NORMAL Doesn't Live Here Anymore

What would happen if The Unthinkable blindsided you, requiring everything be put on hold to become a full time caregiver for a loved one? At the very least, it would reshape your life. Without a survival guide, it could even destroy it.<br><br>Barb Owen delivers precisely that survival guide in NORMAL Doesn&#39;t Live Here Anymore: An Inspiring Story of Hope for Caregivers. She weaves a story, through the first two parts of the book, based on her life-changing experience as primary caregiver for her elderly parents. Following each chapter a bit of wisdom gained from Barb&#39;s experience is summarized as a Reflection. The third part of NORMAL Doesn&#39;t Live Here Anymore addresses the critical need for self-care for the new and seasoned caregiver alike. Specific suggestions abound for Me Time&mdash;how to find it&mdash;what to do with it&mdash;and how very important it is for sustaining oneself throughout the often arduous caregiving-marathon. <br><br>This truly inspiring book is one part parable, one part autobiography and all survival guide, illuminating a path for the more than 65 million caregiving Americans. <br><br>&quot;Everything hinges on your ability to care for both yourself and your loved one,&quot; says Owen. &quot;This maxim is of great consequence&mdash;heed it, and you will endure. Dismiss it, and you will have trouble surviving. Take care of yourself, your loved one and keep the faith, because you&#39;re not alone.&quot;<br><br>&ndash;&ndash;– REFLECTION;<br><br>Difficult subjects sometimes need to be discussed. You might be asked by others to deliver bad news&mdash;news of someone&#39;s death, a life-altering diagnosis, or even the necessity for a change in residence. Each conversation carries the potential for unleashed emotions. My advice? No matter how difficult or emotional, don&#39;t leave words left unsaid. People, if capable of understanding, deserve information. Often, they are much stronger than we realize.<br><br>Words are powerful. They carry courage, condemnation, reassurance or permission. Choose them wisely as your words may be the ones that bring freedom from pain or suffering. It&#39;s tough, but I know you can do it and if you listen to that voice inside, you will know exactly the right time and the right words.<br><br>Be Strong!