Enjoying the Ride

It was just a casual remark by a staff member at the care facility.  She said Merv was so much better now than he was when he first arrived.  I wondered if my face betrayed my bewilderment wondering what she had meant.  His health has not improved and his weight has plummeted.
It was some time later I thought about what she had said and what she had intended.  By then it was quite clear she meant Merv had settled and become accustomed to being part of the family there.
I remember clearly when he was first admitted he was quiet and reserved when sitting at the dining room table or joining in activities in the club house.
In the last month he began grunting when being wheeled into the dining room.  He was grunting to say hello.  I suggested to him his grunting wasn't being received well by the other residents and suggested he say 'hello' instead.  Now he comes into the room like the Queen!  He's waving his hands and calling out - 'Hello, Hello.'  He's calling out to the staff when he has finished his meal and requires further attention.  The staff adore him.  I'm not so sure about the residents but he has his own fan group there as well.  The little old ladies are often seen and heard waving and replying to him as he enters or leaves.  They greet him fondly.  I roll my eyes and smile.  I'm happy he is happy.
Merv is 64 next Tuesday.  He was brought up in a family which celebrate birthdays in a big way.  It doesn't have to be a particular birthday, it's for each and every birthday.  We have continued the tradition.  It is more than sad that he lives in a care facility at such a young age but I am thankful he is well looked after and he is happy.