Mama can still recognize the numbers one to ten. i know this because i played with her just now. i took out her poker cards and used them as flashcards. she had no problem at all. after that i took out her wooden puzzles, she attacked them happily.

her hands have been rendered somewhat useless by arthritis, her right only slightly less affected than her left. she has only enough skill left in the better hand to hold a spoon. and for some reason, it was very jittery today. still, she gave the puzzles more attention and focus than usual. i praised her and she was quite pleased with herself.

"mama is smart! mama is clever!"

if only she was this participative everyday. i like it when her eyes are bright.