Remembering ... is a painful process

These are the stages Jaley went through on Saturday at Grandpa's Memorial.  The stages she went through with her Great Grandma.

She was thrilled to be reunited with her childhood BFF.  They were (and are) best friends.  Growing up, Jaley couldn't say the "G" sound.  It came out as a "B".  Grandma became Bama.  It has stuck.  For years.

Jaley soon realized that her Bama didn't recognize her.  Tears flowed for a long time - and mine started when I saw her struggle with this.  Dementia is a horrible thing on everyone.

Through the memorial service Jaley held her Bama's hand.   Just the simple, loving holding of hands was comforting to her.  She didn't want to let go. Ever.

After the memorial service we went to the hallways where everyone greeted Grandma again and gave her hugs.  This is where Bama caught a glimpse of the young girl that did weekly visits, numerous sleepovers, millions of tea parties, walks and makeup parties.  She told Jaley how beautiful she was. Jaley beamed through her tears.  So grateful for the moments of clarity.  Bama remembers ... the grown up faces are hard to place.