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Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Terms of Endearment

Since the stroke, Bob has not been able to remember my name. I'm talking not so much about my actual proper name (though that, too, is a problem) but my "pet name". Like many couples, before the stroke, Bob and I did not walk around the house addressing each other by our proper names. We had pet names. Mine for him was "Dar" which is short for darling, but also means "gift" in Polish. Or I called him "Bucky", don't ask me why. He always called me "Sweetheart" or "Sweets" for short. I know it's rather sappy, but I certainly have missed that.

Back in January, when he first came home, he kept calling me "Brenda".

(Which really brings to mind one simple question, which is: Just who the hell is Brenda??)

After he got over the "Brenda stage," he stopped addressing me completely and when he wanted me, I became just "hey" or "yoo hoo" or occasionally "hey you".  Not very romantic, that.

So you can imagine my joy when, just yesterday, Bob turned to look at me and grabbed my hand and said, "Sweetheart."

Just that one word.

And I am elated! I mean, I'm like a 13-year-old with a crush on a boy who just smiled at her. I want to do cartwheels through the house!!---but I won't because I'd probably just break my neck.

But such joy, such simple joy, just to be a "sweetheart" again.

6 comments:

Jenn said...

My smile is so big and broad after reading today's post!!!! :-D
My heart smiles with yours, too!

Linda said...

I am so happy for you!

Anonymous said...

That is one of the best blogs I have ever read. Not only because of his recognition of "sweetheart", but because of his improvement in overall health. You are such an inspiration in all the work and effort you have done.

Anonymous said...

The above from caring1/ Dan Forgot to sign it...lol

Anonymous said...

Hi Diane
Read your Blogs all the time. Can't even begin to think of everything you have been through. Bob is so lucky to have you. He
sure has come a long way. This was a great improvment, for him. And what a sweet thing for him to say. Thinking of you both. Love Neta

Grace Carpenter said...

I had a stroke in Feb. 2010. I have aphasia that's getting better. Usually I can say my husband's name. A few months ago I called accidentally him a "goddess." He was a good sport about it.

Grace
http://myhappystroke.blogspot.com