12/15/2025
When my dad was early into his diagnosis, we started going on daily walks to a local and then through a nearby park.
At first it was just part of our routine, but over time those walks became my 1:1 time with him.
As his ability to form sentences changed day by day, I felt this urgency to hold onto every small moment. I started asking him questions I had never asked before. About his childhood. About his life. About our family.
This was back when smartphones were not what they are today, but somehow I started recording our conversations and take pictures like this one. I did not have a plan. I just wanted to remember his voice, his story, the moments.
Looking back now, I realize those walks taught me something I carry with me all the time.
Connection does not disappear when language changes.
Being present matters more than saying the perfect sentence.
If you are in the early days with someone you love, take the walk.
Ask the question. Press record. Take the picture.
One day, you will be grateful you did. I definitely am.
If you know me personally - you know getting a coffee at Dunkin brings me so much happiness. Now you guys can see why!! It brings me back to these moments with dad. And also I love coffee 🤣🫶🫶