a chilly but thrilling swim in the ocean off the island. Something we will always remember.
Everyday I ring the care facility and enquire about Merv. Is he drinking enough water? Is he eating alright? Is he happy and please tell him I rang.
I miss him but I'm glad I'm having a break. A time to do all the things I can't otherwise do or complete. The list is too long to share but it's been fun and carefree.
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| Dustin & Grace visit Merv in the care facility |
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