I had pulled up to a stop sign, not too far from our house, and happened to look under the overpass… seeing a group of beautiful purple flowers. Had I not stopped and looked in that direction, I would have never seen them.
As I continued to drive home, I began comparing caregivers to the flowers. A majority of the time, what caregivers do, is not seen, unless someone makes an extra effort to stop and look, or ask. Caregiving involves courage, intelligence, kindness, love, organization, patience, sacrifice, stamena, strength, taking a road less traveled, and a willingness to get involved, to name a few (: .
All such important attributes and skills, yet they so often go unnoticed by the “outside” world. How does a caregiver keep caring and not get discouraged? As we all continue on this journey, we need to remember the gifts we have, and remind each other of them. In being mindful of our needs in caregiving, we can take our journey and make it into something very special.
You are a disruptor. The delivery of health care starts with you, continues because of you, and ends with you. Let's disrupt together to make the world better for family caregivers. 
Sharon
Beautiful post, Bette! Thank you for your encouraging words to all of us.
Denise
Hi Bette–I love your photo! And, what an important reminder for us: When we get discouraged, we can look to each other for encouragement and support. I hope today is special for you, Bette, and that you make all the right turns.
Bette
I just got back from the barn. Behind a large white horse named Pacahontas, stood a newly born (2 days old) foal. I have never seen one so young. She was all legs, but was able to stay close to Pocahontas. What an exciting start to the day! Something else “hidden” that waiting and watching for gave ME a unique start today! I hope you all find something unique today to enjoy. (:
La Dolce Living
This is really really inspiring. It’s true that most caregivers are not given the appreciation that they deserve. It takes a lot of sacrifice to be a good caregiver. You need to invest time, effort, and love to make sure your “caree” is taken cared of properly.
Bette, you are an extraordinary person and I really wish that God will bless you everyday with something that will make you smile.
Donna Ryan
Bette….thank you for reminding us in this post to be more observant of all the beauty and colors in the world…there are many shades in the crayon box however sometimes as caregivers we tend to grab the blacks and grays when the beatiful purple and happier shades are in there as well.
life is magical! Look at the beauty of life you witnessed in the barn….I know my magical moments are every time my husband of course but more so my son walks into any room. I never knew I was capable of loving so much until the day I met him and it has been special days for me every single one of his almost 23years. Appreciating these colorful people, and things keep me going…thanks for reminding me!!