Mphy

where he could barely get around with his walker. He could no longer climb the stairs to the couple’s bedroom, so the living room was converted to his sleeping area. Rarely did Alphy go outside any more, but in the summertime, he would sometimes sit on the veranda for a short period of time, when the shade was on the west side of the house.

Alphy’s mind was not as sharp as it once had been. Sometimes he would get disoriented, and confused with the concept of time. He now could remember clearly events which happened several years earlier, but forget what he had done moments ago. He would often wake up during the night and demand that Margurita get up with him. Alphy’s frail condition was also taking its toll on Margurita, as his care was strenuous and increasingly demanding. For the most part, Margurita appeared more exhausted than her mate. She, too, was becoming more fragile.

The couple’s adult children were getting more concerned knowing that Margurita would not be able to continue this level of care for much longer- yet both Alphy and Margurita insisted that he “isn’t going to no. manor.” They would not even discuss it. In both their minds, it wasn’t even an option.

Despite the fatigue, losses and failing health the couple were still able to find a few bright moments in their life. Margurita still fed the birds. Each day she would go outside to the feeders below the kitchen window to refill them. On his good days, Alphy still took pleasure in watching the birds. The couple’s favorite birds were the morning doves.

One day Alphy told Margurita, “Come and see the partridges outside.”

When Margurita looked out, she noticed there were several morning doves outside, but no partridges. Alphy had been a bit contrary this morning, so Margurita decided it was best not to contradict him. She was glad that he seemed to be enjoying the

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