A GRATEFUL HEART

I begin 2019 with a grateful heart. I am grateful for the caregivers who provide me with the care I need.

I am grateful for my large room and /or bathroom,

I am grateful that I have food to eat.

I am grateful that the Food Stamps Program is available. Grateful that I am eligible to receive them.  Without the benefit of food stamps, I would not be able to pay my bills.

I am grateful for my family and friends who visit me. I am grateful that I am still connected to the nursing home. I visit one or two days a week. I look forward to every visit.

I am grateful to have the opportunity to experience what life is like in a group. I am still very lonely. Living here can be extremely difficult. depressing. On New Year's Day, my housemates did not get out of bed. My celebration consisted of Doritos and a Lime-a-Rita followed by a frozen dinner.  It was not a very festive way to kick off 2019.

 I thought about New Year's Day, at home with my mom. We'd either go to Winter Wonderland at Tillies Park or Candy Cane Lane to see the Christmas Lights. I love Christmas lights. I have for as long as I can remember. There is something magical about them.

I am happy that I was able to spend the previous afternoon celebrating New Year's Eve at NHC. There was food, champagne, and a DJ, followed by dinner with two of my friends

People keep telling me to give it a chance here. A least a year. A year seems like an eternity to me. My nervousness at night has not decreased. If I call too much, say too much, or report an aide or incidents that happen I only hurt myself. I am willing to give it more time. I pray that I begin to feel comfortable here.

My goal for 2019 is to make a definite decision regarding where I want to live. As of now, it feels like I am living in two places at once. I am. physically in the group home. My mind is always wondering what's going on at NHC.

This house will either be my home or it won't. It's that simple.

I am grateful to have the time I need to allow me to decide what's best for me.

What are your goals for 2019?

What are you most grateful for as the new year begins?

Happy New Year.

Let's make it a great one.