This is a book that came into being of its own

volition, out of the pain and experience, and sometimes,

out of the joy, that each of us had caring for our parents.

The surprises of the journey, and our own opportunity to

evolve in this process, encouraged us to explore more

fully the demands of our new and growing role of

caregiver, and once we understood our function, to

determine how to combine this with an already busy life.

While we grappled with the practicalities, there were al~o

emotional, philosophical and spiritual problems to which

we found no easy answers elsewhere. Yet it was these very

answers that we felt would give us the strength we needed

most in these difficult and uncertain times.

If there is a basic premise to this book, it is that

reconciliation and renewal are possible when one acts

with consciousness and intent to resolve the unfinished

business of lifelong relationships. With increased

awareness, disappointment and dread can be supplanted

by appreciation for each day, and for each other. It is our

hope that this book will offer both strategies and support

as you pursue your answers.