THE BUDDHIST CARER

A bowl of porridge Evokes retreat conditions Just for a moment.

Having a shower Well, it's quite a palaver. Could slip any time.

Haven't had a drink Too busy badgering him Just drink more, Suzanne!

"You deserve a life" the nurse said to me today. I had no idea.

This weekend's respite A glimpse of my life unlived. Reality check!

He's on his way home How do I feel about that? My body tells me.

Browning leaves falling Into the river at lunch. Autumn sun, welcome!

Relaxing takes time A process of letting go Be more Penny-dog.

Oh, what a relief He's away for three nights now. Tea, toast and TV!

Just look at that rain! The washing won't dry today Tumble dryer's on.

Realised today: I don't like accepting help. Tend to self-destruct.

When the carer's ill Who cares for them? Who comforts? And who makes the tea?

My life is not mine. Months of micro-managing ... Not a single day (or night) off. Oh how I yearn to do things Spontaneously!

Dog walker's nightmare: Only the one poo bag left! No-one else in sight.

Informed and ready To update about his life (with Parkinson's). Nothing can be done.

Lanyard says "consultant." Dementia diagnosis? No time for that. Next! Who's the specialist?

Appointment looming Nothing much we can hope for. Who's the specialist?

If he cannot stand I'll do the standing for him But how my arms ache.

He's watching the golf So, I might just read a book, If I can focus.

Frenetic working but the deadline's been met - yay! I can breathe again.