Small expressions

Couple of days ago Margie in her chair recognized me a dozen yards away, smiling, lighting up some, so I wheeled her to where I could sit beside her. We stroked each other’s hands. I ran my fingers through her hair. Such small expressions of affection. Next couple of days she was asleep, and did not respond when I gently tried to awaken her. Today again she was in her chair and smiled wanly when I came close. I asked if she remembered that our son is a red head, and she nodded! I said a few comments about his hair when young. I remembered to bring my iPod, so played some Christmas carols she liked. A few times she nodded to the rhythm, then looked as if she was mouthing a few words. I stroked her hand with some response. So much is achingly gone.